The Founder

Image of Shihan LewisHanshi Ivan Lewis is the founder of Busho Kai Martial Arts & Fitness.  He is one of the most respected martial arts instructors in the United States with over 43 years experience and a former Kumite and Kata Grand Champion.  Hanshi Lewis is presently an 8th Dan black belt and certified Master Instructor in Shito-Ryu.  He also holds a black belt in Goju-Ryu, Shotokan and JuJitsu. 

Hanshi Lewis began his martial arts training in the U.S. Virgin Islands under the direction of Grandmaster Frank Ruiz, the founder of the Nisei Goju-Ryu Karate System.  He later moved to New York City to instruct classes at the Nisei Goju-Ryu Headquarters. Hanshi Lewis received his 6th degree black belt in 1995 and this is the same year his instructor, Master Frank Ruiz passed away.  In 1997 Hanshi Ivan Lewis turned to Hanshi Del Saito, a Shito-Ryu Master and Director of the Traditional Karate-Do Organization for instruction.  His other instructors include Sensei Toyatoro Miyazaki and Hanshi Wilfredo Roldan.

Hanshi Ivan Lewis is currently the President of the Southwest (AAU) Amateur Athletic Union of the United States and District Chairman for the AAU Karate Program.  Hanshi Lewis has an International Degree from the Ministry of Education, Culture and sports at the Budo Academy, Certified Coach for the American Sport Education Program and holds a National AAU Referees license.  Hanshi Ivan Lewis is a is also a member of the AAU Hall of Fame committee and holds a Martial Arts Congress teaching license.

Hanshi Ivan Lewis most memorable accomplishments include:

  • 2000-2005 - Traditional Karate League Instructor of the year
  • 1998 - Inducted into the Texas Martial Arts Hall of Fame
  • 1991 - Inducted into the USA Martial Arts “Who’s Who” Elite
  • 1989 - Inducted into the Nisei Goju-Ryu Hall of Fame
  • 1989 - Nisei Goju-Ryu Instructor of the Year
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