Kennedy Maciel in San Diego 2017

JJWorldLeague strives to bring the best competitors to each weight class and division regardless of belt color. Nobody starts as a black belt, they must struggle through the ranks with hopes of someday earning that belt. This means there are many dedicated athletes constantly going head to head in the lower divisions that are often overlooked. One such bracket at the SD Superchampionship is the purple belt adult feather weight division. 

Kennedy Maciel faces high expectations as he is the son of the living legend Rubens Charles Maciel aka Cobrinha. He moved to America to increase his training regime and focus on one of his goal; to become a black belt world champion. In Jiu Jitsu World League, Maciel made his mark in 2016 by winning 8 matches with 5 ending through submission. This is a very impressive statistic, considering it was his first year as a purple belt.  Kennedy is often referred to as a prodigy by many well known jiu jitsu practitioners due to his innate abilities and drive for success. His work ethic, mat intelligence and athleticism will serve him well on his journey towards his black belt.

As the son of a legendary jiu jitsu blackbelt, the young phenomenon is a target for any serious competitors in his division. His path might be harder than others because of his father, but only time will tell. I believe the great expectations forced upon him will lead him to do great things.   

We look forward to seeing him compete in San Diego 2017, and so should you! It is a pleasure to hold competitions for rising stars like this one.

Kennedy Maciel may be one of the most prolific athletes in his division but that does not mean his competition can be overlooked. His bracket features many other quality jiu jitsu practitioners, namely, Myles Moody, Zaid Ramirez, and Donovan Grossi.

Myles Moody teaches kids classes at Electric Jiu Jitsu aka Checkmat Huntington Beach. He is a very technical jiu jitsu practitioner who is comfortable with the "modern" game.

Zaid Ramirez is a hybrid wrestler/jiu jitsu artist with a record of 1 W 1L in JJWL. Fighting out of Palm Springs Jiu Jitsu where he trains religously with aspirations of future MMA glory. 

Donovan Grossi is no stranger to Myles Moody as Grossi trains out of Checkmat Huntington Beach. Knowing the quality produced by Electric jiu jitsu, I would never doubt Grossi's abilities. Do so at your own peril.