Fabio

Teaching in the UK

In 2021, Fabio established Betoneira BJJ in Ross-on-Wye, subsequently expanding the team to Hereford in 2022. His academies have developed around a strong sense of community, Brazilian heritage and family values, creating places where people can learn, develop and share their passion for the art.

For Fabio, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than a collection of techniques. It offers a way to develop discipline, confidence, resilience and self-awareness. Its lessons extend beyond the mats, encouraging patience, respect for others and a willingness to keep learning.

Through his teaching, Fabio continues to pass on the knowledge and principles he has developed throughout his own journey, helping students of different ages and experience levels discover what Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can offer them.

As the overseeing instructor for Mid Wales BJJ, Fabio brings his technical knowledge, experience and lineage to the development of the academy, supporting its teaching and helping establish a strong foundation for students as they begin and progress in their own BJJ journeys.

His aim is to pass on not just the techniques of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but the knowledge, values and enthusiasm that make it such a rewarding lifelong pursuit.

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Interview with Fabio Bertoli​

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What drew you to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1997, and what kept you involved in the sport?

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I came from a Judo background, and when I first encountered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I was captivated - especially by the variations in ground movements and the dynamic nature of the sport, which offers a unique freedom of action within grappling. 

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How did you end up in Italy, and what role did Jiu-Jitsu play in your life during that period?

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I spent nearly a year in Italy teaching BJJ, conducting various seminars, and building a network of friends—which even led to me teaching a seminar in Hungary as well.

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Your move to the United Kingdom: What brought you to the UK, and what inspired you to found Betoneira BJJ?

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I came to the UK in 2019 to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; however, due to the pandemic, I was only able to begin classes in 2021. The "Betoneira Team" - which translates from Portuguese to "concrete mixer" - was founded in Brazil in 2014. Concrete Mixer was my nickname in Brazil, from my reputation in BJJ. There, I had the privilege of training many students, three of whom have since earned their black belts.

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Have you competed, trained successful competitors, or experienced any particularly significant milestones in your Jiu-Jitsu journey?

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I have competed in various championships in Brazil. Today, I focus on training Jiu-Jitsu instructors using a solid methodology, ensuring that students know exactly what they will be learning. For me, it is crucial to provide an environment conducive to learning by applying a structured, curriculum-based method - following a school that has already produced numerous champions.

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Your teaching philosophy: Beyond the techniques themselves, what do you most want your students to learn?

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Jiu-Jitsu extends well beyond the mats; it is a vital tool for character development. It provides an opportunity for self-assessment, allowing you to explore your own potential. Through the fundamental principles and physical activities that are core to the training, you discover who you are and begin to recognise your own strengths - both physical and emotional. I always strive to teach Jiu-Jitsu as a martial art, where mutual respect and discipline are non-negotiable values.

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Tell us about your family and your life beyond BJJ

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I have been married for over 21 years and am the father of two incredible young men!

Beyond the mats, I hold a degree in Portuguese Language and Literature from the University of Guarulhos (São Paulo, Brazil).

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I worked as a teacher and school conflict mediator, dedicating several years to the education of young adults - helping many students who faced learning challenges. Later, I served as a pedagogical coordinator for the São Paulo Department of Education.

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What is your vision for Mid Wales BJJ: What do you most hope to help us build here?

I am confident that our work in Mid Wales will be a continuation of everything we cultivated through years of dedicated commitment to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Adrian is an excellent instructor; he follows the same methodology and shares the same philosophy that was taught to me by Master Rocian Gracie.

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