Kyoshi Valdes began his martial arts training at age five in Cuba, studying Judo. He moved to the United States in 1968 and started studying USA Goju under GM Peter Urban and Sensei Alex Saavedra, earning his 1st Dan Black Belt. In 1971, Sensei Valdes moved to Hawaii where he studied under Kimo Wall Sensei. He entered the military in 1974 and while stationed in Korea, he studied Tang Soo Do and Tae Kwon Do. Upon his return in 1978, he studied under GM Steve Berkowitz. After GM Berkowitz passed, he continued his studies under Soke Kosei Wakugawa. After retiring from the military forces, Kyoshi Valdes continues to train in multiple martial arts, accumulating over 55 years of experience. 

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Ranks and Certifications

1974 – 2nd Dan Black Belt, Goju Ryu, GM Kimo Wall

1978 – 3rd Dan Black Belt, Goju Ryu, GM Steve Berkowitz

1986 – 4th Dan Black Belt, Goju Ryu, GM Steve Berkowitz

2000 – 5th Dan Black Belt, Goju Ryu, GM S. Berkowitz World Union Karate Federation

2003 – 6th Dan Black Belt, Goju Ryu, GM S. Berkowitz World Union Karate Federation

2017 – 7th Dan Kyoshi, Soke Kosei Wakugawa – 10th Dan Okinawan Goju Ryu Kyoshi Valdes is also recognized as a 5th Dan in Tan Soo Do and a 4th Level in Guru Eskrima

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Organizations Kyoshi Valdes has been part of:

1. Founder, Fierce Tiger Martial Arts Association – Butokukai

2. Executive Advisor, Kom Do Kwan

3. President, World Goju Ryu Karate Alliance 501(c)3, Non-For-Profit Organization

4. Held Presidency of WUKO, 2013 - 2018

5. National Referee 2014

6. Continental Referee 2016

7. CEO, World Traditional Karate Alliance Corp 501(c)3 Non-For-Profit Organization