Written by Illmatical | @illmaticalmind
We’ve reached February, the month America ostensibly pauses to acknowledge the contributions of Black folks; like the one month shout out compensates for several hundred years of free labor. I know what you’re thinking, “Chill out chopsticks!” You ain’t Malcolm and my name isn’t Brother Baines; we ain’t walking in the yard, so you don’t need that lesson.
The Last Dragon is a martial arts film that has successfully transcended racial and ethnic boundaries. However, the protagonist of the film, although played by a biracial actor, if he was walking down the street today, he’d be labeled as a Black man. While delivering pizzas in Harlem, he’d be subjected to stop-and-frisk and the way the NYPD has been treating brothers recently, he’d be hella busy catching bullets with his teeth.
Before the month ends, we have to acknowledge the real life Bruce Leroys; the real life Sho’nuffs too. Like their Negro League counterparts, these brothers played and never got paid. There is more to Black martial arts than the late great Jim Kelly; masters whose stories come right out of a comic book.
This post is kings only, men who created their own viable martial arts systems, were accomplished fighters and were instrumental in pioneering organized fighting as we know it today. There was a golden age of martial arts, in America, the 1960s – 1970s; full contact tournaments on both coasts and the Midwest. Black martial artists dominated competition during this time.
In west Africa, a griot was a storyteller, a lyricist who persevered history. African American griots became rappers; they have spent more than enough time recanting tales of drug dealers, basketball legends, pimps and plenty of bars dedicated to big booty hoes.
Since they’ve failed to give you the lessons, it is time for this griot to grab the mic and drop science on the great Black martial arts masters. After Chuck Norris turned his back on martial arts (per Aaron Banks); when he took an “L” to Bruce Lee on film, all of the Black champions and fighters of the golden era ceased to exist; hence the name Forgotten Fury.
Moses Powell
A student of boxing and later developing in Vee-Jitsu Ryu, he would create his own system known as Sanuces Jiu-Jitsu. According to CMG Worldwide, he demonstrated his arts at the United Nations in 1971 and was later awarded by the Benin government in 1973.
According to several of his students, he trained the alphabet boys: DEA and the FBI. He was especially known for his Sanuces one finger roll out, which could be utilized for defense and attacking. I spoke to his wife several years ago, she mentioned that after he demonstrated in New York City years ago, Bruce Lee had shown interest in training with him; real talk. The grandmaster, known as “Musa,” passed in 2005.
Information pertaining to him is managed by CMG Worldwide, you can learn more about him here: http://www.cmgww.com/sports/powell
Dr. Moses Powell – Sanuces Ryu Jiu-Jitsu
Ronald Duncan
The Father of American Ninjitsu; the first American Ninja. Professor Duncan successfully demonstrated Ninjitsu in the 1960s, although receiving acknowledgment from the Japanese government, he was intentionally omitted from Black Belt magazine for several years. I mention Black Belt magazine because they have been considered the most reliable source of journalism pertaining to American martial arts. Their failure to acknowledge Professor Duncan and other great Black martial artists have radically affected the economics of the martial arts in America.
According to the bio on his website he was a member of the United States Marine Corp Judo team, where he earned a black belt, he was a master of Hakko Ryu Jujitsu, Dai-Nippon Jujitsu Ryu, Sosuishi Ryu, Kin Dai Gakko Ryu, Aikido, Aiki-Jujitsu, Kempo, Kobujitsu (weaponry), and Shinobino-Jitsu (Ninjitsu).
Ronald Duncan at Oriental World of Self Defense
He may look like Sho’nuff in this red outfit but watch closely at the end. He catches an arrow! #BruceLeroyStyle
Ronald Duncan on Racism in the Martial Arts
Professor Duncan was not a man to be trifled with. If you sat before him and looked into his eyes, you’ll see shadows of those who perished by his hand. He passed away in, 2012, his son Gregory Duncan continues his legacy. He can be contacted here: www.facebook.com/gregory.duncan.33
Vic Moore
The first Black national karate champion. Believe it or not, you’ve seen him, but didn’t realize you were looking at greatness. Ever see that random clip of Bruce Lee throwing a punch at a random brother’s face at what appeared to be a tournament? Well, that random dude was Vic Moore and he and Lee did not participate in a fight, it was nothing more than a speed drill, which took place at the 1967 Ed Parker Long Beach International.
Black Belt magazine’s editor at the time, deliberately discredited Vic Moore while praising Bruce’s performance; he gave no account of the full exchange between the two men. Moore protest the exchange, emphatically stating that the he blocked Bruce Lee’s first two blows to the chest and then Bruce flashed a punch to his head; although the two had agreed to simply throw punches to the chest area. He stated that after that exchange, he also was able to strike Lee with his punches.
Putting the Bruce Lee debate to the side, Vic Moore has an impressive resume as a martial artist. According to the website USADOJO.Com he initially trained as a boxer, and later joining the United States Karate Association, a tenth degree black belt who successfully placed in every tournament from 1965 – 1975; defeating notable fighters including: Mike Stone, Chuck Norris, Jim Kelly, Joe Lewis and Bill “Superfoot” Wallace. Alongside Joe Lewis, he would introduce Kickboxing to the American public on the Merv Griffin show in 1973. Vic Moore is alive and well, he can be contacted here: www.facebook.com/victor.moore.5688
Karriem ABdAllah
All praises be to Allah. Karriem was the first Black man in American to develop his own functioning karate system. According to his website the KA system consists of 25 styles of fighting. He developed legitimate fighters who were successful in tournaments during the 60s and 70s. He retired from Karate in 1977 and moved into boxing and kickboxing.
His championship kickboxing fight with Jeff Smith was the under-card fight for the Muhammad Ali and George Frazier, Thrilla In Manilla fight. He currently lives in New Jersey and he is working on his own martial arts documentary. He can be contacted on Facebook: www.facebook.com/karriemabdallah
Thrilla in Manilla Undercard: Karriem ABdAllah vs Jeff Smith
Karriem breaks down why Black artist struggle, due to the movies, speaks on Moses Powell and Ron Duncan:
Ron Van Clief
The Black Dragon; the original Bruce Leroy. Based on what I’ve been told, The Last Dragon mirrored Ron Van Clief’s life in many ways, he was the Black guy walking around Chinatown and fighting in underground tournaments; accomplished international fighter as well: 8 time US Champion and 5 time World Champion.
According to his website he holds a black belt or equivalent in the following forms: Karate, Ju-Jitsu, Aiki-Jitsu, Kung-Fu, Arnis de Mano and Zen Jutsu. He would eventually merge Karate and Kung Fu to create his own system, Chinese Goju. Aside from all of that, he’s the guy who trained Taimak.
Check out his documentary The Black Kung Fu Experience and his book Black Heroes of the Martial Arts.
You can contact him on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ron.vanclief
The Black Kung Fu Experience
Joe Hayes
One of the greatest Taekwondo players that ever lived, dominated Taekwondo tournaments for years. When you do the knowledge to him, you’ll find the names of brothers Mike Warren and Albert Cheeks, members of the 1973 USA Taekwondo team that went to Korea and received 2nd place. You can find more information about him here: www.lacancha.com/hayeshof.html
Karriem ABdullah speaking on Joe Hayes:
Chaka Zulu
No disrespect, but much of what I hear about this master is more Sho’nuff that Bruce Leroy. Not saying that he was a bad man, but he was a teacher who was not to be trifled with, physically punishing students if they entered the dojo overweight or unkept.
According to his website he holds black belts or equivalents in the following: Tae Kwon Do, Judo, Sanuces Ju-jitsu, and Nisei Goju Karate. In 1984, he founded Zujitsu Ryu: The Art of Zulu.
You can learn more about him here: www.zujitsu.com/zuluBio.html
…but beware of the red glow.
