Carrying the Legacy of Fabiano “Pega Leve” Scherner | Led Locally by Professor James O’Neal
At Chess Lab Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Yakima, we’re proud to represent the lineage of Fabiano “Pega Leve” Scherner, a legend in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA world — and to be led day-to-day by our own local black belt, Professor James O’Neal, a second-degree black belt under Fabiano himself.
Together, this partnership creates something powerful: a fusion of world-class lineage and grassroots community — right here in Yakima, WA.
Find Our Gym
With our great new sign up, it's hard to miss!
Find us at 2204 W Nob Hill Blvd Suite H & I, Yakima, WA 98902
Latest News
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You don’t rise to the moment.You fall to your level of training. Most women are never taught what actually works in real situations.This is your chance to change that. Women’s…
Thanks to Professor Ben for coming in to town tonight! Great work on the mats everyone! #chesslabbjjyakima #mondaygrind
We are proud to back the blue here at Chess Lab. We believe a well-trained officer is a benefit not only to their personal safety, but to the greater safety…
What Makes Us Different
- Authentic lineage and instruction: You're not learning from YouTube or watered-down curriculums. This is real BJJ, taught by real black belts in a system tested at the highest levels.
- A gym for all levels: From first-timers to seasoned competitors, kids to adults, hobbyists to future champions — there’s a spot for you here.
- A community, not just a class: We train hard, but we look out for each other. Respect, accountability, and growth are our shared values.
- Driven by legacy: We’re helping build Fabiano Scherner’s brand in Yakima, not just wearing his patch. Every class we teach here reflects his standards, his style, and his philosophy.
What Our Clients Are Saying
Nate Rauschert
"Great environment! Wonderful place to train in Yakima. Owner is very kind and the professor is very knowledgeable. Room is full of high level and no ego. Come train!"
James Egan
"I went to Chess Lab Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym in Yakima Washington. The team was superb and the format amazing. Every aspect of the drop-in for me was spectacular starting from the warm -up routine through the live roll warms-ups and also the live rolling with the team(which had excellent morale). I felt extremely welcomed and learned techniques from the team. THANK YOU ALL!"
Travis Vanderpool
"Great atmosphere and learning experience."
Josh Cook
"I like this place... This place makes me better. Great Leadership and team."
