Euston martial artist Wayne Johnson, who trains at the Gracie Barra London Bridge Academy, is set to compete in the European Open Jiu-Jitsu Championships

Published: 22 January, 2015

FIREFIGHTER Wayne Johnson is hoping to ignite a blaze of glory this weekend when he gets to grips with some of the world’s best martial artists at the European Open Jiu-Jitsu Championships in Portugal. 

The 33-year-old, who lives in Euston, is fighting in the middleweight division at the four-day tournament, which is organised by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation. 

Having recently obtained his purple belt at the Gracie Barra London Bridge Academy where he trains, Wayne now feels ready to tackle the very best in the business. 

“After being newly promoted to purple belt this will be my toughest challenge to date,” he said. “The category I am fighting in is quite a big one and I am hoping that I can at least find my way onto the podium. 

“It’s going to be a big challenge with some of the best from across the world fighting for the title of European Champion! 

“My ultimate goal is to achieve my BJJ black belt and go on to become a world champion in my division,” added Wayne, who was based at Euston fire station for six years before switching to Suffolk, where he now works monitoring the safety of firefighters out responding to calls across the county. 

“My confidence is high right now, but I’m under no illusions that this will be tough,” he said. 

Wayne is searching for new sponsors to help cover the costs of competing. Anyone interested can email him at waynejohnsonbjj@icloud.com