Fred Hamilton
Uptown baby, the Harlem World martial artist (per USADJO.com) was instrumental in pioneering bare knuckle full contact karate. In addition, he was the first martial artist to allow women to participate in martial arts competition. Editorial changes at Black Belt magazine during the mid 70s provided
acknowledgement of Hamilton in the the June, 1975 article THE GREAT BLACK HOPE.
The article focused on his effective teaching style, using martial arts to save youths in a community infested with Nicky Barnes’ poison. You can learn more about him by contacting his student and friend Raymond McRinna: www.facebook.com/raymond.mcrinna
George Cofield
Master of Shotokan karate. The real life Sho’nuff, red glow originator and the man who founded the infamous Tong Dojo, located in Brooklyn. According to Black Martial Artists website, he received his initial training while in Japan, serving in the military and many of his students were successful champions and still continue his legacy today.
Cofield was a bad-ass, one man who knew him, said that Samuel Jackson’s role in Pulp Fiction; Jackson was doing his best in that movie to emulate Cofield’s nature. When I get permission I’ll tell you about when he had Bruce Lee shook, all I can tell you now is “Brooklyn motherfucker!”
You can learn more about him by visiting: www.facebook.com/pages/My-Sensei-George-Cofield/167947099982198
Steve Muhammad
AKA Sijo Saabir Quwi Muhammad (born Steve Sanders). Founder of The Black Karate Foundation (BKF) and according to the BKF site, he won the Long Beach International Karate tournament nine times during the 1960s.
Despite successful play, there was overwhelming discrimination; he along with other brothers decided to form the BKF. He was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame in 1982. He would later create a form of fighting known as The Invisible Fist. The grand master can be contacted here: www.facebook.com/steve.muhammad.9
Jack Johnson
“Ghost in the house!” He was the first Black heavy weight champion, both Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Robinson admired and emulated his defensive boxing skills. Boxing is one of the best martial arts on the planet, you’re dealing with mastery of hand combat. The only issue here is that you don’t get an Asian influence.
If people viewed boxing as a martial art, the paradigm of martial arts economics would be changed forever.
Black boxers, instead of retiring penniless ,they’d have dojos or fighting schools and people would appreciate the sweet science that Black men have mastered. One day, when I’m old and grey, I’ll share an interview I had with Roger Mayweather, there is a reason why African Americans have been successful, with their hands.
Thomas La Puppet
The first Black martial artist to enter the Black Belt Hall of Fame. According to Black Martial Artists website his successful tournament career in the late 1960s, included winning the All-American karate tournament on several occasions. A black belt in Karate, Jujitsu and Kenpo.
You can learn more about him here: www.blackmartialartist.com/TomLaPuppet.html
Sensei La Puppet Knife Attack Defense
Martial Arts: Made in Africa
I’m not free-styling for battle rap sake, I’m doing so to acknowledge the vets, the old heads; doing so to enlighten. You-must-learn! Asian Karate master Mas Oyama’s book “Advanced Karate” mentions that the earliest documentation on organized combat originated from Egypt in 4000 B.C.; that was long before the Arabs entered in 7th century C.E.
So as far as martial arts are concerned, “We Made It!” Black men need to know that there is more to them than Jay-Z’s bloodline of kings, queens and Michael Jordan rings; that being the way of the warrior.
Shout Outs
Just like the interior of your favorite CD. I’ll give shout outs: Can’t forget my crew The Fighting Black Kings, featuring the great William Oliver. Respect to all the elders on the Black Martial artists website.
Peace to Little John Davis, Bill McClould, Rico Guy, Anthony Muhammad, Donnie Williams, Oso Tayari Casel, the late Kenneth Pardue, Nathan Ingram, Sifu Carl Albright, them boys in Brooklyn might get tight if I don’t mention Dr. Charles Elmore. There are too many masters from the DC area and the Midwest; I use to get it in Ohio!
Peace to the Asian masters who taught Black men when others wouldn’t; even though y’all were just giving us back science we created long ago. Peace to Count Dante for training brothers in the Chi when no one else would; Floyd Webb when are we going to get that movie?
Feel Free to Share Your Opinion
Some of you are reading this blog post, simultaneously shaking your head, saying how could he forget this guy, or how what about forget brother-so-and-so,
but that is the beauty of the internet. We can cipher, enlighten and give lessons; make sure that everyone gets knowledge, wisdom and understanding. Brothers gonna work it out; ya dig?
Years ago, martial artist Professor Watts told me that certain Black men, they get Nigga-Tron syndrome, transforming and changing on their people. This griot ain’t never been partial to the Decepticons or the Autobots, but here I am, representing the only way I know how; strictly for my ninjas.
~Clarke Illmatical 無敵將軍
Clarke Illmatical is a writer from Queens, New York. His writing has been featured in The Amsterdam News, The Norwood News, The Brooklyn Eagle, Harlem Community News, Queens Community Politics, The Final Call, Baltimore African American Newspaper, South China Morning Post, China Global Daily, TimeOut Hong Kong, The Phnom Penh Post, and E-China Cities.
Check out Illmatical’s follow-ups to this article:
Forgotten Fury: Masters of The Red Glow
Forgotten Fury: Rise of The Black Samurai aka Yasuke’s Liquid Sword
TheLastDragonTribute.com is an online community for fans of the 80’s Motown martial arts cult classic THE LAST DRAGON. Using our web and social media presence our mission is to bring together fans from all over the world to help keep the Glow alive! We delve into all things The Last Dragon, Bruce Lee, and Martial Arts Entertainment.
| Twitter: @thelastglow Instagram: @thelastglow Facebook: Fan Tribute to The Last Dragon Podcast: The Last Dragon Tribute Podcast www.thelastdragontribute.com |
GM Isaac Henry Jr (BKG) founder and his #1 warrior Big Billy Burnam who really ruled the 70’s Big Billy Burnam was the most feared MA on the east coast bar known, so much that they hired people to hurt him and GM Versocki(Rip) had to barter a truce to call it off
Master Isaac Henry was the only other Wade Ryu , Karate Sch.besides Murphy’s Wade Ryu Karate Club in Trenton, N.J., in NJ that participated in almost all of the major events in tri-state area.most of my friends , teachers, students promoters such as Gm, Preston Carter, Gm Joe Versocki, Gm Ben Ali, and so many more Gm Gary Alexander, Thunder Foot, Ron Geter, Mike Boss, Jessie Harris (the rock), Rick Mayers, Dr. Bose, Gm.Eugene Floyd and Gm Leslie Birkin , UK, Gerald Gills, Ms.Gm Frederick B. Godfrey., we have lost contact with each other and the tournament circuit . It old be nice to see or be a part of a reunion if it is ever organized , I would love to see it because 70 is not that far away. Feel free to contact me if I am not too far out of date, remember I came along in the mid 60’s ,70,80,90. Until I hear from you, continue to be Blessed. Ussh.
Yes!!!! And thank you for saying this… Shihan was an awesome teacher, and I was privileged to have the experience of knowing him…
Good evening Master Murphy. I am doing some research on GM Preston Carter from Trenton NJ. He signed my instructors Nidan Certificate so I am trying to find out more about him. If you wouldn’t mind contacting me so I can learn more I would appreciate it. Thank you. Sensei Andrew Spivack
I “stumbled” onto your comment and decided to offer up some insight, although years later.
I was a student of Shihan Carter and probably the last individual to have trained under him and fortunate to have tested and passed Godan ranking.
The last training years were privately held in Shihan Carter’s apt dojo in West Trenton.
After those privates I would jog from West State Street to Calhoun over to the Trenton PAL to box under the watchful eye of the late Percy Richardson alongside of champions like Sammy Goss,
June Bug Livingston, Mike Benning(fought Gerry Cooney), and
Frank Stallone, Sly’s brother.
