Attendees included Randy Couture, Dolph Lundgren and Chuck Liddell

Black Belt Hall of Fame 2024 Kicks Off in Hollywood

The Black Belt Hall of Fame 2024 Ceremony, hosted by Black Belt Magazine, made its grand debut at the Avalon in Hollywood on Oct 10th, 2024. This premier event was inspired by publisher George Chung’s vision to elevate the martial arts industry, celebrating the greatest martial artists worldwide.

Mike Stone & Cynthia Rothrock

“Black Belt Magazine takes martial arts to the next level with the exquisite Black Belt Hall of Fame.”  - Cynthia Rothrock 

Among the distinguished honorees were legends such as Mike Stone, Pam Grier, Hatsuo Royama, Phillip Rhee, Ernie Reyes Jr., Mark Dacascos, Scott Coker, Curtis Wong, James Lew, Simon Rhee, Jeff Imada, John Sepulveda, and the Machado Brothers (Carlos, Roger, Rigan, Jean Jacques, and John). 

Special recognition in the Pioneer Award category went to Michael Warren, Carlos Bunda, and Jerry Piddington. Paris 2024 Olympic gold medalist Amit Elor was named “Competitor of the Year.”

The fabulous Machado Brothers John, Rigan, Roger and Jean Jacque missing Carlos, the first entire family of the Black Belt Hall of Fame

Scott Coker receives Black Belt Hall of Fame from Randy Couture.

Michael Jai White photo along with Pam Grier and Gillian White

"This event re-sets the bar at a whole new level!" - Michael Jai White

JJ Perry, Arnold Chon, Andy Cheng, Jeff Imada, James Lew, Simon Rhee, Olivier Gruner

"There were stars everywhere you turned and everyone was so happy to see each other."

Kathy Long presenting to Chong Lee - author of Dynamic Kicks

"An incredible award ceremony that was by far and wide the most professional high-class event in Martial Arts I have ever attended.!" - Kathy Long

John Sepulveda and others at the Black Belt Hall of Fame

"Thank you to Black Belt Magazine for orchestrating an event that was majestic and unforgettable" - John Sepulveda

"The Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame Awards, completed in under fifty minutes, should serve as the new standard for organizing any awards ceremony. This approach represents the future of martial arts events globally." - Mike Stone

“What an incredible night! It felt like being at the Oscars, but for martial arts legends.” - Arnold Chon 

The evening began with the announcement of Black Belt Magazine’s return to print, unveiling a new cover featuring Dolph Lundgren, who was in attendance. 

Publisher George Chung. unveiling the Dolph Lundgren cover in the return of Black Belt Magazine print

“Dolph represents our intention as true martial artists who have inspired millions through their work,” Chung said. “We are committed to bringing excellence to our martial arts community through the magazine and this awards show, reaching audiences who recognize the dedication of martial artists.”

Dolph Lundgren accepting the award presented by Tom Callahan on behalf of Hatsuo Royama

The event featured an impressive lineup of presenters, including Michael Jai White, Cynthia Rothrock, Kathy Long, Graciela Casillas, Dennis Brown, Mike Chat, Tom Callahan, and host Harinder Singh. 

Harinder Singh, Kathy Long, Graciela Casillas, Cynthia Rothrock, George Chung, Apolo Ladra

"Every ego checked at the door, the night filled with respect and humility"

The presenters operated with martial arts precision, completing the awards presentation in just 49 minutes. Each segment included a video biography and award presentation, but no speeches—an intentional choice by Chung to maintain a streamlined experience appreciated by both the audience and inductees.

Event Breakdown

• Event: Black Belt Hall of Fame

• Dress Code: Business to Casual to Formal

• Event Particulars: Premiere celebration honoring martial arts legends

• Attendees: Martial arts icons, industry professionals, and enthusiasts

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