The grappling world took center stage on June 25 as UFC BJJ 1: Musumeci vs. Gabriel marked a historic moment in the evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Held at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, the event crowned the first-ever UFC BJJ world champions across multiple weight classes, capping off a groundbreaking evening of elite-level submissions and strategic mastery.
In the main event, five-time IBJJF world champion Mikey Musumeci etched his name in UFC history by becoming the inaugural UFC BJJ Bantamweight Champion, submitting fellow coach and rival Rerisson Gabriel with a third-round heel hook. The bout was a culmination of their rivalry from UFC BJJ: Road to the Title, the promotion's reality series highlighting top jiu-jitsu prospects.
Musumeci displayed his trademark leg attack game throughout the contest, forcing Gabriel into defensive scrambles across the Bowl-shaped mat. After two rounds of relentless attempts, Musumeci finally secured the finish at 1:12 of Round 3, bringing the crowd to its feet.
The event also saw standout performances from Andrew Tackett, who submitted Andy Varela with a rear-naked choke in the first round to claim the welterweight title, and Carlos Henrique, who locked up an armbar in Round 3 to defeat Danilo Moreira and win the lightweight crown.
Among other notable performances, Cassia Moura, just 19 years old, earned a unanimous decision win over veteran Talita Alencar, signaling a new era in the flyweight division. Rising stars like Bella Mir and Pedro Machado also impressed, each securing slick submission victories.
With thrilling finishes, high-level technique, and a global spotlight, UFC BJJ 1 established a strong foundation for the UFC’s newest grappling-focused endeavor.
UFC BJJ 1 – Official Results
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135 lbs – Bantamweight Title: Mikey Musumeci def. Rerisson Gabriel via submission (heel hook), Round 3
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170 lbs – Welterweight Title: Andrew Tackett def. Andy Varela via submission (rear-naked choke), Round 1
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155 lbs – Lightweight Title: Carlos Henrique def. Danilo Moreira via submission (armbar), Round 3
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155 lbs: Keith Krikorian def. Joao Assonitis via submission (face crank), Round 2
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125 lbs: Cassia Moura def. Talita Alencar via unanimous decision
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205 lbs: Pedro Machado def. Filipe Pimentel via submission (triangle armbar), Round 2
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145 lbs: Bella Mir def. Carol Joia via submission (D’Arce choke), Round 2
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155 lbs: Keven Carrasco def. Ty Costlow via submission (triangle choke), Round 1
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