On January 26th, 2024, history will be made with the premiere event of the Pit Submission Series. This innovative grappling tournament, held in conjunction with a Karate Combat event, introduces a novel concept: competitive ground fighting within the promotion’s signature 45-degree angled pit. The event will take place in Weston, Florida, and will take place alongside the Karate.
This unique arena presents a strategic twist, potentially favoring wrestlers adept at controlling space and leveraging the walls for easier takedowns. While a similar format was briefly explored in 2008 by the YAMMA Pit Fighting event, crucial distinctions are evident.
Firstly, the absence of striking in pure grappling removes the countermeasures available in MMA, such as the guard position. Secondly, Pit Submission Series features a curated lineup of elite grapplers, a significant contrast to the YAMMA event’s predominantly older or inexperienced competitors.
The inaugural card showcases three compelling matchups, all featuring athletes from New Wave Jiu-Jitsu. Promising young talent Helena Crevar enters the pit first, facing seasoned black belt Caitlin Murdock.
Following this clash, two further New Wave representatives, Dan Manasoiu and Luke Griffith, tackle ADCC 2022 veterans Max Gimenis and Vagner Rocha respectively. Manasoiu and Gimenis bring their experience from the over 99kg division of the esteemed tournament, while Griffith, under 99kg, faces the daunting bronze medalist in the under 88kg class, Rocha.
