Beatriz Lina/GRACIEMAG
Long Beach’s Walter Pyramid nearly came crumbling down on the third day of the 2018 BJJ Worlds, this Saturday. With the adult black belt divisions kicking off, the world’s top fighters went head to head in matches that already have their place in history.
Neither of the two men favorite to fight for absolute gold disappointed. Marcus Buchecha and Leandro Lo will once more clash for the crown.
To reach the final, Buchecha defeated Rodrigo Martins (G13BJJ) and Felipe Andrew (Zenith) befored being matched with Nicholas Meregali (Alliance) in one of the semifinals. Nicholas got an early lead as he pulled and swept, but Buchecha dealt him a sweep of his own, followed by a guard pass that produced the final score of 5-2.
Lo beat Nick Schrock (Ribeiro JJ) and Luiz Panza (Checkmat) before fighting Victor Honório (Qatar BJJ) for the spot in the final. Their duel was a tough one, with Honório trying to pass from the top multiple times, and a dangerous choke attempt by Lo from the guard. In the final seconds, with the match tied on advantages and penalties, Lo slipped from the guard to the back, with Honório posturing and nearly standing. Lo reached the back and scored four points with just five seconds left.
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Tayane Porfírio (Alliance Rio), the women’s sitting absolute world champion, will be defending her crown against Nathiely de Jesus (Unity JJ). Tayane, who is also the season’s top-ranked female fighter, got past Natasha Aileen (Fight Sports), Fernanda Mazzelli (Gracie Humaitá) and Bia Basílio (Atos) on her way to the final, whereas Nathiely had to beat Renata Marinho (Alliance), Cláudia do Val (De La Riva) and Ana Carolina Vieira (GFTeam).
Sunday will mark the climax of this year’s World Championship, so be sure to check back.
