PRESTIGIOUS BJJ INVITE GIVEN TO CRUZ BROS.

When brothers Luck and Sage Cruz step onto the mats at the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) Youth World Championships in August 2026, they won’t just be competing for medals. They’ll be carrying the hopes of our island.

The ADCC Worlds is the most prestigious stage in submission grappling, and invitations are granted to only the top 24 youth competitors in the world. Out of thousands of kid athletes across the globe, Luck and Sage have been recognized among the elite few.

For two kids from Guam, the road to glory has been paved with sweat, sacrifice, and an unshakable belief that greatness can come from anywhere.

At just 13, Sage is the former #1 ranked youth athlete in the ADCC global rankings. His younger brother, 11-year-old Luck, sat at #5. Together, the Cruz brothers have captured more than 20 gold medals across Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, and MMA youth competitions in 2025, proving they are among the toughest and most versatile young fighters in the world.

But behind the victories are countless unseen hours. Early mornings before school. Late nights drilling after homework. Weekend tournaments across oceans. “Hard work pays off,” Luck said simply. “Every early morning and late night of training is for moments like this—when you get the chance to prove yourself against the best in the world.”

Sage, who has quickly become a symbol of pride for Guam’s youth, sees his journey as bigger than himself. “Guam kids can be the best in the world if we stay disciplined and keep believing,” he said. “We’re proof that it doesn’t matter where you come from—if you work hard enough, you can make your dreams real.”

The brothers train with Atos Guam and Island Jiu Jitsu Honolulu, where their coaches and teammates have become family. They also lean on the unwavering support of sponsors like Crowns Guam, Cold Stone Air, and Riot Jiu Jitsu—businesses that believe in their mission to represent the Pacific Islands at the highest levels of combat sports.

Their father put it best: “None of this would be possible without the love and support from our community and sponsors. They’re helping Luck and Sage carry Guam onto the world stage.”

As the ADCC Youth Championships draw near, the Cruz brothers continue their relentless training. For them, it’s more than a tournament. It’s proof that two kids from Guam can inspire a generation—showing that sacrifice, discipline, and heart can turn dreams into reality.