(Credit: Gleidson Venga Sherdog)

Unlike the men’s divisions, the female divisions only feature 8 competitors in the weight classes and with only two weight classes available, it is safe to say that the women’s divisions are often overlooked by the tournament organisers. But do not let the low number of participants fool you, the women’s divisions are stacked with talent and feature several world champions in each.

First up is the -60kgs division;

Winner; After beating Mackenzie Dern twice this year, including a 64-second submission win, it is safe to say BeatrizBia” Mesquita will believe that it’s her yet to take home the gold and based on her performances this year, it would be hard to argue against her winning the division. Mesquita has a decent stand up base to compliment her dynamic ground game and coming in to this tournament in such good form, will make her the one to beat.

Contenders; As the returning champion, it’s be hard not to include Mackenzie Dern, however after some recent poor performances leading in to the tournament and weight cutting issues, it is hard to know in what shape or form the champion will turn up in. If she’s at her best, then she’ll have no problem defending her title, anything else however and she could go out early. Michelle Nicolini is a legend in grappling and as a former ADCC champion and eight time world champion, she’ll be a tough opponent for anyone. Talita Alencar is another world champion who will be looking to impress and after a good outing at the recent EBi tournament, she’ll be looking to build on that momentum, with a podium spot well within her capabilities.

Ones to watch; Bianca Basilio won the South American trials winner to book her place in ADCC 2017. After securing world titles at the lower grades, Basilio will be keen to show that she can mix it up with the very best female competitors in the world. Ffion Davies comes in to the tournament after winning the European trials in dominant fashion, after after a strong showing at EBI against the aforementioned Talita Alencar, Davies has already shown that she can hold her own against black belt world champions. Davies has a strong stand up and passing game however is just as comfortable playing off her back and look for her to surprise one or two of the other competitors in the division.

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