PGF World 2025 Draft Recap
Las Vegas, NV (June 25, 2025) - The Professional Grappling Federation, the world’s fastest-paced grappling format, and a driving force in the evolution of modern Jiu-Jitsu, today announced the results of the Season 8 draft, streamed live on YouTube. As the league grows closer to the debut of their new 13-week season, four legendary coaches have bid on, and selected their respective teams who will compete for the $150,000 prize pool.
TOP TALENT SECURED:
The New Hope Kings, with Coach Robert Drysdale, set a PGF Draft record when they secured Jett Thompson for $7,700
Mica Cipili made waves, investing heavily to secure young gun JJ Bowers for $6,600
Other major moves include Raphael Ferreira and Christos Papadelos.
BARGAIN BUYS STEAL THE SPOTLIGHT
Dom Lobo - $1,000
Landon Elmore - $1600
Matt Masch - $2500
TEAM LINEUPS FINALIZED
Each coach - Andy Varela, Robert Drysdale, Mica Cipili, and Robert Drysdale, assembled a high-calibre roster ready for competition:
Team Robert Drysdale
Jett Thompson: $7,700
Anthony Gojani: $1,000
Anthony Molina: $1,500
Juan Martinez: $3,800
Dominic Lobo: $1,000
Team Renato Canuto
Matt Masch: $2,500
Jordan Wirth: $1,100
Kris Olivo: $3,500
Raphael Ferreira: $6,400
Brady Hylton: $1,500
Team Andy Varela
Brady Branscum: $3,500
Mike John: $3,200
Armin Bruni: $1,400
Landon Elmore: $1,600
Christos Papadelos: $5,300
Team Mica Cipili
Zack Schneider: $2,300
JJ Bowers: $6,600
Robert Blackledge: $1,200
CJ Murdock: $1,100
John Chandler: $3,800
DRAFT DETAILS & FORMAT
The PGF’s auction draft gives each coach $15,000 to build a 5-man starting team. Bidding is open, requiring a strategic balance between marquee talent and depth.
SEASON 8 EVENT SCHEDULE
Season 8 streams live every Wednesday from July 23 to August 20 on Youtube, at 4PM PST with the Playoffs taking place on September 10.