Where to Train Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu in 2025: Top Gyms & Cities Around the World

If you're a grappler planning your next training trip, the platform at Grapplers.world lets you discover and compare gyms worldwide. Below is a curated guide to some of the most influential cities and academies you should consider in 2025, why they matter and what you can expect on the mats.

Brazil – The Birthplace of BJJ

Rio de Janeiro – Gracie Barra & Nova União

Rio de Janeiro is home to some of the most storied academies in the world. Gracie Barra, founded by Carlos Gracie Jr., is one of the best‑known schools globally; it emphasises family values and development and has produced numerous champions with branches worldwide. Nova União, another Rio powerhouse, blends BJJ and MMA under leaders Wendell Alexander and André Pederneiras.

Training in Rio means absorbing the art where it evolved, enjoying vibrant beach culture between sessions and experiencing a culture where jiu‑jitsu is part of daily life.

São Paulo – Alliance, Barbosa B9 & Rocian Gracie Jr.

São Paulo's bustling business capital also boasts a concentration of world‑class gyms. Alliance BJJ, founded by Romero “Jacaré” Cavalcanti, earned eight consecutive world championships from 2008‑2015 and remains one of the sport's most influential teams.

The city's traditional roots shine at Barbosa B9 Jiujitsu, where visitors find a friendly atmosphere and double‑digit numbers of black belts on the mat. Student Rafael Abreu explained that founder Barbosa's judo background and humility create a politics‑free environment.

Rocian Gracie Jr.'s academy provides a welcoming alternative, emphasising jiu‑jitsu as a “martial art, sport and way of life” with group warm‑ups and classic Gracie techniques. Together, these gyms make São Paulo a must‑visit hub for serious grapplers.

United States – Coast‑to‑Coast Hot Spots

San Diego – Atos Jiu‑Jitsu HQ

On the U.S. West Coast, San Diego has become synonymous with high‑level jiu‑jitsu thanks to Atos. Under multiple‑time world champion André Galvão, the Atos headquarters has produced numerous champions, offers over 6,000 online training sessions and even runs kids' classes. San Diego's sunny climate, surf culture and diverse gym scene (Fabio Santos, Saulo & Xande Ribeiro and others) make it an ideal destination for a training holiday.

New York City – Renzo Gracie Academy & Marcelo Garcia Jiu‑Jitsu

New York City hosts two legendary academies. Renzo Gracie Academy carries the Gracie family tradition; Renzo, grandson of Robson Gracie, trained under Helio Gracie's lineage and is recognised for his success in UFC and Pride. Head coach John Danaher leads a squad of elite No‑Gi grapplers whose leg‑lock innovations have dominated competition.

Nearby, the Marcelo Garcia Jiu‑Jitsu Academy offers a different vibe. Located in midtown Manhattan, the academy is praised for its highly skilled and supportive coaches and a relaxed learning environment. Marcelo's school is intentionally low‑profile; there are no large signs, yet it draws students worldwide who value technique and camaraderie.

Europe – Welcoming Atmosphere Meets Elite Coaching

London – Roger Gracie Academy

London's premier jiu‑jitsu destination is the Roger Gracie Academy. Ten‑time world champion Roger Gracie – grandson of Carlos Gracie – and his father Mauricio Gomes have created a training space known for its exceptional atmosphere. Members are treated like family, resulting in a relaxed and enjoyable place to train. The academy assembles instructors from Brazil and around the world to teach the Gracie family system at the highest standard. For travellers, London also offers cultural attractions, vibrant nightlife and easy access via major airports.

Dublin – East Coast Jiu‑Jitsu Academy

Ireland's jiu‑jitsu scene thrives at East Coast Jiu‑Jitsu Academy. The academy has grown steadily, fielding competitive teams and producing notable athletes like Ffion Davies. They've won multiple Irish championships and were recognised by Flo Grappling at the 2018 Worlds Training Camp. East Coast's inclusive environment includes children, teens, adults and a solid female squad. For travellers exploring Europe, Dublin offers a combination of history, music and friendly training partners.

Asia & Oceania – Emerging Powerhouses

Singapore – Evolve MMA

Singapore's Evolve MMA, founded by ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong, is the largest gym in the country and features instructors who are former world champions. The academy offers BJJ alongside Muay Thai and MMA, making it a well‑rounded destination for martial artists seeking cross‑disciplinary training. Singapore's modern infrastructure, safety and food scene make it an appealing base for long‑term training.

Tokyo – Axis & Tri‑Force

Tokyo combines Japanese discipline with Brazilian innovation. Rickson Gracie and Takamasa Watanabe founded Axis Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu, focusing on personal development and training some of Japan's earliest black belts.

Mitsuyoshi Hayakawa's Tri‑Force Jiu‑Jitsu Academy emphasises “inner power” and offers structured classes that prioritise fundamentals. In Tokyo, you can explore judo heritage sites, enjoy the city's efficiency and embrace a culture that respects the art's roots.

Sydney – Gracie Barra Sydney

For grapplers in the Southern Hemisphere, Gracie Barra Sydney maintains the high standards of the Gracie Barra lineage. Australia's BJJ scene has exploded over the past decade, and Sydney's combination of top coaching, warm climate and beach lifestyle makes it an attractive training destination.

Tips for Planning Your BJJ Journey

Conclusion

Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu's global growth means that practitioners have more opportunities than ever to train with legends, discover new communities and expand their horizons. Whether you're drawn to the roots of the art in Brazil, the innovation of U.S. hotspots, the family atmosphere in Europe or the emerging scenes in Asia and Oceania, there is a destination to match your goals.

Use Grapplers.world to explore gyms, read reviews and start planning your 2025 grappling adventure. With the right preparation and an open mind, your journey on the mats can become a journey around the world.