Written by Maka Vickers

The Rising Star of Jiu Jitsu

“Train. Compete. Repeat.” In the words of Helena Crevar, the former child prodigy who has become the #1 ranked female grappler in the world. At just 18 years old, Helena didn’t simply defy the odds—she raised the standard for Jiu Jitsu itself. Breaking records, earning major payouts, competing and teaching worldwide, she has become one of the most consistently dominant athletes in the sport and arguably one of its highest female earners in the sport to date. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a supportive Jiu Jitsu parent, Helena’s story is a once-in-a-generation journey worth discovering—one that may even redefine what success can look like for you.

Early Beginnings: The Spark of a Champion

At age 8 Helena begins her Jiu Jitsu career, what she won't know till 10 years later is who she will become in the process and what she will accomplish. Helena’s top accomplishments other than becoming the #1 ranked female grappler in the world, is winning a $100k prize purse defeating the best p4p female athlete in the world in the process and becoming the youngest ever ADCC worlds finalist.

The Prodigy in Action: Achievements and Milestones

Youngest pound-for-pound #1 ranked grappler—male or female? Check.

First female black belt under the legendary John Danaher? Double check.

Youngest ADCC finalist at 17? Triple check.

Oh—and she claimed the $100k CJI prize purse, making her the highest-paid woman in the sport.

But Helena isn’t defined only by records; she’s defined by how she wins.

Fastest submission in the WNO 145-lb division? Done.

First heel hook finish in a women’s ADCC division? History made.

Helena’s matches are a masterclass in technique, and her relentless pursuit of winning matches via submission. She’s not just competing; she’s putting on a show, leaving the audience inspired. And while some might feel the pressure of being called a prodigy, Helena thrives on it. “It makes me more excited and motivated to keep working harder,” she says. That’s the energy we love to see. Her remarkably high finishing rate sets her apart from other prodigies—her wins aren’t just points-based; they demonstrate technical dominance.

"Doing high-level competitions such as ADCC, WNO, and CJI has helped me become more confident."

“I pick something up from every match, but doing high-level competitions such as ADCC, WNO, and CJI has helped me become more confident and discover I can compete with the best,” she says. Helena proves that a teenager can not only compete with seasoned adults but excel. Her no-gi, submission-first style is already influencing how younger athletes approach training.

Beyond the Mat: The Depth of Helena Crevar

When she’s not busy collecting titles and cashing checks, Helena is just like the rest of us—well, sort of. She loves baking, graphic design, and taking care of her two cats and two parrots. Despite her meteoric rise, Helena remains humble, grounded, and refreshingly real. “I’ve always been naturally humble and shy as a child,” she shares. “Even though I’ve achieved big things, I always want to remain humble.”

Her resilience is just as impressive. From overcoming childhood bullies to managing the pressures of elite competition, Helena has always stayed focused on her goals. “I’ve been blessed with many good experiences in my life,” she says. Her gratitude, maturity, and self-awareness make her not just a champion but a role model.

The Bigger Picture: Helena’s Impact on Jiu Jitsu

Helena isn’t just making waves—she’s changing the sport. As one of the youngest and most successful athletes in modern Jiu Jitsu, she is inspiring an entire generation, especially young girls. “It’s really humbling to see so many little girls and even women replicating my hairstyle and outfits,” she says.

"It’s really humbling to see so many little girls and even women replicating my hairstyle and outfits."

Her influence extends beyond the mat, too. Whether it’s through seminars, teaching classes, or simply leading by example, Helena is proving that Jiu Jitsu isn’t just a sport—it’s a movement. And she’s at the forefront, showing the world that women can dominate, innovate, and thrive in a traditionally male-dominated space.

Looking Ahead: Dreams and Aspirations

So, what’s next for Helena Crevar? More titles, more seminars, and obviously more checks “I want to keep competing, win as many titles as I can, and stay as #1 P4P for a long time,” she says. Coaching and teaching are also on her radar, and it’s clear she’s just as passionate about sharing her knowledge as she is about competing.

And if she could change one thing about the future of Jiu Jitsu? “I’d love for every person to try it out to see how good of a sport it is,” she says. Spoken like a true advocate.

Conclusion: The Heart of a Champion

At her core, Helena Crevar is more than a grappler. She’s a trailblazer, a role model, and a force redefining what’s possible. Her journey from an 8-year-old beginner to the # 1 ranked female grappler in the world is nothing short of extraordinary. But what truly sets her apart is her humility, focus, and unwavering love for the sport.

“I’d like people to remember me as someone who inspired a generation—someone who remained humble but confident,” she says.

Mission success, Helena. And your career is only just beginning.