Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Expert Fabio Lima Expands Gracie Barra Legacy in Columbia, Missouri

Associated Press

22-03-2025

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu expert and 3rd-degree black belt Fabio Lima brings elite training to Columbia, Missouri. As head instructor of Gracie Barra Columbia, he continues a historic lineage while shaping the next generation of martial artists through advanced techniques and a strong focus on self-defense.
Missouri, United States, March 22, 2025 -- A Distinguished Lineage in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Fabio Lima's journey in martial arts began in his home country of Brazil, where he trained under coral belt Master Carlos Liberi, a direct student of Grand Master George Gracie. With this prestigious background, Professor Lima has spent decades refining his skills, particularly in back takes and submissions—techniques that have earned him recognition in the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community.
Before moving to the United States, Lima owned and operated his own Gracie Barra academy in Brazil, where he trained thousands of students and introduced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to over 200 children daily at a local elementary school. His formal education includes a degree in Physical Education and a postgraduate degree in Sports Nutrition, allowing him to integrate a scientific approach into his training methods.
Establishing Gracie Barra Columbia as a Leading Martial Arts Academy
Now at the helm of Gracie Barra Columbia, Lima is elevating the standard of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training in Missouri. His academy, part of the global Gracie Barra network with over 1,000 locations worldwide, provides a structured curriculum focused on technical mastery, self-discipline, and real-world self-defense applications.
Lima's emphasis on self-defense is a defining feature of his teaching philosophy. Recognizing the growing need for practical self-protection skills, he has dedicated himself to ensuring that students—particularly women and children—gain confidence and the ability to defend themselves effectively.
'Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is more than a sport; it's a tool for empowerment and self-improvement,' says Lima. 'My goal is to make these life-changing skills accessible to as many people as possible.'
An Avid Competitor and Dedicated Practitioner
Beyond his role as an instructor, Fabio Lima remains an active competitor in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Traveling regularly to compete in prestigious tournaments around the world, Lima continues to test his skills against the best athletes in the sport. His commitment to competition not only keeps him sharp but also serves as an inspiration to his students, showing them the importance of perseverance, discipline, and continuous learning. Lima's competitive spirit is an integral part of his teaching, as he instills the values of hard work and dedication into every class he leads.
A Community Leader and Mentor
Lima's influence extends beyond the walls of his academy. As a mentor and advocate for martial arts education, he fosters a positive and disciplined learning environment that attracts students of all ages. His engaging teaching style, combined with his deep knowledge of the sport, has made Gracie Barra Columbia a respected institution in the community.
Outside of teaching, Lima enjoys spending time with his wife, Lais, and son, Theo. His warm demeanor and dedication to his students have made him not only a respected instructor but also a valued member of the Columbia community.
About Gracie Barra Columbia
Gracie Barra Columbia Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense is a premier martial arts academy dedicated to teaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and self-defense. As part of the worldwide Gracie Barra network, the academy provides structured training programs designed for students of all ages and experience levels.
Media Contact
Fabio Lima
Head instructor-Professor, Gracie Barra Columbia Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense
Contact Info:
Name: Fabio Lima
Organization: Gracie Barra Columbia Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense
Release ID: 89155863