Who is Hugo Duarte?
Before classes officially launch, Shaddock MMA is offering exclusive access to one of the most respected names in the sport: Hugo Duarte.
On Saturday June 20, students will have the rare opportunity to experience Luta Livre firsthand in a live seminar at our brother studio Shaddock Essex led by a pioneer of the system. Duarte has played a major role in shaping modern no-gi grappling, and this seminar is expected to draw attention from across the regional MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.
Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just starting your journey, this is a chance to learn directly from a source—not just a secondary interpretation.
What is Luta Livre—and Why Should You Care?
Luta Livre, which translates to “free-style wrestling” in Portuguese, is a submission-based grappling system that emphasizes efficiency, speed, and adaptability—especially in no-gi situations.
For students of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, adding Luta Livre to your training is a game-changer. It offers:
- A different strategic lens on submissions and transitions
- A faster, scramble-heavy approach to ground fighting
- Techniques that translate seamlessly into MMA competition
If you’ve ever wanted to sharpen your no-gi game or bring a more aggressive edge to your grappling, this is exactly the kind of training that pushes you forward.

