BJJ: CRUZ REACHES #8 IN THE NATION

Sage Cruz won the prestigious Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) Submission Grappling Tournament in the 11-12yr old, 36kg (80lbs) and 40kg (88lbs) Advance Divisions. Sage won his second ADCC Open in as many attempts. This recent one was held in San Jose, California on March 22, 2025.

After securing double gold, Sage improved his national ranking to 8th in the U.S. amongst youth competitors all ages, all weights. Sage again beat the current ADCC World Champion, Ian Mondragon. This time a securing a decisive submission victory with a rear naked choke in the Finals match.

Sage submitted all his opponents sans one, Ethan Griego, in the 40kg Finals match. Sage secured a technical win in dominant fashion by out-pointing his opponent with superior Jiu Jitsu technique.

Sage’s younger brother, Luck Cruz, was also successful in making the podium in a highly competitive division. Luck fought 8 times, secured 5 wins, and finished the ADCC Open with a Bronze medal in 32kg (70lbs) Advance division.

Luck and Sage train out of Atos Guam when they are on-island, and with Island Jiu Jitsu Atos while in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Sage is in striking range of securing the #1 spot in the nation, and is fundraising for his next competition, an ADCC Open in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. If you would like to support the Cruz brothers journey, donations can be sent to their PayPal at littlebitoflucknsage.