Who received a new belt?

The grading committee, Ivo Vatavuk, Aljoša Grassi and Nikola Pogačar, made a unanimous decision that the candidates had passed successfully and earned the following student belts:

• Ivan Bosančić – brown belt
• Frane Mišetić – brown belt
• Denis Kapetanović – brown belt
• Nikola Čarapina – purple belt
• Duje Dobronić – purple belt
• Andrea Bilić – blue belt
• Mateo Bilođerić – blue belt
• Vice Radonić – blue belt
• Ante Zekan – blue belt
• Luka Elez – blue belt
• Andrija Košta – blue belt
• Nikola Ercegović – blue belt

What did the candidates show during the grading?

During the grading, the candidates showed knowledge across the areas included in the Croatian Ju-Jitsu Federation student belt system: theory, breakfalls, throws, defenses from control positions, guard passing, sweeps, joint locks, escapes from joint locks, self-defense and a display of sparring.

On paper, that sounds neat and official. On the mats, of course, it feels much more alive: partners, nerves, sweat, small mistakes and the moment when you have to stay calm while someone is actively working against you. That is where you can see the difference between a technique someone has learned and a technique they can actually use.

Stripe promotions are part of the same path

Along with the new belts, Mizfits also held stripe promotions. We will not list each stripe promotion individually, but they deserve a mention because a stripe in BJJ often means exactly what members need most: proof that the work is being seen, even when the next belt is still far away.

From the first promotions at the club until today, the idea has stayed the same. A belt or a stripe is not decoration. It is a mark of work built up through training sessions, sparring rounds, competitions, seminars and ordinary days when someone shows up and does the work.

A good mid-season checkpoint in the new academy

Summer promotions are a good checkpoint in the season. Last year we published the 2025 summer promotion results, and this year we are keeping the same rhythm in the new academy at 114. brigade 12 in Split. More mat space, more people training and one more page in the club’s story.

Congratulations to everyone who received a new belt, everyone who received a stripe and everyone who was part of the evening. A special thank you goes to the training partners, because without them there is no grading, no progress and no feeling that the club is moving as one team.

If you are reading this and thinking about your first training session, the best moment is usually much more ordinary than people imagine. You show up, put on a gi or a training shirt and start slowly. For a first step, you can check our open enrollment information, and for directions to the academy there is the Mizfits visit us page.

Congratulations once again to the whole team. See you at the next training session. 0% politics, 100% Jiu Jitsu.

The post Summer belt promotion results 2026 appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

Can visitors join BJJ and grappling classes at Mizfits in Split?

Yes. Visitors can join BJJ and grappling sessions at Mizfits, as long as they contact the academy before training. Drop-ins are welcome for people who already train, whether you are travelling alone, visiting Split with friends or trying to keep your mat time alive between beach days.

The easiest way to arrange a visit is to contact Ivo on +385 91 616 0880. Tell us your experience level, whether you prefer Gi or No-Gi, and when you are in town. Split is busy in summer, and class rhythm can change around holidays, seminars and competition weeks. A quick message saves everyone guesswork.

If this is your first time visiting the academy, you can also check the Mizfits visit us page for basic directions and club information.

What kind of training can you expect from a Mizfits drop-in session?

A Mizfits drop-in session is real training, not a tourist photo stop. Expect technical work, positional rounds and live grappling with a local team that takes the sport seriously without turning the room into an ego contest. The club motto says it plainly: 0% politics, 100% Jiu Jitsu.

Mizfits is a Jiu Jitsu and grappling academy in Split led by head coach Ivo Vatavuk, a BJJ black belt. The room includes hobbyists, competitors, newer students and people who just love getting rounds in. That mix matters. A traveller can usually find someone close enough in size, pace and experience to get useful training without having to prove anything.

The academy also has a track record of welcoming guests from abroad. One recent example was Monica Allen from Fulcrum Jiu Jitsu Academy visiting Mizfits, which is exactly the kind of exchange that makes BJJ travel worth it. You train, you meet people, and the city feels a little less like a postcard.

Who should book a drop-in BJJ session in Split?

