Our Instructors

Rogerio De Lima

Head Instructor

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Roger Gracie

  • BSc In Human Nutrition

  • Qualified UKSCA Strength and Conditioning Coach

With over 15 years experience working as an elite level coach and personal trainer in both London and Dubai, Rogerio brings enormous experience to the table. Passionate for performance and development, and with the light-hearted and friendly approach required for working with children, he previously worked with the Dubai Education Authority providing BJJ training within the school system.

Rogerio works together with our team of instructors as well as highly experienced education professionals to design and deliver a program that is at the cutting edge of physical, mental and personal development.

Rohit Vijayan

Instructor

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Team Nogueira

With over a decade of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Rohit is a dedicated coach with a strong background in both competition and instruction. He brings deep expertise to the mats, shaped by years of training in top academies.

Rohit tailors his teaching to each student’s goals, making classes both effective and enjoyable. His approachable style and commitment to growth help students thrive at all levels.

Beyond the academy, Rohit partners with schools to introduce BJJ to students of all ages, focusing on physical, mental, and personal development through a well-rounded, modern program.

Luwis Thisara

Instructor

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Julio dos Anjos

With over a decade of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience, Louie is a skilled and passionate instructor trained under renowned black belt Julio dos Anjos. His background as both a competitor and coach across diverse academies has shaped him into a well-rounded and insightful teacher.

Louie tailors his coaching to each student’s goals, offering clear, personalized guidance for all levels. His friendly, approachable style creates an engaging and supportive learning environment.

Outside the academy, Louie partners with schools to introduce BJJ to students of all ages, focusing on physical, mental, and personal growth. Working with a team of educators, he helps deliver a modern, impactful program that builds confidence and discipline.

Thalya Adyr

Instructor

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown belt under Studio 100

Thayla is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt under Alex Moncalves with over a decade of experience. Known for her precise technique, strategic guard, and dynamic submissions, she brings a calm yet driven presence to the mats.

Starting her journey in Brazil, Thayla has competed in local and international tournaments, showcasing a fluid, control-based style focused on positional dominance.

Now mentoring newer students, she combines advanced training with a friendly, supportive approach—helping foster a strong, inclusive academy community.

Erlis Costa da Silva

Instructor

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown belt under Dailton Almeida

• Over six years dedicated to Jiu‑Jitsu, training intensively under one of the top coaches in the discipline

• Known for her technical precision, strategic grappling, and balanced teaching style

Erlis brings a harmonious blend of calm focus and energetic instruction to her classes. Over the past six years, she has developed a refined and efficient game—marked by tight positional control, fluid transitions, and a thoughtful approach to submissions. Under Dailton Almeida’s mentorship, Erlis has not only honed her personal skillset but has also embraced the role of guide and mentor for others on the mat.

Her teaching emphasizes thoughtful progression: breaking down complex movements into clear, digestible steps; fostering discipline, respect, and resilience; and encouraging each student to discover their own strengths. Beloved by her students for her approachable demeanor, Erlis creates a supportive environment where practitioners of all ages and levels feel empowered to learn, grow, and enjoy their Jiu‑Jitsu journey.

Aylla Rodrigues da Silva

Instructor

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown belt under Marcio Carreira Gomes- Carreira Team Carlson Gracie

Aylla Da Silva is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt with over 14 years of experience, currently active in the UAE’s competitive Jiu-Jitsu scene. Representing top clubs like Al Jazira, she has earned podium placements in elite UAEJJF events.

Blending her competitive edge with a passion for teaching, Aylla delivers student-focused coaching with energy, precision, and care. Her approachable style creates a motivating space for beginners and advanced athletes alike.

Beyond the mats, Aylla helps introduce BJJ into schools and youth programs, promoting physical and personal development through structured training.

A standout in the UAE BJJ community, Aylla is both a high-level competitor and a dedicated mentor, elevating the standard for women’s Jiu-Jitsu in the region.

Cleomar Mendes

Instructor

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Puple belt under Studio 100

Cleomar is a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Purple belt known for his discipline, drive, and passion for the art. Always eager to improve, he trains rigorously under his coach’s guidance, constantly refining his technique and strategy.

His positive attitude and strong work ethic make him a valued teammate, both on and off the mats. Cleomar not only pushes himself to grow but also supports those around him, helping to build a strong, encouraging training environment.

Through his consistent effort and humility, Cleomar continues to progress in his journey, setting an inspiring example for others in the Jiu-Jitsu community.

Nishi Mehta

Instructor

  • Brazilian JiuJitsu Puple belt under UFC Gym

Nishi is a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training at UFC Gym Dubai under coach Rafael. Known for her strong work ethic and technical precision, she blends aggression and finesse to develop a well-rounded, strategic game.

Her commitment to improvement, both on and off the mat, drives her to constantly refine her skills in positional control, submissions, and transitions. Nishi’s innovative approach and mental toughness make her a respected competitor and teammate.

Beyond her personal progress, Nishi inspires those around her with her positivity and dedication, helping foster a supportive training environment. As she continues her journey, she remains focused on growth and excellence in the art of BJJ.

Maurice Elhimeur

Instructor

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Purple belt under Bruno Fernandes Gracie Barra

Originally from Paris, Maurice Elhimeur developed a passion for MMA early in life, eventually channeling it into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. After starting as a white belt in high school, he quickly advanced, competing nationally and internationally, and earning his purple belt after dedicated training across France, Canada, and the UAE.

He trained under Professor Bruno Fernandes at Gracie Barra while studying in Montreal and later spent a year in the UAE to fully focus on BJJ, including competing at the World Pro in Abu Dhabi.

Now a certified coach with the French Jiu-Jitsu Federation, Maurice teaches both kids and adults—sharing his knowledge with energy and dedication. For him, Jiu-Jitsu is more than a sport; it’s a lifelong passion and a way of life.