


Empower yourself with the perfect blend of self-defense, sport, and martial arts
Empower yourself with the perfect blend of self-defense, sport, and martial arts
Empower yourself with the perfect blend of self-defense, sport, and martial arts
Head Coach
Joao has over 8 years of experience as a black belt, under Luiz Ribeiro from London Fight Factory. During his journey, he has acquired a significant amount of knowledge learning from different reputable sources including several elements from the Gracie family and World renowned competitors.
The Canary Wharf Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club focuses on providing you the best possible experience, by learning through a carefully crafted methodology in a safe and fun environment.
Sign up here for a free trial class
- Marina Walker
January 15, 2024whdmstpThis place was clean and nice, and I like it because it was disinfected and cleaned every day and the people were
July 14, 2023James Borg-ClancyJoao has established a thriving community within the gym. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to cater to individuals of all skill levels and ages, ensuring adaptability for both beginners and... read more advanced practitioners. Following each session, I find myself thoroughly exhausted, yet I eagerly return to acquire new techniques and insights, as well as to catch up with other students. The diverse coaching styles on offer enable students to select and refine approaches that resonate with their individual preferences, fostering the cultivation of a distinctive personal style. I cannot speak highly enough of this exceptional gym!
August 25, 2024 - Sebastian L
I recently joined this martial arts gym, and I couldn't be more impressed with their training programme. I am in my 40s with no prior experience in grappling and the... read more journey started with a Foundations class which was perfect for a beginner like me. The class is designed to help you build a strong foundation and prepare for a smooth transition into sparring. Additionally, the training has resulted in positive changes to my physique. I've noticed significant improvements in my strength, endurance and overall fitness. The club has a very welcoming atmosphere and the coaches are incredibly accommodating, always ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe. Whether you're a beginner or experienced martial artist, you'll find the training both challenging and rewarding. Overall I highly recommend this gym to anyone looking to start or continue their martial arts journey. The combination of excellent training, welcoming community and dedicated coaches makes it a fantastic place to train.
June 20, 2025 - Ruhel Amin
Definitely recommend this place. Instructor is great with the kids. My son has been attending for couple years and absolutely loves it.
August 14, 2023Rofiq NoorExtremely well structured, everyone is very patient and understanding how daunting it can be when you’re new. Highly recommend if you’re interested in BJJ or just for self defence.
November 14, 2023Raimo StūrītisThe classes are very well structured for all levels of entry, developing you step-by-step from the basics, which is a rarity. I’m glad I was finally able to find a... read more truly family like environment to start my BJJ journey, where everyone is very supportive and you are able to make new friends. Cannot recommend this enough.
July 15, 2024 - Guy Berry
I’d never been part of any martial arts club or ever trained properly, within 5 minutes of arriving it was clear that this was the perfect place for me. The training... read more is structured, approachable, safe, well coached and is all run in a family/team style atmosphere. All of the coaches are enthusiastic, supportive and clearly deeply knowledgable. If you’re thinking about trying out a new sport or a new place to train, Canary Wharf BJJ is perfect.
May 27, 2025Oskar WismierskiStarted my journey with BJJ about 5 months ago and have been training with João for a month and I have learned a tone! João has a great, structured approach... read more to training with both Gi and noGi classes one after another. Can also mix it up with combatives to put it all into practice. Everyone is super friendly and great to work with.
December 14, 2022Siamah BegumJoão is an excellent teacher! My brother currently attends his classes and leaves them with a massive smile on his face, excited for his next lesson. Everyone is so incredibly... read more friendly and talented, eager to do well which has not only empowered my brother but also new beginners to push themselves to try new things. They’re a community who welcome you with open arms and leave you feeling accomplished and empowered. I cannot express my gratitude enough for their dedication to ensuring everyone feels safe, welcome and accepted. Definitely recommend investing in a membership!
December 14, 2022 - Ramji Kannan
We have been there for 4 classes so far. My 5 year old is enjoying it a lot and also he is learning some self defence techniques with the same... read more set of children. I'm sure it will help any children to tackle the bullying and increase self confidence. The master is very patient with children and dedicated. Now summer holidays have started. Hence looking forward to resume in September. I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for it. Thanks.
August 14, 2023Kathleen CumminsGreat club, tried a few in the past and this one is definitely the best for a number of reasons. Firstly, they teach a style of BJJ that I... read more enjoy, more of an old school style and with takedowns and judo throws. They also have foundations class which is more self defence based (but any of the classes would honestly teach you that too!) and great for those starting out (especially the ladies!). Secondly, there is very much a community vibe here. Everybody is nice to roll with, and your safety is always considered. Take it from a petite female - I've never once felt uncomfortable rolling with anybody in this club. Lastly, the team of instructors here are all highly skilled and great people. They always take time with each person to make sure they understand. Not much else to add other than come and try it you will not regret it 🙂
July 15, 2024Alex HaiserReally nice environment and everyone is very supportive and friendly. A great place to train if you are starting BJJ as the classes are very structured and focused on the... read more basic fundamentals before learning to spar. Joao and the team are excellent teachers who are very patient and attentive to all members of the class!
June 14, 2023 - Alice Schofield
I was terrified starting BJJ as a very small woman but have never once been made to feel like I couldn’t do it! Everyone is lovely and so supportive. Ladies... read more if you’re reading this: definitely give it a go!!!
June 15, 2024J KimExcellent instructors and great mat culture. A safe, respectful and clean gym to learn BJJ. All the classes are structured and so you have a clear idea of what you... read more are going to learn each week. Classes include self defence, takedown/throws and then the focus is on BJJ techniques, with sparring at the end - so you get well rounded training. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to begin or continue their BJJ training, or just visiting by.
April 15, 2024 - Jack
As a beginner, the instruction is amazing with an incredibly friendly atmosphere in the club. Starting a new sport can be intimidating but I immediately felt welcome and part of... read more the group. Everyone is extremely patient and helpful which is so important while you get to grips with new techniques! It has very quickly become my main activity and look forward to attending as much as I can throughout the year. Highly recommend!
January 14, 2023 - Wojciech Delążek
I've been looking for BJJ academy for quite a while and finally found the right one. For me as a beginner it was really important to have a safe start... read more but also be able to grow. Canary Wharf BJJ offers variety of classes from foundations to competition - everyone will find something for them, no matter if you just want to get in shape, work on your self-defence or learn advanced BJJ techniques - this is the right place for you. Great coaches, great people and great atmosphere. Hopefully see you soon!
March 15, 2024Faz DarI was nervous about trying BJJ for the first time. I needn't have been. Joao and the coaching team have created a fantastic, welcoming, inclusive and supportive culture.... read more The beginners sessions are short a d focused, there is a well structured syllabus, safety is taken seriously, and the whole club just screams quality. If you are thinking of giving it a go, I thoroughly recommend it.
May 27, 2025 - Andre Figueiredo
Highly recommended. João is an exceptional BJJ instructor who excels in nurturing children's confidence and fostering friendships.
January 15, 2024Gonzalo C.SAmazing club to learn not just proper BJJ, but also real self-defence. BJJ, No Gi, Real fight situation and some MMA techniques. This is one of the few places... read more where you can do BJJ sparring starting on your feed, so you will learn and practice a lot of takedowns. The coach João follow a serious disciplined program with his students, sending week by week the techniques to be done during the next sessions.
December 14, 2022JordanI'm in the beginning of my BJJ journey and finding Canary Wharf BJJ has been great. The coaches have such amazing attention to detail, patience as well as fostering a... read more safe and exciting environment to learn. CWBJJ has a great community that I'm glad to be a part of. Would definitely recommend!
July 15, 2024