In a groundbreaking moment for combat sports, Briana Kellin has etched her name in the history books by becoming the first American woman to win the prestigious Catch Wrestling World Championships, hosted at the iconic Snake Pit in Wigan — the birthplace of catch-as-catch-can wrestling.
🏆 A Victory for the Ages
This year’s 2024 Catch Wrestling World Championships drew elite grapplers from around the globe, each vying for the coveted world title in this demanding discipline. In the championship final, Kellin faced a formidable British opponent known for her aggressive, relentless style. Undeterred, Kellin displayed her world-class technical skills, securing a decisive pin just 58 seconds into the match — and in doing so, made history as the first American female catch wrestling world champion.
🎓 A Milestone for Luta Livre
Briana Kellin’s success extends beyond catch wrestling. She is also the first female black belt in Luta Livre under legendary Brazilian fighter Hugo Duarte, famously nicknamed “The General.”
Luta Livre, a dynamic submission grappling art focusing on no-gi techniques, has a rich tradition in Brazil but few female pioneers — until now. Kellin credits Luta Livre’s fluid, transitional style for her competitive edge, allowing her to capitalize on both standing and ground exchanges.
“Winning at the Snake Pit, where catch wrestling’s roots run so deep, is a dream realized,” Kellin said. “Being Hugo Duarte’s first female black belt makes it even more special. I hope my journey inspires other women to break barriers in martial arts.”
✨ Inspiring the Next Generation
Kellin’s dual milestones — first female Catch Wrestling World Champion and first Luta Livre black belt under Hugo Duarte — have resonated across the global grappling community. Fans, athletes, and event organizers have praised her as a trailblazer pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for women in combat sports.
She now plans to open her own training academy, teaching catch wrestling and Luta Livre, with a vision of mentoring the next generation of grapplers and expanding opportunities for women in these traditional martial arts.
“This is more than my win; it’s a win for everyone who dares to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.”
