What an amazing week for Haven Jiu Jitsu at the IBJJF Master Worlds 2025 in Las Vegas! Our team brought a ton of heart, hard work, and grit to the mats on one of the biggest stages in the sport. The highlight was Hannah Wight taking home Haven’s first world title and getting promoted to Purple Belt. But every single athlete who competed made us proud.
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Joe started strong with a bye in his first match, then crushed his second. In the quarterfinals, he had a tough battle against the eventual world champion and came up short, but he looked fantastic all day and showed he belongs at the highest level.
Jason put on a great performance, taking third place at Worlds. He looked sharp like always, winning his first two matches with strong passing and slick k-guard work. A podium finish at Worlds is no small feat, and we’re super proud of him.
Rob and Will both had tough opening matches. The results didn’t go their way, but they fought hard and showed grit and composure.
Obi and Omar each won their first two matches in style before falling just short in their third bouts. Both losses came in close matches that kept them off the podium, but they showed toughness and skill every step of the way.
Jeff Reisner took on one of the biggest opponents we’ve ever seen and still came out on top in his first match. His second was against the No. 2 seed, where he fought hard and looked sharp despite the loss.
Laura battled through a tough division, showing a ton of heart and walking away with two bronze medals.
Doug had an outstanding run, taking second place in one of the biggest brackets of the tournament. His composure and technique were on full display.
Jerry had a very tough first-round draw. He gave everything he had against a great opponent and showed the Haven spirit the whole way.
Dustin Cowles started the day on fire, racking up 16 points before getting a submission. He then lost a razor-close second match but looked excellent throughout.
Dan fought hard but dropped his opening match by points.
Dickie White won his first match by points, submitted his second opponent, and then came up short in a close third match.
Brett battled hard through a tough division but fell short in his match.
Jason Ladd once again showed why he’s one of Haven’s most consistent competitors, taking third place at Purple Belt Worlds. He has now medaled at Worlds for two straight years—and at two different belts.
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Hannah Makes History
The biggest story of the week was Hannah Wight. She dominated her division, took first place, and became Haven’s very first World Champion. To top it off, she earned her Purple Belt, a huge milestone in her journey.
Hannah’s results are even more inspiring when you know her story. She started Jiu Jitsu in a basement during COVID, often battling crippling anxiety just to make it to training. She’s dealt with shoulder issues that doctors said might keep her from ever competing. But five years later, she’s a World Champion who also helps run Haven’s women’s program, coaches kids, and still trains five or more days a week.
Her journey is a true testament to what hard work, perseverance, and grit can accomplish. We couldn’t be prouder—not just for her medal and promotion, but for the example she sets as a role model at Haven Jiu Jitsu.
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A Weekend to Remember
Looking back on IBJJF Master Worlds 2025 in Las Vegas, we couldn’t be prouder of everyone who stepped on the mats. Our athletes represented Haven Jiu Jitsu, Central New York, and each other with courage and heart.
This was more than just medals—it was about proving who we are as a team: resilient, united, and always ready for the next challenge.
Congratulations, Haven Jiu Jitsu. Next stop: Japan.
