Chelsea started Jiu Jitsu at the tender age of 12 years old. However, unlike today where most academies have dedicated kids programmes, Chelsea had to go straight into the adult’s classes.
Despite these obstacles and her much larger training partners continually trying to sit on her head, she quickly advanced through the belts. At 16 years old, Chelsea earned her Blue Belt, and shortly after that, went on to win the adult division of the Pan Ams.
Fast forward to 2014, after many years, traveling the globe, teaching, and training with some of the worlds best BJJ players, Chelsea won the IBJJF World Championships as a Brown Belt. What makes this achievement more incredible is that she submitted all her opponents on route to the gold. After this fantastic performance, Chelsea received her Black Belt on the podium from Andre Galvao.
Shortly after receiving her Black Belt, Chelsea moved to Newport Beach to train with the Mendes Brothers, and learn their style of Jiu Jitsu. The Bros quickly realised her skill as both a competitor and an instructor and asked her to teach at their academy, the Art of Jiu Jitsu. Chelsea gladly accepted their offer and taught at AOJ for the next three years.
As an athlete, Chelsea is considered one of the best female competitors on the planet. She has medalled at just about every major competition out there and has fought on professional Jiu Jitsu events such as Metamoris and the 5 Super League.
On top of being a high-level BJJ competitor, Chelsea regularly teaches seminars around the U.S. and Europe. She is highly regarded for her technical knowledge and easy to follow teaching style.
Some of Chelsea's accomplishments
- World Champion (Br - 2014)
- European No Gi Champion (2018)
- Silver – No Gi World Championships (2015)
- Bronze – World Championships (2015)
- Bronze – Pan AM Championships (2015)
- Five Grappling Champion (2014)
- Santa Cruz Pro Champion (2015 weight and absolute)
- London Open Champion (2016 weight and absolute)
- Polaris Veteran
- 5 Super League Champion