Born on June 10, 1997, in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, Matheus Gabriel demonstrated remarkable dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from an early age. At only 14 years old, he left home to fully immerse himself in professional training. His disciplined regimen, training seven days a week, established a solid foundation for his future achievements in the sport.

Seeking elite-level instruction, Matheus relocated from Dallas to Los Angeles, California, to train at the prestigious Checkmat Headquarters. Under the mentorship of Keiser Girão, he earned his black belt in late 2018. Matheus represents Checkmat Dallas, consistently refining his technique and competing at the highest levels of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Guard Mastery and Submission Precision

Matheus Gabriel is renowned for his sophisticated guard play and exceptional proficiency in back attacks. His technical prowess was prominently displayed at the 2019 IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu Championship, where he captured the featherweight title by submitting Márcio André with a precise Rear Naked Choke in the finals. Matheus's systematic approach to guard retention, combined with his methodical setups for submissions, positions him as a formidable competitor in his division.

Adapting to Submission Grappling

Primarily recognized as a gi specialist, Matheus Gabriel has effectively transitioned into No-Gi competition. He has competed extensively in events such as Fight 2 Win, securing four championship belts across eleven matches. Additionally, he earned a silver medal in the featherweight division at the 2021 IBJJF World No-Gi Championship. Matheus is preparing for his debut at the prestigious ADCC World Championship, strategically adapting his game to the unique ruleset and tactical demands of submission grappling.

Renewed Focus and Competitive Drive

Following the birth of his child in 2024, Matheus Gabriel returned to active competition in 2025 with renewed determination and focus. Balancing fatherhood with elite-level competition, he continues to evolve his skillset and maintain his competitive edge. Matheus remains dedicated to achieving further success and leaving a lasting legacy within the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.