Grandmaster Gary Lee Baker
Founder of UPKUDO


Grand Master Baker at new Dojo
     The UPKUDO International Karate Federation was founded by 9th Dan Grand Master Gary L. Baker, fondly known to the fight world as the "Human Tornado". He is registered with The World Head of Family Sokeship Council #930724005. Grand Master Baker was inducted into the World Hall of Fame in 1993 and established as the Grand Master of the art of UPKUDO for his outstanding accomplishments as a competitor and instructor as well as his contribution to the Martial Arts world with his unique style.

Master Anne and Grand Master Baker

     Several times a year, Grand Master Baker instructs karate seminars at Alpha UPKUDO. His seminars a focus mainly on point fighting strategy and technique. Grand Master's seminars are always a tremendous learning experience for everyone who attends. Grand Master's seminars usually last two hours, with an additional third hour for the high rank students, although Grand Master often extends the length of his seminars because of his love for teaching and his love for his students.

Grand Master Baker Performing a hook kick at his 2001 Summer Seminar at Alpha UPKUDO

     Grand Master Baker is affiliated with Grand Masters and Masters world wide. Some of the great competitors you may recognize are, in no particular order: Grand Master Pachevas, Grand Master Sanchez, Grand Master Pack, Master Henry Williams, "Superfoot" Bill Wallace, Don "The Dragon" Wilson, Chuck Norris, Mike Green, Tony Young, Joe Hess, Mike McCoy, Donna Judge, Stan "The Man", Mike Sawyer, Pete Cunningham, Kevin Thomas, Steve Shepard, James Cisco, Mike Smith, Manny Caberas, James "The Widow Maker" Warren

Grand Master Baker demonstrates a hook kick at his May 2004 Seminar
     In addition to teaching champions and instructors over the years, Grand Master Baker has achieved numerous accomplishments. Below are just a few:
  • Developed the martial arts karate style of UPKUDO in 1974
  • Inducted into the Grand Master World Hall of Fame in 1993
  • Registered the approved art of UPKUDO in 1993
  • Ranked #3 in the world of Light Heavy Weight Kickboxing Champion
  • Hall of Fame Top Male Instructor of the Year
  • Top Grand Master Instructor of the Year in 1994
  • National Champion Fighter 1984
  • Olympic Point Karate Champion Fighter
  • #1 Seed of the US Open
  • 3 Time Light Heavy Weight Karate Champion
  • Hall of Fame Top Male Fighter of the Year
  • Middle Weight Champion in Point Karate


Alpha UPKUDO and all affiliated schools of ALPHA UPKUDO are registered members
in good standing with the UPKUDO INTERNATIONAL KARATE FEDERATION.


If you would like more information or would like to schedule a seminar with Grand Master Baker in your area
please contact Master Anne Radke at renshianne@upkudo.com, or call (850)514-4334.

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