Inside Chicago’s only Assyrian-owned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy.
Inside Chicago’s only Assyrian-owned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy.
Raised by his immigrant mother and grandmother in Chicago, Professor Ashur Darmo discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at just 15 years old. What began as an outlet became a life-changing pursuit, one that led him to become a Pan-American Champion, world-ranked IBJJF competitor, and founder of The Academy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Glenview, Illinois.
Now a 2nd-degree black belt, Ashur has spent half his life on the mats building more than athletes. Through discipline, structure, mentorship, and community, he’s helping shape the next generation both on and off the mat.
In our conversation with Professor Ashur Darmo, we discusssed:
• Growing up in Chicago and discovering martial arts
• How Jiu-Jitsu gave him structure and direction
• Building confidence and discipline in children
• Creating community through training
• What it means to represent the Assyrian community through excellence
• The vision behind Chicago’s only Assyrian-owned BJJ academy
“Kids need passion. Kids need structure. Otherwise, they’ll find direction somewhere else.”
From world-class competition to mentorship and community leadership, The Academy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu reflects a story built on perseverance, humility, and purpose.
📍The Academy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
1730 Waukegan Rd, Glenview, IL