Yup…Frank not only trained in the hood, but also lived in the hood for several years.
All this was back around 1975-76.
As you may know, Shihan Carter handled security for a Gentleman’s club across from the Trenton Train Station that was allegedly owned by Happy Carmichael a well known Trenton pimp.
Some out of town gang bangers were in the club one night and when they started groping the dancers Carter went to evict them which morphed into a three vs one brawl.
The one, Carter won but wound up taking a bullet to the back which left him paralyzed from the waist down.
Shihan Carter continued his involvement in the arts and training me from a wheel chair until his passing.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe I am the last surviving practicioner of Shihan Carter’s system.
If you’d like to know more and I can be of assistance, please ask.
Two of the best that I have ever seen, from the Bronx New York were Fred Miller and Errol Bennett
agreed
Greetings “Joe”
Preston Carter was a dear friend and Brother. I was one of the last to commune and communicate with him at Kessler Institute.
If you receive this reply, I may be reached via
rabbiedab@gmail.com
Until then OSU…
Domo Arigato… Sonkei
Blessings
Boze, Sensei
NJMAA & UMAC
Soke, Ninja Turtle Arts and Sciences
Master Murphy, III
If you receive this reply, I may be reached via
rabbiedab@gmail.com
Until then OSU…
Domo Arigato… Sonkei
Blessings
Boze, Sensei
Soke, Ninja Turtle Arts and Sciences
Yes,
Abdul Rahman Hassan(formally Billy Burnam) is a legend. He shouldn’t be forgotten!
Yes,
Abdul Rahman Hassan(formally Billy Burnam)was a Master out side the Dojo as well.The time and energy he put into the kids of the area will never be forgotten.His grace as a man and a Brother….,go’s far beyond the call of duty.
Yes!!!! Let’s not forget Hanshi Pegeron!!!
Joe Versocki, more people should write about him. Rico Guy and his students miss this esteemed NJ Martial Artist.
I trained with GM Versocki for many years… A very dedicated teacher in all aspects… In class as well as promoting the arts in tournaments as well as his life… MA always came first… Never a question about that…
Mr. Antolik,
Mr. Versocki was one of my assistants in the NJMAA & UMAC affiliations, just after GM Preston Carter deceased.
I may be reached at
rabbiedab@gmail.com
Sonkei,
Boze, Sensei
Aki, Please contact me at ummahcamp@yahoo.com!!! I have been looking for someone who even remembers Billy Burnam! Would like to ask you some things. Insha’Allah.
Sayf Carman
Great article ! But how did you forget ABDUL MUSAWWIR (the former Monroe Marrow) , Black belt hall,of,fame Shotokan warrior,who defeated at least one of the masters on your list in combat, turned Tai Chi master, still teaching?
One of my teachers since childhood. Glad to see someone mentioned him.
I studied with him in my teen years!
Somewhere close to studies in Brooklyn with Grandmaster Moses Powell.
Hi Imam … Throughout the 1970’s I was One of Monroe Marrow’s most dedicated & top disciple student. I started studying with Monroe back in 1968 along Errol Bennett, Philip McCray, Ralph Rodriguez, Happi Cramp, Barry Savage, Reno Morales and of course many more. Few martial artist can say they were earned and promoted to Black Belt by him, I was one of them so was Errol Bennett. I followed Monroe after he left the Shotokan club in late 1969. He opened up his ” Dynamic Karate Studio” at 165 st. Sherman Ave …this place was exactly that !Dynamic! This is where I deeply got into my Masters teaching method and eventually adopting from shotokan to similar Yun Mu Kuan to later the beginning of tai-chi. After he lost the studio (1975) I followed him to a gym on 143 st., on Willies Ave (Bronx) for 3 years…. Finally he ended up going through some challenges, yet still teaching, this time at a old but kept up Barn House on 163st. We trained indoors and outdoors near corner of Morris Ave for about 3 1/2 years I was there with him to and then a few lessons when he started teaching early on outdoors in Central Park. Eventually I had to spend more time in my show business career and lessened up with the martial arts but with Monroe we were very close, I still can’t get quite over my Sensei passing. You see I was 13 when Monroe’s beautiful voice asked me with a smile of love ” Are you ready to learn karate” ! …. My family loved Monroe. And how could they not mention Monroe Marrow…. even Ron Van Clief acknowledges him, all old school black Masters Acknowledge Monroe Marrow very highly.. all respect him. Ok now peace out 🙏🥋🥋
Oh yeah and HAWK FRAZIER, whose clashes with LUIS DELGADO were legendary, years after an 18 year old Delgado defeated then tournament champion Chuck Norris
Peace Imam,
Did not forget Hawk Frazier, he fought Karriem ABdAllah. Saw pics of it when I visited Karriem’s house back in 2010.
I did not mention Louis Delgado because I’m saving that for a separate post and didn’t want to offend Puerto Ricans who need to know how special he was. If I called him a “Black” martial artist, people would give me hell.
Thanks for mentioning the other individual.
The great William Oliver.
Grand Master Sekwii T. Sha, disciple of Master Peter Urban one of his first black belts from the 60’s still here, imparting knowledge. Sèe “Black Heros of the Martial Arts”.
Great article, would like to see more of these. Big ups to Professor Orange’s dad. I rock with Renato…..
Dont forget the 52 blocks practioners and its role in boxing and other diaspora fighting systems
52 is linked to boxing. Truthfully, it stems from African American boxing.
787
As Salaamu Alikum…
I see this site as an adjunct to Master Wesley Snipes HBO Documentary to the Salute of the African American Masters of the Martial Arts.
There are several Masters here whom were my heros when I coming up the ranks and students of several legendary instructors profiled here.
But before I pontificate regarding my pedigree…(I started as a white belt in 1966, under the instruction of Sensei Erskine Matthews…Chief instructor of the Black Belt Union of East Harlem) It would be rewarding to have seen my Sensei acknowledged for his life contibution to the Martial Arts esp Goju n Ketsugen Karate.
Myself and my dodjo brothers were blessed to have met Sensei Owen Watson and Ron Van Cliff when were kids…and seeing Master Joe Hayes and Thomas LaPuppet at tournaments. I recall the first time I met Chuck Norris…he was a brown belt…but due to his movies after working with Bruce Lee…alot of the brothers here on this site was snubbed. Sensei used to tell us about the racism directed to us by the Asians..and thats why the brothers went off in Sensei Aaron Banks ‘ promoted tournamwents…esp Sensei Kareem Abdullah’s students mostly from Jersey.
I thank Allah that whomever is behind this project to have the presence of mind to acknowledged those of whom you have.
Be well and God Bless
With the warmest od regards,
Al Hadji Chief Ali-Cisse, 121st
#rd Degree Black Belt, class of ’83
Goju and Ketsugen Karate
I would love to see and here more about Master Erskin Matthews. I am a student under Master Russell Davenport in Long Island
Thank You Brother Al Hadji Chief Ali-Cisse, for mentioning Thomas Lapuppet. Sensei George Cofield was also mentioned here too. I was once a student of both Senseis at the Tong Dojo in Brooklyn. I was on Sensei Lapuppets demonstration team as kid. I remember going to a lot of the tournaments in NY and our Dojo fighters along with Cofield and Lapuppet having some of the best students. Growing up, I’ve always heard of Sensei Matthews in Harlem but never visited his dojo.
These Masters mentioned here were thee Best of thee Best. The East Coast had it going on back in the day with the karate schools. The lessons Sensei Lapuppet and Cofield taught us were life lessons that I have always used growing up.
We as Black Men need to keep this OURSTORY alive and never let it die. They (the magazines, media) could exclude us all they want but it is the skill of the Karate Master that can never be taken away.
