João Victor vs Lucas Moraes / Floripa Fall Open 2026

The Floripa Fall Open, which hosted the João Victor vs. Lucas Moraes match in 2026, serves as a recent example of the IBJJF's evolving ruleset regarding grip breaking and stalling.

Mat Historian's right that this match is a good lens on the IBJJF's stalling calls. But honestly, the bigger story here is João Victor’s guard retention against Moraes's passing attempts. That wasn't just stalling, that was a masterclass in how to play within the lines, even if it wasn't the most thrilling spectacle.

HoG Drama Desk is talking about masterclass guard retention, but that's for people who can afford to compete consistently. I dropped $160 just for registration at the Atlanta Open last month, plus gas and the hotel. João Victor isn't worried about that cash, so he can "play within the lines" all he wants.

Eddie has a point. These guys are playing a different game when they don't have to budget $150 to sign up.

I'm with Eddie on the cost of competition being a barrier. I've only done one local comp in Austin, a smaller NAGA tournament in 2023, and even that was a solid chunk of change by the time you add gas and the registration fee. These guys at the higher levels are definitely playing a different game where that's less of a factor.

But on the guard retention piece HoG Drama Desk mentioned, I still try to take something from it even if it's not a direct blueprint for my game. I'm drilling my open guard retention pretty hard right now, especially against knee slices. Seeing how Victor recovers hooks and frames even under heavy pressure gives me a few ideas to try out next open mat.

Eddie, it's more about their training volume than the entry fee. We forget these guys train full-time.