Checkmat Knoxville Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The academy was founded by Professor Kevin James Gonzalez (known as "Professor KJ"), a 3rd Degree Black Belt with over 20 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Professor KJ is a BJJ No-Gi Absolute World Champion who opened Checkmat Knoxville to share his passion for Jiu-Jitsu with the community. He credits BJJ with saving his life and is dedicated to helping others through martial arts training. The academy's mission is to serve the local and global jiu-jitsu community by helping people grow stronger in body, mind, and character.

Checkmat Knoxville offers a comprehensive curriculum proven to teach thousands of students worldwide. The academy provides programs for all ages and skill levels, including Kids BJJ (ages 5-12), Teens BJJ (ages 13-17), Adult BJJ (18+), Master BJJ (50+), Women's Self-Defense, MMA classes, Competition Training, Law Enforcement Tactics, and Aerobics. The coaching staff brings experience, patience, and enthusiasm to every class, creating a welcoming family-friendly environment where students can pursue greatness whether for competition, physical health, self-defense, or personal development. The academy emphasizes respect, confidence, discipline, wellness, longevity, nutrition, and community character building.