JOIN THE FINEST MARTIAL ARTIST EVENT IN THE WORLD

Welcome to the G.O.A.T. Awards! - The Ultimate Recognition for the World’s Greatest Martial Artists!

Join us for an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime celebration of martial arts mastery, dedication, and excellence. The event date is Thursday, August 14th at 6 PM CST.

2025 G.O.A.T. Awards has concluded. Watch for more information about future events!

Join the FINEST martial arts event in the world and learn from the best

What is it?

The G.O.A.T. Awards is the most prestigious and will be the centerpiece of your accolades and awards.

Who is it hosted by?

Hosted by Grand Masters Lawrence Arthur, Ted Gambordella, and Rick Arnold.

WHere and when?

Location: Tanglewood Resort, Pottsboro, TX – August 14-16, 2025.

What's included?

Features: Seminars, Banquet, Black Belt Testing, Networking Events, and More!

located at Tanglewood resort & conference center

Nearest Airports: Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW).
Nearest airport shuttles are available for certain flights

Please note the "Resort Fee of $25" will drop off when you check into the hotel. You can also call the hotel directly at (609) 438-2929 to book your stay.

Event Details - Full Itinerary & Highlights

Thursday Schedule

High Rank Black Belt Testing (5th Degree and Above)

Time

  • 6:00 PM

Location

Led By

  • Grand Masters Ted Gambordella, Lawrence Arthur, and Rick Arnold

Eligibility

  • Must be 4th Degree Black Belt or higher
  • Minimum of 25 years of martial arts experience
  • Application required (details provided upon request)

Certification

  • Must be 4th Degree Black Belt or higher
  • Minimum of 25 years of martial arts experience
View Registration OPtions

Instructor & Business Training Seminars

Time

  • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Professional Development for Martial Artists

Events:

  • Teaching & Dojo Management with Lawrence Arthur & Rick Arnold
  • Who Teaches the Teacher? A panel discussion with The World’s Greatest Martial Artists

Specialty Training Sessions

  • Warrior Defense Lab (Combat applications)
  • Krav Maga (Real-world self-defense)
  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Grappling & submissions)
  • Tai Chi (Internal power & longevity)

Instructor & Business Training Seminars

Time

  • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Professional Development for Martial Artists

Location

  • Tanglewood Resort – Private Lounge

Dress Code

  • Business Casual

Meet & Reconnect

  • Socialize with fellow legends in an exclusive, relaxed setting.

RSVP Deadline: May 30th, 2025

View Registration OPtions

Martial Arts Seminars & G.O.A.T. Awards Ceremony

Time

  • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Exclusive Martial Arts Training Seminars

Details

  • Train with world-class Grand Masters and Masters
  • Advanced Techniques, Leadership Strategies, and Martial Arts Philosophies
  • Open to all attendees (Spots are limited—reserve your place today!)

Specialty Training Sessions

  • Warrior Defense Lab (Combat applications)
  • Krav Maga (Real-world self-defense)
  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Grappling & submissions)
  • Tai Chi (Internal power & longevity)

Instructor & Business Training Seminars

Time

  • 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM -  Reception & Professional Photography

Location

  • Grand Ballroom Foyer – Tanglewood Resort

Check-in & Registration

  • Receive welcome packets, seating assignments, and VIP badges.

Professional Photography

  • Get a framed portrait included in your award presentation.

VIP & Press Interviews

  • Selected inductees may be interviewed for event promotions.

World’s Greatest Martial Artists Banquet & Awards Ceremony

Time

  • 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Formal Opening & Welcome

  • Grand Master Lawrence Arthur

Presentation

  • Keynote Speaker & High Rank Master’s Presentation Ceremony

G.O.A.T. Awards Ceremony

  • Presentation of the 14” x 18” Plaques featuring framed portraits and official recognition scrolls.
  • Special Recognitions & Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Closing Toast & Celebration

Post-Banquet Social (Optional)

  • 10:00 PM and later
View Registration OPtions

G.O.A.T. Awards Registration & Pricing options

Whether you are an honored inductee, a dedicated martial artist attending the event, or a supporter celebrating excellence, we have a package tailored for you. Secure your place at the 2025 Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) Martial Arts Awards and be part of this historic gathering of legends.

Guest Attendance options

We are now sold out.

This is for people attending the event but not doing their black belt testing.
Inductee VIP - Sold Out
$495
For inductees receiving official recognition at the event with exclusive perks.
Includes:
Formal Banquet & Exclusive Reception
Professional Photography
Custom G.O.A.T. Award
Commemorative Swag Package (Polo Shirt – Specify Size)
First 100 Registrants Will Receive A Free Ring
Non-Attending Award - Sold Out
$195
For inductees who cannot attend but wish to receive their award and recognition remotely.
Includes:
Virtual Attendance via Zoom
Custom G.O.A.T. Award
Commemorative Swag Package
Worldwide Shipping
Commemorative Lapel Pin
First 100 Registrants Will Receive A Free Ring
Bring-A-Guest - Sold Out
$195
For guests attending the banquet and reception alongside an inductee.
Includes:
Exclusive Reception and Networking
Formal Banquet
Commemorative Lapel Pin

Martial Artists

This is for the Martial Artists doing their black belt testing
Black Belt Testing Registration - Sold Out
$300
For martial artists testing for rank advancement with official recognition.
Includes:
Belt with your name and rank
Recognition ceremony at the event
Framed certificate from G.O.A.T. Grand Masters
Master’s ring ($125 value), size collected at registration
Live testing panel evaluated by martial arts legends

Additional Purchases

This is for all other purchases
G.O.A.T. Ring
$125
A custom-designed ring symbolizing excellence and achievement in martial arts.
Includes:
Premium Custom Design
Durable & High-Quality Finish
Wide Range of Sizes
Honor the Legends. Recognize Excellence. Celebrate Dedication.

Nominate a Martial Artist for the 2025 G.O.A.T. Awards

Do you know a martial artist who has dedicated their life to mastery, leadership, and making a difference in the martial arts community? Nominate them for the 2025 Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) Martial Arts Awards and give them the recognition they deserve. Just fill out the form below and submit it to nominate a martial artist.

Those who fulfill the following criteria are eligible:

  • Minimum 5th Degree Black Belt
  • At least 25 years of martial arts experience
  • At least 40 years old
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Limited Spots Available – Secure Your Place Now!

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