"Encourage and maintain high technical standards, understand the reasons behind why we do what we do, and build a supportive culture of self-discipline and self-esteem while strengthening both mind and body."
I once called Hanshi and asked if he had some time to talk, as I had something important to ask him. His response, in his usual humorous way, was:
"Shit, Robbie, I better sit down for this one."
I asked him a question that had been weighing on my mind: “What would you want me to do when you’re no longer around?” I knew that day would come eventually, and I felt it was important to understand his wishes as I continued my journey of teaching karate.
Unfortunately, due to medical discrimination and segregation during the COVID-19 pandemic, we parted ways. Yet, not long after, he reached out to me to discuss a few unrelated matters. Despite the circumstances, he still began and ended our conversation that morning by asking how I was doing and if I was okay.
As is my usual response, I told him:
"I’m always okay, Hanshi. Nothing ever changes at my end."
The last words he ever said to me were:
"I have a few things to attend to, Robbie, but let’s talk again soon."
Hanshi and I didn’t always see eye to eye. I wasn’t at the top of his friends list—likely because I had the courage to defy him when I felt it was necessary, and I wasn't someone who needed to ring him every week to make sure he remembered who I was.
I just put my head down and remained as independent and as self-reliant as I could possibly be.
That's me at my core and I know he liked that about me.
But despite our differences, I will always hold onto this truth: I am doing exactly what one of the greatest martial artists that ever lived would want me to do.
That knowing continues to guide me.
It shapes how I lead, how I teach, and how I make decisions as I build MOUKO KAI KARATE karate—a style born out of an unshakable will to win in the face of overwhelming odds.
To honor his influence, I remain committed to maintaining high technical standards, fostering a culture of discipline and self-esteem, and ensuring the true essence of karate lives on for future generations.
While the journey has not been easy, it has been purposeful, and it will continue to be so—because it’s not just about karate.
It’s about the mindset, the values, and the strength we cultivate in ourselves and those around us.