Rochdale MP celebrates Perez brothers’ international jiu-jitsu victories
Three young brothers from Rochdale have received high praise from their local MP after clinching top titles on the international Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu circuit.
Paul Waugh MP met with Andrew, Colin and Ethan Perez to celebrate their remarkable achievements in the sport, which has seen them rise to become British, European and World champions in their respective age categories.
Andrew Perez, 13, is the eldest of the trio and has enjoyed a standout year. In July, he won gold at the IBJJF Los Angeles Summer Kids International Open before going on to secure a world title at the IBJJF World Championships in Florida on 25 July. Just a month later, he added another gold medal to his collection at the Jiu-Jitsu Con Kids International in Las Vegas,the largest youth jiu-jitsu event in the world.
Waugh described the brothers as “an inspiration” and praised their work ethic, telling Roch Valley Radio: “Andrew, Colin and Ethan are not just incredible athletes, they’re role models for the entire community. Their discipline, commitment and sportsmanship are a credit to Rochdale.”
The Perez brothers train at various gyms across Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, including RIO Grappling in Rochdale, Predators MMA in Manchester, and Judo Excellence in Hebden Bridge. All three have claimed multiple national and international titles, representing both Rochdale and the UK at high-profile competitions abroad.
Andrew began training in jiu-jitsu at the age of seven after experiencing bullying. His journey through the sport has been marked by determination and perseverance, now training seven days a week with the support of his family and community.
His success has had a ripple effect on his younger brothers. Colin, 12, and Ethan, 10, have followed in his footsteps, with championship wins across Europe and the UK. Collectively, the siblings have placed Rochdale firmly on the map for youth martial arts excellence.
Reflecting on their achievements, Paul Waugh added:
“These young people have flown the flag for Rochdale on podiums around the world. It’s an amazing story of talent, resilience and family support. I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.”
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