Thank You Brother for writing this article and thank you for putting my sensei’s in here. They were very important to this rich history of martial arts.
Owen “Obosan” Wat-Son?
I to know of a lot of black masters that a lot of people didn’t know out rochester new york and upstate.start with Master Earl Smith founder of the purple dragon Dojoand founder of his own fighting system known Nungkayeiand master Charles curry who was raised in Korea on an army base who was world renownMaster Greg tourney of Syracuse New York Amos post weight Master Overton John Williams Dwayne McKinney Michael Everett the monster man rest in peace papaJames Hart thornApple dojoKeith Miller mocho mark Dixon James Brown speede Lee con. so many legendary martial artist they came through Rochester New York I can’t even begin to name all my preciate your article on the black masters of martial arts thank you
Well said Aaron my friend. You did leave one person out “Aaron Johnson”. You were a fantastic martial artist as well !!!
Let’s add the legendary Preston Fritz Carter to this mention of great black martial arts pioneers.
A big and imposing figure who taught starting in the early 60’s.
Known for his breaking skills, Carter promoted tournaments for many years that brought other legends such as Urban, Nagel, Artesi, Wallace, and others to support his efforts.
Former point fighters turned full contact champions Eddie Andujar and Emilio Narvaez competed at Carter’s events, as did the great technician Ralph Gastiaburro.
Carter taught a street effective karate style that would stack up very well with today’s modern self defense methods.
Hi Aaron,
My father Earl Smith passed away this year and we are holding a virtual memorial for him soon. We are also looking for photos and stories about The Purple Dragons. Would love to hear from you. http://bit.ly/TrialfaCelebrationOfLife
Not mention Hanshi Frank Hargrove in this list is a travesty! He beat the great Joe Lewis… Twice! Not to mention being the very first 6th, 7th and 8th dan in an authentic Okinawan karate style and association (Shorin-Ryu Shorinkan). Not to mention getting 3rd in the All-Japan in the late 60s.
I could go on and on about Hargrove’s accolades, but this list (in all due respect) appears to be a list if the top black martial artist… IN NEW YORK!
I would respectfully submit the name of Jesse Raymond Glover, Bruce Lee’s first student, first American friend, his first assistant instructor, and the first person Bruce ever gave permission to teach to back in the very early 1960’s, making Jesse one of if not the first Black Gung-Fu man.
what about riley hawkins
Absolutely, do not forget Riley Hawkins!
My father, Charles “Bum Bum” Smith, was one of Master Moses Powell first students and a GrandMaster himself He was 9th Dan! Also studied under Charlie Sparrow.
My father and your father were childhood friends. Email me and I will send you a pic.
I would add my father Shaha Mfundishi Maasi to this list as well as Nganga Mfundishi Tolo-Naa and Ahati Kilindi Iyi. Also I am hosting The Last Dragon 30th Anniversary Screening in Newark, NJ. Please come out.
OSS Mr. Maasi,
Your Dad and I worked together in Orange NJ in the 1960s.
I may be reached via rabbiedab@gmail.com
Blessings,
Boze, Sensei
Additional Greats Abdul Mutakabbir, Sijo George Crayton
Johnny Lee and “Minster man” Everett Eddy.
Johnny Lee
Monster man Everett Eddy
I was very young when I started and i was with all of them,I still stay in contact with a few of them, We had no gloves when we were in fighting competition,This artist today are nothing compare to us PERIOD! In our fighting tournaments black-men put people in hospitals black schools dominated the sport!! Jim Kelly ,Billy Blanks,Duncan,Karrem ALA started new styles called The Robot, Mr Graceful,Little KA,the 8 wonder of the World! Hollywood Martial Artist Actors and fighters never beat New Jersey and New York Fighters ! We had no GLOVES like they do todayt just bare pure hard FISTS,FEET,PERIOD!!!
I learned under Ronald Duncan, and under the system of Moses Powell, albeit briefly for both. I was saddened to learn that Ronald Duncan passed away a few years ago.
Always let down when Prof. Jonathan Stewart is left off these lists. I know no one can ever list everyone… But after 80 years in the arts you’d think he’d get at least a shout out… He started boxing at four and martial arts at five…that’s 1935…in Harlem… I think he qualifies…Just sayin’
Never forget GM Jimmy Jones from Chicago who instructed GM Tayari Cassell when his name was Darnell ,GM Preston Baker and brother GM Otis
Ketsugen Karate System ~ Chief Grand Master Gerald Gaylord ~ NYC
Master Jimmie Jones, Preston and Otis Baker or Ben Peacock, Shorty Mills from Chicago
I was looking for them also. I studied up Master Jones and Master Peacock. They all meet a lot to the art in Chicago.
I too studied under Master Jones and Shorty Mills. Preston Baker and Ben Peacock were both yellow belts when I started back in 1968. Southtown YMCA Chicago
Don’t forget prof tanwir – prefessor Cleveland Robinson – master sugar and prof David James …. And prof v the man who started the game
Professor Robert Williams. Dojo on Plank Rd. Baton Rouge, LA. Originator of Kheperakhatshu;
What up! Dope article! This is the mc Bruce Leroy from Seattle. Saw this article randomly on Facebook and didn’t see ur name til it was done. #salute
LEROY! LEROY! Who the f*ck is Leroy?
Salute, kill them 100 bars of death!
Greetings ILLMATICAL,
Yours is an impressive article. Well laid out and chronicled.
Frederick “Baba” Hamilton, Peter Urban, George Cofield, Thomas LaPuppet, Ronald Duncan, Preston Carter, Wai Hong, Aaron Banks, Wm. CC Chen, Frederick B. Godfrey, Rico Guy, Papa San Canty, Leon Wallace, Jonathan Stewart ARE close Friends, Brothers, and Colleagues, et al from the 1960s to the present, regardless of their continuance in this life.
Thank You For Your Writing Contributions,
Blessings
OSU,
Boze, Sensei
Soke, Ninja (Ninga) Turtle (Turtull) Martial Arts and Sciences
rabbiedab@gmail.com
Kudos to you my brother for acknowledging these great men and pioneers in martial arts , for without these men being try to the cause, I coutd not be were I am today in the martial art world.I am writing because I would like you to look into the late GM .Owen ( Obasan ) Watson
Co- founder of Chinese Goju and founder of Sung Lung Miu .
Also the Legendary G.M. Blackhawk Sancarlos ( still living) who was also a pioneer and knew all those great men that you’ve mentioned.
Thankyou . Respect. Osu
Soke Allah Freedom.
Makoto Ryu Intl
I know of Owen WATSON! But as I mentioned I can put everyone up here! Owen was in BLACK FORCE the movie.
Thank you for sending a shout out to my father Grand Master Nathan Ingram. He is definitely a Unsung Hero in Martial Arts. The love and passion he has for the Art is amazing. I have watched him teach for years at no cost so that the people of all ages in the LES of Manhattan can have an outlet other then drugs and gangs. I am proud of him and his service to his community and his service to Martial Arts. Again thank you for his shout out and I’ll be very sure to send this article to him.
I trained under Sensei “Speedy Leacock” a true Master who opened the spiritual, physical, and passionate strength of combined martial arts disciplines 1976-1984 to hundreds of young disciples in Hollis, St Albans, Jamaica , Queens.. Many, many young lives saved. I lost track over the years, but his connection with Master Le Puppett, Hawk Williams, Moses Powell, “Sugar”, Sheila High, was an eternal candle lit for our Black Magic Dojo. A reach out to my Brothers and Sisters!
