The BJJ Stars 16, taking place on July 26, 2025 at the Komplexo Tempo in São Paulo, promises a high-level showdown between two athletes at very different—but equally promising—stages of their careers. On one side, 18-year-old Helena Crevar, newly promoted to black belt under John Danaher and riding a wave of international success; on the other, Thalyta Silva, the current IBJJF middleweight world champion, firmly established at the top of the sport with an impressive résumé of titles.
Helena Crevar’s Rise
The American prodigy—who has won world titles in every belt division and earned strong results in No-Gi competition—is now aiming to cement her status in the gi ranks. She emphasized the importance of this bout for her trajectory:
“This match is special because it’s my first professional super-fight in the gi, as well as my black-belt debut in kimono competition. Thalyta is also the current IBJJF world champion in the middleweight division, so it will be a great test for me at the start of my black-belt career.”
“I haven’t analyzed Thalyta’s matches in depth yet, but I know she’s very strong and has an excellent guard passing game. I’m known more for my guard work, but I’ve also been developing my top game, so I’m confident no matter where the fight goes. When I compete, I always aim to stay on the attack and set the pace. That gives me great confidence that I can secure a dominant position or even a finish during the match.”
Thalyta Silva’s Expertise
Standing across the mat is 25-year-old Thalyta Silva of Team Frates, one of the leading figures in world Jiu-Jitsu. Champion in the middleweight division, she’s renowned for her aggressive style, rapid transitions and tight gi control. Thalyta spoke about her preparation and expectations for facing Helena:
“I like to challenge myself and face the new, and Helena certainly represents that. My preparation is in the hands of my coach Sabatha, who has guided me through every stage of training. I’m focused on doing my homework. Of course, I bring my personality and perspective into the process, but I’m fully dedicated to stepping on the mat ready to deliver my best game.”
“My strategy will be to be myself. To bring my personality to the fight and make my Jiu-Jitsu move forward, as I always do. Solid fundamentals executed well are what win matches, and that’s where my focus lies. I’m already established in the scene, and this year I’ve made my mark in Jiu-Jitsu through a process of intense testing and overcoming challenges. So right now, I’m not worried about legacy or how people will perceive me. I just want to step on the mat and fight. Everything else will follow.”
Clash of Styles
This bout represents a true clash of styles: Helena’s youthful creativity and relentless offense versus Thalyta’s seasoned control and power. Fans can expect an electrifying encounter that showcases the very best of modern gi Jiu-Jitsu.
Full Card
BJJ Stars 16
Komplexo Tempo – São Paulo (SP)
Friday, July 26, 2025
Doors open: 5 PM | Event start: 7 PM
Live stream: FloGrappling.com
Gi Matches
- Opening bout: Confere
- Anna Rodrigues vs. Julia Alves
- Mateo Ruiz vs. Pablo Oliveira
- Meyram Maquine vs. Leonardo Souza
- Luis Marques vs. Sérgio Rios
- Helena Crevar vs. Thalyta Silva
Absolute No-Gi Grand Prix
- Roberto Cyborg
- Pedro Marinho
- Eli Braz
- Fabrício Andrey
- Devhonte Johnson
- Josh Saunders
- Javier Zaruski
- Haisam Rida
