In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Stefan Lazarevic, a rising star in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community, whose journey from humble beginnings in Serbia to the competitive mats of Dubai is nothing short of inspiring. With only 3 years of training in BJJ, Stefan has already achieved impressive milestones having the AJP World championship at both blue belt and purple belt, driven by relentless dedication and a disciplined mindset. He shares insights into his personal story, how BJJ has transformed his life, his experiences training with world-class athletes, and his vision for the future of BJJ in the UAE.
- Hi Stefan, can you please introduce yourself to the worldwide BJJ community?
Stefan Lazarevic: Hi, my name is Stefan Lazarevic. I was born in 1993 in Eastern Serbia and moved to Belgrade in 1999 after the NATO bombing. I completed my education in Belgrade and started working at a young age, at 16, to support my mother, as I was raised without a father. Fortunately, my uncles and grandfather stepped in as role models, supporting my mother and me, particularly during holidays. Without their guidance, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
- Please tell us about your first experience with BJJ.
The first time I attended an MMA class was at Lockdown MMA in Belgrade, where I encountered some elements of BJJ. Later, when I moved to Dubai, my friend Nikola Todorovski introduced me to a BJJ class. My first official BJJ class was on September 29, 2021 at FalconsMMA.
- Who has influenced your Jiu-Jitsu the most?
My coach, Professor Alexandre Odabrecht, has had the greatest influence on my BJJ journey. Thanks to him, I’ve had the privilege of training with many high-level athletes and competitive colored belts.
View this post on Instagram
- How has BJJ impacted your life?
BJJ has impacted my life in numerous ways. First, I’ve met many different people in various gyms, helping me spread the word about who I am and where I’m from in the UAE. Over time, BJJ has helped me professionally and personally, even aiding in my survival in Dubai. It has given me a new purpose, especially as I began coaching kids at my gym. Teaching kids not only about this beautiful martial art but also helping them understand life lessons and self-defense is a privilege and responsibility I cherish.
As an athlete, I have always been competitive, primarily in football and futsal, where I played for around 20 years. Competing in martial arts, however, has revealed new aspects of my character and strengthened me mentally. When I compete, everything depends on me, which is both challenging and empowering.
The rapid progress I’ve made in BJJ, reaching this level with zero prior combat sports experience, is largely due to my coach Alexandre, my disciplined mindset, and my willpower. I’ve yet to meet anyone who learns and retains BJJ as quickly as I do, given my background. This discipline feels natural, and I am relaxed and happy while training, even in difficult positions. Whether dominating or being submitted by higher belts, I smile—it’s part of my strength.
- Please tell us about your academy in Dubai.
I currently train at Falcons MMA Academy in Dubai. Thanks to my coach Alex’s connections, my teammates and I have the opportunity to train with high-level competitive athletes. There are three additional coaches at our academy, including the owner Coach Abood (Abdelrahman Aliess), a seasoned AJP Tour competitor and Abu Dhabi World Pro champion; Nivaldo Oliveira, a BJJ legend and multiple-time World and European champion; and Tarek Suleiman, a Light Heavyweight MMA champion in UAE Warriors. Training here offers the privilege of learning from world-class athletes and incredible people, which means a lot to me.
- Please share your experiences training BJJ in Serbia.
I don’t know much about the broader BJJ scene in Serbia, as I’ve only trained at two academies in Belgrade for a few sessions each. However, both Kimura BJJ Academy and Gracie Barra Belgrade welcomed me with open arms and offered great advice for my journey.
- Please talk to us about the growth and future of BJJ in Dubai and the UAE.
The UAE is heavily invested in BJJ, incorporating it into schools, police, and the military, making it a mandatory discipline. As a result, you can’t find a local person here who isn’t familiar with BJJ. BJJ competitions for kids and adults are televised, with live streams of major events, reflecting its widespread popularity. With continued support, the future is bright, and we will undoubtedly see many UAE-born champions in the years to come.
- What was your experience like winning gold at Abu Dhabi World Pro at blue and then at Masters purple belt?
Winning gold at this year’s Abu Dhabi World Pro was incredible. The support from my teammates and having my mother in the arena made it feel like there was no way I could lose. Given that I’ve only been training BJJ for three years with no prior combat sports experience, my journey has been fast-paced. I’ve enjoyed remarkable performances in my white, blue and purple belt belt journeys, where I won almost everything 38 wins and only few losses in 3 years…. Except for one competition, I’ve always been on the podium. This all taught me invaluable lessons, even in defeat.
- What is next for you?
I’m focused on enjoying the moment and training as hard as my body and mind will allow. I’m ready to embrace whatever the future holds. OSS!
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: you can be slow and unathletic and still kick butt in Jiu-Jitsu.
