Eduardo Castillo Zimic isn’t just a decorated champion in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; he’s a living testament to the sport’s dramatic evolution, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a proactive force in shaping its future. From his early days on the mats in Peru to establishing his own academy, Parabellum Jiu-Jitsu, Castillo embodies the modern grappling athlete – a blend of technical prowess, strategic thinking, and unwavering discipline.
Castillo, born in Peru in 2000, reflects on the significant shifts he’s witnessed in Jiu-Jitsu.
“Jiu-Jitsu has evolved tremendously,” he said. “Today we see a much more technical and strategic approach, with athletes not only training on the mats but also focusing on strength and conditioning, nutrition, and sports psychology.”
A key driver of this evolution, according to Castillo, has been the rise of no-gi grappling.
“No-gi has gained huge prominence thanks to international tournaments and professional leagues that broadcast the sport to a global audience.”
For Castillo, the no-gi discipline became his true calling from a young age.
“I felt more comfortable in no-gi,” he recalls. “I liked the speed, the dynamism, and the need to adapt quickly without relying on gi grips. Over time, I realised that it was where I could best develop my aggressive, attacking style.”
This natural affinity for no-gi is evident in his impressive competitive record, including multiple ADCC and IBJJF titles.
Discipline Forged Through Passion and Resilience
What fuels a competitor like Castillo to consistently perform at the highest level?
“What keeps me disciplined is passion for the sport,” he asserts. “Every day I know that Jiu-Jitsu demands respect, consistency, and sacrifice.” He also finds motivation in his role as a mentor: “I’m also motivated by the fact that younger generations are watching what we do as competitors, and that pushes me to maintain a high standard both on and off the mats.”
Castillo’s path, however, was marked by extraordinary resilience. At 18, a severe car accident nearly cost him his hand, with doctors recommending six months of rest. Yet, just one month after surgery, he was back on the mats, adapting his training to work with one arm. A mere three months post-accident, he defied expectations by becoming the 2018 National Jiu-Jitsu Champion of Peru – a pivotal moment that truly launched his international career.
An Entrepreneurial Spirit Elevating the Sport
Beyond the competitive arena, Castillo has forged a career as an entrepreneur, combining his athletic endeavours with initiatives that foster the growth of Jiu-Jitsu. His journey into teaching began at 18 as a purple belt, driven by a clear purpose: to fund his crucial trips abroad to compete against elite opponents in Brazil and the United States.
This entrepreneurial spirit culminated in the founding of Parabellum Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Lima, Peru, in 2023.
“I felt it was the right time to create my own space with my vision of the sport,” Castillo explains. Parabellum offers both gi and no-gi classes, aiming for a “modern and competitive approach” balanced with a “family atmosphere.” It’s a place where he aims to “build not only strong competitors, but also disciplined and passionate individuals through Jiu-Jitsu.”
Castillo also notes the profound impact of BJJ’s increasing presence in the United States.
“The growth in the United States has been impressive. There are academies in almost every city and tournaments every weekend,” he observes.
This growth, he believes, has globally elevated the sport, as athletes from around the world travel to the U.S. to train and compete, diversifying and improving their games.
A Champion’s Mission
Eduardo Castillo’s impressive list of accolades includes:
- August 2023: Jiu Jitsu CON, Las Vegas – Heavyweight (3rd), Absolute Division (1st)
- July 2023: ADCC São Paulo Open – Champion in –91 kg category
- July 2024: São Paulo Open IBJJF – Heavyweight Champion
- September 2024: ADCC São Paulo Open – Absolute Champion
- October 2024: ADCC Open Latin America (Peru) – 2nd place in –91 kg category
- July 2025: ADCC Miami Open – Absolute Division Champion
- August 2025: American Nationals ADCC – 2nd place in –91 kg category
Currently training at world-class academies like Fight Sports under Roberto “Cyborg” Abreu and Vagner Rocha Martial Arts, Castillo’s style is characterised by strategy, explosiveness, and creativity.
With over eight years of teaching experience, multiple national and international titles, and a thriving academy, Eduardo Castillo Zimic’s mission is clear: to continue representing Peru on the global stage, reach the pinnacle of professional Jiu-Jitsu, and inspire the next generation through his example and teachings, both on and off the mats.
