A Detailed Lineage Leading to Shihan John Keefe

It’s important to understand that many of the instructors in this lineage were multi-disciplinary, often holding black belts or certifications in multiple styles. Several were ranked by more than one prominent Kenpo teacher, contributing to the richness and evolution of the system. The following lineage highlights the Kenpo connection that forms the foundation upon which John Keefe’s martial arts journey—and ultimately, the development of Dynamic Fist Law—is built.

James Mitose – Kosho Ryu Kenpo
Received his black belt in Japan and introduced Kenpo to Hawaii.
→ Taught William Chow and Adrian Emperado.

William Chow – Karaho Kenpo
Received black belt from James Mitose.
→ Taught Adrian Emperado.

Adrian Emperado – Kajukenbo
Received black belts from both James Mitose and William Chow.
→ Taught Sonny Gascon.

Sonny Gascon – Karazenpo Go Shinjutsu
Received black belt from Adrian Emperado.
→ Taught George Pesare.

George Pesare – Kaito Gakko
Received his black belt from Sonny Gascon.
→ Taught Nick Cerio.

Nick Cerio – Nick Cerio’s Kenpo
Received black belts from George Pesare and William Chow.
→ Taught John Keefe.

John Keefe – Dynamic Fist Law (Kenpo)
Founder of Dynamic Fist Law, a comprehensive martial arts system drawing from multiple styles.

Black Belt Promotions of John Keefe:

• 1st–3rd Degree Black Belts awarded by Paul Taylor, a 10th-degree black belt and student of Charles Mattera (a direct student of Fred Villari—one of Nick Cerio’s first black belts).

• 4th Degree Black Belt awarded by Grandmaster Nick Cerio, 10th-degree black belt and founder of Nick Cerio’s Kenpo.

• 5th Degree Black Belt awarded by Grandmaster Don Rodrigues, 10th-degree black belt, certified by Nick Cerio, Ed Parker, and George Pesare.

• Current Teacher: Grandmaster Don Rodrigues continues to mentor John Keefe.