Nicholas Meregali is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt widely regarded as one of the most accomplished competitors of his generation. Best known for his dominance in gi competition and his successful transition into elite no-gi grappling, Meregali has won multiple IBJJF World Championships and established himself as one of the sport’s premier heavyweight athletes.
Born in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Meregali began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at a young age and quickly developed a reputation for his aggressive, submission-oriented style. Under the guidance of Mario Reis, he rose through the coloured belt ranks before becoming one of the most dominant black belts on the international circuit.
Initially recognised for his success in the gi, Meregali expanded his focus to no-gi competition after joining New Wave Jiu-Jitsu under renowned coach John Danaher. His rapid adaptation to submission grappling saw him become a major contender at ADCC and other elite professional events, defeating many of the world’s best heavyweights.
Known for his relentless attacking style and willingness to pursue submissions from every position, Meregali has become one of the most exciting competitors in modern Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Athlete Information
Full Name: Nicholas Meregali
Nationality: Brazilian 🇧🇷
Born: 27 May 1994
Birthplace: Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Team: New Wave Jiu-Jitsu
Rank: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
Coach: John Danaher (No-Gi), Mario Reis (Black Belt)
Weight Division: Heavyweight / Super Heavyweight
Style: Gi & No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Career Highlights
- Multiple-time IBJJF World Champion
- Multiple-time IBJJF Brazilian National Champion
- Multiple-time IBJJF European Champion
- ADCC World Championship Bronze Medallist
- One of the most successful heavyweight gi competitors of the modern era
- Successfully transitioned from elite gi competition to world-class no-gi grappling
Fighting Style
Nicholas Meregali is renowned for his aggressive, submission-first approach and exceptional movement for a heavyweight competitor. In gi competition, he became famous for his dynamic guard passing, attacking guard and relentless pressure, regularly finishing matches against the world’s best opponents.
Since transitioning to no-gi competition, Meregali has developed a highly effective wrestling game alongside dangerous back attacks, front headlock submissions and positional control. His combination of size, athleticism and technical precision has made him one of the most complete heavyweight grapplers in the sport.
Notable Achievements
- Multiple-time IBJJF World Champion
- Multiple-time IBJJF European Champion
- Multiple-time Brazilian National Champion
- ADCC World Championship Bronze Medallist
- Professional superfight winner against numerous elite opponents
- One of the world’s highest-ranked heavyweight grapplers