List of karateka
Encyclopedia
List of karateka includes notable practitioners of karate
, listed in alphabetical order by surname. Note that Japanese name order might not be consistent in this list, due to differing conventions. Individual entries list each person's name, years of birth and death (as appropriate), and main karate style(s).
Karate
is a martial art developed in the Ryukyu Islands in what is now Okinawa, Japan. It was developed from indigenous fighting methods called and Chinese kenpō. Karate is a striking art using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes, and open-handed techniques such as knife-hands. Grappling, locks,...
, listed in alphabetical order by surname. Note that Japanese name order might not be consistent in this list, due to differing conventions. Individual entries list each person's name, years of birth and death (as appropriate), and main karate style(s).
A
- Keigo AbeKeigo Abeis a prominent Japanese master of Shotokan karate who founded the Japan Shotokan Karate Association in 1999 and is its Chief Instructor. He holds the rank of 9th dan in karate, is a direct student of Masatoshi Nakayama , and was a senior instructor in the Japan Karate Association.-Early life:Abe...
(born 1938), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Rafael AghayevRafael AghayevRafael Aghayev is a leading Azeri Karate competitor and is three times World, seven times European champion. -Achievements:2010 results*1st WKF 20th Championships Belgrade, under 75 kg*2nd WKF 20th Championships Belgrade, Team Kumite...
(born 1985), style unspecified - Seishō ArakakiSeisho Arakakiwas a prominent Okinawan martial arts master who influenced the development of several major karate styles. He was known by many other names, including Aragaki Tsuji Pechin Seisho.-Life and martial arts:...
(1840–1918), TodeOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō.... - Steve ArneilSteve ArneilSteve Arneil is a prominent South African-British master of Kyokushin karate. He learned directly from Masutatsu Oyama and was a senior instructor in Oyama's International Karate Organization until 1991, when he resigned from the IKO...
(born 1934), Kyokushin - Tetsuhiko AsaiTetsuhiko Asaiwas a prominent Japanese master of Shotokan karate who was a former Technical Director of the Japan Karate Association , founder and Chief Instructor of the International Japan Martial Arts Karate Asai-ryu , and founder of the Japan Karate Shoto-Renmei .-Early life:Asai was born on June 7, 1935, in...
(1935–2006), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Ankō AsatoAnko Asatowas an Okinawan master of karate. He and Ankō Itosu were the two main karate masters who taught Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shōtōkan-ryū karate. Funakoshi appears to be the source of most of the information available on Asato...
(1827–1906), Shuri-teOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō.... - Hideyuki AshiharaHideyuki Ashiharawas a Japanese master of karate who founded the Ashihara karate system in 1980. This karate style is based on Kyokushin karate. Ashihara, often attributed as one of the originators of the tai sabaki method, held the rank of 10th dan in karate and wrote three books on his martial art.-Early...
(1944–1995), Kyokushin and Ashihara
B
- Vitor BelfortVitor BelfortVítor Vieira Belfort is a Brazilian mixed martial artist and former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. Belfort was born in Rio de Janeiro and studied jiu-jitsu with the Gracie family, namely Carlson Gracie. He received a black belt under Carlson and currently trains with Xtreme Couture, fighting in...
(born 1977), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Steven BellamySteven BellamySteven John Bellamy is a British martial artist, author, and lecturer.-Biography:Steve Bellamy practiced judo and boxing at school. He began studying karate in the early sixties, crediting the seminal book Karate the Art of Empty Hand Fighting by Nishiyama and Brown as his inspirational source...
(born 1950), Wadō-ryū and Gōjū-ryū - Billy BlanksBilly BlanksBilly Wayne Blanks is an American fitness guru, martial artist, actor, and the inventor of the Tae Bo exercise program.-Career:Blanks began his study of the martial arts at the age of eleven and practices Karate and Taekwondo...
(born 1955), style unspecified - Jon BlumingJon Bluminghttp://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSas5UGbfWewSi8q5DfzywF065UUqhGmIWUOksP4AOhttp://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSas5UGbfWewSi8q5DfzywF065UUqhGmIWUOksP4AOhttp://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSas5UGbfWewSi8q5DfzywF065UUqhGmIWUOksP4AO...
(born 1933), Kyokushin - Frank BrennanFrank Brennan (karateka)Frank Brennan, is a Shotokan karateka born on the 6th of May 1960 in the City of Liverpool. He was a British karate champion in the 1970s and '80s, winning a wide variety of titles both as an individual and as part of the KUGB team. He remains a well-known and well-respected KUGB instructor and...
(born 1960), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Steve BlackmanSteve BlackmanSteve Blackman is a American professional wrestler who is best known for his career in the World Wrestling Federation under his own name.-Stampede Wrestling and South Africa :...
(born 1963), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
C
- Thomas CarrollThomas Carroll (martial artist)Thomas "Lapuppet" Carrol, was an African-American martial artist, and also a member of USA Karate Hall of Fame , and the Black belt Hall of fame of Brooklyn, NY. He was also a member of the US Ju-Jitsu Federation. . He focused in Ronin Karate and shotokan karate...
(1938–1999), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Antonio CarvalhoAntonio CarvalhoAntonio Carvalho is a Canadian professional mixed martial artist and Shooto veteran who has fought for TKO Major League MMA, Maximum Fighting Championship, Ironheart Crown, Cage Force and Warrior-1 MMA...
(born 1979), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Tino CeberanoTino CeberanoConstantino 'Tino' Ceberano is a karate master who is a key figure in Australian martial arts history. He is a direct student of Gōju Kai karate founder Gōgen Yamaguchi...
(born c. 1942), Gōjū Kai - Sonny ChibaSonny Chiba, also known as Sonny Chiba, is a Japanese actor, singer, film producer, film director and martial artist.Chiba was one of the first actors to achieve stardom through his skills in martial arts, initially in Japan and later before an international audience.- Early life :Born in Fukuoka, Fukuoka,...
(born 1939), Kyokushin - Chōshin ChibanaChoshin Chibanawas an Okinawan martial artist who developed Shorin-ryū karate based on what he had learned from Ankō Itosu.Chibana was the last of the pre-World War karate masters, also called the "Last Warrior of Shuri" He was the first to establish a Japanese ryu name for an Okinawan karate style, calling...
