Our Story: From California Dreams to Nashville Martial Arts Excellence
- Liberdade Jiu Jitsu
- May 26, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: May 23
At Liberdade BJJ, our journey is rooted in passion, purpose, and people. What started as a dream in California has grown into one of the most welcoming and well-respected names in Nashville martial arts. Our founders, Milton Bastos and Alex Barcelona, brought more than just black belts and titles with them—they brought a vision to build a community where martial arts goes beyond technique.
Building a Legacy of Community Through Nashville Martial Arts
In 2014, Milton and Alex opened the doors of their first school in California. With just a handful of students and a mission to change lives through jiu jitsu, their impact quickly expanded. As word spread, so did their student base. When the opportunity came to bring their approach to Nashville, TN, they embraced the chance to start fresh in the Southeast.
Since relocating, Liberdade BJJ has flourished into a vibrant training environment for adults and children alike. We offer structured Brazilian jiu jitsu classes in downtown Nashville designed to empower beginners, athletes, and families looking for meaningful martial arts training.
We’re proud to say that our dojo has become a space where everyone—regardless of background or skill level—feels seen, supported, and challenged to grow.
Meet Our Founders: Experience That Speaks for Itself
Milton Bastos hails from São Paulo, Brazil, and has been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since he was 13 years old. With a background in Physical Education from UNIP and years spent coaching Brazilian National Wrestling teams, Milton is a 7x World Champion and 2x Pan American Champion. He brings not just competition experience, but a deep understanding of how martial arts transforms lives.
Alex Barcelona brings her dynamic athletic background from Mountain View, California, where she excelled in multiple sports. After falling in love with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2014, she became an instructor by 2017. She’s since earned several prestigious titles including Pan American No-Gi Champion (2021), 2x No-Gi World Champion, and 2016 Pan American Champion.
Together, Milton and Alex lead Liberdade BJJ with a shared mission: to foster a culture of discipline, resilience, and respect while making world-class martial arts accessible to the Nashville community.
Powered by Ares BJJ: A Global Family with Shared Values
When you join Liberdade BJJ, you also join the Ares Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Association, an international team of over 40 academies. Led by co-founders like Milton Bastos, Alan Moraes, and Samir Chantre, Ares BJJ is rooted in friendships, integrity, and a shared passion for jiu jitsu without the politics.
Being part of Ares means you have access to training around the globe and a connection to a bigger jiu jitsu family that values personal growth over ego. Whether you’re training for fitness, fun, or competition, you’re stepping into a supportive lineage committed to your success.
Ready to begin your own journey in Nashville martial arts?
Join us at Liberdade BJJ and experience a school that blends world-class training with genuine community. Whether you’re a complete beginner or seasoned athlete, there’s a place for you on our mats.
Comentarios