The Wushu events at the 2026 FISU World University Championship Combat Sports wrapped up in Brasília, Brazil, running from June 8 to 13.
Representing Canada’s National University Wushu Team, Brandon Luo and Julianna Huang of Ji Hong Wushu & Tai Chi College delivered standout performances in the Taijiquan (Tai Chi Barehand) and Taijijian (Tai Chi Sword) events. Backed by rock-solid fundamentals, refined technique, and exceptional composure on the carpet, the pair secured an impressive tally of three gold medals and one silver for Team Canada.
Organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), this year’s championship brought together five combat disciplines: Karate, Ju-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Wushu. More than 1,500 student-athletes from nearly 40 countries and regions gathered in Brasília for high-level international competition and cultural exchange.
Julianna Huang kicked things off on June 10, the opening day of the Wushu competition. Her Taijijian routine was smooth, steady, and commanding, earning a 9.540 to capture Canada’s first gold of the tournament. Later that day in the men’s Taijiquan division, Brandon Luo showcased the quintessential harmony of Tai Chi—balancing power with softness, and speed with stillness. His sharp execution and deep foundation earned him a 9.686, securing a hard-fought silver medal.
Huang carried that momentum into June 11, delivering another poised, commanding performance to win the women’s Taijiquan title and secure her second gold medal of the championship.
On June 12, Luo took to the carpet for the men’s Taijijian. He was in top form, flawlessly executing an elite degree-of-difficulty sequence—a jumping front slap kick into a 540° lotus kick, landing straight into a hurdler’s split with complete control. His routine was fluid, rhythmic, and explosive from start to finish. The judges awarded him a stellar 9.713, vaulting him past a competitive international field to take the gold.
Canada’s five-member university Wushu squad (three men and two women) showed remarkable grit and teamwork throughout the tournament. Ultimately, Team Canada finished fourth in the overall medal standings with five medals (three gold, one silver, and one bronze)—marking a historic milestone for Canadian collegiate Wushu on the world stage.
Both Luo and Huang will now turn their attention to the upcoming Wushu Taolu World Cup in Haikou, China, scheduled for July 4 to 9. Reserved exclusively for the top eight finishers from each event at the previous World Wushu Championships, the tournament features the absolute highest calibre of Taolu athletes in the world. We wish Brandon and Julianna the best of luck as they prepare to take on the world once again!
