The highly anticipated Who’s Number One 22 event is set to take place on February 9th, 2024, and promises a thrilling evening of grappling action. This formal preview delves into the key matchups, analyzing the intricacies of each encounter and offering informed predictions.
The headline battle features a long-awaited rematch between Austin’s Nicky Rodriguez and Victor Hugo. While Hugo holds a decisive 2-0 edge in their past meetings, Rodriguez’s meteoric rise in skill over the past three years casts a shadow of uncertainty. However, Hugo, riding the wave of a stellar 2023, remains a formidable opponent.
The welterweight championship bout holds intrigue after Kenta Iwamoto steps in for Nicky Ryan as Mica Galvao’s challenger. Galvao, the reigning champion, remains the clear favorite despite the switch. His recent announcement of moving up in weight and a dominant record raise the bar for Iwamoto, who faces a monumental task.
Fast-rising star Adele Fornarino takes on the seasoned Amanda “Tubby” Alequin in a crucial women’s matchup. While Fornarino’s recent surge suggests a bright future, Alequin’s experience against top-tier competitors cannot be underestimated. This contest presents an opportunity for Fornarino to solidify her claim as the next challenger for the vacant championship.
Lightweight champion Dante Leon squares off against featherweight king Diego “Pato” Oliveira in a non-title “super fight.” Both possess aggressive styles and well-rounded skillsets, guaranteeing an electrifying display of grappling excellence. Despite Oliveira’s impressive submission defense, Leon’s ability to dictate the pace and impose his game is likely to lead him to victory, possibly through a decision win.
Transitioning from gi to no-gi, Tainan Dalpra, a highly decorated gi specialist, faces a stern test against the established no-gi competitor Oliver Taza. While Dalpra’s debut victory hinted at success, Taza’s ranking demands respect. Although Dalpra might not replicate his previous dominance, his talent suggests a potential win, albeit a hard-fought one.
Jacob Couch, riding the momentum of a stellar performance at ADCC East Coast Trials 2023, crosses paths with the experienced Sebastian Rodriguez. Couch’s recent form makes him the favorite, with his high finishing rate suggesting a submission victory as the most likely outcome. However, Rodriguez’s consistent success at significant no-gi tournaments adds a layer of unpredictability to this matchup.
Charles Vieira
Charles Vieira is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu brown belt. He has travelled the world extensively training on 4 continents.