Manteno Martial Arts by Sensei Steve's

06/18/2026

Giving Back in the Ring
​Many of you know me as Sensei Steve, a Hall of Fame martial arts instructor, but my journey in combat sports goes beyond the dojo. As a former fighter, a retired USA Boxing coach, and a former registered boxing gym owner, I’ve spent a lifetime in the "sweet science." I earlier this year I had the privilege of volunteering my time as a referee for Slugfest 911, a fantastic fundraiser in Hammond, Indiana, that supports the families and children of our fallen police officers and firefighters.
​The event featured intense, three-round amateur matches between heroes from those departments. Captured here in this photo is a moment from the ring where I had the honor of raising the hand of a police officer after his victory. His incredible physical conditioning—especially those massive arms—was truly something to see!
​While my primary roots are in karate as an 8th-degree black belt, I love using my background in the ring to support such a noble cause.
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06/17/2026

We will be open
class back on

06/17/2026

Making that call and canceling classes tonight- being cautious

06/15/2026

I was dusting off this award from 2020 that I received in Atlantic City, NJ. I received mine for my contributions to Karate and Floyd Mayweather Jr. received the equivalent in boxing. UFC legend Dan the Beast Severn was one of the first individuals to congratulate me.

06/10/2026

At Sensei Steve's Karate, we believe that preparedness is the key to confidence.
​Utilizing the palm heel strike in self-defense is an incredibly effective way for even a junior high student to defend themselves if the situation arises. By focusing on proper technique, students learn how to protect themselves effectively and safely.

06/08/2026

Have you ever seen kids smile this much while learning strategic spacing and timing?
This photo at Sensei Steve's Karate Center, Manteno perfectly capture the "fun" in our "fun, safe way" to develop martial arts strategy!
​We call these our "Snords" (noodle swords), and they are a massive hit! By practicing with these soft tools, students can explore advanced concepts like distancing and defensive strategies without hesitation. It transforms complex combative training into a game they enjoy.
​Check out these two young ladies! Their concentration and genuine joy show just how engaging martial arts can be.
​Interested in joining the fun? Come see what we are about!

06/08/2026

05/30/2026

Congratulations to our new black belt class of 2026

05/25/2026

# # 🥋 Iron Sharpens Iron: A Reunion of Martial Arts Royalty
Last Saturday night, Sensei Steve attended a roast and ceremony honoring a true Chicago icon, mentor, and long-time brother in the martial arts: **Master Harold "Scorpion" Burrage**.
Master Burrage was a dominant National Black Belt Fighting Champion in the 1980s and the legendary force behind the *Scorpion’s School of Champions*. This night was a powerful trip down memory lane. Back in the late '80s and early '90s, Sensei Steve regularly headed over to Scorpion’s school on the West Side to spar with their elite fighters. Master Burrage wasn't just a teammate; he was the coach and team captain of the **1988 Illinois State Karate Team that we fought on together on.

It was incredible to catch up, share laughs, and honor the legends in these photos—men who are not only world-class champions, but true gentlemen that Sensei Steve has always looked up to:

* **Picture 1:** Sensei Steve with his longtime mentor and teammate, **Master Harold "Scorpion" Burrage**.

* **Picture 2:** Reconnecting with GM Richard Plowden** of Detroit, Michigan. Richard is a former World Heavyweight Champion and an absolute legend. He is another martial artist Sensei Steve deeply respects and looked up to, sharing an extensive history competing and judging together over the decades.

Picture 3:Sensei Steve alongside Master Kenneth Young of Chicago and Master Burrage

When we teach our students about a *"Legacy of Discipline, Mastery & Community,"* this is exactly what we mean. The knowledge, grit, and character we bring to our mats every single day was shaped by the absolute best to ever do it.