Checkmat founders
Checkmat was founded in 2008 by the Vieira brothers. The name mixes “checkmate” (chess) with “mat” — strategy on the mats.
Leonardo “Léo” Vieira
InstagramCo-founder and head of Checkmat. Black belt under Romero Cavalcanti since 1997 (~29 years). IBJJF World Champion (1999). IBJJF Pan Champion (2002, 2004). ADCC Champion (2003, 2005).
Ricardo “Rico” Vieira
Co-founder of Checkmat. Black belt under Romero Cavalcanti since ~2000 (~26 years). IBJJF World Champion (2001). IBJJF Worlds gold at blue, purple, and brown. IBJJF Pan Champion (2002). CBJJO World Champion (2004–2006).
Leandro Vieira
Co-founder of Checkmat (2008). Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and coach with 20+ years teaching. Medals at IBJJF Worlds, Brazilian Nationals, and Paulista regionals.
JRoots Keller
Checkmat JRoots Keller Academy brings that lineage to Keller, TX — ego-free mats, real coaching, kids and adults.