The Academy BJJ

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ashur Darmo is hands down the best BJJ coach in Chicago and the surrounding area. I’ve been training with Ashur for over 10 years, starting when I was about 14, and I can honestly say he’s shaped not only my jiu jitsu but also my life. He built my confidence, taught me discipline, and helped me avoid the bad habits that hold so many people back. Thanks to his coaching, I earned silver at the Pan Am Kids Jiu Jitsu Championship, and I’m still using the guard system he built for me to this day (good luck trying to pass it). What makes Ashur different is his dedication and his connections in the sport. He’s not just another coach—he’s plugged into the highest levels of MMA and BJJ. He has relationships with UFC fighters like Beneil Dariush, which shows the level of respect he has in the community. That means when you train with Ashur, you’re getting knowledge and insight from someone who’s trusted by the very best. Whether you’re a beginner, a competitor, or just looking to challenge yourself, you won’t find a better place to train than with Ashur Darmo. He invests in his students as people, not just athletes, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without him.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Academy BJJ is the real deal, and Ashur is exactly the kind of coach you want leading the room. I took a free trial class and signed up immediately because the instruction was clear, the room was welcoming, and the training had real purpose. Ashur focuses on building discipline, confidence, and practical self defense while constantly pushing you to learn new skills and improve week to week. The culture is focused and ego free, and you can tell he genuinely cares about getting his students better. My long term goal is to compete once Ashur gets me ready and maybe even take out Magomed Ankalaev someday (kidding). If you have been thinking about starting BJJ, this is the place to do it.

The man had a ton of experience, you can tell he knows exactly what he’s talking about. He truly shows he cares for this students as well. Had a ton of fun learning new skills and meeting very welcoming people as well. High highly recommend to come check it out and talk to the man Ashur.

Great experience overall. You get to meet a lot of new people who are genuinely willing and eager to help you learn. The environment is competitive but very welcoming at the same time. Beyond learning the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I’ve found The Academy to be an amazing place for building a stronger mindset and mental discipline.

Ashur and his staff are dedicated professionals who truely want their students to succeed. Very impressive dedication to the sport. Great work guys, congrats on the new facility.