At FloGrappling, we’re always searching for the athletes who represent the future of jiu-jitsu, people that fans should get excited about as the next vanguard of greatness in this martial art & sport. That’s the goal of our “Prospect of the Month” series, where we highlight one rising star you should know before the rest of the world catches on.

As the sport continues to globalize, we're going to continue to see young stars emerging from new places - and one of the most intriguing young names emerging from Europe is Vertti Puurtinen, a Finnish standout who put together a very impressive 2025 campaign and looks primed for a breakout year ahead.

While competing as a Juvenile 1 blue belt last season, Puurtinen delivered one of the most impressive  seasons of the year at any level, capturing double gold in both gi and no-gi at the IBJJF World Championships. It’s a rare accomplishment at any level, and an incredibly encouraging one for an athlete still in the early stages of his development. What stood out most wasn’t just the medal count, but how Puurtinen won. He consistently dictated position, stayed composed in longer tactical matches, and showed a willingness to attack rather than protect leads — traits that often separate elite prospects from their peers at the juvenile level.

Vertti trains out of Luxemborg, Finland and represents MG Team Luxemborg in competition, and is affiliated with Veras Academy as well. At only 16, he's developed a style that is marked by an ability to hunt the back and finish with powerful rear chokes in both styles.

With a year of dominant results behind him, 2026 feels like a big opportunity for Puurtinen. As he continues to face deeper brackets and higher-level opposition, the foundation he’s built should translate well against increasingly experienced competitors. The transition from standout juvenile to elite upper-belt prospect is never guaranteed — but Puurtinen’s consistency, adaptability, and success across formats suggest he’s well ahead of schedule.

For fans tracking the next international talents to make real noise on the world stage, Vertti Puurtinen is a name worth remembering. His 2025 season made the statement. 2026 may be the year he backs it up in even bigger ways.