Aaron Dyer Earns Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
Aaron Dyer — founder of Bermuda’s first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu [BJJ] academy OpenMat Bermuda — has been awarded his black belt in the art.
A spokesperson said, “An officer with the Bermuda Police Service, Officer Dyer first began training in the quickly growing art made famous by the Ultimate Fighting Championship, nearly ten years ago.
“With no instructors on the island, he trained with Professor Elliott Bayev of OpenMat Mixed Martial Arts while visiting family in Toronto, Canada. Forming a quick friendship, Officer Dyer invited Prof. Bayev down to run a seminar, at the end of which they announced the official launch of OpenMat Bermuda.
“Years later, the island was lucky to have another world-class black belt, Professor Chris Regan – also a BPS officer – move to the island from the UK as part of an international policing partnership. Joining OpenMat Bermuda, Prof. Regan became head instructor and quickly turned the small academy into an internationally renown force, producing a number of world champions in a few short years.
“Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is known for being exceptionally tough to achieve belts in, with black belt being extremely rare. This marks the first time that one has been awarded to someone who has been trained almost exclusively on-island.”
“This is a proud day for OpenMat Bermuda. Most folks have no idea how unbelievably challenging it is to achieve a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It takes incredible toughness, grit, determination, and character. This is a huge milestone for us at the academy and for Bermuda as a whole,” said Professor Chris Regan of the promotion.
Locals and visitors alike are welcome to visit OpenMat Bermuda, which offers a 30-day free trial. The Academy is located at 8 Mills Creek Road in Pembroke and can be reached on WhatsApp at 717-2460 or through their Instagram page here.
Well done cousin. I remember when you started your journey and the goal you set for yourself at the very beginning. I’m so happy and proud of you for achieving this milestone.