Corky Sikes shares his inspiring journey from backyard training in Jesup, Georgia, to becoming a global martial arts champion and respected school owner. Mentored by the legendary Don Carter, Corky’s path took him from Shotokan karate to the dynamic world of Taekwondo, guided by influences like Cliff Yon and Ernie Reyes Sr. He recounts the thrill of competition, his first trophy win, and his relentless pursuit of excellence. More than titles, Corky's story is about passion, creativity, and building a legacy—both on the mat and in his community—through discipline, innovation, and lifelong service to martial arts.

In this episode, Tony Bell shares how a childhood choice between football and karate sparked a lifelong journey in martial arts. From training under Sensei Virgil Kimmey with his brother Melvin, to competing with the USC Karate Club, Tony reflects on the bonds, battles, and mentors—like Sam Chapman and Ronnie Barkoot—that shaped him. Beyond Karate, he opens up about caring for his elderly parents and the deep values of service, legacy, and tradition. Spanning the 1970s to today, Tony’s story is a powerful reminder of why we preserve the past while guiding the future of martial arts.

We talk with Ricky Taylor, a Legendary Carolina Martial Arts icon whose journey from fighting at the age of 15 to founding USA Karate in Lancaster, SC, reflects unmatched grit and heart. Trained under other legend Nathaniel White, Mr Taylor's story is one of transformation, brotherhood, and deep-rooted tradition. We explore his passion for teaching, his love of quiet motorcycle rides, and his legacy of mentoring the next generation. With tributes from peers and students alike, this episode is a celebration of a true martial artist whose influence goes far beyond the dojo.

From the baseball fields of Shelby, North Carolina, to the battlegrounds of Vietnam and the Dojos of Okinawa, the extraordinary life of Grandmaster Vic Coffin is nothing short of inspiring. Imagine navigating a promising baseball career at a young age old, only to find yourself enlisting in the Marine Corps and facing the harsh realities of war. Mr Coffin's story is a compelling blend of sporting achievements, military service, and a lifelong dedication to martial arts—a journey that shaped him into the resilient, revered figure we celebrate today.Join us as we explore the transformative power of Marine Corps training and the unique challenges faced by combat veterans returning home. Vic shares his personal experiences with martial arts, from his initial foray into Karate at a Dojo inside a laundromat, to earning his first Blackbelt. His vivid recounting of training troops in Vietnam and his significant encounters with traditional martial arts masters in Okinawa add depth to his narrative, emphasizing the crucial role of mentorship and the timeless value of Kata and weapons training in Karate.We also reflect on the therapeutic escape found in cycling post-Vietnam, Mr Coffin's mastery in various martial arts weapons, and the profound influence of key figures like Major Bill Hayes. Through personal anecdotes and heartfelt stories, we celebrate the intertwining of personal struggles, athletic achievements, and the sustaining power of love and family. Karate emerges as more than a physical discipline—it’s a way of life, teaching resilience, inner strength, and the importance of community.

Join us on a journey through the fascinating world of martial arts with our guest, Mr Tony Thomas, one of the two most senior black belts in South Carolina. Listen in as Tony recounts his inspiring journey that began in 1966, sparked by Bruce Lee's performance in the Green Hornet television program. With no martial arts schools around, he and his friends trained in his backyard and at school with the help of their English teacher, Mr Lucius Fryerson. Mr Thomas' dedication and passion eventually led him to receive a Blackbelt at South Carolina State University.

Don't miss our enlightening discussion on the changing dynamics of martial arts practice. Mr Thomas shares how the movie Karate Kid played a significant role in drawing younger people to martial arts, shifting the ratio from 80% adults and 20% children to the opposite. We explore how martial arts can impart respect, discipline, and focus in children, and Mr Thomas' experience as a former school teacher adds another layer to this discussion. We also touch upon the evolution of safety measures in martial arts and his views on this change.

