Instructors
Master tyrone Hemingway/ head instructor
OSS!! Welcome to Bushido Karate Fitness! I am the head instructor, Tyrone Hemingway, and I’ve been passionate about martial arts since the age of seven, when I began my training in Universal Karate in 1990. Family has always been at the heart of my journey—my uncle, Eugene Coker, introduced me to martial arts, and I took my first steps in the discipline at Bushido Karate and Fitness on 71st and Western under the guidance of my mentor, Winston Matthews.In 2016, I earned my first-degree black belt under Sensai Winston, a milestone that reaffirmed my dedication to martial arts. Today, I proudly hold a 6th-degree black belt, achieved at the Warrior’s Path Tournament in 2023. Throughout my career, I’ve competed in and won prestigious championships, including the 2022 PKC USKA Heavyweight title, and for the past four years, I’ve consistently ranked among the top three self-defense champions in the PKC Region 1.As an instructor, I’ve had the privilege of promoting seven students to black belt and coaching fighters to notable accomplishments, but my work goes far beyond training martial artists. I am dedicated to mentoring students, helping them channel their energy into positive growth. Through martial arts, I strive to build strong, confident individuals who embody discipline and resilience while embracing opportunities to lead and inspire.As a member of the International Martial Arts Federation and the Professional Karate Commission, I am committed to fostering unity within our community and empowering students to grow not only as martial artists but as role models in their own lives.Outside the dojo, I’m a proud father of two. My son, Torey, is pursuing a career in finance, and my daughter, Taylen, is a sophomore at the University of Michigan. At Bushido Karate Fitness, we aim to not only teach martial arts but to create a welcoming, family-oriented environment where students of all ages can grow and thrive.
Grandmaster winston matthews / founder
In September 1977 I began my training at the Choi Karate Institute U.S.A. in the Korean Tae-Kwon-Do (Moo Duk Kwan). I practiced diligently for several years only stopping to finish high school and to attend Loop College in Chicago, Illinois where I received my Associates degree in Sociology.In September 1980, I continued my training under the leadership of Master James Butler in Shorin Ryu karate where I obtained a 2nd degree (Nidan) black belt. During the time with Master James Butler, I also trained with the Black Dragon Slayer Association with Sensei Greg Edwards who held a rank of 3rd degree (Sandan) in Universal Tae Kwon Do. Sensei Edward trained under the leadership of Master Earl Wilson, who trained under Master Gregory Jaco. Master Jaco promoted me to 4th degree (Yodan) in Tae Kwon Do, and also the art of Ken-Do.In 1990 I opened up my first school named “Bushido” (The Way of the Respected Warrior). After deciding to open up my school, I pursued two of my classmates from the Black Dragon Slayer Association, John Williams and Michael Bailey (who also trained under Sensei Edwards). Several months later, we were joined by another classmate, Eugene Coker, who trained under Master Earl Wilson.Since then I’ve been promoted to 7th degree by the Professional Karate Commission (PKC), and later to 10th degree by Grandmaster Preston Baker. I’m the creator of the IMF, and a former referee in combat sports in the state of Illinois through the Athletic Commission. I’ve referred and judged in numerous promotions including The UFC, Strike Force, and Bellator. I’ve also trained two world title champions.I would like to thank Master James Butler for instilling in me the training in which I still follow.
Master charmin Mccullough
My name is Shihon Charmin McCullough, and I am a 6th-degree black belt with Bushido Respected Warriors. My journey in martial arts began at the age of 12, introduced to me by my aunt. She initially enrolled her children in karate classes, but little did she know that this decision would ignite a lifelong passion and pave the way for my future success.My first instructors—Sensei Winston Matthew, Sensei Eugene Coker, Sensei Michael Bailey, and Sensei John Rusty—played a pivotal role in shaping my foundation in the Universal style of martial arts. The dojo where I began my training was Bushido located on 71st and Western.Under the guidance of my instructors, I progressed rapidly. Within my first week of training, I earned my white belt, and in just two months, I was promoted to blue belt. My dedication and hard work led to a double promotion within the first year, advancing me to purple belt. By the age of 16, I had earned my brown belt, and shortly after, I achieved the rank of junior black belt. At 18, I reached a major milestone: promotion to full black belt.This accomplishment was deeply meaningful, as it marked the beginning of a new chapter—not just in my martial arts journey but also in my personal life. Four years later, my son, Camron McCoy, was born. Following in my footsteps, Camron began training at an early age, and it was a profound honor to promote him to black belt in December 2023.Today, my legacy continues through my children. Alongside Camron, my two other children are also actively involved in martial arts, ensuring that the values and discipline of this art form are carried forward for generations to come.Martial arts has been more than a discipline; it has been a cornerstone of my life, instilling resilience, focus, and a commitment to excellence. I am proud to share this journey with my family and the Bushido Respected Warriors community.
