History:

Gracie Barra Newcastle was established by Dave Elliot in April 2003 after spending 2 and a half years training daily at the Gracie Academy in Dagenham London under the instruction of Marc Walder.

Previous experience in martial arts included 17 years boxing and six years tradition Jiu-Jitsu aswell as some training in Lau gar kung fu. Prior to starting the club Dave also had a fight record with over 30 amateur boxing fights, 27 kick boxing bouts (24 - 2 -1) and 3 pro MMA fights.

Dave received both his blue belt and more recently (February 2004) his purple from Royce Gracie who maintains his relationship with both Marc Walder and Dave.

Training:

Gracie Barra Newcastle strives to keep an authentic Brazilian feel to the training where friendly relaxed training is mixed with the rigour of hard physical exercise. Technical instruction is paramount with only a few techniques covered in one sitting. Sparring is kept relaxed with the emphasis on learning not fighting.

Hall of Fame:

Although Gracie Barra Newcastle during training emphasises a relaxed atmosphere the gym has already produced many top class BJJ and MMA fighters.

Dave Elliot himself competes at the top end of the British MMA scene regularly fighting on events such as Cage Rage, Cage Warriors and recently defeated Philly San at Cage Rage 7.

Pete Tiarks, assistant instructor at the club currently holds the Cage Rage featherweight title.

Gav Bradly won the lightweight category at the NEBJJ league and has appeared on Cage Warriors and Ultimate Combat.

Brian Blewitt recently won at Pride & Glory II.

Ian Malone NEBJJ champion at under 65Kg and European silver medallist at the Gracie Invitational.

Tyrone Elliot (Dave's 9 year old son) European Gold medallist at the Gracie invitational.