The conversation continues as he reflects on his martial arts journey and the various sources of inspiration that have fueled his path. He speaks fondly of his martial arts school that he and his wife established, and the remarkable evolution in the age range of practitioners over the years. Wrapping up our chat, Mr Thomas talks about the importance of timing and entrepreneurial spirit in his journey, and his impending induction into the Hall of Fame. Join us in honoring this martial arts legend as he generously shares his remarkable story.

In this engaging discussion, we are joined by martial arts legend, Brian Pena, who opens up about his inspiring journey from a baseball-loving kid to a martial arts icon. Revealing how a passion for baseball led him to the world of Karate and how it became something he could truly own as a young boy. Listen as he shares his training experience as a young man, his competition days, his constant drive to outdo his rivals, and the way Martial Arts has blessed his entire family.

In this episode we delve into his competitive journey, discussing the impact it had on him. He opens up about the arrogance and ego he developed along the way, his love for black clothing, and the confidence he gained from his wins at the Super Grands and the Battle of Atlanta. He also speaks about the impact of Martial Arts on his business and personal life, how his family has changed him, and the challenges of balancing parenthood and leadership. We also talk about Karate as an art and a sport, the need for professionalism. This is an episode you don't want to miss.

Welcome to a mesmerizing and enlightening conversation with a martial artist who has carved his name in history, John Chung. As he walks us through his incredible life journey from a 12-year-old immigrant from South Korea to a world champion martial artist in the US, you will find yourself captivated by his tenacity, resilience, and sheer love for martial arts. His childhood experiences, early competitions, and the intense rivalry between the East and West Coast teams will make you relive the golden era of martial arts in the 70s.

--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------

(0:00:01) - Chung's Martial Arts Journey From Korea

(0:09:34) - Early Martial Arts Experiences and Competitions

(0:21:15) - The Journey to Becoming a Champion

(0:36:52) - Forms Rivalry and Martial Arts Showmanship

(0:50:01) - Martial Arts Journey and Achievements

(0:58:54) - Reflections on Martial Arts and Teaching

(1:14:40) - Appreciation and Wedding Anniversary Celebration

Episode with Tony Young, going through his career from the beginning to today. How he went from small Karate tournaments to sponosrships to fighting on the world stage.

Tony Young began karate at the age of 12 and earned his Black Belt 4 years later. Tony Young is now a 7th degree Black Belt in the Goju Ryu style of karate. Tony Young was named the National Super Light Weight Karate Champion for 19 consecutive years. Tony Young has won over 1000 championship awards and prizes throughout his career. In 1997, Tony Young retired from international and national competition to focus on community affairs, business and tournament promotions. In 1985 Tony Young opened the Tony Young All-Star Karate Academy to teach and make a difference in the community. Mr. Young’s overall goal is to make individuals aware of the need to develop his/her minds and bodies. Mr. Young works with Public and Private Schools in the Atlanta area. Mr. Young has also developed working relations with Billy Blanks, who is the creator and owner of Tae-Bo Aerobics. Mr. Young is certified by Billy Blanks to teach Tae-Bo Aerobics to children and adults.

Episode with Bill “Superfoot” Wallace, going through his career from the beginning to today. How he started fighting sideways, where the nickname “Superfoot” comes from, phone calls with Elvis and some of his greatest.

Bill “Superfoot” Wallace is a living legend in the world of martial arts and professional kickboxing. A pioneer in the sport, he began his martial arts career as a Karate point-fighter. He competed along with such immortals as Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Joe Lewis, and Skipper Mullins. After an incredible career in point-fighting, Wallace made his professional debut as a kickboxer in 1972. He quickly captured the World Middleweight Championship and retired as the undefeated champion after compiling a record of 23-0. With the urging of his friend Chuck Norris, Wallace has appeared in a number of motion pictures, mostly as the “heavy” in martial arts films. Wallace, a college graduate, continues to give exhibitions and trainings around the world.

– IMDb Mini Biography By: angelsunchained

In this Episode of the Legends of Carolina Martial Arts podcast we talk with the one and only Jay Bell and are joined by special guest Magic Johnson.