6-Time World Karate Champion From Oklahoma City

A man from Oklahoma City is a six time karate champion, and he's not done competing.

Friday, July 5th 2024, 6:58 pm

By: News 9, Mike Glover


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Ethic Dejaun started martial arts around nine years old, but after a few years, he quit.

“I didn’t like getting hit,” said Dejaun.

But by 16, he was back and discovered that not only did he enjoy martial arts, he was also pretty good at it.

“In 2018, when I won the first world title, that one was pretty special, and that’s when I knew because I has to go up against other countries,” said Dejaun.

Winning one world championship in karate is pretty big, but not for Dejaun.

“We’re at six world titles now,” said Dejaun.

Six world titles in karate and he’s not just focusing on one discipline.

“Karate, kickboxing, boxing, Muay Thai, I’ve even been in the cage, I’ve done MMA as well,” said Dejaun.

Dejaun has never lost in competition and has the belts and trophies to show for it.

“This was my first kickboxing title that I won in England. I’m the first American to actually with the British open. These three here, these are all USA boxing titles,” said Dejaun.  

He trains twice a day and as passionate as he is with martial arts, there is another passion that he is just as dedicated to.

“Acting is something I picked up I would say as a teenager, and that’s one of my true passions. I can only fight for so long,” said Dejaun.

Not surprisingly he is excelling in that area as well.

“We actually have a film coming out, [...] we spoke about three years ago, they are just now releasing it, August 13 in theaters,” said Dejaun.

What happens when the two worlds collide?

“Well that just shows you my skill set, because you see my face and I don’t like getting hit,” said Dejaun.

With all the accolades he does have one more significant accomplishment, he is in the United States karate hall of fame

“Last year in July I was inducted in Houston,” said Dejaun.

All of this is somewhat overwhelming for a kid that grew up right here in Oklahoma City.

“I never thought where I would be going overseas fighting, and having to take pictures, and autographs and people knowing who I am, and everybody wants to fight me,” said Dejaun.

Next Dejaun is heading back to England to compete once again, he is in need of financial support and sponsorship, you can help through his GoFundMe page here.

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