U.S. Karate and Boxing Founder & Head Instructor Joe Olivarez

Black Belt Hall of Fame nominee, Mr. Joe Olivarez has been continuously involved in the martial arts for over 35 years. He received his 7th degree black belt from Grandmaster Charles H. Gaylord of the Kajukenbo Association of America.

Mr. Olivarez was a street fighter who began his training as an amateur boxer in Mexico prior to his involvement with the martial arts and is a member of the U.S. Amateur Boxing Federation. In 1976, he received his 1st degree black belt from Master Robert J. Gaylord. Mr. Olivarez’s unique style is the result of his hard work and love for the arts. He is respected by his peers and is known for his diversity in the martial arts and his hardcore self-defense style.

Mr. Olivarez was a professional body guard and has been in charge of many security programs for several types of facility events. He teaches martial arts on a full-time basis and will give instruction to anyone who goes to him with an open mind to learn self defense.

In 1989 he received his Guro certification for Visayan Style Corto Cadena Escrima from founder, Santiago "Sonny" Umpad.

Mr. Olivarez has been recognized by the Martial Arts Teachers Association of America and also has the honor of crediting: Felix Macias Sr. (a disciple of Master James Lee), Moore’s Karate, Prof. Rick Alemany, and Tai Chi Master Tony Ho.

Mr. Olivarez maintains Christian morals when teaching his students.