Nick Rodriguez Shocks Kaynan Duarte in WNO 27 Main Event
What a night for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fans! Nick Rodriguez delivered a jaw-dropping performance at WNO 27, toppling ADCC double gold medalist Kaynan Duarte in a thrilling CJI vs. ADCC champion showdown on April 18, 2025, in Round Rock, Texas. This wasn’t just a win it was revenge six years in the making, as Rodriguez flipped the script on Duarte, who had defeated him twice in 2019. Let’s dive into the action-packed main event that had the grappling world buzzing.
Nick Rodriguez Dominates Duarte with Relentless Pressure
The WNO 27 headliner lived up to its hype as the “biggest match in WNO history.” Both Nick, the CJI 1 champion, and Kaynan Duarte, the ADCC 2024 double gold medalist, brought their A-game. Duarte struck first, surprising fans with a slick single-leg takedown and nearly taking Rodriguez’s back. But the B-Team star stayed cool, scrambled to his feet, and turned the tables with a takedown of his own.
Once on top, Rodriguez was unstoppable. He mounted Duarte and maintained dominant position for most of the match, unleashing arm triangle and smother attempts. While he didn’t secure a submission, Rodriguez’s control was undeniable, earning him a well-deserved decision victory. This win not only crowned him the superior openweight champ but also showcased his evolution since his losses to Duarte in the 2019 ADCC Finals.
Key Moments from Nick WNO Victory
- Early Scare: Duarte’s single-leg takedown and back-take attempt put Rodriguez on the defensive early.
- Turning Point: Rodriguez’s takedown shifted momentum, allowing him to mount Duarte and control the fight.
- Dominant Control: Rodriguez’s relentless pressure from mount stifled Duarte’s offense, securing the decision win.
- Redemption Arc: After two losses to Duarte in 2019, Rodriguez proved his growth as a grappler.
WNO 27: A Night of Submissions and Surprises
Beyond the main event, WNO 27 delivered electrifying BJJ action. The first four main card matches ended in submissions, showcasing the sport’s technical brilliance. The co-main event saw heavyweights Luke Griffith and Victor Hugo battle it out, while legends like Xande Ribeiro made waves with their returns. Rodriguez stealing the show against Duarte was the cherry on top of an unforgettable night at the Kalahari Resorts Convention Center.
