Technical Director
Grand Master Sijo Amalio Guerrero , a trailblazer in the world of martial arts, was born in 1955 in Puerto Rico. His journey into martial arts began at the young age of 12 when he joined the 4H Club in San Sebastián del Pepino, where he trained in Shaolin Tsu Kempo, Chinese boxing, and traditional boxing under the mentorship of Yeyo Kid.
Education and Early Martial Arts Career
In 1976, Grand Master Amalio pursued higher education at Interamerican University. Later, he expanded his academic achievements by studying Business Administration and Paralegal Studies at Hostos Community College, where he earned an associate degree in 1999. He furthered his education by completing a bachelor’s degree at Boricua University College in 2002, graduating as an honors student.
Grand Master Amalio earned his black belt in 1973, marking the beginning of a remarkable martial arts career. Between 1966 and 1989, he competed in numerous tournaments, excelling in Kata, Chinese Forms, and fighting, where he often claimed first place and earned the title of Grand Champion. His skills and competitive spirit took him to events in New York, Venezuela, Mexico, Saint Thomas, Puerto Rico, and beyond.
Contributions to Martial Arts
As a pioneer of full-contact karate and kickboxing in Puerto Rico and internationally during the 1970s, Grand Master Amalio helped shape the development of modern martial arts. In 1988, he participated in the Pan American and Caribbean Games held in Puerto Rico and proudly served as a torchbearer for the 1988 Olympics.
Throughout his career, Grand Master Amalio trained and mentored over 100 black belts, establishing himself as a revered figure in the martial arts community. His contributions earned him recognition from numerous prestigious federations and institutions, solidifying his legacy as an outstanding Grand Master.
In 1983, he founded the Shaolin Kempo Karate Chino system in Puerto Rico. Building on this foundation, he established the International Shaolin Chuan Fa Kung Fu Inc. in the United States in 2002, further promoting martial arts on a global scale.
Leadership in the International Hosharafu Federation
From 2014 to 2019, Grand Master Amalio Guerrero served as the President of the International Hosharafu Federation. In this role, he provided visionary leadership, fostering collaboration among martial artists worldwide and promoting the principles of reality-based self-defense and martial arts education. His tenure marked a period of significant growth and international recognition for the federation.
Legacy and Present Endeavors
In 1993, Grand Master Amalio immigrated to New York, where he has lived for approximately 25 years. He established his school and offices in Brooklyn, New York, where he continues to teach and inspire the next generation of martial artists.
Grand Master Amalio Guerrero’s lifelong dedication to martial arts, education, and leadership has left an indelible mark on the global martial arts community. His contributions remain a source of inspiration, demonstrating the transformative power of martial arts in fostering discipline, unity, and excellence.
