Exciting news for the world of jiu-jitsu! FloSports, a leading sports streaming and original content provider, has announced a multi-fight, seven-figure deal with Gordon Ryan, the world’s top-ranked submission grappler. Ryan will compete in FloGrappling’s Who’s Number One (WNO) Series, which has quickly become the world’s premier no-gi jiu-jitsu event series.
Ryan, the current WNO heavyweight champion, a five-time ADCC world champion, IBJJF world No-Gi champion, and four-time Eddie Bravo Invitational champion is coming off a victory on the main event of the UFC Fight Pass where he narrowly beat Nick Rodriguez.
Snatching Victory in Overtime
It was an exciting match as Ryan and Rodriguez faced off in a 20-minute submission-only regulation period. Ryan played from his back, constantly trying to off-balance Rodriguez, who took a cautious approach from the top position, protecting his legs while passing. The highlight of the regulation period came when Ryan achieved a deep leg entanglement, and both athletes showed their technical skills by countering each other’s moves.
As there was no submission in regulation, the match went into EBI-rules overtime. Both men showed resilience and determination by escaping back control in the first round of overtime. In the second frame, Ryan escaped quickly and held Rodriguez for the entire 2-minute period, giving him a lead on escape time. The third and final overtime period was intense as Rodriguez held Ryan for the entire period, but Ryan was aware that he only needed to not be submitted to win on escape time.
Overall, it was a thrilling match, with both athletes showcasing their skills and sportsmanship. The audience was on the edge of their seats as the match went into overtime.
Gordon Ryan Is Eager to Continue His Momentum in Flograppling’s WNO Series in 2023
“This is a big step for all athletes of the sport,” Ryan said. “With this multi-fight contract, jiu-jitsu competitors can now live like real athletes just from competing. This is a huge achievement for the sport and I am committed to continuing to push it to new heights.”
Mark Floreani, FloSports’ Co-founder and CEO, said, “Gordon Ryan is already the best no-gi jiu-jitsu grappler in the world, and we are thrilled to have him participate in our WNO Series. His presence will help create the biggest stage possible and showcase male and female athletes from around the globe on a more consistent basis. At FloSports, we are dedicated to growing the sport for both fans and athletes, and this requires an investment in events, content, and our digital platform.”
FloGrappling offers live and on-demand coverage with breaking news, original documentaries, reality television, rankings, interviews, and in-depth technique videos. Be sure to visit FloSports.tv and flograppling.com for more information and to join the jiu-jitsu community.
Featured image credits to Gordon Ryan