(1885–1969), Shōrin-ryūShorin-Ryuis one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. It was founded by Choshin Chibana in 1933. Shōrin-ryū combines elements of the traditional Okinawan fighting styles of Shuri-te.-History:Chosin Chibana was a top student of the great master of shuri-te, Anko Itosu... - Teruo ChinenTeruo Chinenis a prominent Okinawan master of Gōjū-ryū karate. He founded the Jundokan International karate organization and holds the title Shihan. Chinen is one of the last surviving students to have learned directly from Chōjun Miyagi, founder of Gōjū-ryū karate...
(born 1941), Gōjū-ryū - Peter ChongPeter Chong (karateka)Peter Chong, PBM is a Kyokushin karate master and a former Assistant Superintendent of Police in Singapore. He is the International Committee Chairman for Asia and the Middle East in the International Karate Organization founded by Masutatsu Oyama and now led by Shokei Matsui.-Early life:Chong...
(born 1941), Kyokushin - Howard CollinsHoward CollinsHoward Collins is a Welsh master of Kyokushin karate based in Sweden. He holds the rank of 7th dan and the title of Shihan. Collins learned directly from Masutatsu Oyama, founder of Kyokushin karate, and was a prominent competitor in world karate tournaments through the 1970s...
(born 1949), Kyokushin - Harry CookHarry CookHenry Wilson Cook , widely known as Harry Cook, is a British martial artist, teacher, and author. He has written several martial art books, most notably Shotokan Karate: A precise history . Cook began training in karate in 1966, and is currently the Chief Instructor of the Seijinkai Karatedo...
(born 1949), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
and Gōjū-ryū - Vincent CruzVincent CruzVincent A. Cruz is an American martial artist, and an advocate of traditional Shotokan Karate.Cruz is a certified martial art instructor and examiner under the American Amateur Karate Federation and the International Traditional Karate Federation ; both federations are headed by Master Hidetaka...
(born 1937), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
D
- Raymond Daniels (born 1980), Kenpō KarateAmerican KenpoAmerican Kenpo or Kenpo Karate is a system of martial arts created by Ed Parker, characterized by the use of quick moves in rapid-fire succession intended to overwhelm an opponent...
, ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Fumio DemuraFumio Demurais a Japanese master of karate. He is a well known master of karate and kobudo , and his martial arts skills featured in the Karate Kid series of films. Demura holds the rank of 9th dan in Shitō-ryū karate.-Early life:...
(born 1938), Shitō-ryū - Nick DenisNick DenisNick Denis is a Canadian professional mixed martial artist and the current King of the Cage Canada Bantamweight Champion who has fought for World Victory Road and King of the Cage promotions...
(born 1983), Kyokushin - Ticky DonovanTicky DonovanDavid 'Ticky' Donovan OBE is a renowned British karate competitor and coach. He was the coach and manager of both the British and English national karate teams, from 1977 until he retired from that role in 2008. During his tenure as coach, Britain won numerous European and World championship team...
(born 1947), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
, Wadō-ryū, and Kyokushin - Igor DyachenkoIgor DyachenkoIgor Dyachenko is a Ukrainian karateka.When asked when he started learning karate, Igor has answered, "Since I remember myself." His father had decided to take karate classes to improve his spirits and physical condition one year after the explosion of the atomic reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear...
(born 1981), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
F
- Glaube FeitosaGlaube FeitosaGlaube "Brazilian Warrior" Feitosa is a Brazilian former kickboxer and a kyokushin full contact karate practitioner who was competing in K-1. In 2005 Feitosa won K-1 World Grand Prix 2005 in Las Vegas tournament and was the K-1 World Grand Prix 2005 finalist...
(born 1973), Kyokushin - Francisco FilhoFrancisco Filho (martial artist)Francisco "Chiquinho" Filho is a Brazilian former Kyokushin Karateka and kickboxer. He is one of the few karate-ka to have successfully completed the 100 man kumite more than once....
(born 1971), Kyokushin - Jason David FrankJason David FrankJason David Frank is an American actor, martial artist and professional mixed martial arts fighter, best known for playing Tommy Oliver in Power Rangers.- Early life :...
(born 1973), style unspecified - Gichin FunakoshiGichin Funakoshiwas the creator of Shotokan karate, perhaps the most widely known style of karate, and is attributed as being the 'father of modern karate.' Following the teachings of Anko Itosu, he was one of the Okinawan karate masters who introduced karate to the Japanese mainland in 1921...
(1869–1957), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Gigō Funakoshi (1906–1945), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
G
- Alexander Gerunov (born 1979), Shitō-ryū
- Maciej GórskiMaciej GórskiMaciej Górski is a Polish karateka and mixed martial artist. He fights in the lightweight division and competed for various European MMA promotions, mostly for the Slovenian WFC and Polish KSW, where he is the tournament winner of KSW - Extra and finalist of the current Lightweight Tournament. He...
(born 1983), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Peter GrahamPeter Graham (kickboxer)Peter "The Chief" Graham is an Australian kickboxer, boxer and mixed martial artist. His enterance music is AC/DC's Thunderstruck andhe has trademarked his special moves like his somersault kick, The Rolling Thunder.-Kickboxing:...
(born 1975), Kyokushin - Sam GrecoSam GrecoSam "Slam 'em" Greco is a retired Australian super heavyweight kickboxer, heavyweight mixed martial artist and professional wrestler of Italian descent, who fought in Kyokushin karate, professional kickboxing, and K-1 tournaments....
(born 1967), Kyokushin - Neil GroveNeil GroveNeil Grove is a South African-born English heavyweight mixed martial artist currently signed with Bellator Fighting Championships. He holds a black belt rank of shodan in Gōjū-ryū karate...
(born 1971), Gōjū-ryū - Shinpan GusukumaShinpan Gusukuma, also known as Shinpan Shiroma by the Japanese, was an Okinawan martial artist who studied Shōrin-ryū karate as a student of Ankō Itosu. Gusukuma also trained under Higaonna Kanryō in the Naha-te style. Gusukuma went on to establish Shitō-ryū with Kenwa Mabuni....
(1890–1954), Shitō-ryū
H
- Mitsusuke HaradaMitsusuke Haradais a prominent Japanese master of Shotokan karate who introduced this martial art to Brazil and is now based in the United Kingdom. He founded the Karate-do Shotokai organisation in 1965 and is its President...
(born 1928), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Sherman HarrillSherman HarrillSherman Jordan "Tank" "Sherminator" "Harru" Harrill was an American Isshinryu Karate teacher.-Early years:...
(1941–2002), Isshin-ryūIsshin-ryuis a style of Okinawan karate founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku and named by him on 15 January 1956. Isshin-Ryū karate is largely a synthesis of Shorin-ryū karate, Gojū-ryū karate, and kobudō. The name means, literally, "one heart method"... - Randall HassellRandall G. HassellRandall G. Hassell is the Chief Instructor for the American Shotokan Karate Alliance , Senior Editor of Tamashii Press, President of the American JKA Karate Association , and a Founding Fellow of the International Karate Society ....
