End of an Era: Lucas Leite Announces Departure From Checkmat

A monumental shift is happening in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Legendary competitor and world-class coach Lucas Leite has officially announced his departure from the Checkmat team.

In a heartfelt message shared via social media—which can be seen in the attached file image_0ef6de.jpg—Leite reflected on his nearly two decades with the powerhouse team, marking the conclusion of a defining chapter in his martial arts journey.

18 Years of Dedication and Excellence

For 18 years, Lucas Leite has been synonymous with Checkmat. From his days as an elite competitor dominating divisions—often fighting several weight classes above his natural size—to his evolution into a mastermind coach, Leite has poured his heart and soul into the team.

In his statement featured in image_0ef6de.jpg, Leite expressed deep gratitude for his time on the mats with the crew, writing:

"Was 18 years of hard work, team work and dedication !! I’m forever greatfuel for the team and special my sensei Leo !!"

"Leo" refers to none other than Leonardo Vieira, the legendary co-founder of Checkmat and the master who promoted Leite to black belt back in 2006. Under Vieira’s guidance, Leite moved to the United States in 2007, where he established one of Checkmat’s most dominant and successful competition camps in Southern California.

Following a New Vision

While parting ways with a team after nearly two decades is a heavy decision, Leite explained that the move stems from a desire for personal growth and a shift in his vision for the future.

As stated in image_0ef6de.jpg:

"The biggest reason is my self grown and different ideias for the future , I feel like if I’m not agreeing with how I think the team is going.. is my job to leave ... is scary and challenging , but this is what martial arts is about !!"

Spoken like a true martial artist, Leite acknowledges the uncertainty of stepping away from his long-time home, but embraces the challenge as part of his lifelong growth. He left on incredibly respectful terms, acknowledging Checkmat's status as a premier powerhouse and validating his own contributions to that legacy:

"I think checkmat is the best team for hight level competitors!! I did my duty as a hight level coach for the team !! Now is time to focus in others goals !!!"

The Legacy Continues

Known worldwide as the "Half Guard Master," Lucas Leite revolutionized grappling with his famous "Coyote Guard"—a highly dynamic, knee-torquing system that allowed him to sweep ultra-heavyweights and win Gi and No-Gi World Championships.

As a professor, his impact is just as massive. He has built a ferocious stable of athletes, recently producing champions like Elder "El Monstro" Cruz, whom Leite promoted to black belt after a stellar gold-medal performance at the 2022 IBJJF Worlds.

While he may no longer be wearing the Checkmat patch on his Gi, Leite's impact on the sport and his dedication to his students remain completely unchanged. The BJJ community will undoubtedly be watching closely to see what his "different ideas for the future" look like as he begins this exciting new chapter.

Thank you, Professor Lucas Leite, for 18 years of elite representation under the Checkmat banner!