Why the 80kg Division Is One of the Most Exciting in Asia-Pacific
The 80kg division is making its debut at the Okinawa Invitational, and it’s already shaping up to be one of the most exciting brackets in the Asia‑Pacific scene. Sitting in the same sweet spot that global promotions like Polaris and ONE rely on, this weight class blends speed, power, and technical variety in a way few others can match. With strong interest from athletes across the region and a meaningful prize on the line, the new 80kg division is poised to deliver fast‑paced, high‑level matches from the very start.
Okinawa Invitational 4 – May 23rd at Last Call Legion
Okinawa’s premier grappling event returns on May 23. The Okinawa Invitational brings elite athletes from across Asia to Last Call Legion in Kitanakagusuku for high‑level grappling. With ¥100,000 on the line and a custom championship belt up for grabs, the 80kg division is set to explode. Spectator entry is just ¥3,000, and local businesses are invited to partner with one of the island’s fastest‑growing combat sports events.
Okinawa’s Grappling Rise: How the Okinawa Invitational Helps Athletes Shine
Okinawa is no longer just a tropical vacation spot; it’s becoming a proving ground for elite grappling. The Okinawa Invitational marks a turning point: a professionally run, globally minded event that showcases Japan’s rising BJJ talent with clarity, respect, and hype. From military volunteers to local gym legends, this movement is about more than medals, it’s about building a legacy.
No-Gi Seminar at Pacific Grappler Dojo: Anaconda series with Ibuki Arimatsu
Upcoming Seminar: Ibuki Arimatsu at Pacific Grappler Dojo
Join us August 23 at 10:00 AM for a no-gi seminar on the anaconda choke, taught by elite grappler
Ibuki Arimatsu- Okinawa Invitational 2 silver medalist, 2025 All Japan No-Gi double gold winner, and 3-time JBJJF champion.
Entry: $20 / ¥3000
All proceeds go toward Heath Pedigo’s eye surgery fund.
Let’s train, learn, and support—together.
Okinawa Invitational 3 – November 1st Showdown at ANA Sports Hall Tedako
The Okinawa Invitational – November 1, 2025
🥋 Elite Grappling. Global Talent. Local Heart.
Join us at ANA Sports Hall Tedako in Urasoe—just minutes from Naha Airport via monorail—for an explosive one-day showdown. Featuring:
Men’s Open Weight (Absolute)
Women’s -60kg Division
💰 ¥100,000 prize money + championship belts
Grapplers from Okinawa, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, and beyond are already registering. Spectator entry is free, and the energy will be electric.
Whether you're a fan, athlete, or local brand looking to shine—this is where the story begins.