About Us
North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is more than just a training academy. This is a tight-knit environment where families, kids, and elite athletes can come together and grow. We have a strong brotherhood and sisterhood supported by a love for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and personal development. We offer adult and kids Jiu Jitsu classes throughout the week to balance your schedule, including daytime, evening, and weekend training sessions. No matter how your schedule works out, your previous experience, or goals, you can thrive on and off the mat at North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu!
Sign up for a FREE Jiu-Jitsu Class!
Join us today at North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with our trial. You can sign up for a BJJ on us to see what we’re all about!
Meet the North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Instructors
Our staff has a diverse skillset that can help anyone thrive. Each instructor brings a strong passion for martial arts and makes classes fun and disciplined. You and your kids can learn from the best while receiving encouraging support along the way. Check out their bios to learn more about their background.
Branko Milosevic
Owner and Head Instructor
Branko Milosevic is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructor and a competitor currently holding 2nd degree black belt under legendary Robson Moura. He was introduced to Jiu-Jitsu in 2005 and started training under Eduardo De Lima from whom he received his blue belt. Not long after Branko relocated to Tampa from Clearwater in 2007 he started training with 8x World Champion Robson Moura. That’s when he got introduced to Robson’s innovative style and ever-evolving technique.
Not long after receiving his purple belt in 2009, Branko was in charge of running beginners classes at Robson’s main academy in Tampa. In 2013 he relocated to Chicago and finally accomplished his dream of having his own BJJ School.
Aleksandar Rajacic
MMA AND KICKBOXING INSTRUCTOR
Marko Trifunovic
Youth, Adults, and Competition Instructor
Marko Trifunovic began his Jiu Jitsu journey in 2006, and has trained under professor Branko Milosevic since 2016. Marko currently holds the rank of Black belt , Marko teaches adult classes, and helps teenage students transition to our adult training program. Marko is a current law enforcement officer, and has been in the field for 12 years. Using years of law enforcement experience, and dedicated jiu jitsu training Marko is involved in teaching practical Self-defense Jiu Jitsu techniques, regardless of a student’s prior martial arts experience or athletic ability.
Jeremy Tagarao
Youth, Adults, and Competition Instructor
Jeremy Tagarao is one of the instructors of our youth, adults and competition classes. Experienced competitor and IBJJF Pan two time Champion, Jeremy is helping our team build the next generation of World class competitors. Jeremy is currently holding rank of purple belt under professor Branko Milosevic.
Mike DiFrisco
Instructor
As a wrestler was a 3x IHSA state qualifier in high school, finishing in the top 8 twice. With a career record of 110-19. After high school went on to wrestle Division II at Ashland University where he competed at 141 lbs.
As a coach, DiFrisco spent 9 years at Taft high school (6 as assistant and 3 as head coach). In that time at Taft his teams won 4 consecutive Public League City championships (18, 19, 20, 21), with 26 individual City champions.
At the state level he coached 26 individual IHSA 3A Regional champions, along with 15 state qualifiers, 2 state placers and 1 national All-American
He also served time with multiple club teams as head coach and assistant coach including: Jr. Wolverines (Michigan), Skyline Wrestling, and Beat the Streets Chicago.
Words from Our Community
North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a place for all. We cater training to the individual and help students make the most out of their training. Everything we do is designed to make your experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Chicago the best possible! But don’t just listen to us. Take a look at our student testimonials to see what makes us a great place for anyone to train!
“I can’t say enough about Northside BJJ. Branko is an amazing professor. We are lucky to have found him and his wonderful team.”
“I love training here and would highly recommend to anyone interested in trying out Brazilian Jiu Jitsu!”
“High school aged daughter decided to try. She’s fallen in love from day one! Very inviting and comfortable. Well worth it.”
“The last few years North Side has been an amazing experience for my son. I’m grateful for his professors for inviting him in and helping him develop. It’s truly made a difference.”
“If you’re looking to train whether a newbie or seasoned athlete look no further Northside is the place to be. Great culture and friendly vibes”
Our Academy Schedule!
Go check out the schedule at North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. There are plenty of weekly BJJ classes students can sign up for!
Hit Your Goal with the
North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Team
North Side BJJ is a place where beginners, hobbyists, and competitors can come together to grow. We offer training designed to be beginner-friendly and help advanced athletes compete at the highest level. There is something for everyone here! No matter what you are training for, we look forward to welcoming you to our mats and helping you reach your goals!
Contact Us!
We are proud to bring the North Side of Chicago Brazilian Jiu Jitsu! If you are looking for our BJJ academy, you can find us on North Central Ave. between Irving Park and Addison Street!