WNO 27 went down in Round Rock, Texas this las weekend, and the card delivered big with highlight finishes, dominant performances, and a major shift in the heavyweight division.
In the main event, Nick Rodriguez — known as the Million Dollar Grappler — pulled off a huge win over reigning ADCC double gold champ Kaynan Duarte. After weathering some early pressure, Rodriguez turned the momentum, took Kaynan down, and spent nearly nine minutes attacking from mount. He pushed the pace relentlessly, hunting for a smother finish and forcing Duarte to defend nonstop. It was a gritty, physical performance that cements Nicky Rod as one of the most dangerous active heavyweights in the sport.
In the co-main event, Luke Griffith earned a decision win over Victor Hugo in a match packed with positional swings. Hugo had the early edge with back control, but Griffith battled back, mounted Hugo, and secured his own back takes to walk away with the win. It was a back-and-forth showcase of athleticism and grit, and a strong statement for Griffith in the heavyweight rankings.
The night also saw Helena Crevar become the youngest champion in WNO history at just 18 years old. In her title match against Elisabeth Clay, Crevar turned defense into offense, countering a leg lock with a slick scramble to the back. Once there, she didn’t waste time, locking in a tight rear naked choke at 3:44. Crevar, a New Wave standout, continues to impress with her composure and finishing instincts beyond her years.
Andrew Tackett also kept his momentum rolling with his fourth straight submission win on WNO, finishing Fabyury Khrystyan via inside heel hook in just 1 minute and 22 seconds. Not only was it his fastest submission yet, but it also marked the ninth fastest leg lock and 15th fastest finish in WNO history. Tackett continues to build his case as one of the most exciting submission artists on the circuit.
Jiu-Jitsu legend Xande Ribeiro made his long-awaited WNO debut and did not disappoint. In front of a sold-out crowd, Ribeiro submitted Richie Martinez with a clean kimura. The crowd was loud for every second of the 44-year-old’s performance, and he kept the energy going by seemingly calling out WNO light heavyweight champ Pedro Marinho after the match.
Owen Jones kicked off the main card with a strong win over Julian Espinosa, securing a rear naked choke after a clean takedown-to-back sequence. It was Jones’ second WNO win and another display of his precision and calm under pressure.
On the undercard, Chris Wojcik submitted Michael Esquivel with an ankle lock after nearly hitting his signature Woj Lock. Other undercard results included Alan Magendzo taking a decision over Colin Carr, Ben Eddy submitting Josh Wyland via triangle, and Taylor Hishaw defeating Trinity Pun by decision.
WNO 27 Full Main Card Results:
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Nick Rodriguez def Kaynan Duarte via decision
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Luke Griffith def Victor Hugo via decision
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Helena Crevar def Elisabeth Clay via rear naked choke (3:44)
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Andrew Tackett def Fabyury Khrystyan via inside heel hook (1:22)
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Xande Ribeiro def Richie Martinez via kimura (6:21)
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Owen Jones def Julian Espinosa via rear naked choke (12:31)
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Chris Wojcik def Michael Esquivel via ankle lock (2:20)
WNO 27 proved once again why it’s one of the most exciting events in grappling today. From rising stars to returning legends, this card delivered from start to finish. Whether you're in it for the technique, the storylines, or the highlight finishes — this was a night to remember.
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