(born c. 1940), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Dave HazardDave HazardDave Hazard born in Bow, east London, in 1952 is a well known British 7th Dan Karateka and instructor of Shotokan karate and was one of the few students present at the very beginning of British Karate. He is a former KUGB national champion and British team member...
(born 1952), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Sekō Higa (1898–1966), Gōjū-ryū
- Yuchoku HigaHiga YuchokuHiga Yuchoku was a prominent karate practitioner. He started training Shorin-ryu under his father's senior student. He continued the training until 1935, when he began training Ti and Goju-ryu under Jinan Shinzato, Chōjun Miyagi Sensei's senior student. From 1945 he studied Shorin-ryu under...
(1910–1994), Shōrin-ryūShorin-Ryuis one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. It was founded by Choshin Chibana in 1933. Shōrin-ryū combines elements of the traditional Okinawan fighting styles of Shuri-te.-History:Chosin Chibana was a top student of the great master of shuri-te, Anko Itosu...
and Gōjū-ryū - Kanryō HigaonnaHigaonna Kanryo, also known as "Higashionna West", was a native of Nishi-shin-machi, Naha, Okinawa. He was born in Nishimura, Naha to a merchant family, whose business was selling firewood, an expensive commodity in the Ryukyu Islands...
(1853–1915), Gōjū-ryū - Kanryu HigaonnaHigaonna KanryuHigaonna Kanryu was an Okinawan karateka well-known for his calligraphy and Chinese studies as well as his martial arts. He learned his martial arts under Wai Shinzan and not under Ru Ru Ko as some believe...
(1849–1922), Okinawan martial artsOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō.... - Morio HigaonnaMorio Higaonnais a prominent Okinawan karate practitioner who is the founder and Chief Instructor of the International Okinawan Goju-ryu Karate-do Federation . He is a holder of the highest rank in Goju-ryu karate, 10th dan. Higaonna has written several books on Goju-ryu karate, including Traditional Karate-do:...
(born 1938), Gōjū-ryū - Masayuki HisatakaMasayuki Hisatakais head of Shorinjiryu Kenkokan Karate.He is a descendant of Seiwa and son of the founder of Shorinjiryu Kenkokan Karate, Kōri Hisataka. He started his training in judo and karate at the age of three and obtained a shodan in both disciplines by the time he was 13.He won the All-Japan Open Karatedo...
(born 1940), Shorinji-ryu KenkokanShorinjiryu Kenkokan Karateis a style of karate founded by Kori Hisataka shortly after World War II in Japan. It is a unique blend of Okinawan kobudo and Shorinji Ryū Karate, Japanese aikijujutsu, judo, kenjutsu, and Chinese bājíquán.... - Loek HollanderLoek HollanderLoek Hollander is a prominent Dutch karate practitioner. He began training Kyokushin Karate in the Netherlands in 1962. Hollander earned his 1st dan ranking in 1965.Hollander was the fourth person ever to complete the 100-man kumite in 1967...
(born c. 1940), Kyokushin - Mark HolstMark HolstMark Holst is a Canadian martial artist from Ottawa, Ontario, who has fought in the UFC. He is currently training and teaching Muay Thai and MMA at the Ottawa Academy of Martial Arts in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada....
(born 1984), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Andy HugAndy HugAndy Hug was a Swiss Seidokaikan and Kyokushin karateka and kickboxer from Wohlen. Hug was the K-1 World Grand Prix 1996 champion and runner up in 1997 and 1998.-Biography and career:...
(1964–2000), Kyokushin and SeidoSeidokaikanis a style of full contact karate, or Knockdown karate, founded by Kazuyoshi Ishii in 1980.-History:First formed in 1980 by Kazuyoshi Ishii, a former Kyokushin Karate practitioner who began his training under Hideyuki Ashihara in 1969...
I
- Seikichi IhaSeikichi Ihawas born in Nishihara City, Okinawa. Iha is an Okinawan martial artist who trains in the Shorin-ryū Shidō-kan style of Karate. Iha is currently the Director of the North American Beikoku Shido-kan Karate-do Association and the highest ranking Okinawan master in the United States.-Martial arts...
(born 1932), Shōrin-ryū ShidōkanShorin-ryu Shidokanis the main branch of Shorin-ryū style of Okinawan karate, started by Katsuya Miyahira, Hanshi 10th Dan.It should not be confused with the newer Japanese Shidokan, another style of Karate 志道館 okinawan shidokan precedes 士道館, Japanese shidokan by 33 years and was well established before the... - Kazuyoshi IshiiKazuyoshi Ishiiis a Japanese master of Seidokaikan karate and founder of the K-1 fighting circuit, a widely televised international martial arts competition combining Muay Thai, karate, sanshou, taekwondo, kenpo, boxing, and kickboxing...
(born 1953), SeidoSeidokaikanis a style of full contact karate, or Knockdown karate, founded by Kazuyoshi Ishii in 1980.-History:First formed in 1980 by Kazuyoshi Ishii, a former Kyokushin Karate practitioner who began his training under Hideyuki Ashihara in 1969... - Ankō ItosuAnko Itosuis considered by many the father of modern karate, although this title is also often given to Gichin Funakoshi because the latter spread karate throughout Japan.- Biography :...
(1832–1916), Shuri-teOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō....
J
- John JarvisJohn Jarvis (karateka)John Hugo Jarvis is a karateka from New Zealand. He is Shihan, 5th Dan. His first instructor was Steve Arneil in 1967. Later, John Jarvis was a personal representative of Masutatsu Oyama and Kyokushinkai chief instructor in New Zealand. In 1974, he switched to Okinawa Goju-ryu karatedo...
(born 1940), Kyokushin and Gōjū-ryū
K
- Nobuaki KakudaNobuaki Kakudais a Japanese Seidokaikan Karateka.-Career:Kakuda is famous for his first punch knockout win over German mixed martial artist Mavrick at 0:56 seconds in the K-1 Fields Europe GP 2005 as well as being the only K-1 fighter to lose to Akebono, a former Sumo wrestler whose long losing streak has made...
