About us
Welcome to Zangief Jiu-Jitsu: More Than Just Martial Arts
Who We Are
Meet
Gabriel Checco
Been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2000, our head coach, Professor Gabriel Checco, is a highly accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete and instructor with years of experience in both competition and teaching. Known for his passion, technical skill, and dedication to his students, Professor Checco brings energy and expertise to every class.
Meet
Yamira "Yami" Valdez
Fourth-Degree Black Belt | Head Instructor, Rising Warriors Taekwondo / Zangief Taekwondo
Master Yamira “Yami” Valdes is a certified Fourth-Degree Black Belt (4th Dan) in Taekwondo, originally trained under the guidance of Master Janaka Ranaweera, 8th Dan, founder of Sunrise Martial Arts. With over two decades of martial arts experience, she is a former Nevada State Champion and a two-time AAU National Champion (2016, 2017).
In 2019, Master Yami assumed leadership of Sunrise Martial Arts, carrying forward its legacy of excellence. In 2020, she united with Professor Gabriel Checco of Zangief Jiu Jitsu to establish Rising Warriors Taekwondo / Zangief Taekwondo, creating a comprehensive martial arts program that blends tradition, discipline, and modern coaching techniques.
Master Yami is deeply committed to the personal growth and development of her students. Her instruction is grounded in the core values of honor, respect, self-control, and humility—principles she believes are inseparable. As she often teaches, “You cannot have true self-control without humility, and you cannot live with honor without respect.”
Her mission is to provide a structured, safe, and encouraging environment where children and young adults can thrive. Through Taekwondo, she empowers students to build not only physical strength and discipline but also the emotional and moral foundation necessary for success in all aspects of life.
Meet
David Gill
David Gill is a family man, husband and a father of two daughters. He started his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey back in 1998 when he attended a Charles Gracie seminar in Reno. David received his black belt in 2008, by Charles Gracie and Gary Grate. He is currently a 4th degree black belt and has trained and competed around the world. Some of David’s major competition achievements are that he is a multi-time IBJJF World, Pans and American Nationals Champion. He has won numerous IBJJF opens, SUG winner and has medaled or won many other tournaments.
One of his biggest BJJ accomplishments is being recognized by IBJJF as being the #1 Master 4, Black Belt, in the World, for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons.
Our Mission
Our Values
01
Expert Coaching
Led by Professor Gabriel Checco, our instructors bring years of experience, passion, and dedication to every class.
02
Family-Friendly Environment
We create a safe, welcoming space for people of all ages and backgrounds—whether you're 5 or 55.
03
All Levels Welcome
From complete beginners to seasoned practitioners, we offer guidance and support tailored to your journey.
04
Strong Community Spirit
We believe in lifting each other up—on the mat and in life.