Grapplers to Watch at The Okinawa Invitational 4 on may 23
Okinawa Invitational 4 brings one of its most competitive brackets yet, and several athletes stand out as potential front runners. Marco Aurélio de Queiroz enters as the veteran technician with championship experience and a style built for sub‑only formats. Mateus Hirotomi brings speed, athleticism, and a proven ability to push a hard pace through multiple matches. Returning finalist Ibuki Arimatsu also returns to the spotlight after his memorable overtime victory against Marlon Barbosa Godoy at OI2. With these three leading the conversation and a deep field behind them, OI4 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting tournaments in the series.
Why Grapplers Love Competing in Okinawa
Okinawa offers something rare in the grappling world, a competition trip that feels as refreshing as it is challenging. From relaxed island pace to great food at spots like Donald’s Poke and Mom’s Chicken, plus a world‑class coffee scene led by roasters like Azama Coffee, it’s no surprise athletes love coming here to compete, train, and recharge
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.
With Okinawa Invitational 3 Around the Corner, Let’s Look Back at What Made the Last One Special
Okinawa Invitational 2 brought together twelve high‑level no‑gi athletes from Japan, the United States, and Brazil for a night of technical grappling and competitive intensity. The event showcased both established talent and emerging standouts, highlighted by Marlon Barbosa Godoy’s championship run and Ibuki Arimatsu’s breakout performance that saw him defeat three black belts on his way to a remarkable second‑place finish.
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.