Athlete of the Month
Benjamin Myers

Pictures and Content courtesy of the Myers Family

Benjamin Myers is a distinguished submission fighter, grappler, and wrestler who became the 2026 ADCC Youth World Champion. Unlike many athletes, Benjamin did not inherit a family tradition in wrestling or Jiu-Jitsu. His parents, Gabriel and Rosie Myers, simply wanted Benjamin and his younger brother, Gabriel D. Myers, to learn self-defense and develop discipline. Inspired by a family friend, Edson, whose children were already competing, the Myers brothers began their journey at Gracie Humaita under Professors James and Mitch. Benjamin was just three and a half years old when he first stepped onto the mats, with no expectations beyond learning and growing. His father became involved in coaching, reinforcing the lessons learned from their instructors at home.
As Benjamin progressed, he joined the LV Bears Wrestling Club under Coach Sedillo, where he built a strong wrestling foundation to complement his Jiu-Jitsu. Exposure to different coaching styles, including sessions with Coach Eddie Gifford and his son Beau, helped Benjamin develop a unique approach to grappling. Additional training with Jaxson Hollis, often in a simple garage or a dedicated shed equipped with mats, provided countless hours of drilling, conditioning, and refining technique. The support of his father and Jaxson’s father, Richie Hollis, was instrumental in creating opportunities for continuous improvement. Richie, having seen his own son win the 2024 ADCC Youth World Championship, believed Benjamin should have the same opportunity to compete at the highest level.
Benjamin’s family was committed to finding the right training partners and coaches to challenge him. Connections like Chris Gamber and Jair at Shootbox in St. George, Utah, introduced Benjamin to new training environments and further honed his skills. Competing in ADCC Opens, Benjamin earned multiple gold medals and tested himself against older and heavier opponents, each match serving as a lesson and a stepping stone toward his ultimate goal. Every tournament was another test, every match revealed something new, and every mistake provided an opportunity for growth.
Earning an invitation to the 2026 ADCC Youth World Championships was a testament to Benjamin’s dedication and growth. Competing at 32 kg, he seized the opportunity and claimed the world title, a culmination of years of hard work, travel, and learning from a diverse group of coaches and training partners. Notably, his younger brother Gabriel also reached the podium, earning bronze, making their shared journey even more meaningful. The 2026 ADCC Youth World Championship is a major milestone, but Benjamin’s journey continues. He remains committed to training, competing, and evolving his style, blending wrestling and submission grappling. His story is still being written, and he is helping to create a new tradition of grappling in his family.
Benjamin’s success is supported by many, including Coach Eddie Gifford, his parents, Richie Hollis, and all the coaches, teammates, and friends who have contributed to his development.
Career Highlights Submission Grappling: • 2026 ADCC Youth World Champion – 32 kg • Multiple-time ADCC Open Champion / Gold Medalist • 2026 ADCC San Diego Open – Double Gold • 2026 ADCC Phoenix Open – Double Gold • 2026 ADCC Atlanta Open – Double Gold • 2026 ADCC Portland Open – Gold, plus Silver • 2025 ADCC New Jersey Open – Gold, plus Silver • Multiple successful ADCC appearances in older age and heavier weight divisions • Numerous placements in local submission grappling tournaments Wrestling: • 2026 Rocky Mountain Nationals – Triple Crown Winner • 2026 Rocky Mountain Nationals – Triple Gold Champion • 2026 Clash at Bullhead – Triple Gold Champion • 2026 Rumble at Cedar Point – Double Gold • 2026 Backyard Brawl – Gold Medalist • 2026 Beehive Brawl / Western States Elite – Champion • 2025 Clash at Bullhead – Gold Medalist • 2025 Beehive Brawl – Champion • 2025 Beehive Brawl – Outstanding Wrestler • Outstanding Wrestler at 3 Dual Tournaments • Reno Worlds – 4th Place • Nevada State Champion • Nevada Regional Champion • Kevin Randleman Wrestling Tournament – Gold Medalist • Numerous placements in local wrestling tournaments and duals
Benjamin Myers is not only achieving personal success but is also helping to establish a new legacy in the world of grappling.