As ADCC approaches, Jozef Chen joined host Declan Moody on The White Monster Podcast to discuss the increasing number of high-profile athletes absent from this year’s tournament. Chen suggested the trend reflects the changing economics of professional grappling, where more lucrative opportunities are available outside of ADCC.
Competing in the 194 lb (88 kg) division, Chen noted that several elite competitors across multiple weight classes have opted out. While he is still set to compete in Poland, he acknowledged the financial reality that makes the decision a difficult one for many athletes.
Throughout the discussion, Chen repeatedly pointed to the rise of paid superfight promotions as the driving force behind these absences. Under ADCC’s format, an athlete can win multiple matches yet leave empty-handed if they fail to reach the podium. In contrast, many of those same competitors can now earn guaranteed paydays by competing on other platforms.
Here, Chen stated: “A lot of these superfight events, I kind of see jiu jitsu going in this direction as a whole. I think that’s why a lot of the better guys are moving to these types of superfight organizations.”
This year’s ADCC Submission Fighting World Championship takes place on September 12–13, 2026, at TAURON Arena in Kraków, Poland. It marks the first time the event has been held in Poland. The day before, September 11, will host the ADCC Amateur World Championship at the same venue.
A freelance journalist with more than seven years of experience covering a wide range of topics, with a focus on delivering accurate, engaging, and well-researched reporting. He studied at the University of Birmingham, where he developed a strong foundation in journalism and communications. Martin is a 10th Planet BJJ brown belt and has been training for approximately 10 years and a keen follower of submission grappling.
