5 Fast Facts About Hawaiian Grappling Star Teshya Noelani Alo
Hawaiian grappling sensation Teshya Noelani Alo is ready to make her mark on ONE Championship’s global stage.
The 28-year-old multi-faceted athlete will make her promotional debut against American prodigy Helena Crevar in a bantamweight submission grappling match at ONE Fight Night 39 on Prime Video, which broadcasts live in U.S. primetime from Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium on Friday, January 23.
Alo brings a unique and dangerous skill set that extends far beyond traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
The Honolulu native is riding a wave of momentum in the BJJ world, as she claimed three ADCC Open Championships in 2025 alone. Between that and her phenomenal wrestling and judo credentials, it’s clear she belongs among the elite.
Before Alo debuts in the organization’s first U.S. primetime event of 2026, here are five things you must know about the Hawaiian superstar.
#1 Alo Is A Decorated Wrestler And Judoka
Before dominating the jiu-jitsu mats, Teshya Noelani Alo built her foundation as a wrestling and judo prodigy.
The Hawaiian captured four high school state wrestling titles, the 2014 FILA Cadet World Championship, and the USA Wrestling Freestyle National High School Title. She was also a two-time Team USA member.
Alo’s pinning expertise now translates directly into her punishing top pressure in BJJ. The Island Jiu Jitsu representative is also a decorated judoka with multiple national titles at the youth level.
Her formidable takedown arsenal makes her a menace on the feet, capable of dynamic single-leg and double-leg attacks complemented by massive judo throws and trips.
#2 Alo Does Stunt Work
Beyond the mat, Alo channels her elite athleticism into the motion picture industry.
The Hawaiian grappler has branched out into stunt work and acting, making her debut in Apple TV+’s epic series Chief of War, which chronicles the violent unification of the Hawaiian Islands in the late 18th century through a predominantly Polynesian cast.
Alo’s multi-disciplinary combat sports background translates seamlessly into professional stunt work’s demanding physical requirements.
Now a SAG-AFTRA stunt performer, she brings genuine martial arts mastery to action sequences that demand real technique and precision.
#3 Alo Proudly Represents Hawaii’s Heritage
Teshya Noelani Alo is deeply connected to her Hawaiian roots and carries the spirit of the islands into every competition.
The Honolulu native often wears gear that signifies her heritage, making sure to represent her island community and Polynesian culture. And as she continues to make waves in the BJJ scene, she has become an ambassador for Hawaiian martial arts excellence.
Alo’s role in Chief of War extended beyond stunt work, as she honored her home state’s history through authentic portrayals of Hawaiian warriors and their traditional fighting systems.
From World Championship podiums to Hollywood productions, and now, to the world’s largest martial arts organization, Alo carries the mana of Hawaii wherever she competes.
#4 Alo Is Extremely Close To Her Sister
Alo fights for her ohana and shares an unbreakable bond with her younger sister Teniya, who’s also active in the BJJ scene.
The sisters are inseparable, frequently sharing their adventures and shenanigans through social media.
From goofing around during training sessions to showcasing their dance moves and capturing everyday moments, the Alo sisters give fans a glimpse into their close-knit relationship.
The pair often train together, pushing each other while maintaining the playful dynamic that defines their sisterhood.
#5 Alo Loves Pokemon
Like many folks around the globe, Alo loves Pokemon.
The Hawaiian grappling sensation and her sister have followed the anime since their childhood. And if she had to choose a Pokemon that best represents her, it would be Eevee because, like the character, she is always evolving.
Also, the Alo sisters regularly played Pokemon GO, especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to help break up the monotony, get some fresh air, and go on some unexpected adventures to find, catch, and train Pokemon.