(born 1961), SeidoSeidokaikanis a style of full contact karate, or Knockdown karate, founded by Kazuyoshi Ishii in 1980.-History:First formed in 1980 by Kazuyoshi Ishii, a former Kyokushin Karate practitioner who began his training under Hideyuki Ashihara in 1969... - Hirokazu Kanazawa (born 1931), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
- Taiji KaseTaiji Kasewas a Japanese master of Shotokan karate who was one of the earliest masters responsible for introducing this martial art into Europe. He taught his style of karate, Shotokan Ryu Kase Ha, in France from the late 1960s to the mid-1980s. In his later years, he travelled across the world teaching...
(1929–2004), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Hajime KazumiHajime Kazumiis one of Kyokushin's most successful knockdown karate fighters and an instructor of full-contact fighting techniques.-Career:At age twenty Kazumi defeated many top fighters to reach the finals of the All Japan Karate Tournament. Since then Kazumi has never finished outside of the top two places in...
(born 1971), Kyokushin - Ömer KemaloğluÖmer KemaloğluÖmer Kemaloğlu is a Turkish karateka competing in the kumite -65 kg division. He is a member of the İstanbul Büyükşehir Belediyesi S.K..-Achievements:2009:* World Games in Kaohsiung, Taiwan - July 25–26 - kumite -65 kg...
(born 1987), style unspecified - Katsunori KikunoKatsunori KikunoKatsunori Kikuno is a Japanese mixed martial artist, and currently fighting for Dream. Kikuno is a practitioner of traditional martial arts including Judo and Kyokushin Karate and is known for incorporating these styles effectively in mixed martial arts fights...
(born 1981), Kyokushin - Richard Kim (1917–2001), Shōrinji-ryū
- Taishin Kohiruimaki (born 1977), Kyokushin
- Yuki KondoYuki Kondois a Japanese mixed martial artist. He has a background in Shorinji Kempo and he is a 2nd dan. He was born in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. Kondo is a Pancrase and Pride Fighting Championships veteran, as well as three-time veteran in the UFC. Kondo has fought over 60 times for the Pancrase...
(born 1975), Shorinji KempoShorinji Kempowas established by as a system for self-improvement and training in Japan in 1947 based on Shaolin kungfu .... - Takayuki KubotaTakayuki Kubotais a Japanese master of karate. He founded the Gosoku-ryu style of karate, and is the founder and president of the International Karate Association. Kubota holds the title of Sōke for his development of the Gosoku-ryū style of karate...
(born 1934), TeOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō....
and Gosoku-ryuGosoku-ryuis a style of Karate which was founded by Takayuki Kubota. Gosoku stands for hard and fast, which suggests a combination of techniques both from the fast and dynamic Shotokan style as well as from the strength-focused Gōjū-ryū style.-Background:... - Shōgō KunibaShogo kunibaaka Sōke Kuniba was a Japanese teacher of karate.His adoptive father was Kōsei Kokuba , who began training him at five years old...
(1935–1992), Shitō-ryū - Chōtoku Kyan (1870–1945), Shōrin-ryūShorin-Ryuis one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. It was founded by Choshin Chibana in 1933. Shōrin-ryū combines elements of the traditional Okinawan fighting styles of Shuri-te.-History:Chosin Chibana was a top student of the great master of shuri-te, Anko Itosu...
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- Joe Lewis (born 1944), Shōrin-ryūShorin-Ryuis one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. It was founded by Choshin Chibana in 1933. Shōrin-ryū combines elements of the traditional Okinawan fighting styles of Shuri-te.-History:Chosin Chibana was a top student of the great master of shuri-te, Anko Itosu...
- Chuck LiddellChuck LiddellCharles David "Chuck" Liddell is a retired American mixed martial artist and former Ultimate Fighting Championship light heavyweight champion. Liddell has an extensive striking background in Kempo, Koei-Kan karate and kickboxing, as well as a grappling background in collegiate wrestling.As of his...
(born 1969), American KenpoAmerican KenpoAmerican Kenpo or Kenpo Karate is a system of martial arts created by Ed Parker, characterized by the use of quick moves in rapid-fire succession intended to overwhelm an opponent...
and Koei-KanKoei-KanKoei-Kan Karate-dō is a karate style that was developed by Master Onishi Eizo in 1952. Koei-Kan can be translated from Japanese to "Prosper with Happiness." Onishi Eizo was the pupil of two famous Okinawan Karate Masters, Toyama Kanken and Kyoda Juhatsu... - Bobby LoweBobby Lowe (karateka)Edward 'Bobby' Lowe was a prominent Chinese American master of Kyokushin karate. He was the first uchi deshi of Masutatsu Oyama, founder of Kyokushin karate, and established the first Kyokushin school outside Japan...
(1929–2011), Kyokushin - Dolph LundgrenDolph LundgrenDolph Lundgren is a Swedish actor, director, and martial artist. He belongs to a generation of film actors who epitomise the movie action hero stereotype including Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, Chuck Norris, Steven Seagal and Jean-Claude Van Damme.A graduate in chemical...
(born 1957), Kyokushin and Gōjū-ryū
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- Kenwa MabuniKenwa Mabuniwas one of the first karateka to teach karate on mainland Japan and is creditied as developing the style known as Shitō-ryū .-Achievements:# Funakoshi Gichin learned kata from Kenwa Mabuni: In order to expand his knowledge he sent his son Gigō to study kata in Mabuni's dōjō in Osaka.# Kenwa Mabuni,...
(1889–1952), Shitō-ryū - Lyoto MachidaLyoto MachidaLyoto Carvalho Machida is a Japanese-Brazilian mixed martial artist from Belém, Brazil who fights as a light heavyweight in the Ultimate Fighting Championship...
(born 1978), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Shinzo Machida, ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
- Akira MasudaAkira Masudais a Japanese Kyokushin kaikan karateka. In March 1991 he completed the 100 man kumite supervised by Mas Oyama.He was born in 1962 in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Ishikawa prefecture, Japan. In junior high school he was captain of the school judo club. When he was 16 years old he joined Kyokushin Kaikan...
(born 1962), Kyokushin - Shokei MatsuiShokei Matsui, also known by his Korean name of Moon Jang Gyu , is a master of Kyokushin karate and current Kancho of one faction of the International Karate Organization founded by Mas Oyama ....
(born 1963), Kyokushin - Sōkon Matsumura (c. 1800–c. 1890), Shuri-teOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō....
- Chuck MerrimanChuck MerrimanChuck Merriman has served as Head Coach of the AAU National Karate Team and member of the AAU national karate Coaches Committee. He is also a member of the AAU National Karate Program Technical Committee and has acted as Chief Arbitrator for AAU Region One Karate and for the AAU National Karate...
