Josh Saunders defeats Felipe Pena in 2026 ADCC World Championship semifinals

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 9:23 AM

Last updated Sep 13, 2026

Josh Saunders defeats Felipe Pena in 2026 ADCC World Championship semifinals
Summary

No. 5 seed Josh Saunders defeated No. 1 seed Felipe Pena in the +99kg division semifinals at the 2026 ADCC World Championship in Krakow, Poland. The two competitors remained scoreless through the end of regulation time. Saunders secured a decision victory after a scoreless overtime period in which he maintained top pressure. Pena, a two-time gold medalist at the ADCC World Championships, exits the tournament following the result. Saunders advances to the final to face No. 7 seed Victor Hugo, who secured his spot by submitting Mark Macqueen with a knee bar. The championship match between the No. 5 and No. 6 seeds will determine the first-ever ADCC gold medal for either athlete.

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By the Numbers
  • Josh Saunders defeated Felipe Pena in the +99kg division semifinals.
  • The match was decided by a judge's decision following a scoreless overtime period.
  • Felipe Pena is a two-time gold medalist at the ADCC World Championships.
  • Josh Saunders will face Victor Hugo in the +99kg division final.
  • Victor Hugo qualified for the final by defeating Mark Macqueen via knee bar submission.
Latest Updates
  • 9:23 AMYahoo SportsA Shocker In Poland! Josh Saunders Upsets +99kg No. 1 Seed Felipe Pena In Overtime
What they're saying
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The +99kg division brings a major upset with Josh Saunders defeating Felipe Pena in the +99kg division semifinals.

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