04/12/2026
From a hospital bed after multiple spinal surgeries — barely able to put on my own socks — to standing here tonight as an Inductee into the Cleveland Martial Arts Hall of Fame, Class of 2026.
Martial arts saved my life twice. First, as a teenager, it pulled me away from a troubled path and led me to serve 20 years as a police officer and in the U.S. Army. Second, after on-duty injuries forced early retirement in 2019, it gave me purpose and discipline to fight back — through pain, surgeries, and recovery — until I could step up and take over the very dojo where I began training as a kid.
None of this would have been possible without the support of my family, students, and mentors. Thank you to Master John K. Thomas for the decades of training that got me here. A special thank you to Master Danny Lane for the nomination and belief in my story — your words (“inspirational… character more than skills… overcoming adversity is the key to survival”) carried me here.
This honor isn’t just mine — it belongs to everyone who’s ever refused to quit. Oss to the journey, and to the next generation who will keep the arts alive. The Cleveland Martial Arts Hall of Fame
03/20/2026
RIP Chuck Norris
It is with the heaviest of hearts that we mourn the passing of martial arts legend Chuck Norris—a true icon, a pioneer, and one of our own.
From his earliest days on the cover of Black Belt Magazine to becoming a global symbol of strength, discipline, and honor, Chuck never forgot his roots in the dojo. He inspired generations through his achievements as a champion, instructor, and beloved star, while always living by the code of respect and integrity.
His passing leaves a profound void in the martial arts community, but his legacy will live on in every student, every practitioner, and every life he touched.
Rest in power, Chuck—the world is bowing.
Read more: https://www.blackbeltmag.com/post/the-world-bows-remembering-chuck-norris
03/10/2026
Master John K. Thomas (circa 1987)
03/09/2026
Today Noah comes home. 🇺🇸
SFC Noah Lee Tietjens… husband, father, soldier, and Black Belt… gave his life serving this country.
He lived the values we teach on the mat every day: Honor. Discipline. Service.
Today our community welcomes him home with honor.
But behind every fallen soldier is a family whose life is forever changed.
Noah leaves behind his wife and his son.
They lost not only a husband and father, but their main provider.
Our martial arts community believes something simple: When one of us falls, we stand behind the family they loved.
If Noah’s story moves you, please consider helping his family during this incredibly difficult time.
And if you cannot donate, please share this so others can help.
🔗 https://gofund.me/0a7b22589
Let’s show this family they are not standing alone.
Welcome home, Noah.
Your watch is complete.
03/10/2026
03/09/2026