Here's a quick interview with one of the best juvenile athletes in the world, Jonah Gratt. He answered a few questions for us before his February 8 showdown with Gustavo Ogawa on Who's #1. The event will be streamed live on FloGrappling and go down at the Hangar in Costa Mesa, CA. Tickets are available on FloGrapplingtix.com.

Name: Jonah Gratt

Academy: Unity Jiu-Jitsu

Rank: Juvenile Blue Belt

Age: 16 years old

Accomplishments: 2019 Worlds champ, Kids Pans champ, No-Gi Pans champ, No-Gi Worlds champ

 How do you feel about being invited to Who’s #1?

I am honored to be invited to this inaugural event, and I'm excited to help make this a dynamic event.

How did you get started in jiu-jitsu?

I started in martial arts around the age of 7, first with Taekwondo, Kung fu, Muay Thai and finally jiu-jitsu at the age of 11 years old. Once I started jiu-jitsu, I immersed myself in it.

Watch: Jonah Wins By RNC At No-Gi Worlds

What do you like about competing?

One thing I like about competing is the unknown about how a match will play out. Every opponent brings a different style and it's a great test, challenging myself against each style. I enjoy putting in the work leading up to big tournaments.

What is your favorite thing about jiu-jitsu?

My favorite thing about jiu-jitsu is the endless learning and experimentation of techniques and being able to build upon them in a personalized way. 

How would you describe your style of jiu-jitsu?

My style of jiu-jitsu is definitely guard-based, but I have been utilizing my top game more often.

Who are some people who have influenced your jiu-jitsu and how?

The Miyaos, Levi Jones-leary, and Thalison Soares have had an impact on my guard development and berimbolo, and both of my professors Murilo Santana and Devhonte Johnson have influenced my passing style. 

Do you have any favorite athletes to watch compete?

Aside from watching all of my teammates, I enjoy watching Nicholas Meregali. He is incredibly technical and his desire to finish every fight with a submission is exciting. I have also enjoyed watching old footage of Fernando Terere. 

What are your goals for 2020?

One of my goals for 2020 is to win Worlds again. I also want to improve upon certain areas of my jiu-jitsu so that I continue to become a more complete player.

Watch: Jonah Gets A Quick Sub At No-Gi Worlds

What are your goals for your career? 

My career goals are to win Worlds as a black belt and ADCC.

What do you know about your opponent? What do you think about the match?

My opponent has a similar game to mine, and he is very good, so it will be an exciting match up.

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