On August 14th, 2025, the Greatest of All Time martial arts weekend celebration and a happening was held at the Tanglewood Resort in Pottsboro, Texas. On hand were many of the greatest martial artist from all over the USA and as far away as Canada and Germany. The whole event was the brainchild of Grandmaster Lawrence Arthur, Grandmaster Ted Gambordella, and Grandmaster Rick Arnold, who are recognized as some of the highest-ranking black belts in the United States.
The Tanglewood Resort is a beautiful facility located at Lake Texoma which is part of the Red River Corridor area and straddles the border of Texas and Oklahoma, offering scenic views and comfortable amenities that made it an ideal setting for this prestigious gathering. In addition to hosting the event, the Tanglewood Resort boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, adding to its appeal for attendees seeking both relaxation and recreation during their stay. The beautiful course provided a scenic backdrop and extra activities for guests throughout the weekend.
Other amenities included an Olympic-type swimming pool, a playground area for kids, and scenic hiking trails for those who love the outdoors. The resort also featured two dining rooms serving a variety of delicious dishes, catering to different tastes and preferences. Due to its location, it offered some of the best fishing opportunities for anglers and those who enjoy spending time on the water. Additionally, a large marina in the lake area adjacent to the hotel provided guests with impressive scenic views, enhancing the overall experience at the Tanglewood Resort.
A large group of the “who’s who” of martial artists from all disciplines were in attendance and represented one of the most impressive gatherings of practitioners of the arts from around the country who have contributed their entire lives to the betterment of martial arts and all those who are practitioners of the martial arts. This was a three day event that included high-ranking black belt tests featuring fourteen well-known martial artists from across the United States who were up for high level master rankings.
Attendees had the unique opportunity to witness demonstrations, participate in seminars, and celebrate the achievements of legends who have shaped the martial arts community for the last 50 years. The event fostered an atmosphere of respect, camaraderie, and shared passion for martial arts excellence.
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The seminars given throughout the schedule on Saturday offered a diverse range of enriching experiences for martial artists of all levels. James Perlini led a dynamic session focused on “Warmups for Fit for Life,” promoting longevity and injury prevention. Grandmaster Rainer Grytt provided in-depth instruction on defensive arm and lapel grabs as well as choke defenses, while Grandmaster Rick Arnold facilitated a team-building seminar designed to foster unity and discipline among practitioners. Aaron Cerd represented James Cox in a collaborative workshop, and Hanshi Edward Dorsey delivered an engaging class on Taekwondo bunkai and techniques. Grandmaster Lawrence Arthur rounded out the offerings with a comprehensive course on mastering martial arts business, equipping attendees with valuable strategies for success in the industry.
These seminars not only showcased the expertise and teaching prowess of each instructor but also contributed to the overall spirit of learning, growth, and mutual respect that defined the event.
And after all this exhausting learning, we all disappeared to the pool, the golf course, the fishing, and some even ended up at one of the two fabulous bars that feature some of the most unique beverages—apparently designed to make people feel good, imagine that. The amazing Dan Baker from San Marcos was on hand to resuscitate any of us who might have gotten a little too enthusiastic with the festivities. I will tell you that we all had a blast, and I felt that the whole day was an elevated spiritual experience; from the standpoint of all the people, it seemed everyone loved each other, and we were all in very good spirits—no intended pun.
Later that evening, we all donned our finest attire—tuxedos, elegant gowns, and an array of sophisticated accessories—and gathered in the main ballroom for a truly unforgettable night. Surrounded by friends, family, and esteemed peers, we were honored to receive our G.O.A.T. awards, rings, Plaques and acknowledgments from one of the most distinguished groups of grandmasters ever assembled under one roof. The atmosphere was filled with pride, gratitude, and mutual admiration as achievements were celebrated and lifelong contributions to martial arts were recognized. As the formalities concluded, the celebration continued as many of us made our way to the tower bar on the eighth floor, though it might have been the seventh, depending on who you asked—where the camaraderie only grew stronger. Both Friday and Saturday nights were filled with laughter, spirited karaoke performances (some surprisingly impressive, others more enthusiastic than in tune), and heartfelt fellowship with fellow martial artists from across the country. These gatherings created lasting memories and further deepened the bonds within our extraordinary martial arts community.
The roll call of martial artists personally in attendance at the Tanglewood Resort and receiving their G.O.A.T. Awards rings and plaques was a testament to the event’s prestige. among the distinguished guests,
While over 150 additional honorees were recognized and celebrated for their achievements but could not attend in person, their names were acknowledged during the ceremony, ensuring that their impact and legacy were not forgotten. The heartfelt applause and words of appreciation echoed the spirit of unity and respect that defined the entire weekend, making the celebration truly memorable for everyone present.
***In attendance with their families and loved ones who were receiving their G.O.A.T recognition as some of the greatest martial artists of all time are listed alphabetically.
Albert Mandy, Angelina Roy, Angelito Barongan, Anthony Cross, Anthony Georgongan, Orlando’s Chimney, Bobby Briggs, Brett Rogers, Brian Oakes, Carl Whitaker, Carol Parenti, Caroline Jenkins, Chris Kesterson, Craig Sargent, Daniel Baker, Daniel Gossett, Dave Marino, Deborah Harris, Derek Griner, Doc Dougherty, Don Devries, Donald Matthews, Doug Aumock, James Birkle, Robert L. Akikta, Roy Davis, Wendell Goins, Jimmy Steger, Edward Docherty, Elizabeth Yankee, George Jackson, Gregory Robinson, Ismet Kurt, James Battiest, James Cox, James Ockington, James Perlini, Jason Lewing, Javid Khan, Jerry Lindsey, Jerry Wright Jr., Jesse Rodriguez, Jimm McMurray, Jimmy J. Crawley, John Perry, John Tysoe, Johnnie Murphy, Joseph Muscatello, Keith Zielke, Kenneth Nolan Herrera, Kevin Wilson, Lourdes Radelat, Mark Dean, Mark Myers, Michael Hornsby, Michael McGann, Michael Ray Barefoot, Mickey Heath, Mike Sullenger, Nathan Chlumsky, Nick Rubio, Patrick Kelly, Paul Lizotte, Rafael Amill Soto, Rainer Grytt, Randall Flaherty, Rafael Ve’lez, Richard J. McClain, Rick Sparks, Randall Jenkins, Shannah Robin, Shelli Matzek, Sherry Roche, Thien Vo, Tim Henry, Todd Wurr, Tony Collins, Vernie Max Messiah, Vince Cecere, and William Roy were among the esteemed martial artists present and honored at the event. Their dedication and influence have contributed greatly to the martial arts community, representing a remarkable legacy of excellence and commitment.
Fantastic article! Thank you for your coverage of the GOAT Awards and thank you for your years of friendship.