THE TEAM

  • Glauco De Almeida

    Glauco De Almeida, a first-degree black belt from Sydney, Australia. Beginning his BJJ journey at 13, Glauco brings 17 years of training and 10 years of coaching experience. His academy in Western Sydney is renowned for training students of all levels, from beginners to competitors. Glauco's notable achievements include being the Pan Pacific Champion, Australian National Champion, and multiple IBJJF Open Champion. His dedication and skill make him a respected figure in the BJJ community.

  • Timur Ashimov

    Timur Ashimov, a seasoned BJJ Brown Belt with an impressive 9-year journey. Timur's journey includes numerous IBJJF Silver Medals and one Bronze, testifying to his dedication and skill. While he's explored various martial arts, Timur finds his true meditation-like focus solely through practicing and teaching BJJ. Off the mats, his eagerness to aid others knows no bounds, and his positivity permeates everything he encounters. Timur's ability to channel his energy into both his BJJ practice and his interactions with others makes him an uplifting presence within our community.

  • Courtney Anderson

    Courtney Anderson, a BJJ Brown Belt boasting over 10 years of experience, including 7 years dedicated to teaching. With a remarkable collection of Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals from diverse UK BJJ tournaments, Courtney's proficiency is undeniable. Adding to his arsenal, a Judo Brown Belt signifies his multidisciplinary prowess. Beyond the mat, Courtney's eagerness to aid those seeking guidance is palpable. A paragon of affability and positivity, he radiates a friendly demeanor that enriches our community.

  • Safeer Moustafa

    Safeer Moustafa, a BJJ Brown Belt boasting 11 years of experience. His insatiable passion for exploring new techniques makes him an engaging and enthralling rolling partner. When you step onto the mats with Safeer, you're in for an intriguing journey. Off the mats, his positivity and friendliness radiate, creating an inviting atmosphere for all. Safeer's multifaceted approach to BJJ, as both an avid learner and an approachable mentor, enriches our community.

  • Faris Benlamkadem

    Faris Benlamkadem, a Professional BJJ Black Belt whose trophy case boasts a multitude of Gold and Silver Medals from prestigious UK and European BJJ Competitions. A veritable force on the mats, Faris's dominance is unquestionable. However, outside the arena, his humility and reserved nature shine. Faris's duality as an unstoppable force on the mats and a humble presence off them adds a unique and well-rounded dimension to our team.
    Check out his professional competitor profile: 

    https://smoothcomp.com/en/profile/13457 

    https://ajptour.com/en/profile/172

  • Stefano Sanna

    Stefano is a world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, holding a Black Belt with over 12 years of experience in BJJ. His impressive career is highlighted by victories in several prestigious events, including a standout performance at Polaris. Stefano is also a seasoned competitor on the Grapple Fest circuit and has participated in multiple international invitationals, showcasing his skills on the global stage.

    Stefano brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our academy. His passion for BJJ and dedication to the sport are evident in his approach to coaching, where he aims to inspire and elevate our members through focused training and strategic insights. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, Stefano's guidance will be an invaluable asset to your training.

  • Omar Abdullah

    Originally from Tunisia, Omar Abdullah is a highly skilled martial artist with a Black Belt in both Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Judo. With 15 years of training in BJJ and Judo, Omar brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team.

    Teaching Experience: Omar began his teaching career in Tunisia, instructing adults and kids, and preparing competitors for tournaments. In the UK, he has taught at numerous locations in and outside of London, including MMA Underground, Urban Warriors Academy, and Grapple Zone.

    Omar's extensive competition experience and dedication to teaching make him a valuable asset to our community. His classes are known for their rigorous training and emphasis on technique, preparing students for both recreational practice and competitive success.

  • Fernanda Dassoler

    Fernanda Dassoler is our newest addition to our Grapple Zone BJJ Academy team. A determined purple belt, Fernanda's journey into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu began in 2017, marked by her impressive return after overcoming an injury. Her dedication to competitions has earned her well-deserved medals, including a victorious super fight at Enyo Grappling 5. As our Kids Classes Instructor, Fernanda brings a unique blend of skill, resilience, and passion to the mats. Her teaching philosophy emphasises not only technical prowess but also the development of character, discipline, and self-confidence in our young grapplers. Join us for exciting and enriching sessions as Fernanda Dassoler guides the next generation of BJJ enthusiasts at Grapple Zone.

  • Imam Makeev

    Imam brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished athletic background to our academy. Originally from Chechnya, Imam began practicing freestyle wrestling at the age of 13 and trained at the prestigious Olympic Training Center. His impressive journey includes winning the Chechen Republic Championship before moving to Dagestan to further hone his skills at the Saitev and Irbaikhanov Freestyle Wrestling School.

    With numerous accolades to his name, including being a four-time district champion, Junior and adult Chechen Republic champion, and placing in various grappling tournaments, Imam's expertise and dedication are unparalleled. His passion for wrestling and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly inspire and elevate our members' training experience.

  • Callum Handyside

    Callum Handyside, a Muay Thai Professional Fighter and Instructor with an impressive 10+ years of experience, adorned with numerous major victories in a variety of esteemed professional tournaments. Beyond his exceptional skills, Callum's approachable nature shines, particularly for newcomers. With a teaching style that strikes a harmonious chord across all student levels, Callum brings a well-rounded and friendly disposition that enriches the learning journey for everyone

  • Aisatou Camara

    Ash (Aisatou) Camara, a BJJ Blue Belt with an impressive 7 years of experience. A master in connecting with kids, Ash's mat prowess is unrivaled, but off the mats, she radiates approachability and warmth. With a blend of strength and amiability, Ash brings a dynamic and balanced approach to both teaching and interacting, making her an invaluable asset to our team.