Wow, look at this incredible line up – and that’s not all you can expect!
The unholy alliance of Tim Lange and Upgraded Industries is back with a bunch of pro jiu jitsu matches in Mentor Ohio this January 31st. It’s their first card of the year and it looks like this is going to be a STACKED card with well over 25 matches. There’s also a rumor Michael Hudak and Tyler Wittreich will be defending their 2v2 belt against a new team – but that is still to be announced.
UGI will be hosted at Upgraded Industries in Mentor Ohio – which you can find more info about here. They are located at 7673 Saint Clair Avenue, Mentor, OH 44060.
For those of you that are big fans of the TGGL in Cleveland Ohio, many TGGL vets will be showing out on this card so of course us at Prograppler strongly encourage you to pay attention!!
Supporting local grappling shows isn’t just about buying a ticket — it’s about investing in the foundation of the sport itself. Local promotions are where athletes take their first real steps into competition, test themselves under pressure, and build the experience that eventually carries them to bigger stages. Without these grassroots events, there is no pipeline for talent, no proving ground for future standouts, and no authentic connection between competitors and their community.
Local shows also strengthen the grappling ecosystem as a whole. They create opportunities for referees, coaches, photographers, commentators, vendors, and small businesses to participate and grow alongside the athletes. Gyms get representation, rivalries develop organically, and fans get to watch matches where they actually know the people on the mat. That sense of proximity and authenticity is something large, polished promotions can’t replicate.
Just as importantly, supporting local grappling shows keeps money and momentum inside the community. Ticket sales, sponsorships, and merchandise purchases directly fund future events, better production, and fairer pay for competitors. When you support local shows, you’re not just watching matches — you’re helping build a sustainable scene where athletes can chase higher levels without leaving their home base behind. That’s how a sport grows the right way: from the mats up.
