CHECKMAT is an international Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, competition team, and worldwide family of practitioners committed to technical excellence, personal growth, and community.
Founded in 2008 by Master Leo Vieira, Checkmat has grown into one of the most respected Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu organizations in the world, with affiliate academies across the United States and in multiple countries worldwide.
The team is headquartered in Signal Hill–Long Beach, California, and has earned worldwide recognition through both high-level competition success and exceptional instruction.
Checkmat athletes have won some of the most prestigious tournaments in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission grappling, including:
• IBJJF World Championships
• IBJJF Brazilian National Championships
• ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championships
WORLD-CLASS INSTRUCTION
At Checkmat, students receive hands-on instruction built on years of experience, innovation, and proven success both on the competition mats and in everyday training.
The organization’s success is guided by Master Leo Vieira — a 5th Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Judo black belt, multiple-time World Champion, and ADCC Champion widely respected as one of the most influential competitors and instructors of his generation.
Known as “Leozinho” (“Little Lion”), Master Leo is recognized not only for his accomplishments as an athlete, but also for his ability to teach students of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds with the same passion, attention, and respect.
In any given month, Master Leo may teach:
• World Champions
• police officers
• nurses
• business professionals
• college students
• children
• complete beginners
…all with the same kindness, patience, and dedication.
MORE THAN COMPETITION
While Checkmat has achieved tremendous success in competition, the organization stands for much more than medals and titles.
Checkmat believes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu should help create disciplined, healthy, and positive individuals who go on to strengthen their families, communities, and lives both on and off the mats.
Together, we are stronger.
Together, we grow.
Together, we are Checkmat.
Global Reach
Checkmat has academies all over the world and besides molding BJJ athletes it also provides a very consistent training program to improve specific abilities for MMA fighters.