(born c. 1940), Gōjū-ryū - Takayuki MikamiTakayuki Mikamiis a Japanese master of Shotokan karate based in the United States of America. He holds the rank of 9th dan black belt in the art. In 1958, Mikami tied for first place in the All Japan Karate Championships. The following year, he became the All Japan champion in kumite as well as kata . In 1961,...
(born 1933), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Miyuki MiuraMiyuki Miurais a prominent Japanese master of karate, first practising Shotokan, then Kyokushin, then World Ōyama, and now operating independently.-Early life:...
(born 1949), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
and Kyokushin - Frank MirFrank MirFrancisco Santos Miranda is an American mixed martial artist, as well as a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Kenpō Karate, who competes in the heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He is a former UFC Heavyweight Champion and a former UFC Interim Heavyweight Champion...
(born 1979), KenpōAmerican KenpoAmerican Kenpo or Kenpo Karate is a system of martial arts created by Ed Parker, characterized by the use of quick moves in rapid-fire succession intended to overwhelm an opponent... - Chōjun MiyagiChojun Miyagiwas an Okinawan martial artist who founded the Goju-ryu school of karate.-Early life and training:Miyagi was born in Higashimachi, Naha, Okinawa on April 25, 1888, the adopted son of a wealthy businessman. He began his study in Karate-do at the age of nine . He first learned martial arts from Ryuko...
(1888–1953), Gōjū-ryū - Katsuya MiyahiraKatsuya Miyahirawas an Okinawan martial artist who was the grand master of the Shorin-ryu Shido-kan style of Okinawan Karate and the president of the Okinawa Shorin-ryu Karate Association. He is ranked Hanshi, 10th Dan. Miyahira created the Shido-kan branch of Kobayashi Shorin-ryu after the death of his teacher,...
(born 1918), Shōrin-ryū ShidōkanShorin-ryu Shidokanis the main branch of Shorin-ryū style of Okinawan karate, started by Katsuya Miyahira, Hanshi 10th Dan.It should not be confused with the newer Japanese Shidokan, another style of Karate 志道館 okinawan shidokan precedes 士道館, Japanese shidokan by 33 years and was well established before the... - Ei'ichi Miyazato (1922–1999), Gōjū-ryū
- Minoru MochizukiMinoru Mochizukiwas a Japanese martial artist who founded the dojo Yoseikan. He was a 10th dan in Aikido, 9th dan in jujutsu, 8th dan in iaido, 8th dan in judo, 8th dan in kobudo, 5th dan in kendo, 5th dan in karate, and a 5th dan in jojutsu....
(1907–2003), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
and YoseikanYoseikanis the name given to a dojo built in November 1931 in Shizuoka, Japan.-The Dojo:The brother and friends of Master Minoru Mochizuki built this dojo for him while he was recovering from pleurisy and pulmonary tuberculosis. When the dojo was built, a friend of the Mochizuki family called it Yōseikan... - Vic MooreVic MooreVictor Moore holds a 10th Degree Black Belt in Karate and was one of the late Robert Trias' Chief instructors of the Shuri-ryū Karate system. Moore was one of the first ten original members of the Trias International Society and also studied and trained with William J. Dometrich in the style of...
(born 1943), Shuri-ryūShuri-ryukarate, is an eclectic martial arts system developed by Robert Trias , the first person to teach karate in the mainland United States, who opened the first dojo in 1946 in Phoenix, Arizona. Later in 1948 he formed the first karate association in the U.S., The United States Karate Association... - Chōki MotobuMotobu ChokiThe Okinawan karateka , younger brother of karateka Motobu Chōyū, was born in Akahira Village in Shuri, Okinawa, then capital of the Ryūkyū Kingdom....
(1871–1944), Shuri-teOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō.... - Chōyū Motobu (1857–1938), Shuri-teOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō....
- MusashiMusashi (kickboxer)is a retired professional Japanese Heavyweight karateka and kickboxer. He is 4 time K-1 Japan tournament champion, a former WAKO Heavyweight Muay Thai champion and two time K-1 World Grand Prix finalist...
(Akio Mori, born 1972), SeidoSeidokaikanis a style of full contact karate, or Knockdown karate, founded by Kazuyoshi Ishii in 1980.-History:First formed in 1980 by Kazuyoshi Ishii, a former Kyokushin Karate practitioner who began his training under Hideyuki Ashihara in 1969...
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- Shōshin NagamineShoshin Nagaminewas a Japanese author, soldier, police officer and karate master.-Early Life and Karate-do:Nagamine was born in Tomari, in Naha City, Okinawa. He was a small and sickly child, and he contracted a gastroenteric disorder in 1926, his second year of high school. He began a self-imposed diet and took...
(1907–1997), Shōrin-ryūShorin-Ryuis one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. It was founded by Choshin Chibana in 1933. Shōrin-ryū combines elements of the traditional Okinawan fighting styles of Shuri-te.-History:Chosin Chibana was a top student of the great master of shuri-te, Anko Itosu...
and Matsubayashi-ryūMatsubayashi-ryuMatsubayashi-ryū , is a style of Okinawan karate that was founded in 1947 by Shōshin Nagamine . Its curriculum includes 18 kata, 7 two-man yakusoku kumite routines, and kobudō practice... - Tatsuya Naka (born 1964), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
- Andrews NakaharaAndrews NakaharaAndrews Nakahara is a Japanese-Brazilian professional mixed martial artist and kyokushin karateka. He made his MMA pro debut against Kazushi Sakuraba at DREAM.2...
(born 1983), Kyokushin - Tadashi NakamuraTadashi Nakamurais the founder of Seidō juku karatedo.-Early years:Tadashi Nakamura was born on the February 22, 1942 in the town of Maoka on the island of Karafuto. Nakamura trained in various martial arts including Goju-Ryu, Kendo, and Kyokushin...
(born 1942), Seidō jukuSeidō jukuSeidō is a style of karate founded by Master Tadashi Nakamura in 1976 in New York City. It is unique for being a physical, traditional style and incorporating Zen meditation in training.- History :... - Masatoshi Nakayama (1913–1987), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
- Shūgorō NakazatoShugoro Nakazatois a Japanese martial artist. Described as a "one punch artist" by some of his American students, Nakazato has developed his karate sparring into a fine fighting art. He has several large photographs of himself on his dojo wall, and has given many demonstrations on the Japanese mainland, as well as...
