BJJ Superstars Giancarlo Bodoni and Rafael Lovato Jr. To Clash At ONE 173: Denver

LockerRoom Team

15 Apr 2025

In a matchup that has grappling enthusiasts buzzing, American Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu standouts Giancarlo Bodoni and Rafael Lovato Jr. are set to face off in a middleweight submission grappling contest at ONE 173: Denver on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado.

This high-profile contest brings together two of the most accomplished American BJJ practitioners as ONE Championship returns to the United States after lighting up the city last year with ONE 168.

Bodoni, representing New Wave Jiu-Jitsu under John Danaher, has quickly established himself as one of the sport's brightest talents. The back-to-back ADCC World Champion has impressed with his technical prowess and tactical approach to the sport.

Facing him will be Rafael Lovato Jr., a true pioneer of American Jiu-Jitsu. Lovato's illustrious career includes becoming the second American to win the IBJJF World Championship at black belt and capturing the Bellator Middleweight World Title as part of his undefeated MMA run.

But Lovato Jr. has not lost a step, earning a silver at the 2024 ADCC World Championships.

The match represents a classic clash between generations. At 29, Bodoni represents the new wave of American grapplers who have benefited from the groundwork laid by veterans like the 41-year-old Lovato Jr.

ONE continues to elevate the world of submission grappling with thrilling matchups featuring the best and brightest submission stylists from around the world.

ONE’s submission grappling rule set, which emphasizes action and submission attempts, will guarantee that both men attack from the opening bell.

This high-profile matchup also highlights the evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the United States between two of the best to ever step foot on the canvas.

ONE 173: Denver will feature a stacked card of martial arts action, bringing the organization's unique brand of martial arts competition to Colorado once more.

Tickets for ONE 173: Denver at Ball Arena are available now via Ticketmaster at https://visit.onefc.com/one173tix.