LOL I REMEMBER THOSE DAYS!!! MY FIVE MAN CREW USED TO WALK FROM FRANCIS LEWIS TO HIS “ BASEMENT DOJO” !! DO YOU REMEMBER THE BEAUTIFUL BUT DEADLY SENSEI SHEILA? OR HOW ABOUT BURLY DIESEL MR TYRONE HIS UKE?. BETTER YET I BELIEVE YOU AND I WERE IN CLASS TOGETHER LOL. HERES A HINT, ALL THE STUDENTS OF HIS REMEMBER AFTER HIS DEMOS, HE WENT TO THE SIDE AND GRABBED THAT PAPER BAG ON THE FLOOR AND………. ?
A silent Bow to the author of this great article. Much Respect to these Pioneers! Imam Talib mentioned, Louis Delgado, he was indeed Special. I will list the Puerto Rican Trifecta: Hui Cambrelen, Frank Ruiz, and Louis Delgado! All GREAT fighters!
considered them all african/black/latino of color since most of them were discriminated against but since you mentioned a few names lets remember Reno Morales his list and association of many grandmasters predates any of them going back to the 50s/60s including Moses Powell Thomas Lapuppet and many others he taught and lectured in our communities until his untimely departure He is greatly missed and was a friend to those mentioned and forgotten . May they all rest in peace and never be forgotten less continue to expand the list and its jurisdictions threwout the country .
Thank you for mentioning my Father Grand master Reno Morales.
Avanti Lil Reno Morales
How can you say ‘I heard of Owen Watson’, but give details of Ron Van Clief? Owen dominated the tournament seen in ‘70’s NY; as did fellow GoJu fighter Fred Miller! Have more respect. Ouus
What a wonderful and rich history this site illuminates, a great lesson for those that history tends to ignore. I’m sure there are many more that have fallen into this gap, and I look forward to more knowledge of great martial artist of all races.
Just a note: The term “Master” or “GrandMaster” was coined as a tool to help attract students. No actual Martial Artist regardless of experience refers to themselves as “Master”, the notion is absurd. Even the highest ranked practitioners in the world still refer to themselves as “Students”, because they are always learning. We are all students.
Great article but it seems that New York is the place most mentioned where the greats came out of. I respectfully submit a name from Miami, Fl. Grand Master Herbie Thompson of Neisi Goju Ryu, a student of Grand Master Frank Ruiz, he was the only man to defeat Don “The Dragon” Wilson in a match. a pioneer in the martial arts in Miami.
I must mention Grand Master Barry Gray, a Disciple of Grand Master, Alan Lee. Mr. Gray
began studying under Mr. Lee, in the Sixties and was the Head Instructor at Mr. Lee’s
Newark, New Jersey Temple, in the Seventies and Eighties. Mr. Gray also taught at his own
School, in Newark, NJ for many years and has been inducted into,The New Jersey Martial Art’s Hall of Fame, He is a pioneer, in the expert instruction and practice of Chinese Kung Fu Wu Su on the East Coast.
Thank you Mr.Wood. I am a student of Mr. Gray. He still teaches the art. Thank you for the kind words and aknowledgement. Did you train under Mr. Gray as well?
acknowledgement
Yes Everett, I studied under Master Barry Gray at the Alan Lee Temple in the late Seventies, into the early Eighties. I also Spent a brief period of time at Masters G’s. I have great respect for Mr. Gray and his strong and proud legacy, of training disciplined Kung Fu Wu Su Men and Women. Thank You for your response.
I to trained with Master Barry Gray at Master G’s School of Martial Arts throughout the early 90’s however I would like to mention a family and friend of the family, who inspired me and that is Dr. Ronald McNair, he was killed in the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986 however was considered one of dominate student of the martial arts and earned 5th degree.
Excellent article! Great inspiration! Thanks ~
I would love to see this article written in regards to African American Women martial arts pioneers also! ~
This article is pretty tight, considering Joe Hayes is my father….funny listening to his stories on fighting or knowing these men….To God be the Glory
I had a poster of joe hayes posted on my bedroom wall as a young teenager back in 1974 . who is ever think I would meet this great martial artist 4 years later and become a close friend student and brother in the Lord not only was he a superstar in the arts but he’s also a superstar in the kingdom of God
Peace Everyone,
As many noted, there were many names who you feel should have been included. When I sat down with Ronald Duncan, Karriem ABdAllah, Vic Moore and spoke to Steven Muhammad and Henry Cho, specific names kept coming up.
This doesn’t mean that there aren’t others that need acknowledgement. These guys were kind of like pioneers, many of the people who you feel should have been included, I’m almost sure that their names are linked to these masters in one way or the other.
This was an east coast based article, but I gave a shout out to the Midwest. Vic Moore told me that he and a few other brothers from the midwest would dominate tournaments. So they’re linked to him.
Professor Ernest Hyman from East Harlem, NYC. One of the worlds best. Hands down.
My father would definitely appreciate the nod. Thank you. OUS!
Cant forget Mfundishi Edward Hanif Fox, out of Syracuse, New York who created his own system known as Chi Wushu an eclectic mixture of kupigani ngumi, northern shaolin and Hidy Ochai’s art..Ed Fox was a top student of Hidy Ochai who went on his own after mastering his teachings and teacher… He reached to Mfundishi Dennis Brown, Mfundishi Tayari Casel and Prof. Ronald Duncan all early 80s…i am one of Mfundishi Fox original students. He resides today somewhere in Israel.
I certainly can’t forget Mfundishi Edward Hanif Fox! Thank you for filling in some of the details. I’ve often wondered where he is.
Forgot my grandmaster moywoo
Let’s not forget Raymond Cooper and Tayare Casel.
Yeah, I’m SAYING! How did Ray Cooper get left out?
Just wanted to mention that we all know it’s impossible to list ALL of our “Legends” so I just wanted to give a shout out to Hanshi Norman Armstrong (who I studied under and obtained my black belt), who developed the Ten Chi Kenpo Karate system (Boston, Mass.). He was never one for being in the limelight ( in the early 1970’s Black Belt Magazine declined to do an article on him, though all of his students requested it because, according to them at the time, he “was not known well enough). More on Hanshi Armstrong is at: http://www.tenchikenpo.org. This tribute website is GREAT. Oss.
A list that doesn’t mention Abdul Mutakabbir is a not a real list.
Grandmaster Abdul mutakabir along with grandmaster Sheldon Wilkins were my Dojo brother’s and two of the baddest men on the planet!! All of the grandmasters mention deserve all the praises they’ve gotten,because if it wasn’t for them there would be no us! May God bless them all
Kyoshi Ron Austin of the Jaribu System was not mentioned.
ERNEST A WICKER trainned with Kyoshi ( for lack of ) because I do know that he was promitied or blessed with another title before he passed fromOCT 1990 to oct oct 1992. He was ahead of his time .THE kata`s that he deveioped were filled with pouporseful technique and information that to this day (ALMOST 20 TEARS LATER) HIS VOICE REACHES OUT FROM THE PAST AND TOUCHES ME WITH THE ANSWER……… OUS
To All Who Have Commented,
What about we all coordinate some sort of dinner/meet and greet to reminisce and honor all of the legends mentioned here?
If anyone is interested please post and leave contact information.
Maybe this can happen mid to end of summer 2023.
My cousin trained under him back in the early seventies. At the time he would introduce as the first color belt he ever gave three stripes.
Kyoshi Ronald Victor Austin was promoted to 8th Dan by Peter Urban ( I carried the diploma to him that day Myself)
Posthumously his was awarded 9th Dan by GM Aaron Banks. As He was the curator and Head of the system at that Point deFacto he was a 10th. Statement of fact by the oldest living student in the system. Since 1964 still actively teaching and preserving the legacy training.@Joseph witherspoon I remember and have a picture of him James Witherspoon I remember him as a whitebait!!!
