Andy Varela: The Grappling Phenom Redefining Jiu-Jitsu
In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of combat sports, few names resonate with the same blend of technical prowess, explosive athleticism, and undeniable charisma as Andy Varela. A true force in both submission grappling and mixed martial arts, Varela has carved out a unique niche, captivating audiences with his aggressive style and an unyielding drive to dominate. From making waves in the competitive grappling circuit to becoming a standout on reality television, his journey is a testament to dedication and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the most demanding of disciplines.
His rise has been meteoric, marked by significant victories over high-caliber opponents and a reputation for putting on some of the most exciting matches in any promotion he steps into. As a black belt under the renowned Casey Halstead at 10th Planet Las Vegas, Andy Varela embodies the innovative spirit of his team, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the mat. This article delves into the career, fighting philosophy, and lasting impact of this remarkable athlete, exploring what makes him one of the most compelling figures in modern grappling.
Table of Contents
- Biography: The Man Behind the "Night Night" Nickname
- Making Early Waves in the Grappling World
- The Rise to Prominence: ADCC Trials and Beyond
- "Who's Next?": Reality TV Stardom and Mainstream Exposure
- Signature Style and MMA Roots: The Aggressive Grappler
- Key Matches and Notable Opponents: Showcasing Versatility
- Venturing into Elite Invitationals: ADCC and CJI
- Coaching and Mentorship: Beyond the Mat at 10th Planet Las Vegas
Biography: The Man Behind the "Night Night" Nickname
Andy Varela, affectionately known as "Night Night" in the combat sports community, is a formidable grappler and a mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter whose journey began in El Paso, Texas, before he established his roots and training base in Las Vegas, Nevada. Born on February 20, 1992, Varela quickly distinguished himself through his dedication and natural aptitude for combat sports. His path led him to the renowned 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu system, where he honed his craft under the expert tutelage of Casey Halstead. This affiliation has been pivotal in shaping his unique grappling style, characterized by innovative techniques and an aggressive, submission-oriented approach that has become his hallmark.
Varela’s reputation is built not just on his impressive record, but on his willingness to take on any challenge, often stepping into high-stakes matches against top-tier opponents. He is currently a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu, a testament to years of rigorous training and competitive success. His career is a blend of high-level grappling tournaments and thrilling MMA bouts, each contributing to his well-rounded skill set and his ability to adapt to various combat scenarios. The nickname "Night Night" itself speaks volumes about his finishing ability, particularly his devastating guillotine choke, which has put many opponents to sleep. His journey from a promising talent to a recognized elite competitor underscores his relentless work ethic and passion for the sport.
Andy Varela: Personal Data & Biodata
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andy Varela |
| Nickname | "Night Night" |
| Born | February 20, 1992 |
| Hometown | El Paso, Texas |
| Training Out Of | Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Team | 10th Planet Las Vegas |
| Coach | Casey Halstead |
| Rank | Black Belt (Jiu-Jitsu) |
| Discipline | Submission Grappling, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) |
| Current Role | ADCC Vet, CJI Vet, PGF Champ (170 lbs), Head Coach 10PLV @levelxblack |
Making Early Waves in the Grappling World
Andy Varela first made waves in the sport of grappling while competing in the submission-only circuit, a format that perfectly suited his aggressive and opportunistic style. Unlike traditional point-based Jiu-Jitsu, submission-only events reward relentless pursuit of the finish, a philosophy that Varela wholeheartedly embraces. His early performances quickly caught the eye of seasoned observers and fellow competitors alike, signaling the arrival of a serious contender. His technical proficiency, combined with a willingness to engage in high-paced, scrambly exchanges, made him an exciting addition to any card.
Training out of 10th Planet Las Vegas under the esteemed Casey Halstead, Varela benefited immensely from the innovative and no-gi focused curriculum that the 10th Planet system is famous for. This environment fostered his development into a well-rounded grappler with a deep understanding of unique submissions and transitions. It was here that he refined his signature techniques, particularly his devastating guillotine choke, which would later become synonymous with his "Night Night" moniker. His commitment to the submission game from the outset laid the groundwork for his future successes, establishing him as a grappler who was always hunting for the finish, a trait highly valued by fans and promoters.
The Rise to Prominence: ADCC Trials and Beyond
The year 2022 marked a significant turning point in Andy Varela's career, particularly with his performance at the ADCC West Coast Trials. The ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) World Championship is widely regarded as the most prestigious no-gi grappling tournament globally, and its trials are grueling tests of endurance and skill, attracting hundreds of the best grapplers vying for a single spot in each weight division. Varela's showing at the 2022 trials was nothing short of spectacular, solidifying his reputation and making him famous as a top lightweight Jiu-Jitsu practitioner.
