BJJ Academies in Illinois.
Illinois' BJJ scene is anchored by Chicago, the city where Carlson Gracie himself opened the first BJJ academy in the state. Carlson Gracie Chicago — now run by his son Carlson Gracie Jr., a 6th-degree IBJJF-ranked black belt — continues to operate as the team's U.S. flagship.
Gracie Barra Chicago is led by Carlos Lemos Jr. (known as "Escorrega"), a former mixed martial artist and 5th-degree BJJ black belt who anchors the Gracie Barra presence in the city. Vianna Brothers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has run for 20+ years across Chicago locations in Bucktown, Wicker Park, and Logan Square. Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Tutaj BJJ runs in Chicago under the Tutaj family. Other Chicago academies span team-affiliate rooms across the metro.
Tournaments and seminars in Illinois.
Wintrust Sports Complex · Bedford Park, Illinois
This IBJJF International Open tournament runs in Bedford Park, Illinois, contested under IBJJF gi rules across all belts, weights, and age divisions.
Wintrust Sports Complex · Bedford Park, Illinois
This IBJJF International Open No-Gi tournament runs in Bedford Park, Illinois, contested under IBJJF no-gi rules across all belts, weights, and age divisions.
Wintrust Sports Complex · Bedford Park, Illinois
This IBJJF International Open Kids tournament brings youth competitors to Bedford Park, Illinois under IBJJF gi rules across all belts and age brackets.