What Belt Do You Need for ADCC Trials?

No — ADCC Trials are open to practitioners of all belt levels. Unlike IBJJF events which are divided by belt, ADCC uses only weight classes. A blue belt can technically enter trials and compete against black belts. In practice, competitors who advance far in trials are typically advanced practitioners, but there is no formal belt requirement.

Extremely competitive. ADCC Trials attract elite competitors from around the world — many are world champions in both gi and no-gi. Even regional trials feature multiple professional grapplers and high-level competitors. Winning a trial spot is a major achievement in submission grappling and typically requires black belt or equivalent skill level.

ADCC Trials use the same ruleset as the main ADCC event: no points in the first half, points available in the second half for dominant positions. Submissions win immediately. Stalling is penalized. Matches go to referee decision if tied. No guard pulling scores points — the format rewards offensive grappling and submission hunting.

Heavy no-gi training is essential — at least 4-5 times per week. Focus on leg lock entries and defense, wrestling-based takedowns, back takes, and submission hunting from all positions. Study the specific weight class you will enter and understand what techniques are winning at that level. Mental preparation and competition experience from smaller events are also valuable preparation tools.