Christine Bannon-Rodrigues: Champion, Mentor, Trailblazer—A Martial Arts Icon Honored
- Black Belt Team
- 3m
- 2 min read
Christine Bannon-Rodrigues, the legendary karate world champion from Warwick, Rhode Island, has forged one of the most influential careers in modern martial arts. A 9th-degree black belt and student of Don Rodrigues, she earned nine World Championships, including an extraordinary streak of three consecutive W.A.K.O. World Titles.
Her dominance in both forms and fighting helped redefine expectations for female competitors and opened doors for women in martial arts, stunt work, and action performance.
Beyond the dojo and tournament circuit, Bannon-Rodrigues has brought her skills to film and television, acting in productions such as Sci-Fighter (X-Treme Fighter) and 27 Dresses and performing stunt work for major titles including Underdog, Batman & Robin, and The Next Karate Kid. She also appeared regularly on martial-arts-themed shows like WMAC Masters and Mortal Kombat: Conquest.
After her competitive and stunt career, Bannon-Rodrigues became a master instructor and mentor, developing champions in both fighting and forms while shaping the next generation of martial artists with her expert guidance and leadership.
As co-promoter along with Don Rodrigues, of the prestigious Ocean State Grand Nationals in Warwick, she elevated the tournament into one of the premier events on the national circuit. Her students, her events, and her professional example all reflect her deep commitment to excellence and her passion for the growth of martial arts worldwide.
Her induction into the Martial Arts History Museum Hall of Fame honors this lifetime of achievement. Black Belt Magazine proudly salutes Christine Bannon-Rodrigues for her extraordinary contributions, her pioneering spirit, and her enduring legacy that continues to inspire martial artists and stunt performers around the world.