The ever-growing Pedigo Submission Fighting team continues to make waves in the world of competitive jiu-jitsu. As the team expanded and gained notoriety, they set their sights on the highly anticipated ADCC trials, with standout athletes Jacob Couch and Jorge Valladares leading the charge.

As a result of PSF's success in and the far reach the team’s story has made, Pedigo has attracted an eclectic mix of athletes, including black belt siblings CJ and Josh Murdock. While some of the original cast has moved out of the gym and into houses, the mats remain packed during the off hours, and the parking lot hosts a fleet of lived-in vehicles. Heath Pedigo said he views this as a full-circle moment, seeing the next generation of competitors inspired by Wiltse and Couch embracing the same lifestyle that forged its recent champions.

Before the ADCC North American Trials begin in New Jersey, the PSF team takes a detour through Philadelphia. They visit the iconic Rocky Balboa statue and teased Jacob Couch about his weight cut, waving a freshly baked biscuit under his nose as they walked through a food hall. Their antics are another reminder that this team is composed of tight friendships.

The team's focus sharpens as they enter the ADCC East Coast trials. Though they experience a mixed start, with Couch winning his first match and Valladares losing his, the team remains supportive and determined. Valladares looks ahead to the West Coast trials, knowing he will have another opportunity to qualify for ADCC while supporting Couch in his quest for victory.

Couch's tenacity shines throughout the competition, culminating in a hard-fought semi-final match against the formidable Giancarlo Bodoni. Though he ultimately falls to Bodoni, Couch rallies to secure a 3rd place finish, earning six impressive wins at his first ADCC trials. Still thriving off the underdog mentality, Couch is coming into his own; he’s an established competitor with wins over some of the sport's biggest names. Standing on the podium, Couch is brimming with joy as he throws up the signature Pedigo flex, marking a tremendous milestone for the team and individual. He’s the first Pedigo athlete to hit the podium at the ADCC trials.

As the team regroups and refocused on the upcoming West Coast trials, their journey served as a testament to the transformative power of jiu-jitsu and how tight-knit the PSF squad has become. In just two years, PSF had guided their fighters to World and Pan American titles, and now, with a diverse and talented roster that continues to grow, they aim to one day conquer the prestigious ADCC championships. The rise of Pedigo Submission Fighting to date is an inspiring story of perseverance, unity, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.