(born 1921), Shōrin-ryū ShōrinkanShorin-ryu Shorinkanis a branch of the Kobayashi Shorin-ryū style of Okinawan Karate, developed by Shūgorō Nakazato, Hanshi 10th Dan. Nakazato was a student of Chosin Chibana. After Chibana's death in 1969, Nakazato assumed the title of Vice President of the Okinawa Shorin-Ryū Karate-do Association... - Jadamba NarantungalagJadamba NarantungalagJadamba Narantungalag is a Mongolian mixed martial artist, kickboxer and grappler who has fought for World Victory Road, K-1 MAX, and the Art of War Fighting Championship....
(born (1975), Kyokushin - Gunnar NelsonGunnar Nelson (fighter)Gunnar Nelson is an Icelandic professional mixed martial artist and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner.-Early life:...
(born 1988), Gōjū-ryū - Alain NgalaniAlain NgalaniAlain "The Panther" Ngalani is a Cameroonian-born kickboxer and two-time Muay Thai world champion, fighting out of and representing Hong Kong. He is known for his speed and trademark move "The Panther High Kick".-Biography and career:...
(born 1975), Kyokushin - Jōkō NinomiyaJoko Ninomiyais the founder and director of Enshin Karate. He presides over the Enshin organization from the headquarters in Denver, Colorado. His title as head of the Enshin organization is "Kancho" .-Early history:...
(born 1954), Enshin - Hidetaka NishiyamaHidetaka Nishiyamawas a prominent Japanese master of Shotokan karate. He was an internationally recognized instructor, author, and administrator, and helped to establish the Japan Karate Association. Nishiyama was one of the last surviving students of Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan karate...
(1928–2008), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Chuck NorrisChuck NorrisCarlos Ray "Chuck" Norris is an American martial artist and actor. After serving in the United States Air Force, he began his rise to fame as a martial artist and has since founded his own school, Chun Kuk Do...
(born 1940), style unspecified
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- Tsutomu OhshimaTsutomu Ohshimais a prominent Japanese master of Shotokan karate who founded the Shotokan Karate of America organization. He is the Shihan of the SKA, and to this day holds the rank of 5th dan in karate, which was awarded to him by Gichin Funakoshi...
(born 1930), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Teruyuki OkazakiTeruyuki OkazakiTeruyuki Okazaki , a tenth degree black belt in Shotokan Karate, is the founder, chairman and chief instructor of the International Shotokan Karate Federation . Along with Gichin Funakoshi and Masatoshi Nakayama, Okazaki helped found the Japan Karate Association's instructor training program.-Early...
(born 1931), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Terry O'Neill (born 1948), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
- Hironori Ōtsuka (1892–1982), Wadō-ryū
- Masutatsu Ōyama (1923–1994), Kyokushin
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- Ed ParkerEd ParkerEdmund Kealoha "Ed" Parker was an American martial artist, promoter, teacher, and author.-Life:Parker was born in Hawaii, and raised a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He began his training in the martial arts at a young age in judo and later boxing...
(1931–1990), American KenpoAmerican KenpoAmerican Kenpo or Kenpo Karate is a system of martial arts created by Ed Parker, characterized by the use of quick moves in rapid-fire succession intended to overwhelm an opponent... - Cecil PattersonCecil T. PattersonCecil T. Patterson , among America’s earliest karateka, introduced the Wado-Ryu style of karate into the Eastern United States in 1958...
(1930–2002), Wadō-ryū - Seth PetruzelliSeth PetruzelliSeth Petruzelli is an American mixed martial artist, former kickboxer and entrepreneur. He is infamously known as the first man to defeat Kimbo Slice in mixed martial arts competition, knocking him out in 14 seconds. Seth went to school at the University of Central Florida to study Psychology...
(born 1979), Shitō-ryū - Malcolm PhippsMalcolm PhippsMalcolm Phipps is an 8th Dan Hanshi in Shotokan Karate and is the Chief Instructor internationally to Seishinkai Shotokan Karate International . He started training in karate in the early seventies with a local JKA club, then with Shotokan Karate International with Hirokazu Kanazawa...
(born 1942), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Henry PléeHenry PléeHenry Plée is a French martial artist who is considered as the 'father of European and French karate'. He is the only 10th dan karate master living outside of Japan, and the only Westerner who holds this rank...
(born 1923)
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- Samuel Roberts (born 1956), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
- Bas RuttenBas RuttenSebastiaan "Bas" Rutten is a retired Dutch mixed martial artist, Karate and Taekwondo blackbelt, and kickboxer. He was a UFC Heavyweight Champion, a three time King of Pancrase world champion, and finished his career on a 22 fight unbeaten streak...
(born 1965), Kyokushin
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- Tarec SaffiedineTarec SaffiedineTarec Saffiedine is an Belgian mixed martial artist of Lebanese descent, who competes in the welterweight division. He has fought in a number of promotions around the world including DREAM in Japan and Strikeforce in the United States....
(born 1986), Shihaishinkai - Georges St-Pierre (born 1981), Kyokushin
- Kanga SakukawaKanga Sakukawa, also Sakugawa Satunushi and Tode Sakugawa, was an Okinawan martial arts master and major contributor to the development of Te, the precursor to modern karate.-Karate-do:...
(1733–1815), TeOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō.... - Masaaki SatakeMasaaki Satakeis a Japanese former super heavyweight karateka, kickboxer and mixed martial artist. He was one of the pioneering heavyweight fighters in K-1, after being a member of Kazuyoshi Ishii's Seido-Kaikan school and organization.-Biography and career:...
(born 1965), SeidoSeidokaikanis a style of full contact karate, or Knockdown karate, founded by Kazuyoshi Ishii in 1980.-History:First formed in 1980 by Kazuyoshi Ishii, a former Kyokushin Karate practitioner who began his training under Hideyuki Ashihara in 1969... - Katsuaki SatōKatsuaki Satois the founder and director of Satojuku Karate, also known as Odo karate. The Satojuku honbu is located in Tachikawa, Japan....
(born 1946), Satojuku - Semmy SchiltSemmy SchiltSemmy Schilt , also known as Sem Schilt, is a Dutch Ashihara karateka, kickboxer, mixed martial artist and four time K-1 World GP champion. He is the first and only fighter in K-1 history to win the championship three times in a row, and also shares the record with Ernesto Hoost for most GPs won,...
(born 1973), Ashihara - Arash SharifiArash SharifiArash Sharifi is an Iranian karate fighter.-Titles:* 1994 All Iran Kyokushin Championship-Champion* 1996 All Iran Kyokushin Championship-Champion* 1997 All Iran Kyokushin Championship-Champion* 1998 All Iran Kyokushin Championship-Champion...
