11-year-old Jiu-Jitsu star chases her dream to France

Jayla Perkins, an 11-year-old jiu-jitsu athlete from New Mexico, has earned a spot on Team USA and a chance to compete in France this fall. Her achievement is drawing national attention because her journey began in homelessness and has grown into a story of resilience, community support and rising athletic talent.

11-year-old jiu-jitsu Star Jayla Perkins: From Homelessness to the World Stage

Jayla spent nearly the first two years of her life homeless with her family. Her mother said those early struggles shaped Jayla’s toughness and drive. Now, Jayla trains daily and has earned more than 70 medals in jiu-jitsu. She also plays tackle football as the only girl on her team.

Because of her success, Jayla qualified for the ICO World Combat Martial Arts Championships in France. The event will bring together young athletes from around the world. Her coaches say she is ready for the challenge and prepared to represent Team USA.

UFC Legend Jon Jones Steps Up

Jayla’s family moved to Albuquerque so she could train at Jackson Wink MMA Academy, home to several UFC champions. That move connected her with Jon Jones, who has supported her for years.

Jones recently pledged to match whatever her fundraiser raises, calling Jayla a future champion, KRQE reports. He praised her discipline and her volunteer work, including handing out backpacks to local children. His support has helped push Jayla’s story into national headlines.

Community Rallies to Help Jayla Compete

A verified GoFundMe aims to cover Jayla’s passport, travel, lodging, meals, training sessions and fight gear. Her mother wrote that the trip is about more than one tournament.

“Getting Jayla to France is about so much more than just one tournament,” the fundraiser reads. “She wants everyone to know that no matter where you come from, you can still reach your dreams.”

Jayla hopes to inspire her five younger siblings, other young athletes and girls in male‑dominated sports. She also wants children facing difficult circumstances to believe in what is possible.

Jayla says her long-term goal is to compete in the UFC. Her supporters believe France is the next step toward that dream.