CHECKMAT is an international academy, competition team, and family of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners. Founded in 2008 by Master Vieira, Checkmat now has affiliate academies in thirty-four American cities and sixteen countries worldwide. The team is headquartered in Signal Hill-Long Beach, California (USA), which regularly hosts “The Mundials,” the world championships of BJJ.
At Checkmat Headquarters Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you will find world-class, hands-on instruction that has been tested on the practice mats and proven on the competition field. Checkmat men, women, and youth have won some of the most prestigious tournaments in the sport including the World Championships, the Brazilian National Championships, and the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) Submission Wrestling World Championships.
At Check Headquarters Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, we believe in the power of positive reinforcement. We help our students grow their confidence, build discipline, and become the best they can be. Traditional BJJ training isn't just about constant sparring and grappling -- it's about striving to be better. Enroll for your first class and see for yourself why people around Signal Hill and Long Beach are choosing our academy to help their kids perform better in school, learn respect, and practice lasting leadership skills!
But BJJ isn't just for kids! We've also helped adults from across our community develop more robust fitness, learn practical self-defense, and feel revitalized! Our classes offer a great workout, professional instructors, and a passionate community. It's never too late to get started.
Checkmat’s success comes from the steady leadership and instruction of Master Leo Vieira, a 5th degree BJJ black belt and Judo black belt. Nicknamed “Leozinho” or “Little Lion” he is known—uniquely—as both one of the finest jiu-jitsu competitors of his generation (2X World Champion, 2X ADCC winner) and also as a pioneering coach and instructor. Master Leo sees both the art and science within BJJ, emphasizing technical prowess and invention while also strongly believing in the dynamic expression and individuality of each practitioner. In any given month, you can find Master Leo teaching a world champion, a Sheikh, a prince, a police officer, a nurse, a college student, an elementary school student, or a beginner on his or her first day all with the same kindness, interest, and passion. Why? Because Checkmat is about more than winning trophies and medals, it is focused on inspiring a healthy and positive individual who goes on to create a healthy and positive community. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are better. Together, we are Checkmat.
Just fill out the short form on your screen to learn more!
