The people in your corner
Get to know the instructors behind our adult and youth programs, from your first fundamentals class to the next stage of your practice.
Professor · “Escorrega”
A multiple-time world champion and Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu black belt, Carlos Lemos Jr. brings a career in competition and coaching to Gracie Barra Chicago.
Also a former mixed martial artist, he was among the early black belts to teach and establish Jiu‑Jitsu academies in Europe. His experience connects the academy to the wider Gracie Barra community.
Competition experience. A worldwide teaching perspective.
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Professor · English & Spanish
Professor Carlos Lopez is a Gracie Barra black belt known in the Midwest Jiu‑Jitsu community for his role in the development of Gracie Barra in Chicago and Illinois.
He teaches in English and Spanish and has a particular passion for helping people who have never trained before work toward their goals.
Helping beginners find their place on the mats.
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Professor · Kids’ program
Professor Mike Bayley is a Gracie Barra black belt and ICP-certified instructor who has trained under Carlos Lemos Jr. since white belt.
At West Loop, Mike leads the kids’ program, helping young students build focus, discipline, confidence, and healthy habits. He comes from a family of practitioners and instructors in the United Kingdom.
A structured start for the next generation.
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Coach · ICP-certified instructor
Coach Ricardo is an ICP-certified instructor who has trained at Gracie Barra West Loop since 2019.
Originally from Brazil, he has trained under Professors Carlos Lemos, Marcio Feitosa, and Carlos Lopez. His journey is rooted in the same academy community that welcomes new students today.
Part of the West Loop team, on and off the mats.
Explore our programsYour next step
Let us know about your training experience and goals before your first visit.
