About Battle in the Big Country
Abilene's Annual Charity Grappling Event
How We Started
Battle in the Big Country launched in 2024 with a simple mission: create a top-tier grappling competition that gives back to our community. Our inaugural event brought together competitors from across Texas to support Toys for Tots, and the response was overwhelming. Grapplers of all levels stepped on the mats while families received gifts they wouldn't have had otherwise. Now in our second year, we're building on that foundation with bigger competition, greater impact, and stronger community. This is just the beginning of what we're building together.
Why Toys for Tots
The Marine Toys for Tots program has been bringing joy to children during the holidays for decades. Every registration fee, sponsorship dollar, and donation from Battle in the Big Country goes directly to local children in the Abilene area. Last year's event helped hundreds of families across the Big Country experience Christmas morning joy. Your participation on the mats translates directly to smiles under Christmas trees. This is competition with purpose.
Competition Details
Battle in the Big Country is an IBJJF-sanctioned tournament featuring Gi and No-Gi divisions for all ages and skill levels. We follow official IBJJF rules, weight classes, and competition standards to ensure legitimate competitive experience. Competitors battle through brackets in their divisions, with finals determining champions in each category. Professional referees, proper scoring systems, and organized brackets mirror major IBJJF events. Whether you're a white belt or black belt, you'll face quality competition in a professionally run tournament.
Quick Facts:
IBJJF-sanctioned rules
Kids and Adult brackets
Gi and No-Gi divisions
Official weight classes
Is This Event For You?
First-Time Competitors
New to competition? This tournament welcomes beginners with open arms. You'll face opponents at your skill level while supporting a great cause that extends beyond the mats. Our experienced staff ensures a safe, organized, and supportive experience for your first time competing. Every champion started somewhere, and this could be your starting point.
Experienced Grapplers
Seasoned competitors will find quality opponents and professional organization that respects your training. Test yourself against skilled grapplers from across the region while giving back to local families. Your experience helps elevate the entire event. This is competition that matters beyond the scoreboard.
Everyone In Between
Whatever your experience level, you belong here and have something to contribute. We've built an event where white belts and black belts compete side by side, each in their own divisions. Everyone improves through competition, and everyone contributes to Toys for Tots through participation.
Ready to Get Involved?
Questions about competing, sponsoring, or supporting our mission? We're here to help.