Young jiu-jitsu competitor Aritz Franco secured the European Kids IBJJF championship title in the 30-kilogram category for 10-year-olds in Dublin, Ireland, according to sports reports covering the event. Competing against a field of 13 athletes, the Vitoria-Gasteiz fighter fought through four matches to claim the gold medal, culminating in a final victory over a Japanese opponent who had previously defeated the division’s American favorite.
Rising Through the International Ranks
The victory in Dublin follows a string of international successes for the young Basque martial artist, who previously captured a world title in Abu Dhabi two years ago and a Grand Slam title in Roma, as reported by telecinco.es. His father and coach, David Franco, noted that his son’s competitive standard has reached elite global levels, capturing wider attention across mixed martial arts communities where his tournament footage has drawn significant viewership online.
Aritz maintains a rigorous training schedule that includes running 15 kilometers daily alongside two to three hours of technical practice. That workload doubles during extended training blocks at high-performance centers in California, where he spends approximately four months out of the year. Nutrition is managed under the guidance of UFC nutritionist David Rojas, ensuring a balanced diet that excludes fast food and candy, according to published accounts.
Family Sacrifices and Global Travel Schedule
The family has navigated substantial public skepticism regarding their commitment to the sport at such an early age. David Franco acknowledged that outsiders often questioned their choices, but emphasized that ongoing tournament victories validate their long-term development strategy for the athlete. Looking ahead to an active calendar, Aritz is scheduled to travel to Brazil from May 30 to June 15 to train at an elite academy and compete in two events before returning briefly to Vitoria ahead of another training stint in the United States lasting until September.
Next Confirmed Checkpoint
Aritz Franco continues his international competition circuit with upcoming training camps and tournament appearances in Brazil starting late May.
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