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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Liverpool: Where to Train
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Liverpool runs through Next Generation MMA, home to Merseyside's first BJJ black belt and several UFC alumni.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Liverpool is anchored by one dominant academy with a strong record, alongside a handful of smaller gyms. The scene is MMA-influenced — several of the city's best-known grapplers came up through fight teams rather than pure gi academies.
Established Academies in Liverpool
- **Next Generation MMA** — the oldest and most successful mixed martial arts school in Liverpool. Head coach Paul Rimmer was the first BJJ black belt on Merseyside, promoted in 2011 under Chris Brennan, and the gym has produced UFC fighters including Molly McCann and Chris Fishgold. Runs BJJ alongside MMA, Muay Thai, and boxing. Address: 78 Kempston Street, L3 8HE. Contact: +44 7725 673827.
- Independent and Wirral academies — Liverpool has independent BJJ academies and affiliate gyms across the city and out towards the Wirral, useful if the Next Generation timetable does not fit yours.
Choosing a Liverpool Gym
If you want a pure gi-focused academy, confirm that a gym's BJJ timetable is deep enough on its own — some Liverpool gyms run BJJ mainly as a component of an MMA programme, which means fewer dedicated gi classes. If you want to train MMA as well, that same overlap is an advantage.
The standard checks still apply: verified black belt lineage, enough weekly beginner classes, and gi or no-gi to match your goal. Take the free trial. Our guide on choosing a BJJ gym close to you covers weighing a strong reputation against schedule fit.
What Training Costs in Liverpool
Liverpool memberships are among the more affordable in the UK, below the English city-centre average. Most academies bill monthly with a separate one-off gi cost. Confirm what open mat and no-gi access are included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tagged with:#Liverpool#UK#city guide#gyms
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Paul Rimmer?
Paul Rimmer was the first BJJ black belt on Merseyside, promoted in 2011 under Chris Brennan. He is the head coach of Next Generation MMA in Liverpool.
What UFC fighters have trained at Next Generation MMA?
Next Generation MMA has developed UFC fighters including Molly McCann and Chris Fishgold. It is the oldest and most successful MMA school in Liverpool.
Can I train pure gi BJJ in Liverpool?
Yes, but confirm the timetable first. Some Liverpool gyms run BJJ mainly as part of an MMA programme with fewer dedicated gi classes. Ask about the weekly gi schedule before joining.
How much does BJJ cost in Liverpool?
Among the more affordable in the UK, below the English city-centre average. Expect a monthly membership plus a one-off gi cost.
Is Liverpool BJJ beginner-friendly?
Yes. Next Generation MMA and the independent academies run beginner classes and offer trial sessions. No martial arts background is needed.
Sources & Further Reading
About the Author
Mohsin AyubBJJ practitioner, 6 years — Gracie Barra
Founder & Editor, BJJ Sportswear
Mohsin has trained Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for six years at Gracie Barra and has competed at IBJJF-affiliated tournaments. He writes about competition, gear, and athlete careers, and founded BJJ Sportswear to help grapplers find equipment and information they can trust.
- Six years training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra
- Competed at IBJJF-affiliated tournaments
- Writes on BJJ competition, gear testing, and athlete careers
This article was last reviewed and updated on 2026-08-28.