Sensei aaron patton
My Name is Sensei, Aaron Patton my Journey in martial arts actually began in 1981 with a few classmates from high school. In 1982 I took a pause from everything and enlisted in United States Marine Corps. After returning home from the Marine Corps at the age of 22, I began a career I the automotive industry, working for such places as Sears and Firestone automotive further moving on to South Chicago Dodge and Mancari’s Chrysler. At the age of 29 my career with the car industry ended and a new career in Law Enforcement began. It wasn’t until the age of 52 that my journey back to Martial Arts was reestablished. I had always been a customer of Mathews Barbershop where the owner and proprietor was none other than(Bushido) Grand Master Winston Mathews.Although he wasn’t my barber, he is someone that I’ve known through my years as a youth. Knowing of his status and abilities in and through the martial arts community. It wasn’t until one day while getting a haircut and talking with my barber who I only knew at the time as Tyrone Hemingway I happened to mention the names of some of the people I attended high school with, mentioning one name in particular and finding out the person mentioned was not only Tyrone’s family member but, was also related to his mother a person that was like a sister to me throughout my high school years. This set the stage for my return to martial arts. I started back as a no belt at the age of 52, this was a difficult task being older and completely out of shape. Through perseverance, determination and by the Grace of God with excellent instruction from Grand Master Winston Mathews and Now Master Tyrone Hemingway I have fought through asetback battle with cancer to be promoted to the rank of Blackbelt (1st Dan) in December of 2023. This alone says that you are never too old to train, it also adds to the Bushido Way of the Respected Warrior motto “Can’t Stop, Won’t quit”. I am SENSEI, AARON PATTON and I approve of this Message.
Sensei JOEL AVALOS
My Name is Joel C Avalos. I began my karate journey at the age of 7. As a beginner, I trained in a universal style. My path into martial arts was influenced by my mother’s concern about my health and weight. She met Master Charles Harris, who recommended we visit Grand Master Winston Mathews at Bushido Karate and Fitness where I began my training.
My first instructor, Sensei Tyrone Hemingway introduced me to the discipline at The Dojo located at 2601 w 71st in Chicago. Over time, I progressed through each rank.
During the weekend of 4th of July 2024 I was invited to Puerto Rico for a tournament. It was there where I achieved my black belt, July 6th at 1:50pm to be exact! An experience that marked a milestone in my martial arts journey.
I am currently 15 years old and though I am focused on continuing my own development, I am also passionate about helping others. In addition to my personal training, I dedicate as much of my free time as possible to mentoring and training younger students and assisting them in reaching their own goals.
I am proud to be a part of the Martial Arts community and look forward to continuing my martial arts journey.
OSS
Sensei willie torrence
I started martial arts karate at the age of 13. The karate school was in the YMCA on 66th Union. My mother placed myself along with my brothers in class. Our instructor’s name was Sensei Mike.
At the age of 19, I started working out with the Black Dragon Slayers under Eugene Coker and Winston Matthews head instructor of Bushido Warriors. I also fought in the MMA fight club Rebels of Destructions receiving a light heavyweight championship belt. I received my first, second ,third and fourth degree black belt under the tutelage of Winston Matthews and Eugene Coker.
I have four children which three of them were raised up in Bushido Martial Arts and Black Dragon Slayers. I currently own and am CEO of Divine Restoration and Construction, a residential rehab company. Also, I am facilitator of Tethered Life Ministries. A ministry designed to help young people become entrepreneurs in real estate. I am the pastor of The Church in Christ of the Apostolic Faith started in 2015. The ministry that helps people develop their individual relationship with GOD.
Sensei carl brent
Carl Brent, an Englewood native, has risen above a life surrounded by violence and police brutality to become a beacon of hope and resilience. Overcoming personal obstacles and avoiding the pitfalls of incarceration, Carl embarked on a transformative journey with the guidance of his therapist, who encouraged him to channel his PTSD and depression through physical and competitive activities.While working as a hazmat truck driver and real estate investor, Carl was introduced to martial arts by Master Tyrone Hemingway. Under the mentorship of Grand Master Winston Matthews, Carl embraced the Universal System of martial arts, focusing on the alignment of mind, body, and spirit, earning his Black Belt. Sensei Carl owns property in Chicago and NWI Indiana, For 5 years experience being a landlord and house flipper. He also has 3 years experience of Government Contract bidding and procurement. Sensei Carl has been married for 3 years and has 4 children.Today, Carl and his wife co-lead Kreative Kinnectionz Youth Outreach, a 501(c)(3) organization. Through innovative programming, they empower at-risk youth with skills in Social Emotional Learning, Financial Literacy, Real Estate Investing, and Workforce Development, embodying the Bushido way of life. We train individuals to be prepared for life outside the dojo because we never know what life will throw at us.