About

At the age of 15, my life took an unexpected turn that would shape my future in ways I could never have imagined. It all began with a traumatic incident – I was robbed and violently attacked while riding my minibike. Bruised and battered, I retreated to my room, nursing both physical and emotional wounds. Little did I know that this dark moment would mark the beginning of a transformative journey.

My mother, deeply concerned for my well-being and safety, discovered me in that battered state. Recognizing the need for a change, she took swift action and enrolled me in Martial Arts Classes. Initially resistant, I reluctantly attended my first class. However, my initial excitement was dampened by an instructor who appeared to be quite harsh and strict. The experience left me disheartened, and I declared to my mother that I would never return to that class again.

However, life had more lessons in store for me.

Just a week later, I found myself facing another physical altercation, this time with a formidable opponent in the school cafeteria – a larger, more muscular student. The reason? I had insulted his girlfriend. After this humiliating encounter, my mother inquired whether I would be resuming my martial arts classes. In response, I vehemently shouted my refusal, still resentful about my previous experience. But destiny had other plans. Just as I thought I had escaped the clutches of that martial arts class, the phone rang. To my surprise and frustration, it was my instructor on the other end of the line, checking on my attendance.

With a mix of annoyance and resignation, I begrudgingly promised that I would indeed be attending the class. The call marked a turning point – an unwitting agreement that would set the foundation for a path I never anticipated. Despite my initial reluctance and frustrations, something began to shift within me. Over time, I started to recognize the value of discipline, perseverance, and self-defense that martial arts offered.

The rigors of the training, the camaraderie with fellow students, and the mentorship from my instructor gradually began to mold me into a stronger and more resilient individual. As months turned into years, I realized that those seemingly small decisions, like reluctantly attending that martial arts class, were instrumental in shaping the trajectory of my life.

What began as a series of reluctant steps slowly evolved into a passionate journey. The lessons I learned – both inside and outside the dojo – started to extend beyond physical self-defense to encompass life skills, confidence, and a newfound sense of purpose. Looking back, that fateful day when I was beaten and robbed, and the subsequent choices made by my mother and myself, ultimately laid the groundwork for a career that would be centered around martial arts.

It’s a testament to the unpredictability of life’s twists and turns, and a reminder that sometimes, the most transformative journeys begin with the most unexpected circumstances. The departure of my father from our lives when I was just eight years old left a void that was not easily filled.

However, in the midst of this challenging time, a new figure emerged who would shape my understanding of strength, mentorship, and the true meaning of fatherhood. My martial arts instructor, bold and unwavering, stepped into this role with an impact that I could never have anticipated. With my father’s absence, my instructor assumed an influential role in my life. He became more than just a guide in the realm of martial arts; he became a surrogate father figure, providing guidance, support, and a sense of stability that I desperately needed. His strong presence and unwavering commitment resonated deeply with me, and I looked up to him with admiration and respect.

During this period, my mother, always a pillar of strength, made a pivotal decision that would shape the course of my life. Recognizing the potential in me and wanting to provide me with the best possible opportunities, she chose to enroll me in a military academy karate school. This decision would prove to be a turning point – a deliberate choice that would eventually set me on a path towards personal growth, self-discovery, and achievement.

The military academy karate school offered a structured and disciplined environment that would become the crucible in which my character was forged. The rigorous training, combined with the mentorship of my instructor, not only honed my physical abilities but also instilled in me a deep sense of discipline, responsibility, and perseverance. As I navigated the challenges of the training, I found solace in the camaraderie of fellow students and the unwavering guidance of my instructor.

As the years went by, I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to my martial arts journey. Through countless hours of practice, sweat, and determination, I steadily progressed in skill and knowledge. Finally, at the age of twenty, the culmination of years of dedication and hard work.

As the years went by, I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to my martial arts journey. Through countless hours of practice, sweat, and determination, I steadily progressed in skill and knowledge. Finally, at the age of twenty, the culmination of years of dedication and hard work was realized – I earned my first black belt. This achievement symbolized more than just a milestone in my martial arts journey; it represented a triumph over adversity, a testament to the support of my instructor, and a tribute to the sacrifices made by my mother.

Looking back on the journey from the day my father left to the day I proudly received my black belt; I am filled with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. The challenges I faced and the lessons I learned, both from my instructor and from life’s twists and turns, have shaped me into the person I am today. The path I walked was not always easy, but it was a journey defined by growth, resilience, and the unwavering influence of those who believed in me.

With profound gratitude, I thank you, Grand Master Garcia Davis, For your wisdom, strength, and guidance, You’ve led me on a path of empowerment, A journey I’ll forever cherish, In your teachings, I’ve found my foundation, A legacy of resilience, honor, and growth, Thank you for shaping my spirit, With respect and admiration, I am indebted, To you, Grand Master Garcia Davis. Who is still my instructor today, it has been well over forty years and friendship is strong still to this very day.

In 1976, my journey as an entrepreneur began. I transformed a tiny bedroom in our home into a space for teaching martial arts, starting with just one student. As word spread, our classes grew, and we moved from the small room to the living room and eventually into our backyard. With the increasing number of students, I realized it was time to find a dedicated location. All at the ripe age of 21.

On April 15, 1977, a new chapter unfolded as I became both a businessman and a martial arts teacher. Embracing the dual roles, I merged my passion for martial arts with a strategic mindset, evolving into “Burdyck,” the business-savvy instructor who would go on to train world champions, carving a legacy in the martial arts industry.

Having established my own karate school, my journey continued to unfold. Throughout high school, I diligently pursued both white and black belts, honing my martial arts skills. Transitioning to Hartford Community College, I accomplished a significant milestone by earning my AA degree at the age of 18/19. Meanwhile, my mother’s inspiring story added to our family’s legacy of determination; she embarked on her own journey to nursing school at the age of 51 with only an 8th-grade education and emerged as a registered nurse.

As my mother’s achievements fortified my belief in the power of perseverance, I embarked on my own path with renewed vigor, fully dedicating myself to my karate school, a venture that quickly became my full-time commitment. Among the students who walked through the doors of my karate school, one would rise to astonishing heights. With dedication, discipline, and relentless effort, this individual transformed into a world champion, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.

Witnessing their journey from novice to champion reinforced my belief in the transformative power of martial arts and solidified my commitment to nurturing the potential within each student who enters my dojo.

On January 8th, 2023, I transitioned into a new chapter, selling the dojo that had been a significant part of my life’s journey. Embracing a form of “retirement,” I now split my time between Ocala, Florida, and the Fort Lauderdale region. I’ve embarked on a fresh venture, founding a mobile martial arts company called MMA Mobil Martial Artist. This new endeavor offers private and semi-private lessons in karate, boxing, and kickboxing – the disciplines that have shaped my life. Clients can choose to come to me, or I’ll bring the training directly to them.

For further information about lessons, feel free to reach out to Master John Burdyck at masterjohnburdyck13@gmail.com or connect with me directly at 443-299-2047. This evolution in my journey reflects my unwavering dedication to sharing the transformative power of martial arts wherever it’s needed.