Do you know his name? Do you remember his legacy? If you do, share a memory—keep his spirit alive. He began his martial arts journey in 1957, just 10 years old—disciplined, focused, and already determined to rise. From the gritty streets of Cleveland, Ohio, his path led him across the world: Vietnam, Korea, Germany, Japan, Hawaii, Venezuela, and throughout the United States. A Vietnam veteran, he served a decade in the U.S. Army as both a military police investigator and a hand-to-hand combat instructor. His legacy reached far beyond the battlefield. He broke barriers as one of the first Black American to appear in Korean motion pictures. He competed and won internationally—most notably at the Karate Internationals in Venezuela—and was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame in Ohio. His life and contributions have been chronicled in numerous publications, including Inside Kung-Fu , Karate Illustrated , Official Karate , Who's Who in Karate , The Pinnacle of Karate , Masters and Founders of the Martial Arts , Martial Arts Traditions: History, People , The Martial Arts Source Book , and The Official History of Karate in America . He was more than a martial artist—he was a pioneer, a warrior, and a mentor. Do you remember his name? His black belt legacy lives through you. Share a story. Pass it on.

Each week's Black Belt Watchlist is free to watch on Pluto TV! This week on the Black Belt Watch List, we step into the underground fight circuit with Bloodfight  (also known as Final Fight )—a gritty martial arts classic that delivers raw emotion, fierce training montages, and full-contact action. Watch now : https://pluto.tv/us/on-demand/movies/5fcffebc2fd74a0014ce96c5 Years after leaving the ring behind, a retired martial arts master returns to the brutal world of no-rules tournaments to avenge the death of his prized student. What follows is a journey of redemption, discipline, and devastating combat. The film stars the legendary Yasuaki Kurata, a real-life martial arts master and cinematic icon, alongside the unforgettable Bolo Yeung—famous for playing larger-than-life villains in Enter the Dragon  (opposite Bruce Lee) and Bloodsport  (as the fearsome Chong Li). For younger fans, Bolo is the original on-screen powerhouse—equal parts menace and muscle. Packed with intense choreography, old-school martial arts spirit, and a story rooted in honor and revenge, Bloodfight  is essential viewing for fight film fans. Now streaming free on Pluto TV—don’t miss it!

The February 1993 cover of Black Belt featured Joe Lewis, the legendary fighter who revolutionized American martial arts. A former Marine and full-contact champion, Lewis blended traditional karate with real-world combat strategy, redefining how martial artists trained and fought. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

Do you have a Bruce Lee story — a moment where he inspired your path, shaped your mindset, or changed your life? On the anniversary of his passing, we reflect not only on what Bruce Lee accomplished, but on how profoundly he transformed the very soul of martial arts. He wasn’t just a man — he was a movement. His words shattered convention. His presence demanded evolution. From the 1960s onward, Black Belt Magazine  didn’t just chronicle Bruce Lee’s rise — we walked alongside it. From his early days as a fiercely driven martial artist to his ascent as a global force of philosophy, discipline, and cinematic power, we witnessed the making of a legend and had the honor of sharing his journey with the world. His techniques redefined combat. His spirit ignited generations. And today, Bruce is not just remembered — he is lived. In every kata, every sparring session, every moment a student pushes beyond their limits, Bruce is there. His legacy breathes in every martial artist who dares to think deeply, move freely, and pursue their truth without compromise. The fire of the Little Dragon still burns within us all.

