About the World Grappling Championships
The World Grappling Championships (WGC) was founded with a singular, unwavering focus: to build one of the most respected, professionally operated grappling championships in the world. We believe that elite athletes deserve an elite stage—one that mirrors the discipline, technical mastery, and professionalism they bring to the mat. Our mission is to elevate the standard of competitive grappling by delivering world-class production, transparent officiating, and an unparalleled championship experience for every competitor and spectator.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide an international platform where the highest levels of grappling are tested under professional standards. We aim to foster the growth of the sport through integrity, athlete-centric organization, and a commitment to excellence in every event we produce.
Our Vision
We envision the World Grappling Championships as the global gold standard for the sport. By bridging the gap between amateur dedication and professional execution, we strive to make grappling a premier world sporting discipline recognized for its tactical depth and athletic prowess.
Our History
The WGC emerged from a collective desire among veteran competitors and promoters to rectify common industry shortcomings. From its inaugural invitational events to its expansion into global qualifying series, the WGC has consistently raised the bar. Each milestone in our history is a testament to our commitment to fair play, athlete safety, and the cultural advancement of grappling as a world-class sport.
Chief Executive Officer
Robert W. Lewis III is an entrepreneur, combat sports executive, and event promoter with more than 30 years of experience building businesses, managing elite athletes, and producing high-level sporting events across boxing and martial arts. As Founder and Chief Executive Officer of World Grappling Championships, he is leading the development of a premier international grappling organization dedicated to delivering world-class competition, advancing athlete development, and elevating the sport through professional event production, innovation, and a fan-first experience. Throughout his career, Robert has managed internationally recognized professional fighters, represented Hall of Fame boxing trainer Robert Garcia, and promoted amateur and professional boxing events, overseeing every aspect of event operations, sponsorships, marketing, and athlete relations. His experience across sports, business, healthcare, technology, and entertainment provides the strategic leadership behind World Grappling Championships' mission to build one of the world's premier grappling organizations.
Leadership & Officials
Chief Operating Officer
Eric Medina is the Chief Operating Officer and Tournament Director of World Grappling Championships, overseeing tournament operations, competition standards, and athlete experience. A 1st Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Jean Jacques Machado, Eric is an IBJJF No-Gi World Champion, 2026 USA Grappling National Champion (66 kg), four-time USA Grappling National Team member, Team USA representative for the UWW Grappling World Championships, EBI veteran, owner and head instructor of Los Angeles Jiu-Jitsu Club, head coach of the CSUN Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Club, former Los Angeles City Wrestling Champion, California State Wrestling Qualifier, and a U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran. His elite competitive background and decades of coaching and leadership help ensure every World Grappling Championships event reflects the highest standards of fairness, professionalism, and competitive excellence.
Rules Committee
The WGC Rules Committee is comprised of the world's most experienced practitioners and officials. Their role is to ensure that our rule set promotes action, rewards technical skill, and adapts to the evolving nature of grappling while prioritizing athlete safety. The committee meets annually to review competition data and refine our standards to ensure the WGC remains the fairest testing ground in the world.
Medical Team & Safety Standards
Elite Medical Support
Every WGC event features a dedicated team of ringside physicians, trauma specialists, and physical therapists. Our safety standards exceed industry norms, with rapid-response protocols and state-of-the-art medical equipment available mat-side at all times.
Anti-Doping Policy
The WGC is committed to clean competition. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy regarding performance-enhancing substances. We utilize randomized testing and educational programs to ensure that every WGC champion wins through pure skill and dedication.
Athlete & Child Protection Policies
The safety and well-being of our athletes, particularly our youth competitors, is the foundation of the WGC. We enforce strict safeguarding policies, including mandatory background checks for all staff and officials, designated welfare officers at every event, and a robust reporting system for any safety concerns. Our commitment is to provide an environment where every athlete feels secure, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.