John F. Ralph, the Shihan (Master Instructor)
John F. Ralph, the Shihan (Master Instructor) at East Coast MMA Center, is an 10th degree
Black Belt with over 34 years of martial arts experience. This American Dojo (school) reflects the
proper etiquette and hard training of a traditional dojo found in Okinawa, Japan. Located in
Aberdeen, New Jersey, Monmouth County, East Coast MMA Center offers the student a unique and
unforgettable journey through the world of Japanese-American martial arts as well as standup fighting,
takedowns, ground fighting and submission holds. As of 2003, Ralph Shihan was the 1st Dojo Instructor
in the state of New Jersey to be certified in Haganah F.I.G.H.T. Self-Defense System, a system based on Israeli
military hand-to-hand techniques.
Born in Longbranch, NJ, John Ralph is a long-time resident of Matawan and Keyport, NJ. He is a
successful businessman and sole owner of the East Coast MMA Center, and he is dedicated to the personal
growth, development and success of his students. Ralph Shihan has also served as a Martial Arts Instructor
for local police departments in New Jersey, local Womens Groups, Realty Associations and local youth groups.
Ralph Shihan is affiliated with the International Martial Arts KoJuKai based in Farmington, CT, headed
by Dr. John Palais Hanshi (Grandmaster), a 10th degree Black Belt. He is also affiliated with World Champion
Master Kevin Thompson's Black Belt Karate Association based in Montclair, NJ. Ralph Shihan's diverse
martial arts background reflects a wide range of disciplines and "cross-training," including: Israeli Haganah, Krav Maga,
Japanese Goju-ryu, Kyokushinkai and Shotokan Karate-Do, Judo, Aikido, Aikijitsu; Muy Thai of Thailand; Korean Tae Kwon Do
and Hapkido; Brazilian Jujitsu; American Kickboxing and Shootfighting; and Philippino weapons.
Ralph Shihan has a long list of martial arts accomplishments, some of which include:
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Recipient of "The Samurai Award" from "The International Federation of Jujutsuans (I.F.O.J.J.),
Martial Arts University; October 2006.
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"Silver Achievement, Hall of Fame" 2000 Inductee, American Okinawan Karate Association (AOKA)
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"Hall of Fame" 1996 Inductee, World Karate Union
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"Most Outstanding Martial Artist" Award (1991), New Jersey Professional Karate League, Inc.
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Black Belt Karate Fighting Grand Champion
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Professional Kickboxing Coach, Trainer & Manager for FFKA & K.I.C.K. World-Rated Contender
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Cornerman / Co-trainer, K1 Heavy Weight Andrew Sullivan; Brookdalecollege, Kyokushinkai trained
Train with the Best to Be the Best!
Master John Ralph (Shihan)