If you want to make it in the martial arts biz, you've got to connect with dojo shoppers. They're the people who look for deals before they sign up at a school. The tactics they use while shopping can include asking for a free uniform when they enroll, lobbying for you to honor another school's "8 weeks for $30" coupon, and bargaining for a few months of free lessons. As martial art school owners, we can't blame them for what they do. They're just taking advantage of the fact that when it comes to martial arts facilities, they have plenty of choices these days. That knowledge is what prompts so many of them to visit your school to see what your staff has to offer. Your school won't be the first one they've visited; your job is to make sure it's the last. FOR EXPERT GUIDANCE  on this topic, I spoke with Willy Aguilar, owner of Pearl of Wisdom Kenpo Karate in Cypress, California. Because the dojo is located in the Los Angeles basin, business is cutthroat. "There are more than three dozen schools within easy driving distance," Aguilar says. "We have competition for business, and then we have to figure in the [dojo] shoppers. People nowadays really like to shop. "While some shoppers are lookie loos who just want a free lesson and will never come back, most are not. The majority of them are people interested in doing martial arts, and they're seeking a school that's the right fit for them or their family. Many of these seekers go from dojo to dojo waiting to hear from someone they believe is sincere and truthful and has their best interest at heart." AGUILAR SAYS  his proven approach to signing up dojo shoppers progresses through four steps: Step One:  "After introducing myself, I ask if they've come for themselves, their children or the entire family," Aguilar says. "Almost everyone indicates that they have come to check out the school and get some information and watch what's going on." Step Two:  "Then I tell them I'll do something better than having them sit and watch," Aguilar says. "I invite them or their kids to take off their shoes and try it right here and now. Most accept. I teach them some basics along with some practical self-defense techniques. I make sure it's something they could utilize and apply. If they prefer to come back a different day, we schedule it for a certain time." Step Three:  "I ask the prospective student, 'How did you like the class?'" Aguilar says. "Then I really listen to them. Their answers can vary from 'I like the exercise' and 'We enjoy the family environment' to 'We like the self-defense techniques' and 'I really like sparring, but we didn't do it much at my old dojo.'" The answers give Aguilar a better understanding of their needs and desires. Step Four:  "Armed with the information garnered from Step Three, I tell the clients about each of our classes and encourage them to take the one that would be the most beneficial for them," Aguilar says. "Maybe it's the regular kenpo karate class or the aerobic kickboxing or the muay Thai class." Next, Aguilar explains the fee structure and any discounts that might apply, as well as the terms of the enrollment contract. "Finally, I ask them to sign up," he says. "It's always best to close that first day or night. If they're determined to come back at a later date, schedule an appointment. If they do return, they'll most likely sign up." WHAT ABOUT THE FREE STUFF AND THE DEALS? "I give them the uniform and the introductory lesson," Aguilar says. "But free months will cause you to lose the customer. Avoid offering more than a week of free training. You need to close by that time. If you give clients too much time to decide, you'll upset the decision-making process. It's the same for the coupon deals — stay away from those." Don't be shy about urging the prospective student to enroll, Aguilar says. "You're not selling a house. It's just a one-year commitment. You have to remember that most clients really want to sign up. They're just waiting for the right person to show them what the school has to offer."

Today, we honor a living legend whose journey through martial arts has profoundly shaped the landscape we know today: Dan Inosanto. From his early beginnings in kenpo karate under the guidance of Ed Parker to becoming the trusted student and close friend of Bruce Lee, Inosanto's path has been one of dedication, evolution, and deep respect for the arts. It was he who introduced Bruce to the Filipino martial arts and the now-iconic nunchaku, bridging worlds and traditions with seamless mastery. Today he is even more relevant than he has ever been before—still teaching, still learning, and still evolving. Over the past 60 years, Sifu Dan has continued to grow—studying and teaching everything from kali to muay Thai to Brazilian jiu-jitsu—always learning, always growing. His contributions have earned him a place in the Black Belt Hall of Fame and the honor of gracing the cover of Black Belt  magazine an unprecedented eight times. At 89 years young, on this special birthday, we celebrate not just a master of combat, but a true embodiment of humility, honor, and respect—a treasure to the global martial arts community and a beacon for all who follow the path.

The March 1970 early edition of Karate Illustrated featured Tonny Tulleners, a formidable martial artist best known as the 1965 Middleweight International Karate Champion. Tulleners famously defeated Chuck Norris in competition—a rare and notable accomplishment in martial arts history. Beyond his tournament success, Tulleners appeared in several action films, showcasing his skills on screen. However, his most enduring legacy lies in the numerous martial arts books he authored for Ohara Publications, the publishing arm of Black Belt magazine. His works continue to educate and inspire martial artists around the world. His film can be seen here on Black Belt's YouTube channel . Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

