The 2024 edition of the IBJJF Atlanta Winter Open, held on February 10th, showcased exceptional athleticism and captivating matches across several weight divisions. While some divisions featured limited competition, the quality of athletes remained high, ensuring an enthralling spectacle for spectators and competitors alike.
In the lightest men’s division, a single match saw top-ranked roosterweights Cory Walker and Tadiyah Danforth battle for supremacy. Ultimately, Walker emerged victorious, claiming the gold medal and leaving Danforth with the silver. The light-featherweight division witnessed the triumph of Nathannael Fernandes, while Inacio Santos reigned supreme in the sole match of the ultra-heavyweight category.
Luccas Lira, dominant in the super-heavyweight division, challenged himself further by participating in the absolute bracket later in the day. Not only did he secure a second gold medal, but he did so by overcoming formidable opponents, particularly Johnny Tama in the final. Featherweight competitor Sebastian Serpa, despite securing a silver medal in his own division earlier due to a closed division with teammate Brian Mahecha, achieved a commendable bronze medal in the absolute bracket.
Clay Mayfield, the sole other notable name in the men’s divisions, secured a silver medal in the medium-heavyweight category, with Andre Gois claiming the gold. While the women’s divisions saw fewer participants, the level of competition remained high. Suellen Lima emerged victorious in the middleweight division, narrowly missing the absolute title with a silver medal after Fernanda Crista secured her second gold of the day, having previously triumphed in the medium-heavyweight bracket.