Drop-in training is best for people who already have some experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, submission grappling, judo, wrestling or MMA. All levels are welcome, but it helps if you tell the coach where you are honestly at. White belt with two months of training is fine. Purple belt on a work trip is fine. A competitor cutting weight before an event is fine too, as long as the room knows what you need.

• Travellers who want to keep rolling while visiting Split
• BJJ, No-Gi and grappling students looking for local rounds
• Competitors who want a sharp but friendly training room
• Beginners who want to try training while in town, with advance notice

If you are following competition formats such as AJP Tour or ADCC, you will feel at home with the grappling-first attitude. If you are just trying not to lose timing during a holiday, that is a good reason too.

Where is Mizfits Jiu Jitsu & Grappling Academy in Split?

Mizfits trains at 114. brigade 12, Split. The academy is based in the city, so it is practical for visitors staying in Split, passing through the ferry port area, or spending a few days between islands and mainland Croatia.

The new Mizfits space was built for serious mat time, with a large tatami area and room for grappling sessions, seminars and club training. If you want a better sense of the facility, read more about the Mizfits sports hall in Split.

Bring clean training gear, flip-flops or slides for walking off the mat, water, and a normal training attitude. If you need to borrow something, ask before you arrive. We can sometimes help, but nobody wants to hunt for a spare rashguard five minutes before class.

How do you book a drop-in class at Mizfits?

To book a drop-in BJJ or grappling class at Mizfits, contact Ivo on +385 91 616 0880 before training. Send your name, belt or experience level, preferred training style and the dates you are in Split. If you are coming with a group, say that too.

You can also explore the wider Mizfits site for current club updates, including the English BJJ classes in Split category and the older note that guests are welcome at Mizfits BJJ Academy Split.

Training while travelling is a small thing that can change the whole trip. You get a sweat, a few rounds, maybe a coffee recommendation from someone who actually lives here, and then Split feels different on the walk back.

FAQ: Drop-in BJJ in Split

Do I need to book before coming to Mizfits?

Yes. Please contact the academy before arriving. Drop-ins are welcome, but advance contact helps the coach place you in the right session and confirm the current training time.

Can beginners join a drop-in session?

Beginners can ask about joining, but tell us your experience level clearly before coming. If you have never trained BJJ or grappling before, we may point you toward a beginner-friendly class instead of a harder sparring session.

Should I bring Gi or No-Gi gear?

Bring both if you have room in your bag. If not, message us first and ask what is planned for the day you want to train. Clean rashguard, shorts, gi and belt are the usual safe choices.

Where is the academy located?

Mizfits Jiu Jitsu & Grappling Academy is located at 114. brigade 12, Split. Contact Ivo on +385 91 616 0880 before training so you get the right time and any arrival details.

Keep rolling while visiting Split

If you are visiting Split and want to keep your BJJ or grappling game sharp, come train with Mizfits. Contact Ivo on +385 91 616 0880, check the class option that fits your trip, and step onto the mat with the local crew.

The post Drop-in BJJ in Split: Train at Mizfits While Visiting appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

We rent out training slots in a 330 m² sports hall at Ravne Njive in Split, a few minutes’ walk from Kaufland. The hall has two separate mat areas of 100 m² each on professional roll tatami, two sides of an MMA cage fence, two rowing ergometers, a stationary bike, and pull-up bars. It works well for martial arts, yoga, pilates, functional training, and group fitness programs. Slots available from 20 May 2026. Pricing depends on the time of day (morning, afternoon, evening). To book, call Ivo Vatavuk on +385 91 616 0880.

At a glance

• 330 m² newly fitted space at Ravne Njive, near Kaufland
• 200 m² of professional roll tatami split into two 100 m² mat areas
• Two sides of an MMA cage fence
• Conditioning equipment: two rowing ergometers, stationary bike, pull-up bars
• Changing rooms and two full bathrooms with showers
• Morning, afternoon, and evening slots available

Why this hall

The hall opened in May 2026 and is one of the few spaces in Split genuinely set up for serious martial arts training. Professional roll tatami is not the same thing as school gym mats. It absorbs falls, stays put under footwork, and holds up through a full day of use without losing surface. The MMA cage fence, set into two corners, lets you work against the fence, which is standard in modern wrestling, BJJ, judo randori, and MMA training. In Split, that kind of setup outside a club’s own space is rare.

The hall was built and equipped by Mizfits Jiu Jitsu, a club that has been running classes in Split since 2023 under Ivo Vatavuk, a BJJ black belt promoted by Roger Gracie. We built the gym we wished existed here. Part of the schedule stays free and we open those slots to other clubs, coaches, and groups.

What fits in 330 m²

The space is divided so two groups can train at the same time without getting in each other’s way.

The main mat area (100 m²) handles technique drilling, sparring rounds, and group classes of up to around 20 people at once. The second mat area of the same size has one corner with the MMA cage fence, so it works for cage work, positional sparring, and any training that calls for a confined space.

The conditioning area sits off the mats. Two rowing ergometers, a stationary bike, and a pull-up rig are already in place. The plan before the end of 2026 is to add a small rack of kettlebells and free weights for clubs that want to combine mat training with conditioning work in the same session.

The changing rooms have benches and coat hooks, and the two shower bathrooms mean a group of 30 people can get ready and clean up between back-to-back sessions.

Sports and activities the hall actually works for

Martial arts are the obvious fit. The tatami and cage are sized for judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, grappling, MMA, wrestling, and sambo. Boxing and kickboxing clubs use the space for pad work, positional drills, and conditioning without worrying whether the floor holds.

The tatami is equally good under yoga, pilates, and functional training. The surface is warm, soft enough for kneeling and floor work, firm enough not to compress under load. A few yoga and mobility instructors who trialled the space before opening said it works better than regular mats because it does not slide.

The hall is also available for personal trainers, physios working with recreational athletes, and corporate group training sessions.

Timeslots and pricing

Pricing depends on which part of the day you book.

Morning slots (before 14:00) are the most affordable because demand is lower. They suit seniors’ fitness groups, morning yoga classes, and one-on-one sessions. Afternoon slots (14:00 to 17:00) are mid-range and often go to clubs working with children and teens after school. Evening slots (from 17:00 onward) are in highest demand and priced accordingly.

For exact pricing and the option of a long-term agreement (monthly or six-month fixed-slot contract), call Ivo on +385 91 616 0880. Regular users get a discount. General payment information is also on our memberships page.

Where the hall is

The hall is at Ravne Njive, one of Split’s most densely populated districts, a few minutes from Kaufland. Car access is good and parking nearby is not a problem even in the evenings. We send the exact address when you confirm a booking.

The location covers the city centre, Sukoišan, Lokve, Ravne Njive, Pujanke, Mejaše, and Split 3, and because it sits close to the main road it is easy to reach from Solin and Kaštela too. If you are visiting Split and need a place to train, you are welcome to drop by — more on that on our visit us page.

Who can rent the hall

1. Sports clubs and associations that need space for regular training or extra slots when their main gym cannot cover demand.
2. Coaches running private and group programs who need a professional surface.
3. Fitness instructors (yoga, pilates, functional training, mobility).
4. Organisers of seminars, camps, and workshops in combat sports or wellness.
5. Companies that want occasional sessions for employees.

How to book

Call or message +385 91 616 0880 (Ivo Vatavuk). When you first get in touch, let us know which timeslot you need, how many hours per week, what type of training you run, and how many people you bring. We will arrange a quick walk-through of the hall before signing any agreement.

For a single slot — a one-off session, a one-day seminar, or an open mat — get in touch at least 48 hours before.

FAQ — sports hall rental in Split

How much does it cost to rent a sports hall in Split?
Pricing depends on the day, timeslot, and contract length. Morning slots are considerably cheaper than evening ones. A fixed monthly contract always works out better than booking one-off sessions. Call +385 91 616 0880 with your preferred schedule and we will give you an exact quote.

Can two clubs train at the same time?
Yes. The hall is designed so the two 100 m² mat areas can run parallel sessions without one group disturbing the other. This is a common setup during morning slots.

