Overview
The Finishers Sub-Only series is one of the most influential grassroots professional grappling promotions in the United States, founded by 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu black belts Zach Maslany and Jon Blank. Created as a platform for submission-focused athletes, the promotion helped ignite the modern sub-only movement on the East Coast and has become a crucial proving ground for rising no-gi competitors.
Finishers events emphasize a fast-paced, submission-only rule set with EBI overtime—a format that rewards athletes who actively chase the finish. Long before many major promotions adopted similar systems, Finishers provided opportunities for competitors of all levels to showcase aggressive, modern grappling built around leglocks, back attacks, scrambles, and decisive submission exchanges.
The promotion is widely credited with launching or accelerating the careers of numerous elite athletes who used the Finishers stage as their breakout moment. Its tournaments regularly feature rising prospects alongside established veterans, making it one of the most talent-rich independent circuits in the country.
Known for its raw, underground atmosphere and community-driven approach, Finishers Sub-Only has grown from a regional showcase into a respected national brand. Its accumulation of tournaments, superfights, and specialty brackets continues to influence the technical direction of no-gi grappling and provides a vital stepping stone between local competitions and major professional events.