In the world of martial arts, few events carry the historical weight of the legendary Long Beach Internationals. For decades, this tournament—originally founded by Ed Parker in 1964—was the proving ground for martial artists from all corners of the globe. Now, after a dramatic farewell in 2024, the legacy lives on in a bold new form: The International Karate Tournament (IKT), Year One . This isn’t just a rebrand. It’s a passing of the torch—literally and figuratively—to a new era of martial arts excellence, led by longtime event producer and martial arts champion, Steve Cooper . Honoring a Giant, Without Standing Still To understand the weight behind this transformation, one must appreciate the lineage. Ed Parker's original tournament ran from 1964 until his passing in 1990, ushering in a decade of memorial events curated by his family. When Cooper took the reins in 2004, he committed to preserving Parker’s legacy—not just in name, but in spirit. From the signature Tori-style trophy to the continued presence in Long Beach, Cooper ensured the event remained a shrine to martial arts tradition. Mike Stone 1965 winning his second grand championship at the Internationals - Photo Black Belt Magazine But 2024 marked the 60th anniversary—and the final chapter—of the Long Beach Internationals in its existing form. Now, with the launch of the International Karate Tournament, Cooper aims not to replicate the past, but to evolve it. “The torch has been passed,” Cooper explains. “We remember the legacy, but we must live in the now and look to the future.” One Arena, Many Disciplines The new IKT is a mosaic of martial arts disciplines, each with its own tournament operating under one unified roof. It’s a celebration of diversity and unity, gathering styles, organizations, and champions in a single venue that feels more like a world expo than a competition. This year, IKT will host six distinct tournaments : America’s Kenpo Championship  – A homecoming for American Kenpo stylists. Intercontinental Kajukenbo Championships  – Bringing together Kajukenbo affiliations from across the globe. SKL International Karate Championships  – A premier sport karate event tied to the National Karate League (NKL) and World Karate League (WKL). So Cal Traditional Karate Championships  – A stage for AAU and WKF practitioners of traditional Japanese karate. WAKO Tatami Sports Sparring California State Championships  – A landmark partnership with WAKO USA to bridge the gap between sport karate and international-level competition. Saber Martial Arts Championships  – A futuristic twist featuring LED saber sparring and kata. From padded weapon combat to kata battles, the International now offers a platform for everyone—from traditionalists to tactical innovators. Tech-Forward Tournament Management What sets this event apart isn’t just the range of competition. It’s also how the entire experience is delivered. Powered by Cooper’s tech company, Martial Logic , IKT leverages the most advanced event management system in the martial arts world. From online registration and real-time bracket updates to seamless document pickup and scoring, the back-end of the tournament runs as sharp as a kata performance. “Efficiency is key,” Cooper notes. “We’ve taken everything we’ve learned since 2003 and poured it into making this the smoothest, most professional martial arts event in the country.” Legends Among Us While the tournament looks to the future, it remains steeped in legacy. Martial arts luminaries scheduled to appear read like a who’s who of martial arts cinema and combat history: Cynthia Rothrock, Benny “The Jet” Urquidez, Chuck Sullivan, Jeff Speakman, Bill Wallace,  and many others. Now in its fourth year, the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame  Gala will continue its tradition of honoring excellence, with seven inductees and the coveted Icon of Martial Arts Award . 2025’s honorees include Billy Blanks, Cynthia Prouder, Gilbert Velez, and Rick Kingi , promising a black-tie night of celebration that rivals the competition itself in prestige. A Torch to Light the Way In one of the event’s most symbolic gestures, this year’s IKT will include a Torch Lighting Ceremony —a tribute to legacy, unity, and future champions. Details on participation will be announced on July 1  at longbeachikc.com , but Cooper promises it will be a signature moment for martial arts culture. “This ceremony is about lighting the path forward,” Cooper says. “We’re not just hosting an event. We’re creating a movement.” Looking Ahead Workshops and seminars will return in 2026, with plans to include business-focused sessions aimed at helping martial arts schools grow sustainably. But for now, IKT is all about the competition—pure, powerful, and polished. So why is The International 2025  a must-attend? Because it’s more than a tournament. It’s a gathering of legends. A technological leap. A tribute and a transformation. Most of all, it’s a glimpse into the future of martial arts—a future that respects its past but refuses to be confined by it. As Steve Cooper puts it: “We have history. We have passion. We have heart. If you want to be a part of something unforgettable, this is where you need to be.” For registration, event schedules, Hall of Fame tickets, and hotel information, visit longbeachikc.com . The International 2025 takes place this August in Long Beach, California.

