Hailing from Katy, Texas, Elisabeth Clay is fast becoming one of America’s rising stars and competes in both the Gi and Nogi. Having trained since 12 years of age, Clay was originally into gymnastics as a youngster. However, after quitting the sport she then decided to try a different sport so she picked BJJ. You could say that the strength and co-ordination from gymnastics have helped her during BJJ as it is also a physically gruelling activity.
Currently a brown belt under Ares BJJ, she competes in the medium heavy category in IBJJF comps but can also be seen at anywhere from 150lbs and up. Clay lists winning the ADCC 2017 trials as her biggest achievement alongside the Nogi Worlds at brown belt by winning all matches via submission. To make this even more impressive, this was accomplished in the absolute bracket as well as her own weight category.
Clay favors the Closed guard position when playing guard. However, she adds “I feel like no one lets me play it haha”. Clay’s favorite pass is the smash pass which is common with many high level players whilst on top.
In terms of submissions, the likes of Guillotines, Omoplata’s and Estima locks are considered her favorites which add to her diverse array of attacks.
In terms of future plans, the likes of winning ADCC and Worlds at black belt level are in her sights as well as winning some Fight 2 Win superfight belts. With this in mind the women’s medium heavy category has been put on notice for 2021 with a number of big competitions to look forward to.
