Local Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor, Marcio Silva, recently took home first place at the IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation) World Championships that took place on Nov 1st and 2nd in Long Beach California.

The IBJJF World Championships is the premier competition in the world of competitive Jiu Jitsu. It is held once a year in California and attracts the best of the best in Jiu Jitsu. This year over 2,000 fighters showed up to compete from around the world.

Marcio competed in the masters division, over 30 years of age, and at lightweight, under 168 pounds. There were 20 fighters in his division who qualified throughout the world and he won by finishing five straight matches all by submission.

Marcio Silva resides in Marion and owns and operates Xcel Brazilian Jiu Jitsu School located in New Bedford. The Xcel school is a part of the New England United family, a group of Jiu Jitsu schools located throughout New England and lead by Andre Dedeco Almeida.

“When I was younger I always wanted to open my own gym. I love to teach others, and Jiu Jitsu had such a huge impact on my life. I have traveled all over the world to train with the best instructors, and I wanted to share that with others in this area.” Says Silva.

“I knew if I truly wanted to teach my students the best techniques, they had to be tested in competition. That’s why I continue to compete, to improve my skills, but most importantly to make sure what I am teaching my students is proven in real life and in competition.”