Our Story

Besnek Jiu Jitsu was founded in 2017 when Murat Besnek began training with a small group of friends in Melbourne's northern suburbs to prepare for international Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitions. As family and professional commitments made it more difficult to regularly attend training at De Been Jiu Jitsu in St Kilda, Murat started organising local training sessions to maintain a high level of competition preparation.

As word spread, more people began joining the sessions. What started as a small competition-focused training group quickly evolved into a thriving academy, with students seeking technical instruction, competition coaching, fitness, and personal development. Today, Besnek Jiu Jitsu is home to a diverse and loyal community of students ranging from complete beginners to experienced competitors.

Murat Besnek is a 3rd-Degree Black Belt under Peter de Been and a qualified referee with the Australian Federation of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (AFBJJ). Throughout his competitive career, he has earned multiple State, National, and Pan Pacific titles and continues to compete both nationally and internationally.

While Besnek Jiu Jitsu was originally established with a strong competition focus, the academy has evolved to meet the broader needs of its members. Competition training remains a core part of the program for those pursuing excellence in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or MMA, but the academy's mission now extends far beyond medals and tournaments.

At Besnek Jiu Jitsu, the emphasis is on helping members develop a balanced and healthy lifestyle through martial arts. Training provides opportunities to improve physical fitness, build confidence, reduce stress, develop mental resilience, and become part of a supportive community. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves while enjoying the camaraderie and personal growth that comes from consistent training.

For children, Besnek Jiu Jitsu offers a safe and positive environment where they can have fun, stay active, and learn valuable life skills. Through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, children develop discipline, confidence, resilience, respect, and practical self-defence skills while building friendships and improving their ability to work with others.

Murat understands the level of dedication required to perform at an elite level in any discipline. Drawing upon his own experiences as a competitor, coach, economist, and executive leader, he is passionate about helping students achieve their individual goals — whether that means competing at the highest levels, improving fitness, building confidence, or simply enjoying the journey of learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Outside the academy, Murat holds a Ph.D. in Economics and has built a successful career as an economist and senior leader within the Australian Public Service. His commitment to continuous learning, discipline, and excellence shapes both his professional career and his approach to coaching, creating an environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential on and off the mats.