JitsCast #68 features one of the most important figures in the growth of Jiu-Jitsu in both Italy and Europe, Dario Bacci. Not only does Bacci have over two decades of experience in BJJ and four decades in martial arts as a whole, but he’s also dedicated years of his life to developing the sport. Bacci is the founder of the Unione Italiana Jiu Jitsu (UIJJ), an organization linked to the IBJJF that focuses exclusively on open tournaments in and around Italy. He also has a hand in organizing the IBJJF European Championship and created Ocean BJJ, one of the biggest professional grappling shows in Europe.
Jits Magazine spoke to Bacci about his journey from striking martial arts to grappling, and his decision to become a promoter. He shared some of his favorite moments from that part of his career, including getting Jiu-Jitsu recognised as an official sport in Italy. He also spoke about what motivated him to add another new element to his workload just two years ago, when he co-founded Ocean BJJ. This led to Bacci reflecting on some of the moments that ave stood out for him over the last two years, and giving some insight into the promotion’s future.
Bacci also spoke about the upcoming BJJ Summer Week 2026 training camp, where he will be one of several black belts acting as an instructor. He has been working with the training camp for over a decade now, since their very first edition, and he’s seen their incredible growth firsthand. Bacci shared some of the aspects of BJJ Summer Week that make it particularly special to him, and explained why he keeps coming back year after year. Finally, he talked about the other major annual project that he has devoted his time to growing; Jiu-Jitsu Expo.
JitsCast #68 with Dario Bacci is now available to watch on the official Jits Magazine YouTube channel, click here to subscribe for more or check out they interview below:
