Felipe Pena

Biography

Felipe Pena is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and one of the most accomplished no-gi competitors of his generation. Known for his elite guard, exceptional back-taking sequences, and clinical finishing mechanics, Pena has built a reputation as one of the few athletes capable of consistently threatening and defeating the best grapplers in the world.

Pena’s no-gi achievements include two ADCC World Championship titles and multiple ADCC podium finishes across different divisions and the absolute category. His technical ability—particularly his dynamic guard, strong hand-fighting from standing, and his ability to create back exposure—has made him a perennial threat at heavyweight and absolute. And his mastery of back attacks, the bear trap position, and his python-like rear naked strangle have made him one of the most dangerous submission artists in modern grappling.

He is also widely known for his historic rivalry with Gordon Ryan. Pena holds one of the most famous victories over Gordon—submitting him via rear naked strangle in 2016—and their subsequent rematches at ADCC and major superfight events became some of the most anticipated matches in modern grappling. Their rivalry helped define an era of no-gi competition and brought global attention to the sport.

With a complete skill set, world-class strategic understanding, and a guard game that remains one of the hardest to crack at the elite level, Felipe Pena continues to stand as one of the defining figures of modern no-gi jiu-jitsu.

Personal

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

Rankings