Pat Trevino | December 8, 2025
WACO, TX — The mats at the Waco International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship were alive with intensity and skill this past weekend, and Cuero’s own Family Jiu Jitsu Karate team left a powerful mark on the competition. Rising star Dawson Draper and seasoned competitor Josh Spivey both delivered standout performances, showcasing the strength of Cuero’s martial arts community on an international stage.
For Dawson Draper, the tournament was a debut to remember. Competing in his first-ever IBJJF event, Draper captured a silver medal, winning his opening match and proving that preparation and grit can carry a newcomer to greatness. His performance drew praise from coaches and teammates alike, who noted his composure under pressure and refusal to back down. Draper’s silver medal is more than a personal milestone—it’s a symbol of Cuero’s growing presence in competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
🏆 Josh Spivey’s Podium Sweep
Veteran competitor Josh Spivey added to the team’s success with an impressive run across multiple divisions:
- 3rd Place – Master 2 / Gi / Blue / Ultra Heavy
- 2nd Place – Master 2 / Gi / Blue / Open Class
- 2nd Place – Master 2 / No-Gi / Blue / Ultra Heavy
- 1st Place – Master 2 / No-Gi / Blue / Open Class
Spivey’s consistency and dominance across both Gi and No-Gi divisions underscored his experience and adaptability, earning him recognition as one of the event’s most versatile competitors.
The Waco International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship is part of the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s global circuit, attracting athletes from across Texas and beyond. Hosted at the Extraco Events Center, the tournament features divisions for all ages and belt levels, with medals serving as stepping stones toward national and world championships. For local athletes, medaling at Waco is a prestigious accomplishment that places them among the sport’s rising talents.
🥋 Family Jiu Jitsu Karate: Cuero’s Training Ground
Both Draper and Spivey train at Family Jiu Jitsu Karate in Cuero, TX, a school known for its inclusive environment and commitment to building confidence through discipline. The academy emphasizes fundamentals, perseverance, and community support—values that were on full display in Waco. Coaches encourage anyone interested in martial arts to take that first step, reminding prospective students that “the grind starts with one step.”
The success of Draper and Spivey has energized Cuero’s martial arts community, inspiring younger students and reinforcing the academy’s reputation as a place where champions are made. Their achievements highlight not only personal dedication but also the strength of a program that continues to grow and thrive in South Texas.
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