During this highly competitive event, Andy Varela demonstrated incredible resilience and technical superiority, navigating a bracket filled with elite talent. He notably defeated formidable opponents such as Hage, Alan Sanchez, and PJ Barch all in one day. These were not easy victories; each opponent presented a unique challenge, and Varela's ability to overcome them consecutively underscored his elite conditioning and strategic acumen. While he ultimately lost a close and competitive match that prevented him from securing the direct spot, his performance left an indelible mark, leading many to consider him one of the most underrated BJJ athletes in the world. This trial run cemented his status as a legitimate threat on the global stage and significantly elevated his profile within the grappling community, proving that Andy Varela could hang with, and often beat, the very best.
"Who's Next?": Reality TV Stardom and Mainstream Exposure
Beyond the traditional tournament circuit, Andy Varela gained significant mainstream exposure and a broader fanbase through his participation in the FloGrappling "Who’s Next: Submission Fighter Challenge presented by Tezos" reality TV show. This innovative program brought together 16 of the most promising Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors to live and train together, competing in a series of challenges and grappling matches designed to test their skills, mental fortitude, and adaptability. Being one of the chosen contestants on such a high-profile platform was a testament to his already growing reputation as an exciting and effective grappler.
The "Who's Next?" show offered viewers an unprecedented look into the lives of professional grapplers, showcasing not just their athletic abilities but also their personalities, struggles, and triumphs outside of the competition mat. For Andy Varela, it was an opportunity to showcase his unique style and charismatic personality to a global audience. The format, which often involved high-pressure, submission-only matches, played directly into Varela’s strengths, allowing him to demonstrate his aggressive game plan and his relentless pursuit of the finish. His presence on the show undoubtedly contributed to his fame, turning him from a well-known name in the grappling community into a recognizable figure for a wider audience interested in combat sports reality television. This exposure proved invaluable, further cementing his status as a top lightweight Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and an entertaining personality.
Signature Style and MMA Roots: The Aggressive Grappler
Andy Varela's fighting style is immediately recognizable: aggressive, dynamic, and constantly pushing for the finish. He is known for his violent styles, characterized by an unrelenting pace and a willingness to take risks in pursuit of a submission. This approach has made him a fan favorite, leading to some of the most exciting matches seen on platforms like the UFC Fight Pass Invitational. The thrill and urgency that permeate his grappling bouts are often attributed to the rush and experience gained from his past MMA career. As a mixed martial artist, Varela developed a robust understanding of combining striking with grappling, and this cross-disciplinary experience translates seamlessly into his no-gi Jiu-Jitsu, where he uses feints, movement, and a strong wrestling base to set up his attacks.
His wrestling background is a significant component of his success. Andy has made his name with his wrestling, utilizing powerful takedowns and relentless top pressure to dictate the pace and position of his matches. This strong foundation allows him to control the stand-up phase of a grappling match, getting opponents to the ground where he can unleash his submission arsenal. Whether it's a powerful double-leg takedown or a well-timed snap-down, Varela's wrestling often creates the openings he needs to transition into his submission attempts. This blend of aggressive wrestling, innovative Jiu-Jitsu, and the strategic mindset of an MMA fighter makes Andy Varela a truly formidable and entertaining competitor, consistently delivering high-octane performances that leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
The "Night Night" Guillotine: A Lethal Weapon
Among Andy Varela's formidable arsenal of submissions, his guillotine choke stands out as his most iconic and devastating weapon, earning him the moniker "Night Night." This choke is not just a technique for Varela; it's a signature finish that has put numerous opponents to sleep, highlighting its efficiency and his mastery over it. The effectiveness of this particular submission is so profound that even fellow elite athletes acknowledge its potency. Julian Erosa, a current UFC middleweight contender and teammate, largely credits Andy Varela for refining his guillotine choke to a lethal weapon. This peer endorsement speaks volumes about Varela's understanding of the choke's nuances, from its entry points to its finishing mechanics.
Varela’s guillotine is not merely about raw strength; it's about precision, timing, and an intricate understanding of body mechanics. He often sets it up from scrambles, takedown attempts, or even as a counter to an opponent's shot, making it incredibly difficult to defend. The "Night Night" guillotine embodies his aggressive, submission-hunting philosophy, always seeking to end the fight decisively. This specialized expertise in a high-percentage submission adds another layer to his reputation as a grappler who is always a threat, regardless of the position, and further solidifies his place as a top lightweight Jiu-Jitsu practitioner.
Key Matches and Notable Opponents: Showcasing Versatility
Andy Varela's career is punctuated by a series of high-profile matches against some of the biggest names in combat sports, each bout serving as a testament to his skill, versatility, and willingness to test himself against the best. One of his most talked-about contests was the main event clash where he submitted current UFC middleweight contender Sean Strickland. This strange match saw Strickland devoting more attention to his striking, allowing Varela to capitalize on a grappling opportunity and secure a submission victory. This win, against a well-known UFC fighter, significantly boosted Varela’s profile and demonstrated his ability to finish high-level opponents.
