Bolivian jiu-jitsu fighter Francielly Ruiz to compete in inaugural UFC BJJ Opens Kids in Las Vegas

Ten-year-old Bolivian jiu-jitsu prodigy Francielly Ruiz is set to make her mark on the international stage. She has confirmed her participation in the first-ever UFC BJJ Opens Kids tournament, scheduled to take place in Las Vegas.

Ruiz, who hails from Santa Cruz, shared her enthusiasm and determination on social media. "I am very happy and excited for this new challenge. I will travel to Las Vegas to participate in the first edition of UFC BJJ Opens Kids," she posted. She added, "I visualize this moment with faith and a winning mentality: everything I dream of is already on its way."

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I am very happy and excited for this new challenge. I will travel to Las Vegas to participate in the first edition of UFC BJJ Opens Kids.

The UFC BJJ Opens is a new competition series launched by UFC BJJ. The inaugural event will be held on August 22 and 23, 2026, featuring categories for children, teenagers, adults, and masters in both Gi and No-Gi disciplines. The children's divisions are for athletes aged 8 to 17, with categories based on age, weight, and skill level.

For Ruiz, this tournament represents another significant step in her burgeoning career. She has already secured numerous international titles in jiu-jitsu competitions held in Brazil and Europe. Now, she has the opportunity to compete at the debut of a new international circuit under the UFC brand. The event is expected to draw between 750 and 1,000 participants from various countries, with Ruiz proudly carrying the Bolivian flag.

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I visualize this moment with faith and a winning mentality: everything I dream of is already on its way.