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Well-worn jiu-jitsu black belt coiled on dark training mats

Roll Call No. 27 — Keenan Cornelius: The Innovator

The most accomplished brown belt in history and the inventor of the worm guard — an American original who changed what the lapel could do.

Well-worn jiu-jitsu black belt coiled on dark training mats

Roll Call No. 26 — Kyra Gracie: The Trailblazer

The first Gracie woman to compete — and she didn't just compete, she won: four world titles, three ADCC crowns, and a door held open for everyone after.

Well-worn jiu-jitsu black belt coiled on dark training mats

Roll Call No. 25 — Ffion Davies: Britain's Brea...

The first British world champion in the gi and the first British ADCC champion — a Welsh grappler who broke through against the sport's best.

Well-worn jiu-jitsu black belt coiled on dark training mats

Roll Call No. 24 — Gabi Garcia: The Most Domina...

Nine world titles, four ADCC golds, and a decade of near-total dominance — the most physically imposing champion the women's game has known.

Well-worn jiu-jitsu black belt coiled on dark training mats

Roll Call No. 23 — Beatriz Mesquita: The Record...

The most decorated woman in the history of the World Championships — ten world titles and a complete, relentless game.

Well-worn jiu-jitsu black belt coiled on dark training mats

Roll Call No. 22 — Helio Gracie: The Architect ...

Too small and frail to muscle anyone, he rebuilt the art around leverage and timing — then fought marathon matches to prove it worked.