IBJJF Euros 2026: Gabi Pessanha and Sarah Galvão's Showdown Captivates Fans
The IBJJF European Championships 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal, showcased an array of thrilling matches, but none more captivating than the showdown between Gabi Pessanha and Sarah Galvão in the absolute division. This highly anticipated bout between a 13-time world champion and a rising star in her black belt era lived up to the hype, delivering a technical masterpiece.
Pessanha, a veteran of the mat, aimed to reclaim her dominance after a recent setback. Galvão, a formidable opponent, pushed the pace with guard passes and back attacks. The match's pivotal moment came when Pessanha executed a well-timed ankle lock, securing her advantage and ultimately the win. This close encounter hinted at a budding rivalry, setting the stage for multiple future matchups in 2026.
Rising Stars Shine: Jalen Fonacier and Tainan Dalpra Dominate
Jalen Fonacier's dominance in the featherweight division continued his upward trajectory. With a submission victory in his final match, he claimed European gold and solidified his status as the top roosterweight in gi grappling. Fonacier's success this season, including two major titles, positions him as a Grand Slam contender, with eyes on the Brasileiros and Pans tournaments.
Tainan Dalpra, the reigning middleweight champion, showcased his unmatched prowess with a swift submission over José Steve in the finals. Dalpra's calm and clinical approach kept him a step ahead, maintaining his flawless record in the gi season. With Grand Slam aspirations, he now targets the Pans tournament, seeking the third of four necessary titles.
Breakthrough Moments: Leo Ferreira and Thais Loureiro's Rise
Leo Ferreira, a long-time podium regular, finally claimed his European Championship gold in Lisbon. His memorable match against Matheus Vetoraci was a physical battle, intensified by a blood stoppage. Ferreira's back control and submission finish showcased his turning point, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with for the rest of the IBJJF season.
Thais Loureiro dethroned Mayssa Bastos in a major upset, shaking up the roosterweight division. This victory marked a new chapter, introducing Loureiro as a legitimate contender in a weight class dominated by Bastos. The rivalry between these two is set to unfold again soon, adding excitement to the upcoming events.
Ashlee Funegra's Consistency Impressive
Ashlee Funegra, one of the youngest black belts, continued her remarkable journey. Building on her No-Gi Worlds title, Funegra's gold medal performance in Lisbon demonstrated her rapid growth, composure, and championship-winning abilities. Her accolades are a testament to her not just gaining experience but also accumulating titles.
Full Black Belt Finals Results
- Gabi Pessanha defeated Sarah Galvão via advantage
- Gabi Pessanha defeated Marina Carraro Penedo
- Yara Soares won against Anabel Lopez via points
- Denise Krahn secured a win over Ingridd Alves via referee decision
- Larissa Martins beat Amanda Nicole via points
- Sarah Galvão outmaneuvered Tamara Toros in a closeout
- Cassia Moura prevailed over Larissa Campos via points
- Ashlee Funegra submitted Josefine Modig
- Thais Loureiro dethroned Mayssa Bastos via points
- Jalen Fonacier submitted Tadiyah Danforth
- Diego Oliveira Batista won against Andrew Soares dos Santos via closeout
- Kennedy Maciel defeated Cole Abate via points
- Will Wilson outmaneuvered Mateo Cardona via points
- Tainan Dalpra submitted Jose Steve
- Eduardo Costa secured a win over Luiz Victor via points
- Leo Ferreira submitted Matheus Vitoraci
- Vinicius Liberati won against Harryson Ferreira via points
- Seif-Eddine Houmine outmaneuvered Pedro Alex dos Santos Pimenta via closeout
- Gabriel Ribeiro won against Erich Munis via closeout