Grandmaster Aaron Banks awarded his certificates publicly and his signature would be on it. Grandmaster Dr.Ernest Hyman was a top student of GM Aaron banks and was awarded his rank as “Grandmaster” by Gm Aaron Banks publicly with his certificate and signature. Dr.Hyman,as Gm Banks top student and top ranked student would know every student GM Banks awarded Dan level ranks to, most especially any Dan ranks of 7 and above. In fact,the movie “The Last Dragon” was filmed at the Harlem Karate Institute founded by GM Dr.Ernest Hyman. This is not to say that Kyioshi Ronald Victor Austin(who Dr.Hyman heard of and knew) isn’t a legitimate 10th Dan nor is it being implied either(in fact he was a true karateka);but it is a fact that GM Banks awarded extremely very few 9th and 10th Dan ranks.
Great article. I trained at the Tong Dojo in Brooklyn, when my teacher Sifu Carl Albright share the space with Master George Cofield. The two were good friends. Cofield taught me some lessons when I was between 14 and 16. You should look up Sifu Albright as well, another black American kung fu master, of over 10 styles but most known for Hung Gar, 7Star Praying Mantis, Lama Fist and Wing Chun. He still teaches in Brooklyn (I have class tonight). Cheng. Oos.
If you are going to name Little John Davis, Ron Van Clief, and Dennis Brown you have to include the Jook Lum Southern Mantis Master Sifu Ralph Mitchell!!
The great fighter and 1975 light heavy weight champion of the world. The late Fred Miller.
YA DARN SKIPPY BROTHER ! THE LATE FRED MILLER WAS AWESOME AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN LISTED !!!!
WITNESS THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE BADDEST MARTIAL ARTS CREW IN NEW YORK CITY THROUGHOUT THE 70/80 90’S HARLEM AND QUEENS ..
HI im SENSEI SIFU DEVON MALIK SCOTT a former student/BLACK BELT of Richard brinsley “speedy” leacock of “the BLACK MAGIC DOJO”
WE RAN NEW YORK AS FAR AS MARTIAL ARTS IS CONCERNED…CHECK OUT OUR STORY
https://www.facebook.com/BMWOTFSDMMAACADEMY?ref=hl
HE”SPEEDY” ACTOR IN THE HIT MOVIE “DEATHS PROMISE” IN THE LATE 1970’S
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNXDHznYI70
JUST WANTED TO REACH OUT TO YOU AND LET YOU KNOW WE ARE STILL HERE IF YOU WANNA STAY IN TOUCH
I really enjoyed the Article , as a young man I would go to the Libraird in Gary, Indiana to read one of Two martial Art Books .
I was in a magazine store and discovered my first Karate Magazine.
All of these men were idols , at the age of 21 I was Abel to study Under Tadashi Yamashita, James Ninios, George Cimesa .
I loved it took to Shorin Ryu like a duck to water .
Soon my heros were my Judges , mentors . They encouraged me to compete . I won many Tournaments and National Events , became PKA US heavy Weight and Super heavy champion, AKA Warriors Cup , USKA Champion , FT Worth Pro Am , George Minschews Karate Olympics , I’ve taught , Body Gaurd ,promoted the Arts .
I thank God , Thank the Men And Domen who Open The Doors and moved the Stones from the Paths .
Thank you All , I pray that I was a grain of Sand in some ones Brick .
I met you when you fought Tex Cobb.
We spoke for a few minutes even though you
were hours away from fighting Tex.
You were both a gentleman and very humble.
Are you still training?
Don’t Forget Grandmaster Dr. Clifford L. Thomas, taught by Jhoon Rhee in Washington, DC, and other legends back in the 1960s. Tournament competitor, full contact champ, groundbreaking AAU coach. Started teaching in 1970 and has never stopped. Awards from presidents, state and county officials, governors for bringing martial arts, self-defense, and safety to people of all ages in the community. His story needs to be told.
GM Professor Ron Taganashi, the Human One Man Army.
We forgot about the Chicago guys Hanshi Shorty Mills, Hanshi Tankson, Kyoshi Cash, Shihan Sarge, Master Jimmie Jones, Preston and Otis Baker or Ben Peacock
Please don’t forget Soke Abdul Mumeet Sharif, the U system of martial arts.
Grandmaster Nimr Hassan
Menkyo Hanshi Hassan began studying martial arts in 1957, in his hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Since that time, he has studied many different disciplines such as Judo, Karate, Aikido, Jiujitsu, Boxing, and Kempo.
In the early ‘70’s, Menkyo Hanshi Nimr Hassan sought out the Great Grand Master James Masayoshi Mitose, who is considered the Great Grand Master of all the Kosho Shorei Ryu Kempo systems in the world.
Menkyo Hanshi Hassan was selected over other candidates to become the “ichi deshi” (disciple/only student) of the Great Grand Master and is the only non-family member taught the family’s Temple Dance/Escaping Art Pattern system. This system includes the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the Koga Ha Kosho Shorei Ryu Kempo system.
Menkyo Hanshi Hassan, an exponent of the martial arts when he met James Mitose, would journey to Mitose’s home day after day and train for hours in the backyard. Mitose taught Hassan the basics of Karate, which Mitose had learned from Choki Motobu, his maternal uncle, the great Okinawan Shorei Ryu Kempo Karate Master. Mitose taught Hassan Jiujitsu, which Mitose had learned from his Masters at the temple in Japan. More importantly, Mitose taught Hassan the “System”.
In 1974, Menkyo Hanshi Hassan was issued a Master Instructor’s License and presented with the Mitose family crest by the Great Grand Master James Mitose. This honor bestowed upon Hassan allows him to teach the wondrous art of Koga Ha Kosho Shorei Ryu Kempo. Hassan has maintained the complete art taught to him and teaches it under the full title of Koga Ha Kosho Shorei Ryu Kempo. This title reflects all three arts designated on the family crest.
That same year, Menkyo Hanshi Hassan opened a dojo under the guidance of the Great Grand Master Mitose and was given the charter and permission to promote, display, and use Kosho Shorei Ryu Coat of Arms. Menkyo Hanshi Hassan is the only surviving student in the Continental U.S. taught by Great Grand Master James M. Mitose. Also, he is the only Menkyo Hanshi who teaches the ancient and traditional Koga Ha Kosho Shorei Ryu Kempo’s Temple Dance/Escaping Art systems.
Since 1974, Menkyo Hanshi Hassan has received many honors, awards, and promotions. The following lists some of those achievements:
Menkyo Hanshi Hassan received his Master’s Degree in Human Services and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Sociology/Psychology.
In July 2005 he will be recognized as and given the Living Legends award by the Hawaiian Martial Arts International Society.
In 2004, he was inducted into the World Head of Sokeship Family Council Hall of Fame as the Grandmaster of the year.
In 2003, he was inducted into the Hawaiian Martial Arts International Society Hall of Fame as the Grandmaster of the year.
In 2002, he was inducted into the U.S. Martial Artists Association Hall of Fame as the Supreme Grandmaster of the year.
Also, in 2002 the World Head of Family Sokeship International Council Hall of Fame recognized him as the Humanitarian of the year.
In 2001, he was inducted as a member of the Pioneer and Legends International Martial Arts Society Hall of Fame.
In 1993, he was ranked No. 1 in the Mid-Atlantic Division of the National Black Belt Association and No. 9 in the world at the National Black Belt Grand World Championships in New Orleans.
Also, in 1993, Dr. William Durbin, Soke-Koyojute Ryu Kempo Bugei, and Ann Nooner, Habshi-Kiyojute Ryu Kempo Bugei, recognized him as the Menkyo Hanshi.
In 1991, he ranked No. 1 in the Eastern Alliance Grand Championship, Executive Division.
