World Masters in Vegas: Results, Reflections, and What I Ate

I’m writing this on Labor Day 2025, after a long, well-earned sleep following an unforgettable weekend. I am unbelievably excited about how it all turned out—so many highs, and very few lows (for me, at least). Here’s what went down at the IBJJF World Masters in Las Vegas—and what I ate along the way.

Thursday Morning: Great News and a Pre-Flight Lunch

My husband and I started the trip with some incredible news on Thursday morning. While I can’t share the details yet, let’s just say we were extremely pleased. To celebrate, we grabbed lunch at Los Hornos in Kansas City.

This Argentine restaurant has glowing reviews and, while not Brazilian, it reminded my husband a little of home. I ordered the grilled chicken lomito with an amazing chimichurri sauce—so good! My husband got the beef lomito with fries. We left happy and full.

Thursday Evening: Craving Veggies at LAX

By the time we landed at LAX, I was craving vegetables like crazy. I decided to try CAVA for the first time and ordered a grilled chicken bowl with SplendidGreens, pickled onions, tomatoes, tzatziki, red pepper hummus, and harissa. The hummus was delicious.

Since my weight was super low, I indulged in half of a blondie—so worth it. (I ate the other half the next morning. Yum!)

Friday Morning: Avocado Toast Dream Come True

Usually, when I come to Vegas, I can’t wait for all-you-can-eat sushi and over-the-top desserts. But this trip, I was craving one thing: avocado toast from Sid’s Café at the Westgate. It did not disappoint.

The bread was thick, the avocado perfectly seasoned, and the greens crisp. Add a little hot sauce on the egg, and I was a happy lady.

Friday Night: Fueling Up Before Brackets

After a day full of seminars, walking, and cheering for friends, my weight was still low, but my hunger was high. We ordered Viva Las Arepas through Uber Eats—and wow.

We got the mixed grill for two, a salad, a side of rice and beans, fried yuca, and a guava-and-cheese pastel. It was absolute fire—one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time. Highly recommend.

Saturday Morning: Smart Fuel Before the Fight

Despite the feast the night before, I woke up about six pounds under my weight limit. Huge relief—it meant I could eat and drink smartly throughout the day without worry.

We grabbed breakfast at Siegel’s Bagelmania, right next to the venue. I ordered avocado toast (yes, again) with two poached eggs and a hazelnut cappuccino. The cappuccino was surprisingly good, but that bagel—soft, flavorful, loaded with avocado—was incredible. I was sad I couldn’t finish it!

Pre-Competition Snack

About an hour before competing, I had a banana, a Gatorade (I’d forgotten my Liquid IV at home), and a handful of gummy bears. I felt hydrated, energized, and surprisingly calm—probably the best I’ve ever felt before a match.

I found a song that spoke to me, sang to myself while warming up, and focused on gratitude: for my teammates, for my husband and coach, for being here at all. I felt at peace and confident, no matter the outcome.

The Results

I did it—kind of!

I won my first match 6–0, controlling the pace from start to finish. My mind was clear, I listened to my coach, stayed patient, and capitalized on my opponent’s mistake. Yes, I made errors—but I was prepared and focused enough to still take the win.

When my hand was raised, I cried on the mat. I had never won at Worlds, never podiumed at this level—and finally, I had done it. It felt amazing.

My second match was against a very strong, well-prepared opponent with a kickboxing background. She was calm, strategic, and ready to capitalize on my mistakes. I gave her an opportunity, she took it, and despite my efforts, I was ultimately submitted.

But here’s the thing: I wasn’t devastated. I was grateful—to have been there, to compete with the best, and to know that I could truly hang with them.

I took third place and was promoted to Brown Belt on the podium. Honestly, I don’t know if winning would have made me happier. But next year? I’m going for it.

The Celebration

That night, our team headed to one of our favorite spots in Vegas (and in the US): Boca do Brasil. If you’re in Vegas, I can’t recommend this restaurant enough.

I celebrated with a coxinha (shredded chicken and cream cheese wrapped in potato purée and deep-fried), picanha steak, mashed potatoes, Brazilian vinaigrette, and a beijinho (a coconut and sweetened condensed milk ball rolled in sugar).

It was the perfect ending—good food, great company, and a team that helped me reach that podium.

Final Reflection

Going into this weekend, I had zero expectations. My shoulder was hurt. My last two tournaments were possibly the worst of my career. I just wanted to show up, test myself, and see what might happen.

I planned well, removed the pressure, and embraced the opportunity. Now, sitting at home, I feel more confident, more sure of myself, and more grateful than ever.

I know I won’t win every competition. But I will keep showing up. I’ll step on the mat, share through this blog, pursue my ambitions, and keep reaching high. If I plan smart, stay persistent, and keep my focus, I know I’ll accomplish what I want in the next few years.

Still Hugging the World with My Legs

Kari Johnson Barroso is a pianist, business owner, and Jiu-Jitsu competitor. In her mid-40s, she’s chasing big goals, managing the chaos, and proving it’s never too late to fight for the life you want—even if it means hugging the world with your legs.