ADCC Returns to Europe
The ADCC World Championships are heading to Krakow, Poland on September 12–13, 2026 at the Tauron Arena — a 22,000-seat venue that will host the most prestigious no-gi grappling event on the planet. This marks the first time ADCC Worlds have been held in Europe since the 2017 edition in Finland.
For the global grappling community, this is a game-changer. European competitors and fans no longer need to travel to the US or the Middle East to witness the sport's most exciting event live.
What Makes ADCC Special?
ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) stands apart from every other grappling competition for several reasons:
- Submission-focused ruleset: No points are scored in the first half of the match. This forces action and rewards athletes who hunt for finishes rather than playing it safe.
- No guard pulling: Athletes who pull guard without a submission attempt are penalized, promoting wrestling and takedown exchanges.
- The absolute division: All weight classes compete against each other in an open-weight bracket — where legends are made.
- Biennial format: ADCC Worlds happen only every two years, making each edition a must-watch event with heightened stakes.
ADCC 2026 Weight Classes
Men's Divisions
| Division | Weight Limit |
|---|---|
| -66 kg | 145.2 lbs |
| -77 kg | 169.8 lbs |
| -88 kg | 194 lbs |
| -99 kg | 218.3 lbs |
| +99 kg | No limit |
| Superfight | Open weight |
Women's Divisions
| Division | Weight Limit |
|---|---|
| -55 kg | 121.3 lbs |
| -65 kg | 143.3 lbs |
| +65 kg | No limit |
How to Qualify: ADCC Trials
Unlike most BJJ tournaments where anyone can register, ADCC Worlds are invitation-only or qualification-based. Here's how athletes earn their spot:
- ADCC Trials: Regional qualification tournaments held worldwide. Winners in each weight class earn a spot at Worlds. Trials are held in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
- Invitation: Previous ADCC medalists, high-profile grapplers, and athletes with significant competitive records may receive direct invitations.
- Wild cards: A limited number of spots are reserved for organizer picks.
The European Trials are particularly relevant for competitors in France, the UK, Germany, and other European countries looking to earn their shot at ADCC gold.
Key Athletes to Watch
While the full competitor list won't be finalized until closer to the event, several athletes are expected to compete:
- Gordon Ryan: The dominant force in no-gi grappling. Will he defend his titles?
- Giancarlo Bodoni: Rising star who has been dominant in recent ADCC events
- Ffion Davies: The Welsh phenomenon dominating women's no-gi grappling
- Mica Galvão: The young Brazilian prodigy who continues to impress at the highest level
- Trial winners: Unknown competitors who shock the world — ADCC has a history of producing breakthrough stars
ADCC Ruleset Breakdown
Match Duration
- First round: 10 minutes (no points in the first 5 minutes)
- Semifinal: 10 minutes
- Final: 20 minutes (no points in the first 10 minutes)
- Overtime: If tied, the match goes to overtime with sudden death starting from specified positions
Point Scoring (Second Half Only)
- Takedown: 2 points (clean takedown to a dominant position: 4 points)
- Sweep: 2 points
- Knee on belly: 2 points
- Guard pass: 3 points
- Mount: 2 points
- Back mount with hooks: 3 points
Attending ADCC 2026
Krakow is one of Europe's most accessible and affordable cities, making it an ideal destination for grappling fans:
- Venue: Tauron Arena, Krakow — capacity 22,000
- Flights: Krakow airport has direct connections from most European cities, with budget airlines offering affordable fares
- Accommodation: Krakow's hotel and Airbnb prices are significantly lower than Western European cities
- Tickets: Expected to sell out quickly. Follow ADCC's official channels for ticket release dates
Track ADCC Trials and More
Want to follow the road to ADCC 2026? The qualification process involves trials across multiple continents throughout 2025 and 2026. Keeping track of trial dates, locations, and registration deadlines across all regions is a challenge.
BJJ Championships tracks ADCC events alongside competitions from IBJJF, AJP, CFJJB, NAGA, Newaza, Grappling Industries, and 12+ federations — all in one searchable calendar. Find every grappling event worldwide, with direct registration links and venue details.