Leaders

Shihan Sam Greco

Australia

6. Dan

Shihan Sam Greco is an Australian full-contact karateka, heavyweight K-1 kickboxer, and mixed martial artist. He was the 1994 Karate World Cup champion and holds notable kickboxing victories over Branko Cikatić, Ernesto Hoost, Mike Bernardo, Stefan Leko, and Ray Sefo, as well as MMA victories over Heath Herring and Shungo Oyama.

Sam Greco is a name synonymous with the fight game. With 37 years of martial arts and fight experience, Greco is a household name in Japan, Europe, and throughout Asia and Australasia. A former bare-knuckle Karate World Champion and three-time WAKO undisputed World Heavyweight Kickboxing Champion, Greco built an aura of invincibility in the fight world. Fans flocked to his fights to witness his sheer brute power and knockout prowess.

Fight Record:
147 Fights – 131 Wins – 11 Losses – 3 Draws – 2 No Contests

After retiring from professional competition in 2005, Sam Greco worked as a trainer for other fighters, including Bob Sapp.

The above results encompass Full-Contact Karate, K-1 Kickboxing, and mixed martial arts. Following his decorated fighting career, Greco retired from the ring to focus on his film career. His imposing physique, magnetic personality, and charisma led to several high-profile film roles.

In addition to his acting career, Greco has become a beloved figure on the Japanese talk and game show circuit, making guest appearances and performing sketches on Japan’s highest-rated programs. He has also featured in numerous Japanese advertising campaigns.

  • Member of the board of the KWU SENSHI
  • 1999 K-1 World Grand Prix 3rd Place
  • 1999 W.A.K.O. Pro World Muay Thai Super Heavyweight Champion
  • 1995 The Best of the Best Tournament Champion
  • 1994 W.K.A. World Muay Thai Super Heavyweight Heavyweight Champion
  • 1994 Seidokaikan Karate World Cup Champion
  • 6 x Australian Full Contact Champion