Fight to Win Jiu Jitsu 139

On The Rise: Ethan Crelinsten

On The Rise: Ethan Crelinsten

After missing his chance to represent at ADCC due to injury, Ethan Crelinsten has a chance to upset the current no-gi world champion.

May 15, 2020 by Ryan Smith
On The Rise: Ethan Crelinsten
After missing his chance to represent at ADCC due to injury, Ethan Crelinsten has a golden opportunity to upset the current no-gi world champion, Johnny Tama.

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After missing his chance to represent at ADCC due to injury, Ethan Crelinsten has a golden opportunity to upset the current no-gi world champion, Johnny Tama.

"It is the best feeling, especially as someone who missed out on ADCC and coming off an injury lay-off. I've been dying to compete!"

As events come back after the COVID-19 pandemic, Ethan may be the first to capture the limelight. This weekend, he will be facing off against 2019 No-Gi World Champion, Johnny Tama at FTW 139. Still a brown belt, Ethan has nothing to lose and everything to gain.


Crelinsten looked stronger than ever during the 2019 ADCC trials. He secured a gold medal in the 66KG division, submitting four opponents in the process. One of his most impressive submissions of the day was against ATOS rising star, Tye Ruotolo. 


Shortly after ADCC trials, Ethan suffered an injury that took him out of the tournament. Today, Ethan is fully recovered and eager to get back on the mats. Athletes worldwide have been using quarantine as an opportunity to heal painful injuries and refocus their strategies. We reached out to Ethan to find out what has changed since the last time we saw him compete.

"I feel like my wrestling, ability to chase the back, and ability to chase heel hooks has improved the most through corona season."

This weekend Ethan has a shot at redemption going against the 2019 IBJJF No-Gi World champion, Johnny Tama. After years of waiting to be promoted, could this be the upset that pushes Ethan into the black belt ranks? Find out this weekend at Fight To Win 139. 

Watch Ethan Crelinsten vs Johnny Tama @ FTW 139