Another memorable encounter was when Joseph Chen faced off against Andy Varela in a bout that showcased technical prowess against explosive athleticism. This clash was pivotal, as it would determine who would advance in a significant competition, and it highlighted Varela’s dynamic movement and finishing instincts against a technically sound opponent. More recently, Andy Varela took on Wallisson Oliveira in a main event 180lb matchup between aggressive grapplers with violent styles. This contest was a prime example of Varela’s commitment to exciting, high-action grappling, as both athletes pushed the pace in pursuit of the finish. These key matches, against diverse opponents with varying styles, underscore Andy Varela’s adaptability and his consistent ability to deliver thrilling performances, reinforcing his status as a top lightweight Jiu-Jitsu competitor.
Strategic Mastery and Adaptability
What sets Andy Varela apart in these high-stakes encounters is not just his raw athleticism or his aggressive approach, but his underlying strategic mastery and adaptability. He doesn't just rely on brute force; instead, he skillfully employs his wrestling background to control engagements, setting up his submissions with calculated precision. For instance, in his match against Joseph Chen, the narrative of "technical prowess against explosive athleticism" suggests Varela's ability to blend his dynamic physical attributes with a thoughtful game plan, identifying and exploiting openings. He consistently demonstrates an understanding of how to manage distance, create scrambles, and transition between positions to put himself in advantageous situations.
His capacity to adapt mid-fight is crucial, especially in the unpredictable world of submission grappling. Whether an opponent is trying to stall, escape, or counter, Varela has shown the ability to adjust his attacks and defense, maintaining pressure until a submission opportunity arises. This strategic depth, combined with his physical gifts, makes him a formidable challenge for anyone in his weight class. It’s this combination of thoughtful strategy and explosive execution that allows Andy Varela to consistently put on some of the Fight Pass Invitational’s most exciting matches and secure wins against a wide array of talented grapplers.
Venturing into Elite Invitationals: ADCC and CJI
Andy Varela's consistent high-level performances have earned him invitations to some of the most exclusive and prestigious grappling events in the world, solidifying his status as an elite competitor. Having already proven his mettle at the ADCC Trials, earning the title of an "ADCC Vet," his journey continues to evolve. The ADCC World Championship is the pinnacle of no-gi grappling, and simply competing in its trials or the main event is a mark of exceptional skill. Varela's presence in these events underscores his recognition among the global elite.
A significant recent development highlights his standing: Andy Varela has just become the latest person to leave ADCC 2024 to compete in the under 80kg division at the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI). This decision speaks volumes about his ambition and the evolving landscape of professional grappling. The CJI, founded by one of the sport's most prominent figures, is quickly establishing itself as a premier event with significant prize money and a roster of the world's best grapplers. Varela's choice to prioritize the CJI signifies his belief in the new platform and his desire to compete at the highest possible level against the toughest competition. This move further cements his reputation as a "CJI Vet" even before the event, showcasing his willingness to embrace new challenges and continue to push the boundaries of his competitive career. His participation in these elite invitationals ensures that Andy Varela remains at the forefront of the grappling world, consistently testing himself against the very best.
Navigating the Competitive Landscape
The decision for an athlete like Andy Varela to transition from one major event to another, especially from the established prestige of ADCC to a newer, albeit highly anticipated, event like the Craig Jones Invitational, reflects the dynamic and increasingly professionalized landscape of competitive grappling. This movement isn't just about personal preference; it's often influenced by factors like financial incentives, opponent matchups, and the overall vision of the promotion. For Varela, choosing the CJI's under 80kg division suggests a strategic alignment with his current weight and competitive goals, offering a fresh challenge against a potentially different pool of elite talent.
His consistent presence in these high-stakes environments, whether it's the ADCC trials, UFC Fight Pass Invitational, or now the CJI, demonstrates his adaptability and his unwavering commitment to remaining at the pinnacle of the sport. It also highlights the growing opportunities for grapplers to forge lucrative careers outside of traditional MMA, with events like the CJI offering substantial payouts. Andy Varela’s journey through these elite invitationals serves as a prime example of a modern professional grappler navigating a complex yet exciting competitive ecosystem, always seeking the next big challenge and cementing his legacy as a top lightweight Jiu-Jitsu practitioner.
Coaching and Mentorship: Beyond the Mat at 10th Planet Las Vegas
While Andy Varela is widely celebrated for his electrifying performances as a competitor, his contributions to the grappling community extend far beyond his individual victories. He serves as the head coach at 10th Planet Las Vegas, specifically at the @levelxblack facility. This role is a significant aspect of his career, showcasing his dedication to the growth of the sport and his commitment to developing the next generation of grapplers. As a black belt under Casey Halstead, Varela possesses not only a deep understanding of the 10th Planet system but also the practical experience of applying these techniques at the highest levels of competition.
Andy Varela And Jozef Chen Meet In Welterweight Title-Fight At Main
235lbs hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
Andy varela 186lbs and luke griffith 235lbs hi-res stock photography
