Jozef Chen

Biography

Jozef Chen is a Taiwanese-born submission grappler, born on July 30, 2004, in Taipei to a South African–German mother and Taiwanese father. He spent his childhood across Asia in cities including Kuala Lumpur, Doha, Beijing, and Shanghai. Chen began jiu-jitsu in 2018 under coach Guillaume Leclerc and quickly gained a reputation for his analytical approach to learning, constantly studying instructionals and drilling with live feedback. Many credit him with popularizing a modern, instructionals-driven method of rapid skill development.

As a purple belt, Chen began traveling internationally to train and compete. He spent extended time at B-Team Jiu-Jitsu in Austin, where his skill level immediately stood out and he became a regular training partner. Chen continued to move between B-Team and various gyms throughout China and abroad, living a nomadic life. Known for a well-rounded and highly technical style, he can play guard, wrestle, attack leglocks, and is especially recognized for his guard passing. He helped popularize tripod passing, using it to pass elite opponents such as Tommy Langaker during his gold medal run at the 2023 European ADCC Trials. He has since continued competing at the highest levels, including major events like Polaris, WNO, and both CJI 1 and CJI 2, where he showcased his sharp standing game and impassable guard.

After several visits to Austin and strong performances on the international circuit, Chen earned his brown belt from Craig Jones in 2023 and his black belt in 2025. With his composure, precise technique, and rapid development, Jozef Chen has established himself as one of the most promising young competitors in modern no-gi grappling. He also co-runs Nomadic Grappling, a gym in Shanghai, China that reflects his traveling lifestyle.

Personal

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

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