Adele Fornarino

Biography

Adele Fornarino is an Australian Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and one of the most accomplished competitors of her generation, earning two ADCC World Championship titles in the 55kg division as well as the prestigious ADCC Absolute championship. She is also an IBJJF No-Gi Worlds champion. Representing Atos Jiu-Jitsu in competition, Fornarino also trains at Absolute MMA under Lachlan Giles, and she received her black belt from longtime coach David Hart at Dominance MMA—marking a development path guided by several of Australia’s most influential instructors.

Fornarino is known for her fearless, dynamic, and highly technical no-gi style. Her guard is one of the most dangerous in the sport, built around inversion, off-balancing, and sharp leg-entanglement entries. She is also feared for her signature mir lock, which she has used to finish elite opponents, as well as her refined leglock game and ability to quickly transition between upper-body and lower-body attacks. Her combination of timing, flexibility, and tactical precision makes her one of the most complete athletes in modern submission grappling.

Adele Fornarino’s rapid ascent, technical maturity, and championship pedigree have established her as one of the defining figures in women’s no-gi grappling. With a game that is both dangerous and elegantly structured, she continues to set new competitive standards on the world stage.

Following the 2026 sexual misconduct allegations against former Atos head coach Andre Galvao, Fornarino took a definitive stand for athlete safety and systemic reform. Publicly severing ties with the organization, Fornarino became a vocal advocate for victims, emphasizing the need to dismantle harmful power hierarchies in jiu-jitsu.

Personal

* Legend status is reserved for retired athletes with outstanding achievements and a lasting impact on the sport.

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