George Kolovos

Shihan George Kolovos stands as an icon in the world of martial arts, renowned for his profound influence and transformative journey within the discipline. His story is one that spans decades, marked by dedication, innovation, and a tireless commitment to martial arts excellence.

George's martial arts odyssey commenced in 1975 when he stepped onto the path of Kyokushin Karate. From the very beginning, he exhibited an unparalleled passion and talent for the martial arts. Training diligently at the Kyokushin Karate headquarters, George's progress was nothing short of remarkable. In a discipline where it typically takes a minimum of five years to earn a black belt, George defied convention, achieving this milestone in an astonishing two and a half years.

Fuelled by an unwavering dedication to martial arts and a vision to create a unique martial arts center, George embarked on a transformative journey. His martial arts arsenal expanded to encompass a diverse range of styles, making him a formidable force in the world of martial arts. With numerous national titles to his name in both Kyokushin Karate and Kickboxing, George's reputation as a martial artist of exceptional caliber was cemented.

The genesis of Melbourne Martial Arts can be traced back to George's humble beginnings, where he rented a room at the Melbourne City Baths. From these modest origins, Melbourne Martial Arts has grown into an internationally renowned and independent training organization, a testament to George's vision and unwavering commitment.

In 2004, George made history by introducing Muay Thai to Melbourne through the pioneering fight night promotions known as "Brute Force." His shows attracted fighters from across the globe, including Europe, China, Thailand, and Japan, showcasing the international appeal of his events.

George's dedication to the growth and development of martial arts in Victoria led to the creation of the Victorian Amateur Martial Arts Association (VAMAA) in 2014, an endeavor in collaboration with other leading promoters in the combat sport industry. VAMAA's mission was to nurture and develop the sport at the junior level, leaving an indelible mark on the martial arts landscape in Victoria.

George's legacy includes the annual staging of the Victorian Kyokushin Karate Championships since 1987, a tradition that continues to this day without interruption. Additionally, every three years, he orchestrates the prestigious Australian Kyokushin Championships, a testament to his enduring commitment to the art.

In 2015, when the Victorian Government legalized the use of the cage for MMA events, George once again demonstrated his pioneering spirit by becoming the second promoter to host an MMA show in Victoria. This pivotal moment in Victoria's combat sports history solidified George's status as a visionary in the martial arts community.

Shihan George Kolovos is not merely a martial artist; he is a trailblazer, a visionary, and a steward of tradition. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of martial arts and serves as an inspiration to countless practitioners worldwide. His impact on the martial arts community is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to thrive as he shapes the future of martial arts in Australia and beyond.