JACKIE Harper has been crowned IBJJF European Masters Champion after an Absolute victory.

The Aire Valley Martial Arts head female instructor and Warrior Woman founder won the prestigious title in Barcelona last weekend.

Harper, who is the British Masters Champion, claimed The International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation's European title, which is considered one of the biggest and best events together with the Pan Ams, the Brazilian nationals and the World Championships, known as the Big Four.

The European Masters event saw Harper fight American and Greek-based athletes that had previously medalled at Big Four events.

Harper came through with an arm lock finish she is known for in the semi-final against world ranked number six Adelita McGrath before losing on points in the final to past champion Tina Barantar.

But Harper wasn't finished there and had entered the open weight category known as the Absolutes.

This is an unusual feature in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that is not seen in many contact sports were athletes are randomly matched to fight regardless of weight categories, as such lighter weight athletes are often pitted against heavyweight opponents.

Harper claimed The Absolute, meeting Adelita McGrathin again in a thrilling back and fourth final match, winning on points.

For a featherweight athlete to win The Absolute is almost unheard of, so it is a massive achievement for Jackie and also her team.