Sophie’s on top of world in Las Vegas
LITTLEBOROUGH’S two time judo Olympian Sophie Cox was in imperious form when winning an IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation) World Masters title in Las Vegas.
Competing at Masters Level 2 Purple Belt Featherweight, Sophie (BJJ Factory Stockport) dominated her three opponents to win her second world title of the year, having previously claimed the UAEJJF World Pro crown in Abu Dhabi in the lightweight blue belt category.
“It was fantastic to win in the glittering iconic city of Las Vegas,” said Sophie afterwards. “There are no easy fights at elite level and I had the added pressure of my first competition at purple belt.
“I’ve been giving numerous seminars on judo take-downs for BJJ and it’s rewarding doing it successfully in practice.
“It might seem a simple score, two points, but psychologically such an advantage can have a significant impact in gaining an early dominant position.
“My quarter final opponent Adelita McGrath, Carlson Gracie Team, provided a stern opening test.
“Winning by eight points and submission take down with knee pin, mount and armbar was a real confidence booster.”
A bruising semi final against Abigail Kate Pacine, Tac Team, was settled with a two point take down and a three point advantage.
The agile, technically gifted Ha Bui from Zenith BJJ presented a different challenge in the final. Two points for a drop shoulder take down and three more for an armbar saw Sophie clinch the world title.
“As usual I had great support from my family and club matside,” said Sophie. “My coach Adam Adshead (BJJ Factory) was an inspiration. I was conscious of the many family, friends and supporters who were up in the early hours of Sunday morning following the live streaming from FloGrapplng.
“So great big thanks to my sponsors Fuji and all my dedicated followers.
“Sharing a photo of my gold medal with my two-year-old son Leo reminded me that none of my medals are my own these days. In fact, they never have been. They are made up of the many people who are part of my life and have helped me along the way.
“I was tempted to relax after my weight group win, but felt physically and mentally confident to enter the Absolute, Open Weight bracket. My first fight was won with a bread cutter choke, my second with a three points to two score. After a tense struggle I lost the final five points to two against Laura Ann Martins (GF BJJ team), the middleweight gold winner, so had to settle for silver.”
Sophie now continues her exciting America adventure with coaching commitments in Los Angeles and San Diego.
“I have ambitions to win my third world title of the year when I compete in the World Judo Masters in Sardinia n October,” she said. “It is hectic juggling family, coaching and competition, but I’m realising true challenge and am looking forward to continued success at elevate level in both BJJ and competitive judo.”