Luiz Panza

Luiz Panza began his martial arts journey at age 7, initially training in Kung Fu before transitioning to Shotokan Karate, where he earned his black belt. As a teenager, Panza aspired to compete in MMA but faced financial limitations. Determined to pursue his passion, he saved money from family gifts and briefly trained at Lotus Academy, participating in MMA sparring sessions. However, after a street fight incident, his mother prohibited further MMA training, believing it increased his aggression. In 2007, encouraged by his best friend Felipe Marques, Panza shifted his focus to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, joining the A.O.A. team under instructor Edilberto da Ponte.

Under Edilberto da Ponte's mentorship, Luiz Panza rapidly progressed through the ranks, earning his blue and purple belts. Seeking a more competitive training environment, he transitioned to Barbosa Jiu-Jitsu at purple belt, training under Marco Barbosa. Panza continued his ascent, receiving his brown belt and ultimately earning his black belt from Barbosa on December 17, 2012. His first year at black belt saw immediate success, quickly establishing him as a prominent competitor on the international stage.

Luiz Panza is renowned for his exceptional mastery of the 50/50 straight ankle lock. This submission has become his signature technique, responsible for numerous victories at the highest levels of competition. Panza's precise control and technical execution have positioned him as one of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's most respected and feared leg-lock specialists.

In 2015, Panza suffered a severe injury, breaking both his tibia and fibula during competition. The injury required surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, Panza successfully returned to elite-level competition, achieving notable victories at prestigious events, including the IBJJF World No-Gi Championship in 2016 and the ACBJJ Berkut Grand Prix in 2017.

Following the birth of his first child in 2018, Luiz Panza shifted his focus toward coaching and developing future talent. In 2019, he founded Checkmat Rolling Hills Academy in Rolling Hills, Southern California. At his academy, Panza dedicates himself to teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, sharing his extensive competitive experience and technical expertise with students of all levels.

In 2021, Luiz Panza stepped into the spotlight by replacing Gordon Ryan in a high-profile main event at 2021 Who's Number One, facing Craig Jones. Accepting the match on short notice, Panza showcased his competitive spirit and willingness to test himself against elite opponents, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier competitor.