The IBJJF calendar continues to roll on and this weekend the action will kick off in Phoenix, AZ. World-class athletes will be competing, staying sharp and getting competitive matches against tough opposition. The tournament isn't particularly big, but its proximity to Brazilian jiu-jitsu hotbeds like southern California and Austin, Texas makes it an ideal location for elite athletes to travel for a smaller event.

Here are five athletes that are entered this weekend to keep an eye on:

Fellipe Andrew

The heavyweight world champion Fellipe Andrew will be in action, after taking gold at the 2023 American Nationals. Andrew is entered in the super-heavyweight class, where he will have two opponents in Italo Lima and Joshua Guerra. Fellipe is the number one ranked athlete in the IBJJF system, by their points method, and keeps a very active federation schedule.

Sam Nagai

Sam Nagai was one of the breakout stars of the 2023 World Championships, defeating defending champion Isaac Doederlein by armbar in the semifinals as he blazed his way to his first black belt world gold. Sam will have four other opponents in his bracket, including Atos's João Mendes and Ares's Danilo Soares.

Jackson Nagai

Jackson Nagai, like his brother Sam, had an incredible World Championships this year, placing third for his first podium finish as a black belt. Now, he continues to build points and gain black belt experience on his path to the pyramid in 2024. He has give opponents in his bracket, including Yan Lucas.

Diego Oliveira

Diego "Pato" Oliveira won the rubber match against rival Meyram Maquine to win the 2023 world gold medal, after winning in 2021 and losing in 2022. Now he continues to establish himself as one of the best gi athletes on Earth, tho this weekend he will have an easy path - only one athlete has stepped up to face him, Chad Myers of Logic.

Melissa Cueto

Melissa Cueto won Worlds in 2023, and the aggressive heavyweight champion now turns her attention to the next competition calendar year with a clear path to double gold here in Phoenix. The Alliance star has only two opponents in her super-heavyweight bracket, and looks to be the clear favorite in any absolute action.