Welcome to Checkmat Myrtle Beach Gym

Master Leo is a world-class 3rd Degree Black Belt. He has been training BJJ since the age of 13 making that 22 years. He was born in Fortaleza, Brazil where he trained for much of his life under Ronaldo Cruz (Raspinha). While living in Rio de Janeiro for 7 years he acheived the level of purple and brown belt under Dela Riva He the moved back to his hometown where he received his black belt in February 2013 from his Master Raspinha who is considered the most influential figure throughout his career in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. 

He not only has extensive knowledge in martial arts but also has achieved a Bachelors Degree in Science & Exercise from UNIFOR, a prestigious college in Brazil. From a white belt to black belt, Leo has competed in over 400 competitions (100 just as a black belt). Some of his accomplishments include Brazilian Champion in 2016, multiple time Ceara Open Champion, multiple North/Northeast Brazilian Champion and multiple IBJJF medalist.

While owning his own gym in Brazil he competed and refereed in many competitions over several seasons. He was recognized as the best Referee of the year twice in a row.

Léo moved from Brazil to Charlotte, NC in June 2017 to pursue his passion of teaching BJJ in America. In 2018 he moved to Myrtle Beach, SC to obtain the position of Owner/Head Coach at Checkmat Myrtle Beach. He continues to share his insight and knowledge with the local community that he cares for. Making a difference to unify people is his mission in life which is only enhanced by this amazing Martial Art.

Morgan has a new found passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu inspired by her partner Léo. His dedication, brilliance, & accomplishments of BJJ have allowed her to see the immense value this lifestyle has to offer. 

Morgan is working full-time at Tyson Sign Company as a creative designer before she changes hats to do operational & marketing roles at the gym. Growing social & sales reach, communicating with potential & current students, taking care of the environment cleanliness & making sure everything runs smoothy are the main goals she facilitates at Checkmat Myrtle Beach.

Morgan has been a professional graphic designer, photographer, videographer and artist for over a decade. Her signature creations are able to be seen nationally and internationally. She was born in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia. Moving around every couple of years to finish her grade school & graduating at the Academy of Art Science & Technology in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. She transferred from Horry Georgetown Technical College majoring in Business to the State College of Florida majoring and graduating with an Associate of Science Degree as top-of-class in Graphic Design Technology. She has won numerous awards throughout her career & education. Some of note being: the Outstanding Graduate Award at SCF in 2016, the Gallery Directors Award at SCF in 2015 and the Merit Award at the South Carolina State Fair in 2012. 

She continues to do contracting work through her Mo Knows Marketing Agency, LLC. Photography, logo design, commissioned fine art, videography, lead generation, promotional products, 3D concepts to productional designs. To learn more visit: www.moknowsart.com