In 2015, Gareth Dummer joined forces with Matthew Benyon, Ben Tong, and Lee Jones to co-found Polaris Pro Grappling, an invitational event conceived to showcase submission grappling at the highest level. Benyon and Tong brought experience and connections from the Scramble brand, while Dummer and Jones contributed the infrastructure and credibility built through Tatami Fightwear. Together, the four founders created a promotion designed to treat grappling as a legitimate, broadcast-worthy sport.
Polaris was built around a commitment to high-profile matchmaking and professional presentation. The promotion introduced a judging format to its events, providing a structured framework for deciding outcomes beyond submission — a deliberate choice that added strategic depth to the viewing experience and gave athletes clarity on how their performances would be assessed. This approach positioned Polaris as a thoughtful alternative to purely submission-only formats, broadening its appeal to both casual viewers and dedicated fans.
Impact on Professional Grappling
Polaris has grown into one of the most prominent grappling invitationals in the world, featuring elite competitors across both gi and no-gi formats. The event has provided a meaningful platform for professional grapplers at various stages of their careers, contributing to the broader legitimization of submission grappling as a spectator sport. Dummer's role in building Polaris represents one of his most significant contributions to the sport, extending his influence well beyond the mats and into the infrastructure of professional grappling.