Rickson Gracie’s inaugural Jiu-Jitsu Global Federation awards show took place this week in Long Beach, California. The event, which promises to be the first in an annual series that recognizes prominent athletes, teams and events in jiu-jitsu and grappling, was attended by many influential figures from the upper echelons of the art including prominent instructors and athletes. 

Awards were chosen by a panel of judges who voted for winners from a shortlist of candidates. Big winners included Mackenzie Dern and Bernardo Faria. Dern took the awards for best female athlete both gi and no-gi, while Faria was awarded best male gi athlete and best gi submission. 

Rickson Gracie also used the event to promote the self defense aspect of jiu-jitsu, a side to the art that he passionately supports. 

Jiu-Jitsu Global Federation Conference Awards Winners

Best 2015 Kids’ Team

Atos 
 

Best 2015 Masters’ Team

Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu 
 

Best 2015 Adult Women’s Team

Gracie Humaita 
 

Best 2015 Adult Men’s Team

Alliance and Atos (joint winners)
 

Best 2015 Invitational No Gi Event

EBI 
 

Best 2015 Invitational Gi Event

Copa Podio 
 

Best 2015 Open No Gi Event

ADCC 

Best 2015 Open Gi Event

IBJJF Worlds 

Best 2015 No Gi Submission

Davi Ramos 
 

Best 2015 Gi Submission

Bernardo Faria 
 

Best 2015 Master No Gi Athlete

Rubens Charles 
 

Best 2015 Female No Gi Athlete

Mackenzie Dern

Best 2015 Male No Gi Athlete

Garry Tonon 
 

Best 2015 Master Gi Athlete

Megaton Dias 
 

Best 2015 Female Gi Athlete

Mackenzie Dern 
 

Best 2015 Male Gi Athlete

Bernardo Faria