In approximately three weeks the black and brown belts will take to the mats in Lisbon, Portugal, for the 2018 IBJJF European Championship on Jan. 15-21. 

A gigantic seven days long, the Euros have become one of the most important tournaments of the year. High-level black belts use it to kick off the season and to warm up for Pans (in March) and Worlds (May). Last year, Cobrinha began his now-historic "Super Grand Slam" by winning gold there. 

For the thousands of competitors who attend the event, it’s also an opportunity to enjoy watching some of the best in the world doing their thing. 

Here are some of the most memorable and impressive matches that ended with submissions from the 2017 European Championships. 

Leandro Lo vs. Tanner Rice

Alec Baulding vs. Isaque Bahiense

Rubens ‘Cobrinha’ Charles vs. Nelson Fernandes

Tommy Langaker vs. Thomas Metz

Marcio Andre vs. Andris Brunovskis

Claudio Calasans vs. Manuel Ribamar

Mackenzie Dern vs. Carolina Cerriello

Amal Amjahid vs. Heather Raftery

Isaque Bahiense vs. Arya Esfandmaz