Official Checkmat Affiliate · Southern California

Los Angeles
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Three Academy locations across Downey and Yorba Linda, training under the Checkmat banner. World-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing & Muay Thai for every level — from your first day on the mat to the competition circuit.

Inside the Academy
Train. Compete.
Belong.
Three schools · One family
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Kickboxing
Muay Thai
Kids & Youth
Competition Team
The Checkmat Family

Train with the
world's most
decorated team.

Founded in 2008 by Leo Vieira and built into a global powerhouse, Checkmat is one of the most successful Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teams in the world. Our Los Angeles academies carry that lineage onto the mat every day — for hobbyists, athletes, and everyone in between.

3
Locations
18
Years · Checkmat Lineage
All
Levels Welcome
Official Affiliate

“Checkmat is more than a team — it's a family. Wherever you train under the banner, you carry the same standard.”

Leo Vieira Founder · Checkmat Worldwide

— Our Schools Three Academies.
One standard.

03 locations · Los Angeles + Orange County
Locations 01 · 02 Downey, CA

Downey

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Kickboxing Competition Team
9220 Lakewood Blvd, Downey, CA
11012 Downey Ave, Downey, CA
academyjj.com
Location 03 Yorba Linda, CA

Yorba
Linda

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Kickboxing Competition Team
20655 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda, CA
academyyl.com
What We Train

Programs for every
level & age.

Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu

Gi & no-gi training across all levels. Fundamentals, advanced, and competition tracks.

Kickboxing
& Muay Thai

Striking, conditioning, and pad work for fitness or full-contact preparation.

Kids
& Youth

Confidence, discipline & respect — built one class at a time. Ages 5+.

Competition
Team

Selective program for athletes pursuing IBJJF, ADCC, and local circuit titles.

Common Questions

Frequently
asked.

Do I need a gi for my first class?
We'll provide whatever you need on your first day. After that, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training requires a gi or a rashguard and NoGi uniform; you can use athletic wear for Kickboxing and Muay Thai classes.
What's the minimum age to start training?
Our Kids program starts at age 5 in both Downey and Yorba Linda. Teen and adult classes are open to anyone 14 and up.
Do I need any prior martial arts experience?
None at all. Most of our students walked in with zero background. Fundamentals classes are designed for beginners — you'll learn at your pace alongside others starting from the same place.
What should I wear to my trial class?
For Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, athletic clothing without zippers or buttons works (a t-shirt and shorts are fine). For Kickboxing or Muay Thai, athletic wear plus a water bottle. Don't worry about the rest — we'll cover it.
How often should I train when I'm just starting?
Two to three classes per week is the sweet spot for new students. It's enough to build muscle memory and make steady progress without burning out.
Do you have a women's program?
Absolutely. Our academies actively welcome women and have a strong community of female students at every level — from first-time beginners to competition team members.
What programs does each location offer?
All three Academy locations offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, and a Competition Team track for kids and adults.   
Start Your Journey

Walk in. Train.
Become Checkmat.

Check out your first class. All levels, all ages — no experience required. Pick the location closest to you and book your trial.