Ian Lucas Ludgero

Ian Lucas Ludgero was born into a family deeply rooted in martial arts. His father, Ataíde Ludgero Júnior, holds a 6th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, while his mother, Lidia dos Santos, is a karate brown belt. Together, they laid the foundation for Ian’s lifelong passion for combat sports.

At the age of four, Ian began his martial arts journey, training Judo under José Mario Tranquillini, a Pan-American Judo Champion. His father encouraged him to view martial arts as more than just physical activity, integrating it into family life as a way to play, bond, and grow.

In addition to Judo, Ian participated in a wide range of physical activities during his childhood, including gymnastics, swimming, cycling, skateboarding, football, handball, and basketball. These sports enhanced his coordination, strength, and overall athletic ability. However, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) became the cornerstone of his personal and character development, offering a structured outlet for his energy and helping build confidence and resilience.

In 2009, Ian pursued a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education at UniCeub, where he gained a deep understanding of human physiology, anatomy, biomechanics, pedagogy, and ethics. This academic foundation shaped his approach to training, enabling him to design effective programs for athletes and students while emphasizing injury prevention and personal growth.

Ian began coaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2010 at VIP Training Gym. Within six months, he expanded his role to include personal training and fight division coordination. Understanding the growing interest in MMA and self-defense, Ian adapted his teaching style to cater to diverse groups, including seniors, women, and youth. His classes emphasized fitness, self-defense, and discipline in a collaborative, low-contact environment, making martial arts accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

At 21 years old, Ian earned his black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, awarded directly by his father. This milestone placed him in the fourth generation of a prestigious BJJ lineage:
Hélio Gracie → Armando Wriedt → Ataíde Ludgero Júnior → Ian Ludgero.

In 2014, Ian received his first-degree black belt from Grandmaster Armando Wriedt and his father. By 2020, he achieved the rank of 3rd-degree black belt, a testament to his dedication to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and his ongoing contributions as both a coach and competitor.

Ian also made significant academic contributions, authoring a scientific paper on the role of martial arts in physical education. His research highlighted how structured combat sports training benefits physical and psychological health, reduces aggression, and fosters discipline and self-awareness.

In 2015, Ian moved to Perth, Australia, seeking to improve his English and immerse himself in a country celebrated for its natural beauty and vibrant sports culture. Upon arrival, he visited several BJJ academies, quickly integrating into the local community and continuing to train and compete.

Since relocating, Ian has actively participated in competitions, cultural outreach programs, and coaching. He engaged with local schools to promote Brazilian culture and the values of Jiu Jitsu, emphasizing its benefits as a discipline that fosters self-respect, teamwork, and ethical behavior.

As a competitor, Ian excelled on the Australian scene, finishing first in the national rankings in 2017. His efforts continue to inspire students of all ages, as he shares his knowledge and passion for martial arts in a way that is both approachable and impactful.

Now a 3rd-degree black belt, Ian remains a dedicated practitioner, coach, and advocate for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, shaping the next generation of martial artists while promoting the physical, mental, and cultural benefits of the sport.