(born 1976), Kyokushin - Andy SherryAndy SherryAndy Sherry is one of the most senior British practitioners of karate and the chief instructor of the KUGB.-Biography:Born in Liverpool, Andy Sherry showed an interest in the martial arts as a young man. Initially training in judo and jujutsu, he soon took an interest in karate, starting his study...
(born 1943), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Tatsuo ShimabukuShimabuku TatsuoTatsuo Shimabuku was the founder of Isshin-ryū karate.-Family:Tatsuo Shimabuku was born in Kyan [Chan] village, Okinawa, on September 19, 1908. He was the first of ten children born into a farming family. By the age of 12, he had a strong desire to study martial arts...
(1908–1975), Gōjū-ryū and Isshin-ryūIsshin-ryuis a style of Okinawan karate founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku and named by him on 15 January 1956. Isshin-Ryū karate is largely a synthesis of Shorin-ryū karate, Gojū-ryū karate, and kobudō. The name means, literally, "one heart method"... - Zenryō ShimabukuroZenryo Shimabukurowas a karate master and the founder of Shorin-ryu Seibukan karate.Zenryo Shimabukuro was born in Shuri, Okinawa in 1908 . He earned his living as a baker and tatami maker, but had studied karate under the karate master Chotoku Kyan...
(1908–1969), Shōrin-ryū SeibukanShorin-ryu Seibukan, also known as Sukunaihayashi, is one of the many Okinawan Shorin-ryu styles of karate. Seibukan was founded by Zenryo Shimabukuro in 1962.- References :* * * *... - Hiroshi ShiraiHiroshi Shiraiis a Japanese master of Shotokan karate. He is the founder of the Instituto Shotokan Italia, a subdivision of FIKTA and of the SCI...
(born 1937), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Assuerio SilvaAssuerio SilvaAssuerio Silva is a Brazilian mixed martial artist and professional boxer, having most recently competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and Pancrase. He became the Heavyweight King of Pancrase on May 30, 2007, defeating Tatsuya Mizuno.Silva holds a professional fight record of 13–6–01, the...
(born 1974), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Wesley SnipesWesley SnipesWesley Trent Snipes is an American actor, film producer, and martial artist, who has starred in numerous action films, thrillers, and dramatic feature films. Snipes is known for playing the Marvel Comics character Blade in the Blade film trilogy, among various other high profile roles...
(born 1962), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Paul StarlingPaul StarlingPaul Noel Starling is one of Australia's most respected Karate masters. He is also the most senior Caucasian student of Gōjū-ryū Grandmaster Jitsumi Gogen Yamaguchi Kaiso, and a world Vice President of the International Karate do Goju Kai Association- I.K.G.A.- Karate World Championships :He was...
(born 1948), Gōjū-ryū - Shojiro SugiyamaShojiro SugiyamaShojiro Sugiyama was born in Tokyo, Japan in 1929. In 1954, after training in two other styles of karate, he began studying with the Japan Karate Association of Tokyo . He was invited to come to Chicago, U.S.A. to teach karate in 1963. Through the late 60's and 70's, Sugiyama Sensei is credited...
(born 1929), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Tatsuo SuzukiTatsuo Suzukiwas the founder and head of the WIKF and held the 8th dan in Wadō-ryū karate. He died at his home on 12th July 2011.- External links:* Professor Tatsuo Suzuki 8th dan hanshi...
(born 1928), Wadō-ryū
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- Kazumi TabataKazumi Tabatais an 8th degree Grand Master in Shotokan karate. Born in Japan in 1943, Master Tabata started karate at age 13 and received the rank of nidan in Shorinji as a freshman in high school...
(born 1943), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Seigo TadaSeigo TadaSeigo Tada was the founder of Goju-Ryu Seigokan Karatedo.In 1937 learn the internal Chinese Martial Arts with Master Ching Lou in Shanghai....
(1922–1997), Gōjū-ryū and SeigokanSeigokanSeigokan is the Goju-Ryu Karate-do organization founded in 1945 by Seigo Tada Hanshi . With its Hombu Dojo in Himeji, Japan, the Seigokan All Japan Karate-do Association — its official name — has branches in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China , India, Italy, the Philippines, Portugal, Sri Lanka,... - Masaji TairaMasaji TairaMasaji Taira Masaji Taira is a leading teacher of Okinawa Goju Ryu Karate Do, in the manner of the Jundokan dojo in Okinawa and of his teacher Ei'ichi Miyazato. He heads the . He is best known as a researcher and practitioner of the bunkai of the Goju Ryu kata...
(1952-), Gōjū-ryū - Peichin TakaharaPeichin Takaharawas revered as a great warrior and is attributed to have been the first to explain the aspects or principles of the dō . was a social class of the Ryūkyū Kingdom.These principles are: 1) ijō, the way-compassion, humility and love...
(1683–c. 1765), TeOkinawan martial artsOkinawan martial arts refers to the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island in Japan, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudō.... - Chōjirō Tani (1921–1998), ShūkōkaiShūkōkaiis a group of closely related styles of Karate, based on Tani-ha Shitō-ryū, a branch of Shitō-ryū developed by Chōjirō Tani in the late 1940s, and refined by his student Shigeru Kimura.-History:...
- Ewerton TeixeiraEwerton TeixeiraEwerton Teixeira is a Brazilian Super Heavyweight kyokushin karateka and kickboxer, currently competing in K-1. He obtained his first K-1 title in 2008 at K-1 World Grand Prix 2008 in Fukuoka by beating Keijiro Maeda in the final...
(born 1982), Kyokushin - Geoff Thompson (born 1960), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
- Seikichi ToguchiSeikichi ToguchiSeikichi Toguchi was the founder of Shorei-kan karate.-Biography:As a young boy, Toguchi learned the basic techniques of Okinawan Te from his father...
(1917–1998), Gōjū-ryū - Kenji TokitsuKenji Tokitsuis a Japanese author and practitioner of Japanese martial arts. Dr. Tokitsu has also written a scholarly work about the legendary swordsman Musashi Miyamoto. He holds doctorates in sociology and in Japanese language and civilization.-Biography:...
(born 1947), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Kanken TōyamaKanken ToyamaKanken Tōyama was a Japanese schoolteacher and karate master, who developed the foundation for the Shūdōkan karate style....
(1888–1966), ShūdōkanShudokan, literally "the hall for the study of the [karate] way," is a school of karate developed by Kanken Toyama . Characteristics of Shudokan karate include large circular motions with an emphasis on covering and its own unique kata.... - Robert TriasRobert TriasRobert A. Trias was a U.S. karate pioneer, founding the first karate school in the mainland United States. He also developed Shuri-ryū karate, an eclectic style with roots in the Okinawan Shuri-te tradition.-Early years:...