In 1986, he received the honorary rank of Shichi Dan (7th Degree Black Belt) from the Great Grand Master William K. S. Chow, head of the Kara Ho and United Kempo Jiujitsu Association. [Great Grand Master Chow was one of Great Grand Master Mitose’s students in 1948]. This rank was given to Menkyo Hanshi Hassan for his continuous efforts to preserve the ancient and traditional teachings of the Mitose family system.
Among Menkyo Hanshi Hassan’s notable achievements he has also taken the “system” and implemented it with great success in three Philadelphia public school systems: Wilson Elementary, Wagner Middle School, and Martin Luther King High School.
He completed an educational/behavioral research project with Thomas Jefferson Universities Hospital Department of Psychiatry, and the District of Philadelphia.
He completed a five year research project with the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education in Psychology (W.E.B. DeBbois Collective Research Center), Columbia University, and North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
And he is certified by the institution of Certified Martial Artists under the auspices of the Department of Defense as a judge and referee for that institution and the National Black Belt League.
What about former PKA world k8ckbozing champion Earnie Hart?
http://www.usadojo.com/biographies/earnest-hart-jr.htm
Master Sonny Dee DanielsI or Clarence Cooper who trained under DanIel K PaI hImself
or Kalaii Kano Griffin
Osu….Grand Master Griffin and Master Sonny Dee
Great article. I began my training in 1973 and so I have seen a lot of these legendary Pioneers and Outstanding practitioners face off against one another. I recall Chuck Norris, Billy Blanks, Little KA and Master Bum and the Robot Style fighters. The Capoeria fighters were an enigma to me back then. I was taught by dedicated martial artist Louis H. Brown whom is stills teaching today. He is a student of the late Professor Edward Pough of the E.P. System in Brooklyn. The Professor also had ties with the great ones Master Musa and George Coffield. Many of his students were accomplished and are humble so I will give the honorable mention…Soke Rasul Nasir, SOKE Louis Brown, GM James “Super” Cooper, Prince Yoel (father/trainer of Zab Judah), Prince Zurishidakaton, Chief Professor Shem Yahudah, the late Great One Finger Roll Michael “Big MIKE” Black, GM Michael “Bouncy” Bailey, “Bo Peep”, Hanshi Mychal Sledge (International KUMITE/KATA Champion, …to name a few, forgive me for leaving anyone out. And privileged to be inducted into Chinese Shotokhan Karate under Professor Pierre Renee (still training). He too, has a host of GM’s who are still teaching the youth in various dojos on the East Coast. I would be remiss not to mention two of his greatest students who have returned GM Roger Clark and GM Steve Beal. Respect. USH.
Just to say hello to my brothers and sisters from the EP system (Professor ED Pough ) This is Butterfly miss you all living in ATL now hit me up on Facebook (Mark Moore.) Brown, bopeep bouncy, super Cooper miss y’all..God Bless
Little KA in the square circle was awesome……Billy Blanks and his axe / cart wheel kick……greats fights back in the 70’s and early 80’s
WOW–> this article listing and the additional names in the comment section are MIND BLOWING REVELATIONS! . . . Many are new and some familiar, yet, your efforts are worthy of bookmark & archives–GREAT WORK!
Osu…much respect to all who are listed and much respect to those who carry the teachings!
Like.the.legend s.rip.to.s.ss.William.Oliver.
I really enjoyed your post keep doing your thing brother ?? but let’s not forget to add my Teacher in your next blob GrandMaster Robert Sugar Crosson which I’ve had the pleasure to be taught by him since 2003.
He was one of Dr. Moses Powell student also.
” Each One Teach One ”
Sensi Clark
First of all any list that wouldn’t include the blatantly obvious success and influence of sensei Jim Kelly is in a very Bitter denial of reality. The man was an utter ground breaker and a direct and immediate successor to Bruce Lee.
Also honors to master samurai-Sensei emeritus, Prof. John J. Womble, the 1st “Black man” to teach the Asian martial arts in the USA. – Peace!
Grand Master Billy Blanks, 8th Degree Black Belt…creator of Tae Bo
what about master, Donnie willans also name Bishop willans were is he in all this
My hudband and I are currently looking for a martial arts school with an African-American instructor in the Seattle Washington area. Does anyone have any referrals to dojos we can check out? Thanks.
master
I noticed there’s no story about the man on the left in the photo, Sensei Gerald Orange. Not only did Sensei Orange receive the 7th dan under Peter Urban, he also studied Tai Chi Chuan under Dr Wang Huai Ming and was adding elements of that to his fighting system by the mid-70s. In addition, he had a film career which includes Year of the Dragon (where he is John Lone’s bodyguard), along with roles in many other films (none of which are martial arts related).
Sensei Orange still teaches, by the way, in Central Park on Staurdays, and his is as bold a character as he ever way.
I would have loved to have seen Owen Watson,Dr.Ernest Hyman,Fred Miller,and Chester Miller added.
One of the greatest not mentioned here is definitely Hanshi, Sensei Herbie Thompson. During the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s, Sensei Herbie was the truth and not only beat some of the martial artists named in this article but be beat other greats not named here. If we’re going to recognize who were the greatest black martial artists, then Sensei Herbie Thompson of the Nisei Goju Ryu system was hands-down one of the greatest of all time. He’s too modest and humble to promote himself because for him it’s never about himself but instead it’s always about his students. As one of his students I can say he’s been a hero, a role mode and a true warrior. The Nisei Goju Ryu dojo in Miami not only saved so many lives from gangs and the streets but we were all groomed to become champions and proud men. I thank you Sensei Herbie for what you’ve sacrificed to the martial arts, and I hope that one day others will truly see all the good that you have done for us all.
Just came across this fasinating discussion; not to diminish the effect but most recognized personalities were from the east and west coasts back in the day, maybe due to population. Here are two (2) more notable rare legends: phenomenal jiujitsu pioneer Grandmaster Mel Brown out of the midwest region and tangsoodo/taekwondo Grandmaster Russell Perron originally out of Colorado. Thanks to these gentlemen I had the pleasure of meeting several of these iconic and legendary pioneers of color mentioned here from the martial arts community. To ensure and secure the majority of black martial arts legends and pioneers within the U.S. would be a great undertaking from coast-to-coast and through the annuals of time.
After seeing your article on line on The Black Masters you should know. I had to write to say you left one out. A man that knows all the masters spoken of. Grandmaster DAVID (LITTLE MONK) JOHNSON. I am a student under Sifu Roger Clinard one of his main indoor pupils. Our master has trained with world renown teachers from MAS Oyama, Yamaguchi, Doc Fai Wong to name a few. Please do some research on this amazing pioneer of Black Martial ARTS.
Also David (Little Monk) Johnson was also the 1972 South Asian Champion, defeating the Chinese, the Japanese ,the thais, and all comers. He has been a friend to alot of the names listed and I am sure he has defeated a majority as well.
Love this article. Was hoping to see Master Renard Jakson. I went to school with his daughter. He is the the Texas Hall of Fame.
Check out Sifu Philip Redmond. (https://www.facebook.com/master.phillip.redmond?fref=pb&hc_location=profile_browser). He should be on this list.
Hello. I have always been disappointed in the media. Black people has always been gifted in any thing that they put their mind to do. The Holy Bible tells why we are not credit for any thing we do in this country or any where else. But believe you all have made a Great impact on a lot of people lives. And they will always remember you when your gone. All the greatness of our people has always been hidden from the world. And we have to search for it to know the truth of things and our history. I honor all my Brothers and Sisters martial arts history and wish I could have met them all , Keep your Heads up and may God be with you .BCB .
If anyone would like more first hand information on Grandmaster Preston F. Carter please leave your contact information.
To my knowledge, I was the last individual to train under and best tested by Shihan Carter.
