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Roger Gracie Darlington

Roger Gracie Academy Darlington opened its doors in March 2022, bringing world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction to the North East of England. Head Coach Jakub Niski has trained since 2015 at RGA HQ in London, learning directly under Roger Gracie and Mauricio Gomes. Jakub brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, having trained and competed at the highest level as a multiple IBJJF and UAEJJF medalist. Roger Gracie is widely regarded as one of the greatest jiu-jitsu competitors to have ever stepped on a mat. A 10-time Black Belt World Champion and multiple MMA champion, Roger is one of the most decorated fighters of the modern era and a member of the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Hall of Fame. As the son of Reila Gracie and Mauricio Gomes (who received his black belt from the legendary Rolls Gracie), and grandson of Carlos Gracie, Roger carries on the Gracie family legacy of excellence in martial arts. At RGA Darlington, the academy operates under the core values established by Roger and Mauricio: Discipline, Consistency, Accountability, Alignment, and Authenticity. The gym offers comprehensive programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both Gi and No-Gi), Judo, and Wrestling for adults and children. With programs ranging from Little Warriors (ages 3+) to advanced adult competition training, including specialized women's classes taught by Ellie Vipond, the academy provides a welcoming environment for practitioners of all levels to develop their skills in a structured, professional setting.

Smash Brothers Jiu-Jitsu is an affiliated academy of the Cat5 Jiu-Jitsu Association, located in Panama City, Florida. The academy offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a welcoming, inclusive, and non-competitive environment, focusing on self-defense, fitness, and personal growth for students ages 5 and up. Founded as part of Professor Alberto Da Silva's vision to rebuild and strengthen the BJJ community in Bay County after Hurricane Michael, Smash Brothers carries forward the Cat5 philosophy of resilience, unity, and community success. The academy is staffed by homegrown instructors—raised right here in Panama City—who provide authentic training rooted in the purest form of BJJ. The academy is led by Professor Alberto Da Silva (Black Belt 2nd Degree), a retired United States Air Force veteran who began his BJJ journey in 1998 in New York City. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Professor Da Silva earned his Black Belt in 2016 under Master Luiz Sergio Correa of Marra Senki Jiu-Jitsu. His lineage traces back through Paulo Maurício Strauch, Reylson Gracie, Carlos Gracie Sr., to Mitsuyo Maeda. Additional instructors include Ibrahim Asfour (Black Belt) and Eyad Asfour (Brown Belt), both dedicated to developing students both on and off the mats.