Espen Mathiesen

Biography

Espen Mathiesen is a Norwegian Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and one of the most accomplished gi competitors to emerge from Scandinavia. Widely regarded as a technical specialist, Mathiesen has built his reputation primarily through elite-level gi competition, where his guard work and positional precision have made him a consistent presence on the international stage.

Although best known as a gi-focused athlete, Mathiesen has also competed successfully in no-gi, adapting his guard-based approach to submission grappling rulesets. His ability to translate gi mechanics into no-gi exchanges has allowed him to remain competitive against elite opposition without relying on wrestling-heavy styles.

Mathiesen is especially recognized for his mastery of modern open guard systems, with the berimbolo serving as a cornerstone of his game. He combines inversion, off-balancing, and precise angle creation to systematically advance position, often transitioning seamlessly from guard retention into back takes and dominant control.

His technical style emphasizes timing, movement efficiency, and layered attacking sequences rather than explosive athleticism. This approach has made him a model technician within the lighter weight classes and a reference point for modern guard development in European jiu-jitsu.

Beyond competition, Mathiesen is respected as an instructor and technical innovator, sharing his guard systems through seminars and instructional material.

Personal

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

Rankings