Keith Krikorian Eyes EBI 25 Title During UFC Fight Weekend in Texas
Keith Krikorian is locked in for one of the biggest weekends in grappling. The 10th Planet black belt is set to compete in EBI 25 on Sept. 12 in San Antonio, just one day before UFC Noche hits the same city.
“It was really smart of them to put [EBI] the day before,” Krikorian said. “Building tournaments around big events creates hype… doing that with the UFC is a really good thing for promoting the event.”
The 155-pound bracket is stacked — Ethan Crelinsten, Gianni Grippo, Max Hanson, Ben Eddy, and Bryce Mitchell. But Krikorian’s attention is also on the rising talent.
“Not just the big names — guys like Landon Elmore, Christos [Papadelos], etc. They’re dangerous, confident, and hungry.”
Krikorian, who earned his black belt from Richie “Boogeyman” Martinez, has been with EBI since purple belt. That first chance came as a last-minute replacement after winning a qualifier.
“I remember when Boogie came back from the first EBI and told us about it. I didn’t even understand the rules, but I knew it was something special. I’ve competed in a bunch of EBI-style events since then. Winning one is a big goal.”
He turned down a potential UFC Fight Pass grappling match in October to focus on EBI.
“I wanted to do both, but EBI meant too much to me. I grew up watching it. I had to take that chance.”
On the broader landscape, Krikorian praised the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) for its energy and incentive structure.
“The cash bonuses for submissions incentivized action. That was huge. Some parts were odd, but overall, I thought it was a major positive step.”
He also noted Dorian Olivarez as someone to watch.
“He’s the real deal… in my weight class unfortunately. But he’s doing everything right.”
Lately, Krikorian has leaned more into building his online presence, something he used to avoid.
“I hated posting. But this is a business. This is my brand. People told me I was funny — close friends, family — but no one else saw that side. Now they do.”
Eventually, he wants to open a gym in Southern California.
“I’ve lived all over — Europe, East Coast — but SoCal feels like home. I want to do it right. I’m not ready yet, but it’s coming. I want to help people live with passion and discipline. Jiu-jitsu gave me that.”
For now, his focus is EBI 25.
“I think I’m going to win,” Krikorian said. “Everyone on the card is a killer, but this is what I’ve been working for. I want to bring home an EBI title for 10th Planet.”
Krikorian will compete Sept. 12th at Eddie Bravo Invitational 25 in the San Antonio. Fans can buy tickets online at https://ticketsexpress.net/ebi/ and he hopes to see a packed crowd.