Checkmat Jiu-Jitsu is an international Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) team and academy founded in 2008 by brothers Leo Vieira, Ricardo Vieira, Leandro Vieira, and Luciano Vieira. Originally established in Brazil, the organization has grown into one of the world’s leading BJJ teams, with affiliated academies across multiple countries. Checkmat is recognized for its success in gi and no-gi competition and for developing athletes at every level of the sport.
History
Checkmat was founded in 2008 by the Vieira brothers following their departure from Brasa Club, with the aim of creating a new team focused on technical development, competition, and instructor education.
The organization expanded rapidly through a network of affiliated academies in Brazil and internationally. As the team grew, Checkmat established a strong presence at major Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, producing world champions across multiple belt levels and weight classes.
Today, Checkmat is represented by academies throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, making it one of the largest affiliation networks in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Leadership
Checkmat was founded by the Vieira brothers:
- Leo Vieira
- Ricardo Vieira
- Leandro Vieira
- Luciano Vieira
Each founder has played a role in coaching, athlete development, and expanding the organization’s global affiliate network.
Training Philosophy
Checkmat emphasizes technical instruction, positional understanding, and consistent training. Key principles include:
- Strong technical fundamentals.
- Positional control and strategy.
- Continuous skill development.
- Competition-focused preparation.
- A structured learning environment.
The organization provides instruction in both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for practitioners ranging from beginners to elite competitors.
Competition Success
Checkmat athletes regularly compete in major Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu events, including:
- IBJJF World Championship
- IBJJF Pan Championship
- IBJJF European Championship
- Brazilian National Championships
- ADCC World Championship
- ADCC Trials
- Professional invitational events
The team has earned numerous individual world titles as well as team championships at major international competitions.
Notable Athletes
Over the years, Checkmat has included many accomplished competitors, including:
- Leo Vieira
- Lucas Leite
- João Assis
- Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida
- Nicholas Meregali
- Gustavo Campos
- Matheus Gabriel
- Luiz Panza
- Michelle Nicolini
- Luiz Paulo
The team’s roster has changed over time as athletes have joined, departed, or established their own academies.
Affiliates
Checkmat operates an extensive international affiliate network, with academies located throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Affiliate schools follow the organization’s technical standards and coaching methodology while operating independently within their local communities.