Jiu jitsu brothers continue to shine on international stage

Three young jiu jitsu brothers are continuing to represent Rochdale on national and international stages, with exceptional skills and achievements in the sport.

Andrew, Collin, and Ethan, also known as “the Perez brothers”, are well-known figures in the Rochdale community, and have received a wave of support from local councillors and Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, who acknowledged the boys for putting Rochale on the map.
 

Read more: Success for Perez brothers in Brighton Jiu Jitsu OpenPublished: 28 March 2024

Most recently, the oldest brother Andrew added to his list of achievements by competing in the All Stars BJJ Juniors Nottingham 2024.

The 13-year-old competed in the yellow belt -55kg division, and proudly clinched the gold medal.

He also participated in the absolute category under 65kg, where he triumphed again, securing both the gold medal and the championship belt. The competition was held at Trent University in Nottingham.

Having started their training approximately seven to eight years ago, the Perez brothers have dedicated themselves to judo, Brazilian jiu jitsu (BJJ), and wrestling.

Their rigorous training regimen sees them practising up to seven days a week for four to five hours each day. Their dedication and hard work have paid off, with all three brothers actively competing and excelling in BJJ.

The Perez family's story is a testament to the power of community support and individual dedication.

Father Carlos proudly shares their journey and highlights the unwavering support from their local community, which includes past and present mayors, councillors, and even Andy Burnham, who has been a significant supporter since the boys began their martial arts training.

He told Rochdale Online: “The boys are actively and proudly representing their Rochdale community not only nationally but also internationally.

“We have been fortunate to have the Rochdale community supporting our boys including current and previous mayors and mayoresses, councillors and the population. Andy Burnham has been a great supporter of the boys since they started their jiu jitsu journey.”

He added: “I’m so proud of them and all that they have achieved.”
 

Read more: Andrew Perez, 12, crowned IBJJF European championPublished: 13 December 2023