(1923–1989), Shuri-ryūShuri-ryukarate, is an eclectic martial arts system developed by Robert Trias , the first person to teach karate in the mainland United States, who opened the first dojo in 1946 in Phoenix, Arizona. Later in 1948 he formed the first karate association in the U.S., The United States Karate Association... - Masami TsuruokaMasami TsuruokaMasami Tsuruoka O.Ont is a Canadian born karate instructor and practitioner recognized as "The Father of Canadian Karate" by Black Belt Magazine. Although mainly responsible for establishing the Chito-ryu style in Canada, Tsuruoka is also known as founder of his own karate style known as Tsuruoka...
(born 1929), Chitō-ryūChito-ryuis a style of karate founded by , . The name of the style translates as: chi - 1,000; tō - China; ryū , "1,000 year old Chinese style." The character tō refers to the Tang Dynasty of China...
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- Luca ValdesiLuca ValdesiLuca Valdesi is a Karate world champion in both Team and Individual Kata events. Valdesi began his study of Karate at age six, under the guidance of his father Andrea, at several city gyms....
(born 1976), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Jean-Claude Van DammeJean-Claude Van DammeJean-Claude Camille François Van Varenberg , professionally known as Jean-Claude Van Damme, is a Belgian martial artist and actor, best known for his martial arts action films, the most successful of which include Bloodsport , Kickboxer , Double Impact , Universal Soldier , Hard Target , Timecop ,...
(born 1960), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Will Vanders (born 1963), Kyokushin and ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
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- Atsuko WakaiAtsuko Wakaiis a Japanese practitioner of karate who has won many international and Japanese national competitions in kata , including unprecedented numbers of consecutive titles in World Karate Federation and All Japan Karatedo championships...
(born 1971), SeigokanSeigokanSeigokan is the Goju-Ryu Karate-do organization founded in 1945 by Seigo Tada Hanshi . With its Hombu Dojo in Himeji, Japan, the Seigokan All Japan Karate-do Association — its official name — has branches in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China , India, Italy, the Philippines, Portugal, Sri Lanka,...
Gōjū-ryū - Bill WallaceBill Wallace (martial arts)William "Bill" Louis Wallace is an American martial artist who was a Professional Karate Association world full- contact karate champion. He was the Professional Karate Association Middleweight Champion kickboxer for almost six years.- Background :Wallace was born in Portland, Indiana, and...
(born 1945), Shōrin-ryūShorin-Ryuis one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. It was founded by Choshin Chibana in 1933. Shōrin-ryū combines elements of the traditional Okinawan fighting styles of Shuri-te.-History:Chosin Chibana was a top student of the great master of shuri-te, Anko Itosu... - John van WeenenJohn van WeenenPhillip John van Weenen OMT MBE is an 8th Dan karateka and humanitarian.Van Weenen was graded 1st Dan by Moss Hollis in 1966, before travelling to Japan in 1966 to train at the invitation of Masutatsu Oyama...
(born 1941), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Michael Jai WhiteMichael Jai WhiteMichael Jai White is an American actor and martial artist who has appeared in numerous films and television series. He is the first African American to portray a major comic book superhero in a major motion picture, having starred as Al Simmons, the protagonist in the 1997 film Spawn...
(born 1967), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Arturo WorrellArturo WorrellArturo Worrell is the founder of the Panamanian Association of Karate Shotokan . His interest in martial arts started at the age of 12 when he began judo. He practiced judo for 10 years and obtained the brown belt. In 1964 he signed up to the Dai-Ichi-Karate-Kai with Vincent A...
(born 1950), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including...
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- James YabeJames YabeJames Yabe James Yabe James Yabe ( is a Japanese-American martial arts instructor, author, and internationally recognized pioneer. One of the oldest students of Hidetaka Nishiyama starting in 1961, Yabe is considered one of the great instructors of Japanese Traditional Shotokan Karate.- Initial...
(born 1941), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Kentsū YabuKentsu Yabuwas a prominent teacher of Shōrin-ryū karate in Okinawa from the 1910s until the 1930s, and was among the first people to demonstrate karate in Hawaii.- History :...
(1866–1937), Shōrin-ryūShorin-Ryuis one of the major modern Okinawan martial arts. It was founded by Choshin Chibana in 1933. Shōrin-ryū combines elements of the traditional Okinawan fighting styles of Shuri-te.-History:Chosin Chibana was a top student of the great master of shuri-te, Anko Itosu... - Meitoku YagiMeitoku YagiMeitoku Yagi was born in Naha, Okinawa. Yagi learned Goju-ryu from its legendary founder Chojun Miyagi....
(1912–2003), Gōjū-ryū - Yutaka YaguchiYutaka YaguchiYutaka Yaguchi is the Chief Instructor and Chairman of the International Shotokan Karate Federation Mountain States Region. He was born in Hiroshima, Japan, in 1932 and began karate training in 1952. He later tested under masters Gichin Funakoshi for his 1st dan black belt and Masatoshi Nakayama...
(born 1932), ShotokanShotokanis a style of karate, developed from various martial arts by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo Funakoshi . Gichin was born in Okinawa and is widely credited with popularizing karate through a series of public demonstrations, and by promoting the development of university karate clubs, including... - Gōgen YamaguchiGogen YamaguchiJitsumi Gōgen Yamaguchi Jitsumi Gōgen Yamaguchi Jitsumi Gōgen Yamaguchi (山口剛玄, Yamaguchi Gōgen; b.20 January 1909 d.20 May 1989. was a world renown Grandmaster of Japanese Karate-dō and founder of the International Karate-dō Gōjū-kai Association; he was one of the most well known of all...
(1909–1989), Gōjū Kai - Terutomo YamazakiTerutomo Yamazakiis a Japanese karateka from the Kyokushin Kaikan and professional lightweight kickboxer. He is the founder of Gyakushin-Kai and a Director of Karate in Japan. He presides over the International Budo Karate Organization Gyakushin-Kai from the headquarters of the organization in Ōmiya-ku, Saitama,...
(born 1947), Kyokushin - Tony YoungTony Young (martial artist)Anthony 'Tony' Young is an African American, martial artist, teacher, and practitioner of the Goju Ryu Karate style and founder of the . He is considered by many as the most influential sport karate competitor of the 20th century.- Background :Tony Young began karate at the age of 12 and earned...
(born 1962), Gōjū-ryū