The 5th Anniversary World Grappling Championship to Take Place in Šiauliai – 571 Athletes from 18 Countries Already Registered

On October 17, 2026, Šiauliai, Lithuania, will become an international hub for combat sports as it hosts the 5th Anniversary World Submission Grappling Championship 2026. The upcoming event has attracted tremendous international interest, with 571 athletes from 18 countries already registered to compete.
Athletes from Lithuania, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Ukraine, Australia, Georgia, Algeria, Sweden, Turkey, Armenia, Israel, Iran, Uzbekistan, Brazil, Thailand, and Kazakhstan will gather in Šiauliai. Such strong international participation highlights the growing popularity of grappling and Lithuania's ability to bring together competitors from around the world for high-level sporting events.
This year's championship is particularly special, as it marks the fifth edition of the World Championship. To celebrate this milestone, the organizers aim to deliver an exceptional event in terms of both sporting excellence and atmosphere. Specially designed and custom-made World Champion belts and medals have been produced for the occasion, and the strongest athletes will compete for these prestigious awards. Every championship participant will also receive an exclusive event T-shirt as a lasting souvenir of this international sporting celebration.
The championship promises highly competitive and exciting matches. Athletes representing different countries will demonstrate their skills, techniques, and fighting spirit, creating intense competition for the highest honors. Great expectations are placed on Lithuanian athletes, who will compete in front of their home supporters and strive to prove their abilities by winning prestigious World Champion belts.
Hosting the World Championship in Šiauliai is a significant occasion not only for the Lithuanian grappling community but also for the entire city. The event strengthens international sporting relationships, promotes Šiauliai on the global stage, and encourages young people to become involved in sports.
The championship organizers sincerely thank Šiauliai City Municipality and Šiauliai Sports Gymnasium for their cooperation, support, and valuable assistance in organizing this international event. Their contribution helps ensure excellent conditions for the athletes and plays an important role in the successful organization of the World Championship.
Although registration is approaching its deadline, the organizers continue to invite athletes and clubs to join this exceptional sporting celebration.
"We are delighted that the fifth edition of the World Championship has attracted such tremendous international interest. Our goal is to organize a high-level competition where athletes can compete with honor for World Champion titles. We strongly believe in the potential of Lithuanian athletes and look forward to celebrating their achievements. We invite all combat sports enthusiasts to come to Šiauliai on October 17, support our national athletes, and experience the true atmosphere of a World Championship," says Kęstutis Smirnovas, President of the Lithuanian Grappling Federation and organizer of the championship.
On October 17, the world's grappling athletes will gather in Šiauliai, where the next World Champions will be crowned on the mats.
More information: www.grappling.lt
Registration: World Submission Grappling Championship 2026 – Smoothcomp