North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been a fixture on Chicago’s North Side for over a decade, guided by owner and head instructor Branko Milosevic. Professor Milosevic is a second-degree black belt under Robson Moura, bringing the influence of Moura’s innovative style and technical approach to every class. After earning his blue belt from Eduardo De Lima and spending years teaching at Moura’s main academy in Tampa, Branko moved to Chicago in 2013 to open his own school. The academy’s coaching team includes instructors with deep competition credentials, law enforcement backgrounds, and high-level wrestling experience, such as Marko Trifunovic, Jeremy Tagarao, and Mike DiFrisco, each bringing their own expertise to the mat. The program at North Side is anchored in both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with separate kids and adult classes running throughout the week. There is a clear path for beginners, with fundamentals instruction shaping the entry point for new students, while more seasoned practitioners and competitors benefit from advanced training, wrestling for BJJ, and competition-focused classes. Kids’ classes are run by instructors experienced in youth coaching, and the academy regularly hosts summer camps, seminars, and family-friendly events. For those interested in cross-training, the schedule includes MMA, kickboxing, and strength and conditioning, as well as dedicated wrestling instruction led by a former collegiate wrestler and accomplished coach. The academy’s new facility on N Central Ave features expanded mat space, kickboxing bags, workout equipment, and a viewing area for parents. Open mat sessions in both gi and no-gi are available for adults and kids, and drop-ins are welcome, making it accessible for visitors and local grapplers alike. North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu’s blend of technical lineage, structured class offerings, and practical extras like wrestling and MMA make it a steady home for families, hobbyists, and competitors looking for a well-run BJJ school in Chicago.

Amenities