About Us
WKU Canada serves as the national arm of the esteemed martial arts organization, WKUWORLD, which orchestrates the prestigious WKU World Championships annually, uniting 70 nations and boasting over 20,000 competitors. Our organization hosts a diverse array of amateur and professional events, alongside workshops, seminars, and educational initiatives, extending scholarships, training, and classes to communities worldwide.
Our mission at WKU Canada is to elevate standards and opportunities for martial artists at every level, be they competitors, schools, referees, or event organizers. Moreover, we are dedicated to reshaping misconceptions and dispelling negative stereotypes surrounding martial arts, with a vision to garner increased governmental recognition in Canada. Such recognition promises to unlock new avenues for both domestic and international martial artists.
In upholding our commitment to excellence, WKU Canada embodies the core tenets revered in martial arts studios worldwide, placing paramount importance on discipline, focus, respect, and self-control within our code of conduct.
Numerous martial arts opportunities await with WKU and WKU Canada, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming both new and familiar faces alike!
WKUWORLD Canada Officials
Tareq Abu Khadra
Appointed as the President of WKUWORLD Canada, Tareq Abu Khadra is a distinguished martial artist with over 25 years of experience, holding a 4th degree black belt in Kadgamala Karate and Kickboxing with multiple world championship titles under his belt.
Tareq has been a part of a multitude of organizations throughout his martial arts career including WKA, NASKA, NBL, WKC, IMAC and most recently WKU.
Prior to becoming the Representative in Canada for WKU, Tareq was also a National coach for Team Canada and was present during WKU 2022 and WKU 2023, coaching many of the competitors who would ultimately achieve the world champion achievement. He also took on many administrative responsibilities that and helped organize the 2023 WKU Canadian National Championships and the 2024 WKU World Championships.
In addition to his new role under WKU, Tareq also runs and operates his own Shogun Dojo branch in Prince George, British Columbia where he is dedicated to promoting martial arts and mentoring his students. His expertise and leadership have made significant impacts within the martial arts community, both locally and internationally. Tareq actively participates in seminars, workshops, community programs, and tournaments, inspiring and guiding the next generation of martial artists.
Marwan Abu Khadra
Hanshi Marwan, an 8th degree black belt in Kadgamla Karate, 7th degree black belt in Kyokushin Karate and 5th degree in Krav Maga, is internationally recognized as one of the leading authorities within light contact tatami sport. He has recently ascended the WKU ranks and replaced the prestigious Gunter Kugochek, as the now head referee.
Before his rank assertion, Marwan acted as the VP for WKU Canada. Before making the change to WKU, Hanshi Marwan was a part of many international organizations, holding official titles with IAKSA, WKA, WKC and now WKU.
Today, Hanshi Marwan oversees a thriving family-run dojo in Smithers, where he, serves as a custodian of martial arts excellence. Through his unwavering dedication, Hanshi Marwan continues to nurture the martial arts community all across the world, leaving an indelible mark on the world stage year after year, ensuring that his teachings endure and inspire generations to come.
Team Canada's National Coaches
Danny Campbell
Danny Campbell has been passionately training in Karate since 2009, earning his black belt in 2014.
His dedication and skill led to winning his first WKU World Championship in 2015, followed by two more titles in 2016. A fervent fighter specializing in point fighting and kickboxing, Danny began his journey at CSMA, where he continues to train. As the Head Instructor and Head Coach of the competition team at CSMA, he has been teaching since obtaining his black belt.
Danny's involvement with prestigious organizations like WAKO, WKC, WKU, and WKA reflects his commitment to excellence in martial arts and his role in mentoring the next generation of fighters.
Danny now continues his journey as a National Team Coach where he will strive to provide Team Canada, his expertise and guidance and help our amazing competitors walk away from the event triumphant!
Sheldon Lainchbury
Renshi Sheldon Lainchbury is a fifth degree black belt in Karate, fourth degree black belt in Kickboxing and a brown belt in Jiu-Jitsu with 23 years martial arts coaching experience.
As ten time Canadian National Champion, he was named to more than ten Canadian National Teams in WKU, IAKSA, WKA, ISKA, WKC and CNMAA federations. He has competed in several international tournaments, including five World Karate and Kickboxing Championships in Ireland, Spain, Switzerland and Canada.
In 2000 Sheldon won a World IAKSA Bronze medal in continuous fighting after being the only person in all 23 competing countries to fight in point, light continuous and full contact continuous divisions. Competing in semipro ring fights, he holds the record of two wins and no losses.
Sheldon will be helping team Canada succeed in the 2024 World Championships as an official team Canada national coach!
Contact Us Today!
If you are ready to join a diverse and inclusive space for martial arts and combat sports, contact us today!
The WKU is always excited to welcome new members of all skill levels and for all positions, ranging from competitors, to coaches, to referees. No matter your contribution, get involved and find your community here!