What equipment is included in the rental?
The roll tatami, MMA cage fence, rowing ergometers, stationary bike, and pull-up bars are all included. Clubs bring their own pads, gloves, shin guards, and personal gear.

Can I run a seminar or small tournament in the hall?
Yes. The hall has already hosted seminars and private training days. For a one-off event, get in touch at least two weeks ahead so we can coordinate with regular users.

Who is behind the hall?
The hall was set up and equipped by Mizfits Jiu Jitsu, a club in Split since 2023. The club is a member of the Croatian Ju-Jitsu Federation and the Mavericks Jiu Jitsu affiliation.

Slots are filling up

The hall opened on 20 May 2026, and evening mid-week slots went to standing contracts within the first week. The best options right now are a morning slot (before 14:00) or a fixed afternoon weekend slot for youth training.

To book, call or message Ivo Vatavuk on +385 91 616 0880.

The post Sports Hall Rental in Split: 330 m², Tatami & MMA Cage appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

Monica joined our members for training and shared some great rounds on the tatami. She also added a few fine details to the techniques that were the focus of today’s training, giving our members another useful perspective on the same positions.

We are always happy to welcome people from other academies, especially when they bring experience and good energy. These kinds of visits are a great part of Jiu Jitsu – training, hanging out and exchanging experience without overcomplicating things.

Thank you to Monica for visiting us, for the great training session and for the good company. The doors of Mizfits are always open to good people and Jiu Jitsu enthusiasts.

See you again on the tatami!

OSS! 🥋

The post Monica Allen from Fulcrum Jiu Jitsu Academy visits Mizfits! appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

Whether you have any previous experience in martial arts or are considering stepping onto the mats for the very first time, this is the perfect opportunity to discover BJJ in a safe, supportive, and friendly environment.

Why do we want more women in Jiu Jitsu?

We believe that sport becomes better, healthier, and stronger when women actively take part in it. The more women are involved in sport, training, and the community, the more we show that as a society we are progressing – towards greater equality, greater mutual respect, and the creation of a space where everyone has the opportunity to develop their abilities.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not a sport reserved only for those who have “already trained something.” On the contrary – BJJ is a skill that teaches control, technique, self-confidence, calmness under pressure, and gradual personal growth. That is why it is a great choice for every woman who wants to do something new for herself, her body, and her confidence.

What can you expect?

In the beginner classes, the focus is on learning the fundamentals, proper movement, simple and useful techniques, and creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can feel comfortable. There is no pressure, no need for prior experience, just a positive attitude and a willingness to try something new.

In addition to physical activity, BJJ brings many other benefits – it builds discipline, improves fitness, strengthens mental resilience, and provides a sense of security through learning how to control your own body and the situation.

Happy Women’s Day!

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we sincerely wish all women a happy March 8th! Thank you for your strength, perseverance, courage, and for everything you contribute every day to your families, your community, and society as a whole.

We hope that this March will be the first step for some towards a new, healthier, and stronger chapter – and it would be our great pleasure for you to take that step with us on the mats.

See you at Mizfits BJJ Academy Split!

The post Free March for All Women Who Want to Try Jiu Jitsu! appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

If you want better conditioning, real confidence, sharper discipline and a team that pushes you forward — Mizfits BJJ Academy Split is the spot to start (or come back) and build your game.

Who is this for?

• Complete beginners — never trained before? No stress. We’ll start with fundamentals and get you rolling safely.
• Experienced grapplers — if you already train, you’ll get structured sessions, quality rounds and steady progress.
• Men & women — everyone’s welcome. Come as you are.

What do we train?

We train Gi and No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with a focus on clean technique, control, safety and consistent improvement. Expect solid fundamentals, positional work, sparring rounds and a room culture built on respect and hard work.

