Aarae Alexander

Aarae Alexander is an accomplished American Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) black belt representing Team Lloyd Irvin (TLI). Born on October 14, 1994, in Silver Spring, Maryland, and raised in Fort Washington, she is a standout product of the highly successful TLI kids’ program.Alexander first discovered her passion for the sport during the summer of 2004 after watching local kids grapple at a summer camp. Under the guidance of coach Donald (Donnie) Achnick, she began competing in 2005. Coach Achnick remained a pivotal figure throughout her grappling journey, guiding her through the ranks from her youth into the adult black belt divisions.On June 13, 2016, following a highly decorated colored belt career, Alexander was awarded her black belt by team leader Lloyd Irvin.Balancing Academics and Elite CompetitionOne of the most remarkable aspects of Alexander’s career is her time management and efficiency. While dominating the competitive BJJ circuit, she simultaneously pursued her academic goals, earning a degree in civil engineering on the geo-technical/structural track. Because of her rigorous academic and professional schedule, she famously trained only twice a week (Fridays and Saturdays) throughout her colored belt and black belt careers, proving that high-level success can be achieved through pure talent and structured discipline.Main AchievementsAlexander has established herself as a top-tier competitor in the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) circuit, boasting major titles at both the colored and black belt levels.Black Belt Accomplishments:Champion: IBJJF New York BJJ Pro (2016)Champion: IBJJF Washington Open (2018)Champion: IBJJF New York Summer International Open (2016 – Weight & Absolute)2nd Place: IBJJF Pans No-Gi Championship (2018)3rd Place: IBJJF World Championship (2017)3rd Place: IBJJF Pans Championship (2017)Colored Belt Accomplishments:Champion: IBJJF World Champion (2014 purple, 2012 blue)Champion: IBJJF Juvenile World Champion (2010 & 2009 blue – Weight & Absolute)Champion: IBJJF Pans Champion (2013 purple)Runner-up: IBJJF World Championship (2016 & 2015 brown)Fighter ProfileFavorite Technique: Knee SlideWeight Divisions: Peso Leve (64.00 kg / 141.5 lbs) and Peso Pena (58.50 kg / 129.0 lbs)Team Association: Team Lloyd Irvin