From his wheelchair, out of his apartment dojo on West State Street in West Trenton NJ I was able to refine his system and after a rigorous half day of testing be awarded the rank of Godan.
After our privates, I would go down to the Trenton PAL on Calhoun Street, and hone my boxing under the tutuledge of several trainers which included Percy Richardson.
Training in the same gym as local boxing royalty like Sammy Goss, Jody White, Mike Benning, “Pop” Nance and many others was a tremendous asset to my Karate development in Shihan Carter’s system.
Even back then, long before it became an accepted cross training necessity for Martial Artists, Shihan Carter encouraged boxing techniques beneficial.
He felt that at brown belt level a karateka should be able to “hang tough” for 3 sparring rounds with seasoned, legitimate boxers.
Trenton PAL was the ultimate testing ground because there were some real “animals” training there and if you came in from the Martial Arts they wanted to test you and see how long you would last.
Frank Stallone, Sly’s brother trained there and would do very well sparring with the seasoned amateur and professional fighters.
As anyone from that era would know, Preston Carter was no one to mess with.
His reputation on the streets of Trenton was as legendary as his reputation in Karate.
What happened in the bar on Clinton Avenue across from the Trenton train station put Shihan Carter in a wheelchair.
But the “thugs” who attacked Shihan Carter paid the price as well.
Sources in the bar have said that Shihan Carter knocked one guy out and turned the guys cheek bone to flour.
Another guy was kicked in the chest so hard that his eyeball popped out.
Not that hard to believe since Preston Carter tipped the scales at close to 300lbs was super fast and powerful, and had the mental fortitude.
Sadly, a third “scum” shot Shihan in the back, and that pretty much rearranged his life.
Errol Bennett Sensei do not forget him,fought the best, defeated the best for decades and did so quietly. His teaching still create many legends and champions. Best of all he saved countless young men and women from our greatest opponent “the streets”. He still is in the Bronx E. 233 Street Traditional Shotokan Dojo. Remember those who did not just “talk the talk” but “walked the walk”. Anyone who enters the ring knows what that means and Bennett Sensei “walked the walk”, just ask around. When you enter Bennett Sensei dojo you will be taken back to the eras mentioned in this article immediately. Stepping onto the dojo floor is an honor and its not wood your standing on, your standing on the sweat and blood of past warriors.
Osu! I’ve seen Master Bennett fight on many occasions and Yes!! Truly one of the best!! Much respect
I see Sensei Robert Wooden, second from the left, in the picture of the Forgotten Fury. However, he is not mention in the article. Can you comment on his contributions?
Here is a reference to Sensei Wooden from Master Dave Thomas,
“Dave Thomas is a 7th degree black belt and senior instructor with the Harlem Goju Association as well as being the founder and CEO of Power of Self. He has over 44 years of martial arts experience. He has trained with some of the most revered instructors of our time, Bobby “Master Buda” Wooden, Grand Master Happy Crump, Grand Master Dr. Khemfoia T. Padu, Grand Master Earl Woodbury, Grand Master “Major” Leon Wallace and Grand Master Sam McGee.”
Professor John Womble was the First African American Blackbelt in the United States to teach organization martial arts as college course. Professor Womble was a black sumurai was graduated the first of his class in the 1950’s. Hollywood will casting for the upcoming movie Black Sumurai it would be nice to have some student of Black Samurai Womble or his famous student Kyoshi Robert Everhart also an African American was post humorously awarded a 10 Dan by the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai Samurai virtue society of JAPAN. I notice Professor Womble was not mentioned. Professor Womble is a forgotten legend needing to be appropriately recognized. Hanshi Robert E. Everhart, Sifu GM Dennis Brown, GM Mike, Warren, and GM Albert Cheeks,
In the 1970’s I started playing chess and I was exposed to several NJ martial arts instructors. Sensei Mike Boss who taught on Clinton Place in Newark, NJ was my first instructor, Sensei James Fain was another along with Sensei Karriem ABdAllah and his son little KA who taught the KA system in Newark, NJ on Springfield Ave. I was involved in a lot of martial arts demonstrations which allowed me to see several of the above mentioned instructors in action. I studied Praying Mantis Kung Fu with a Sifu who had a school in downtown Newark, NJ off of Halsey street and Tae Kwon Do from a Sensei who taught in Irvington, NJ. I guess I practiced MMA before it became it’s own separate martial art. I consider my old school training the best that I ever got and I plan to share what I have learned with children in the Philadelphia PA area.
Does anyone know what happened to the Black Martial Artist website referenced in this article?
I add Heru-ur Nekhet and Mfundishi Jhutymes Salim to da list.
Preston Carter was my instructor.
I was his second black belt and came after Bill Brown.
Mr. Carter was teaching in Trenton at least a year before the Green Hornet and Bruce Lee aired.
I saw him once while he was wheelchair bound and met some new protege he was grooming to keep his art alive.
I was out of Martial Arts for years and was moving down South.
I think the guys name was Joseph.
Mr. Carter was one of a kind.
I would somewhat selfishly add Sensei Joe Richardson and Sensei Earl Monroe, both of which were my very first Karate-do Sensei in Nisei Goju back in the early 70’s.
So what happened to James Cheatham ?
I don’t see him mentioned anywhere.
Great article on Black martial Artist of the past and present.
I started training in 1966 under Johnny Kuhl, made purple belt in 1968, left Sensei Kuhl and started to train under Master Frank Ruiz in Skipper Ingham’s dojo on 37th St. in NYC where i trained with almost all of the above mentioned Nisei Karate students (too many to mention) then we would alternate between Skippers dojo and then train on 7th St and Ave A in the east village which is where Master Ruiz would spend most of his time teaching. Nisei was created by Harry Rosenstein and Frank Ruiz i think in 1968. Wilfredo Roldan and i Made Black belt together and remained best of friends until his recent passing.
im now 79 years old and still train 3X a week. Nisei. what a wonderful learning experience! What an incredible group of true Bushido’s
OSU !
I remember another NY system called Salsa Ryu, a Latin style but don’t recall the instructor who created it.
As an 18 year old black belt/bodybuilder I recall attending one of Aaron Banks tournaments in Sunnyside Queens.
At 5″7 I was a bulked up muscular 195.
As I crossed paths with the late, great Wilfredo Roldan, walking towards him he gave me an up and down look and stopped a few feet from me and he starts to do sanchin breathing combined with growling noises…LOL!
I think he was trying to intimate me since I was wearing a Vince’s Gym tank top(West Coast Bodybuilding legend Vince Gironda), gi pants, and plastic flip flops.
Many, many years later I met up with Shihan Roldan and we had a great laugh reminiscing about that day.
On the West Coast, there’s 2 gentlemen I wish to acknowledge :
1) The late Grandmaster Griffie of Inglewood, California.
He was one of the co-founders of a school and system called American Shaolin Temple.
There is where students learned Shaolin Kung Fu ; Shorin Ryu ; Escrima and Kali.
2) Grandmaster Kafi Roberts:
He taught Kenp and Sanuces Ryu at his dojo in Los Angeles.
When Dr. Powell would visit L. A., he stayed witb Grandmaster Roberts at his house and thats where hed host his seminars and classses on Sanuces.
And soke Jerry Washington, teacher of Hanshi Sayyeed Abdul Rashid, the reason nunchaku became illegal in New York City (late 70’s). Truth.
Thank you for this important history. Im trying to locate a karate sensei from the areas of Miami Dade during tje 70s and 80s. He practiced a hybrid of shotokan and goyu called shogote. His name was Seinse Peterson.
Thank you William A Jones Garrastegui, San Juan PR,
Thanks for speaking my mind, Blacks have gotten the treatment in this country because of their failure to take Martial Arts. Thank you.