Training schedule

• MON – 18:00 – 19:00 Fundamentals • 19:00 – 20:30 No-Gi • 20:30 – 22:00 Gi
• TUE – 18:00 – 19:00 Fundamentals
• WED – 19:00 – 20:30 No-Gi • 20:30 – 22:00 Gi
• THU – 18:00 – 19:00 Open Mat
• FRI – 18:00 – 19:00 Fundamentals • 19:00 – 20:30 No-Gi • 20:30 – 22:00 Gi

Location

Mizfits BJJ Academy
Ulica slobode 24, Split, Croatia

How to join

Send us a message and book your first session:

• Email: bjj.mizfits@gmail.com
• Ivo: +385 91 616 08 80
• Gordan: +385 91 25 00 585

What do I need for my first class?

Just bring a good attitude and comfortable training gear (t-shirt + shorts or leggings). A mouthguard is recommended. If you decide to stick around, we’ll help you choose the right gear for Gi or No-Gi.

See you on the mats! OSS! 💪

The post Open Enrollment for 2026 at Mizfits BJJ Academy Split! appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

We’re opening enrollment for a new beginner group at Mizfits BJJ Academy. Interest is high and spots are limited, so don’t wait – sign up now!

• ✅ Training in Split
• ✅ Ages 16 and up
• ✅ No previous experience required
• ✅ Top instructors, friendly environment

Whether you’re a total beginner or coming from another martial art – you’ll find your place with us!

Contact us:
📧 bjj.mizfits@gmail.com
📞 WhatsApp/call: +385 91 377 6223

See you on the tatami! OSS! ✊

The post ENROLLMENT FOR 2025 IS OPEN! appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

We’re proud to welcome Jacob Caranhan (@gingitsubjj), brown belt under Dante Leon, from the world-renowned Pedigo Submission Fighting Academy. Jacob will be sharing top-tier guard passing details and tricks – technical wizardry at its finest!

At Mizfits, we always live by our motto: 0% POLITICS – 100% JIU JITSU, so come train, connect, and expand the circle! OSS! 💪

📅 Date: Monday, August 18th, 2025
📍 Location: Mizfits BJJ Academy, Ulica slobode 24, Split
🕒 Time: 19:30

The post Guest Coach: Jacob Caranhan at Mizfits BJJ Academy! appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

Tobias comes from BJJ Karlsruhe and holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His impressive background includes:

• 🥇 Former Shooto Champion
• 🌍 BJJ Globetrotters Coach
• 🤼 MMA Ground Coach @grindgangmma

This is a unique opportunity to train with an experienced international instructor, pick up new technical details, and feel the energy of high-level BJJ firsthand.

📅 Date: Friday, Aug 22.
📍 Location: Mizfits BJJ Academy, Ulica slobode 24, Split
🕒 Time: 19:30

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned competitor, this session will inspire you and expand your BJJ arsenal.
Join us, train, and be part of another special event at our academy! OSS! 💪

The post Guest Coach: Tobias Thiago Huber! appeared first on Mizfits BJJ Split.

📜 All promoted members received both the Mizfits diploma and the official HJJS certificate, formally recognizing their progress within the national sports system. Congratulations to all our fighters for their hard work, dedication, and technical skill demonstrated on the mats!

We owe special thanks to Marko “Skuba” Škugor, black belt in BJJ and judo, who supervised the grading process on behalf of the Federation and led a professional and inspiring mini seminar. His expertise and support brought credibility and depth to the entire event.

Big thanks also to our friends from Jiu Jitsu Club Šibenik for joining us and adding their energy to this special evening.

We were especially honored by the presence of Drago Boras, a black belt from Sweden, whose visit and encouragement elevated the atmosphere of unity and mutual respect on the mats.

🔵 Promoted to Blue Belt:

• Duje Brajević
• Daria Mihaljević
• Marko Volarević
• Andro Banovac

🟣 Promoted to Purple Belt:

• Frane Jelavić
• Sanja Terzić

🟡 In addition to belt promotions, many members were awarded well-earned stripes for their ongoing progress, consistent training, and commitment on the mats.

Once again, these promotions proved that Mizfits Academy is not just a place to train – it’s a place to evolve, grow, and level up. 💪

Our heartfelt thanks go to all members, families, friends, and guests who supported this important evening. Special thanks to Coach Ivo Vatavuk and the entire team for their organization and dedication throughout the entire process.

👉 See you on the mats – with more energy, skill, and unity than ever. OSS! 👊

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