Sport
18 April, 2026
Martial artists score medals
FUSION Fight and Fitness Tully made a statement at last month’s North Queensland Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Cup in Cairns, with young gun Darius Downes and rising star Morgan Black powering their way to dominant gold medal victories in their divisions. Their standout performances capped off a hugely successful campaign for the 14 strong Tully squad, who returned home with an impressive haul of medals.
The team of junior and senior athletes included Isabelle Samperi (9), Chloe Lambert (10), Keanu Kuhn (5), Archer Leahy (5), Darius Downes (9), Reece Leahy (10), Mia Papadopoulos (10), Jimmy Papadopoulos (11), Kodi Leahy (8), Liam Swanson (14), Harry Raiti (21), Grant Leahy (34), Morgan Black (21), and Adriel Watson (18).
The NQ Cup is Far North Queensland’s premier Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament, drawing more than 170 competitors across Gi and No-Gi divisions. The event follows IBJJF rules and uses a round robin format, ensuring athletes receive multiple matches and plenty of mat time.
Coach Jonathan Kuhn said he couldn’t be prouder of the team’s effort.
“We won plenty, lost some, but most importantly we showed what our team is all about. Every competitor displayed unbelievable technique, heart, and determination,” he said.
He also confirmed that Mia and Jimmy Papadopoulos earned promotions to their grey/white belts following their strong performances.
“It’s a fitting testament to the work they’ve put in. I congratulate all athletes who stepped up to compete and thank the parents and coaches for their amazing support.”
Darius Downes opened his campaign with a submission win over teammate Mia Papadopoulos, then secured a points victory over Elke Maunder to claim gold.
Morgan Black delivered one of the tournament’s most impressive runs, storming through the absolute division. He submitted Anthony Gregg in the quarter finals, defeated Angus Myers via submission in the semis, and finished with another submission win over Jack William in the final.
Results:
Kids Gi/-25kg/8-9 years
Gold: Darius Downes
Kids No-Gi/-25kg 8 - 9 years
Silver: Darius Downes
Kids Gi/-37kg/10-11 years
Gold: Reece Leahy
Kids No-Gi/-34kg 10 - 11 years
Silver: Reece Leahy
Male absolute No-Gi/White/Adult
Gold: Morgan Black
Kids Gi/-37kg/10-11 years
Bronze: Mia Papadopoulos
Kids No-Gi/-34kg 10-11 years
Bronze: Mia Papadopoulos
Kids Gi/-25kg/6-7 years
Bronze: Archer Leahy
Kids No-Gi/-28kg/8-9 years
Bronze: Kodi Leahy
Kids No-Gi/-60kg/14-15 years
Bronze: Liam Swanson
Male Gi/White/Adult/-88.3kg (Medium/Heavy)
Bronze: Harry Raiti