Do you know his name....do you remember his legacy? Share a memory if you do! He was one of the most respected American Taekwondo practitioners of the 1960s and ’70s, admired even by peers like the late Bruce Lee. He was the only athlete selected for both the first and second U.S. National Teams (1973, 1975). A standout competitor, he won multiple major martial arts tournaments—including Richard Chun’s Universal Open—and earned a bronze medal at the 1973 World Taekwondo Championships in Seoul. In 2007, he was inducted into the inaugural Official Taekwondo Hall of Fame. Who is he?

Organized by the Martial Arts History Museum , Dragonfest returns to the Glendale Civic Auditorium  on August 2, 2025 , for its 19th year. What began as a gathering of martial artists has grown into something deeper: a bridge between the traditions of Asia and the practitioners who carry those traditions forward around the world. “This is our chance to open a window into the soul of Asian culture,” says museum founder and president Michael Matsuda . “Dragonfest isn’t just about honoring martial arts legends—it’s about understanding the philosophies and cultural roots that shaped them.” Dragonfest is a charity event , with all proceeds going directly to the Martial Arts History Museum. The funds support ongoing efforts to preserve the stories, artifacts, and traditions of martial arts for future generations. “This is about safeguarding a legacy,” Matsuda says. “One that belongs to all of us.” The event brings together hundreds of martial artists, historians, performers, and fans . Attendees will find more than 100 booths featuring cultural goods, martial arts gear, traditional crafts, and creative expressions like anime and calligraphy. But it’s the sense of community that defines Dragonfest—where young students meet pioneers, and conversations between styles and generations unfold naturally. Throughout the day, Dragonfest will host educational talks and demonstrations  by figures such as Benny “The Jet” Urquidez , Michelle Manu , and Willie Ito , offering personal insights into the evolution of their disciplines. These sessions invite us to look beyond the physical techniques and explore the values, histories, and struggles that shaped modern martial arts. Past guests have included Cynthia Rothrock, JJ Perry and Dr, Robert Goldman Cultural performances— Chinese lion dance, Okinawan music, Hawaiian hula, and more —will add further depth to the experience, reminding us that martial arts traditions exist within a broader cultural and spiritual context. Artist Akusaa Powell  and special guests from across the entertainment and martial arts worlds will join the day’s celebration. And in true Dragonfest fashion, there will be room for cosplay and creativity, too—an expression of martial arts’ influence on today’s wider cultural landscape. Sponsors this year include Dr. Kemi Price , the Musashi Collection , the City of Glendale , Supervisor Kathryn Barger , and Dr. Robert Goldman —individuals and organizations who understand that cultural preservation is a community effort. Dragonfest 2025 Glendale Civic Auditorium Saturday, August 2, 2025 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Proceeds benefit the Martial Arts History Museum More info at Dragonfest.com  or contact mamuseum@gmail.com .

Each week's Black Belt Watchlist is free to watch on Pluto TV! The Black Belt Watchlist proudly recommends a modern martial arts masterpiece: The Raid: Redemption . This isn’t just action—it’s a full-throttle showcase of raw, unrelenting silat, led by the electrifying Iko Uwais . Watch now : https://pluto.tv/us/on-demand/movies/6217c203672996001310421d Rama (Iko Uwais), a rookie member of an elite special forces unit, is told to hold back as his team infiltrates a rundown Jakarta high-rise controlled by ruthless crime lord Tama. But when their cover is blown, Tama unleashes every criminal in the building with one order: take the cops down. Trapped and outnumbered, Rama must rise from rookie to leader—fighting his way floor by floor in a brutal ballet of bone-crunching combat. The Raid: Redemption  raised the bar for martial arts cinema, blending tight choreography, blistering hand-to-hand combat, and relentless tension. For any serious Black Belt fan, this is essential viewing.

The July 1976 cover of Black Belt magazine featured Kenny Knudson , widely known as the "Midwest Karate King." A legendary martial artist from Chicago, Knudson made the bold decision to leave his career as a toolmaker to pursue his passion for martial arts full time. He went on to found Olympic Karate Studios, rapidly expanding to open ten locations throughout the Chicago area. In 1974, he sold the successful chain and pivoted to the hospitality industry, where he established a thriving hotel business. A 5th-degree black belt and beloved figure in the martial arts community, Knudson’s influence extended far beyond the dojo. Tragically, his life was cut short at age 61 in a plane crash. His legacy as both a fighting icon and entrepreneurial force continues to inspire generations. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com