Another year of Pan-American action has come and gone as the major tournament wrapped up last week at the Bren Events Center in Irvine, California. Although the dust has settled, there are a few matches I can't seem to get out of my head. Fortunately, the World Pro, American Cup and other major International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation events are just around the corner, so there's a pretty good chance we'll get to see these rematches again soon.

1. Michael Liera, Jr. vs. Edwin Najmi - Lightweight Quarterfinals

We thought we'd get to see this matchup of surging young black belts at Europeans, but we had to wait for Pan-Americans, and it was well worth it. The match was a back-and-forth battle with only seconds left, until Najmi scored a last-second advantage with a double-leg attempt that drove Liera, Jr. off the mat. Don't forget, these guys have history: Liera, Jr. has two wins at purple belt over the GB Northridge star, while Najmi now has the edge in blackbelt competition. But how long will he be able to maintain it?
(Edwin Najmi vs Michael Liera Jr. starts at 01:40:01)

2. Tammi Musumeci vs. Beatriz Mesquita - Lightweight Finals

Musumeci and Mesquita fought twice at Pan-Americans, so I feel quite confident it's only a matter of time until we get to see this one again. Their first meeting in the absolute bracket ended in a double disqualification -- deserved or not, it certainly didn't leave us wanting. In one of the most controversial matches of the tournament, they met again in the finals of the lightweight division. After 10 minutes, Mesquita was announced the winner via referee decision. Though Mesquita herself saw no controversy, many thought Musumeci should have been awarded four points for a late back take. Who do you think won?

3. Andre Galvao vs. Leandro Lo - Absolute Semifinals

In what was touted as one of the most anticipated match-ups of the tournament, Andre Galvao met the ultra-focused Leandro Lo in a semifinal battle. Their explosive fighting styles had spectators on the edges of their seats. At any moment, it looked as though either of them could score, but it was Lo who came out on top. Galvao was adamant he learned a great deal from the match and is eagerly anticipating their next meeting. Who do you think takes the rematch?




Did we miss any? What rematches are you looking forward to most as we enter the thick of competition season?