Luke Backes

Luke Backes is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt instructor at Renzo Gracie Clarksville with a decorated competition career. Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Luke joined the U.S. Army in 2006 and discovered his passion for MMA in 2009 while stationed in Washington. In 2020, he became a part of Renzo Gracie Clarksville, where he has been training, competing, and coaching ever since.

Luke is a brown belt under Andrew Hansen and has earned an impressive list of accolades, including being the #1 world-ranked IBJJF Master 2 purple and blue belt, a 2022 IBJJF Master World Champion, a two-time IBJJF European Champion, and a 10-time IBJJF Open Champion. His competitive success also includes medalist finishes at IBJJF Master Worlds, Pan Americans, and CBJJF Brazilian Nationals.

With extensive experience in both competition and instruction, Luke is committed to helping students develop strong technical foundations and a championship mindset on the mats.