If you’re wondering who The Karate Kid Teacher is… well, it’s me—Master Stephen Thompson. And this is the story of why I do what I do.

From Fan to Fighter (And Back Again)

I’ve been involved in martial arts since 1979. I’ve won 10 World Karate Titles, a European Kickboxing Championship, and travelled the world competing.

But here’s a secret:

As a kid, I didn’t dream of being a world champion—I dreamed of being the next Karate Kid!

When the original Karate Kid movie came out, I loved it. The story was simple but powerful:
Good vs Evil. Underdog vs Bully. Focus beats Fear.

At one point, they even ran a media campaign asking:
“Could YOU be the next Karate Kid?”

Of course, I applied! 😄
(They never called me back—argh! But hey, life had other plans.)

Why I Became The Karate Kid Teacher

After years of competing, I realised my true passion wasn’t just in fighting—it was in teaching kids how to become champions in life.

That’s why I built Kicx Academy, and why I’ve spent decades developing programs that go beyond just kicks and punches.

I became fully qualified in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and I’m licensed to teach leadership and life skills—not just martial arts.

But I don’t call this part of my teaching The Leader In Me—because it’s bigger than that.

Welcome to Champions Character

Alongside my close friend and lifelong martial arts partner Master Smith, we created a unique programme called Champions Character.

Why that name?

Champions – Because it was created by champions, for future champions (in life, not just in sport).
Character – Because character matters. It’s about bringing back good old-fashioned principles. Respect, discipline, kindness, confidence, and never giving up.

This isn’t just about karate—it’s about life.

“But Won’t Karate Make My Child Fight?”

I get asked this a lot.

Parents sometimes worry that learning karate will make their child aggressive. But here’s the truth:

Kids will fight anyway—it’s part of human nature.

The difference is this:
Learning martial arts teaches kids self-control. It helps them use their brain as the first weapon, not their fists.

At Kicx Academy, we teach kids how to manage emotions, walk away from trouble, and stand up for what’s right.

That’s what The Karate Kid Teacher is all about.

What’s With “One More Thing”?

If you’ve seen my logo or heard me talk, you’ll notice I always say:

“One more thing… Character comes first.”

This comes from my childhood too.
I grew up watching Columbo with my dad.
Columbo would always act like he wasn’t the smartest guy in the room—then just as the bad guy thought they’d got away with it, Columbo would turn and say:

“Oh, just one more thing…”

And that “one more thing” always nailed the truth.

I loved that. It taught me:

Humility wins
Character beats arrogance
Never underestimate the quiet person

What I Want Kids to Learn

My mum and dad taught me:

✅ Never give up
✅ You can always do more
✅ The fun isn’t in the trophy—it’s in the journey

That’s the lesson I pass on to every child who walks into Kicx Academy.

So Who Is The Karate Kid Teacher?

A kid who wanted to be the next Karate Kid
A fighter who became a mentor
A teacher who believes in life lessons over life trophies

And of course…

One more thing… Character comes first.

—The Karate Kid Teacher