Benny The Jet Urquidez

Benny Urquidez 1952 –

“Pound For Pound America’s Best Karate Fighter Ever”

Benny Urquidez is an American kickboxer, martial arts stunt choreographer and actor.

His martial arts instruction began at the age of 8, his first formal teacher was Bill Ryusaki. He received his black belt at the age of 14, a feat which was highly unusual during the 1960s. He entered the point circuit in 1964, and earned the reputation as an extremely colorful fighter. His speed and unorthodox techniques coupled with the spirit of a caged tiger made him a fan favorite.

Nicknamed “The Jet”, Urquidez was a non-contact karate competitor who later pioneered full-contact fighting in the U.S. He made the transition from point to full-contact karate in 1974 – the year of its inception in the U.S. – frequently fighting in bouts where the rules were ambiguous and contrasts in styles were dramatic. Urquidez is also known for once holding the rare achievement of six World Titles in five different weight divisions, and Urquidez remained largely undefeated in his 27-year career. He fought in Madison Square Gardens as well as in Japan where they even named a comic book series after him.

His native American background made him a natural for the fight industry who promoted the fact in many of his bouts.

Today, he is still very active teaching privately, and working as a stunt coordinator in the entertainment business. He teaches Ukidokan Kickboxing at Team Karate Center in Woodland Hills, which is now the official "Jet" Training Center.