Roger “Palmito” Barlow began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in August 2013 in Northern California, one of the sport’s most competitive regions. Originally a Checkmat student under Anthony “Antdawg” Figueroa (Strikeforce veteran and King of the Cage Champion) and Checkmat co-founder Leandro Vieira, Roger built a foundation rooted in high-level, competition-tested Jiu-Jitsu. After relocating to North Carolina in 2021, he continued his journey with Team AKB under Joel Garcia. Beyond competing, Roger is passionate about coaching and sharing his knowledge. Having informally filled in for coaches since blue belt, he began regularly instructing at Embrace/AKB in 2023, finding fulfillment in helping others grow in their Jiu-Jitsu journey.