AGI debuts in Amsterdam: 16 grapplers, one belt, submission only

The event is the brainchild of Emad Ahmedin, head coach at 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Amsterdam and co-founder of AGI. The goal, in his words, is to "increase the nogi competition narrative in NL", to develop new grapplers and put a spotlight on those already making their mark.

"We as a community need to do a better job organizing events" Ahmedin says. With AGI, he's putting that into action: an EBI-rules format, professional production, a championship belt and prize purse, all broadcast live for free. The bar he wants to see for European grappling is the bar he's trying to set himself.

What's the format

AGI follows the format made famous by Eddie Bravo's invitational in the United States. A 16-man bracket, single elimination, all at 170 lbs / 77 kg. Matches are submission-only, with EBI overtime rules deciding any draws via back-take and escape time. No points. No advantages. Finish or face overtime.

For European grappling, the positioning is deliberate. Submission-only events are still rare on this side of the Atlantic, and AGI is aiming to lead that scene.

A first edition meets reality

Putting the line-up together has been the hardest part of the build-up. The originally planned bracket didn't survive intact. Multiple competitors had to withdraw due to injuries and staph infection. The final field of sixteen is full, but not the names that were originally on paper.

That's the honest version of a first edition: a serious attempt to set a new standard, openly working through what that takes. For the current line-up, AGI is keeping its Instagram (@agiofficial.subonly) updated in the days leading up to the event.

How to watch

This is a no-spectator event. The only way to watch is online, free, on the 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Amsterdam YouTube channel.

Action runs from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM CEST on Sunday May 31st. Only one grappler leaves crowned.