- George Chung
- Sep 14, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 30, 2024
Black Belt Magazine, the world’s longest-running martial arts publication, is excited to honor the Black Belt Hall of Fame's Class of 2024!
Since 1968, the Black Belt Hall of Fame has recognized exceptional individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped the martial arts community. Past inductees include icons like Bruce Lee (Class of 1972), Bill Wallace (Class of 1973), Chuck Norris (Class of 1975), and Cynthia Rothrock (Class of 1983, who also received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022).
This year’s induction ceremony is set for October 10, 2024, at the renowned Avalon Theater in Hollywood, California. The event will feature presentations from some of the most illustrious past Hall of Fame members, adding to its grandeur.
Keep reading to discover why we’re so proud to celebrate this year’s recipients of the Martial Arts Entertainment Award!
Mark Dacascos
A Versatile Talent Shaping Entertainment
Mark Dacascos’ induction into the Black Belt Hall of Fame marks the celebration of a true Renaissance artist whose journey from a young martial artist to a global icon exemplifies exceptional talent and dedication. This recognition highlights his profound impact on martial arts and entertainment, showcasing his versatility across acting, directing, and television.
Dacascos’ career began with a deep-rooted passion for martial arts, evolving into a celebrated trajectory that spans over 40 feature films and numerous television roles. His dynamic performances have consistently captivated audiences, with notable recent roles including Kong Pak in the acclaimed HBO Max series Warrior and The Chairman on Iron Chef: Quest for the Iron Legend, which gained popularity on Netflix in both the U.S. and Mexico.
On the big screen, Dacascos has shone in major projects like Saint Seiya: Knights of the Zodiac, Blade of the Ronin 47, and Run & Gun. His portrayal of the assassin Zero in John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and his voice work as Richard Dragon in Batman: Soul of the Dragon further demonstrate his martial arts prowess and versatility.
His extensive filmography includes standout performances in Brotherhood of the Wolf, Cradle to the Grave, and Drive. His television roles feature Wo Fat in Hawaii 5-0, Mr. Giyera in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and a captivating role in The Crow. Additionally, he gained pop culture status as The Chairman on Iron Chef America and showcased his blend of martial arts and dance on Dancing With the Stars. In addition to his acting career, Dacascos demonstrated his creative versatility by directing his first feature film, Showdown in Manila.
Rooted in a diverse heritage of Japanese, Filipino, Spanish, Irish, and Chinese backgrounds, Dacascos stands out as a multilingual and multi-skilled talent.
Phillip Rhee
The Best of the Best
As we celebrate Phillip Rhee's induction into the Black Belt Hall of Fame, we honor a pioneer whose influence extends beyond martial arts and film. Rhee’s legacy is a powerful blend of skill and storytelling, inspiring martial artists and movie enthusiasts alike. His journey from a young tae kwon do practitioner in South Korea to a Hollywood innovator is a testament to dedication and the enduring spirit of martial arts.
Born in South Korea, Rhee began his tae kwon do training at an early age, quickly establishing himself as a formidable competitor in both national and international tournaments. Upon moving to the United States, he continued to excel in tae kwon do while expanding his expertise to other martial arts disciplines, including hapkido and tang soo do.
Rhee's entry into entertainment came with the creation of the Best of the Best franchise. The first film, released in 1989, showcased his vision for martial arts cinema, telling the story of an American team competing in an international tae kwon do tournament against a strong Korean team. The film was a groundbreaking mix of martial arts and storytelling, focusing on themes of honor and perseverance. Rhee’s role as Tommy Lee and his innovative choreography captivated audiences and set a new benchmark for martial arts films.
The success of Best of the Best was profound, resonating with both martial artists and the general public and becoming a cult classic. The franchise’s sequels, reinforcing themes of integrity and the human spirit, solidified its lasting impact. Rhee’s work has inspired countless martial artists, including notable figures like Ernie Reyes Jr. and modern MMA fighters, and has influenced the perception and practice of martial arts.
Beyond cinema, Rhee remains a dedicated martial artist and instructor, teaching the core values of discipline, respect, and perseverance that his films vividly portray. His unwavering commitment to these principles continues to earn him respect and admiration within the martial arts community.
Ernie Reyes Jr.
A Martial Arts Phenomenon
Ernie Reyes Jr.'s induction into the Black Belt Hall of Fame celebrates his remarkable contributions to martial arts and entertainment, along with his role as an enduring inspiration to aspiring martial artists. His journey from a young prodigy to a respected actor and martial arts advocate underscores his passion, dedication, and commitment to both fields.
Starting his martial arts training at age 4 under his father, Ernie Reyes Sr., Reyes Jr. quickly became known for his exceptional talent. As a key member of the West Coast Demo Team, he showcased his skills in tae kwon do, hapkido, and capoeira, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances.
Reyes Jr.'s Hollywood career took off with roles that highlighted his martial arts prowess, including memorable appearances in The Last Dragon, Red Sonja, and Conan the Barbarian. His breakout role in Surf Ninjas established him as a martial arts action star. Additionally, he made history as the first child star in an action series with Sidekicks, demonstrating his ability to blend martial arts with compelling storytelling.
In the 1990s, Reyes Jr. further solidified his place in pop culture with his role as Keno in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze. His portrayal of a pizza delivery boy turned hero resonated with fans and showcased his versatility.
As we honor Ernie Reyes Jr., we recognize his profound impact on martial arts culture and his lasting influence on generations of fans and practitioners alike.
Want to know the full list of this year’s Black Belt Hall of Fame inductees?
Check out our official announcement!
