Red Tiger Spring Things
Spring was an exciting and meaningful season for Red Tiger Martial Arts, filled with competition, growth, community, and new opportunities. From the MMA cage to Kung Fu tournaments and community events, our students and instructors continued to embody what martial arts is truly about: perseverance, humility, and constant improvement.
Pablo’s MMA Journey Continues
We were incredibly proud to support our student Pablo Mejia in his MMA debut at Ohio Combat League 43 on March 21. Pablo stepped into the cage and battled hard, earning a draw in a tough and competitive matchup.
Pablo is one of the hardest-working and most good-natured people to ever step onto our mats, and we are honored to be part of his martial arts journey. His dedication, discipline, and willingness to push beyond his comfort zone inspire everyone around him.
At Ohio Combat League 45, the result wasn’t what we hoped for, but competition is never only about wins and losses. Pablo showed the heart of a lion and reminded all of us what martial arts teaches at its core: give 100 percent to whatever challenge stands before you, stay humble, treat others with respect, and always look for the lesson.
We do not grow by seeking comfort. We grow when we do hard things.
The literal definition of Kung Fu is “skill and ability developed over time.” Skill is built through effort, setbacks, persistence, and growth. We will continue to improve and come back stronger.
A huge thank-you goes out to everyone who helped Pablo prepare, came out to support him, and sent positive energy his way. The way our students embrace the idea of Kung Fu family continually impresses me. Together we are stronger, and none of us stands alone.
Bringing Kung Fu to the Community
On April 17, Red Tiger had the privilege of participating in the grand opening celebration for Rita’s Italian Ice in Cincinnati.
We’re still not entirely sure why they chose us—but we had an amazing time performing, meeting people, and enjoying some delicious frozen treats on a very warm spring day.
If you’re looking for a way to cool down this summer, make sure to stop by Rita’s for some Italian Ice.
Community engagement is an important part of what we do at Red Tiger. Martial arts isn’t just about training in the school—it’s also about sharing positive energy and connecting with the broader community.
Expanding Knowledge Through Sanda Coaching
This spring also brought an exciting learning opportunity for me personally.
I, Sifu Paul Mason, had the honor of attending a seminar led by Coach Lee Yi Yuan, head coach of the USAWKF Sanda Team, and earned a national coaching certification.
For those unfamiliar with Sanda, it is a Chinese combat sport similar to kickboxing, but with the added element of throws and takedowns. Unlike MMA or grappling arts, however, there is no ground fighting.
Training under Coach Lee was an excellent experience and a valuable opportunity to continue growing as both a martial artist and instructor.
Special thanks to Meng’s Martial Arts Headquarters for hosting the seminar and making this opportunity possible.
Strong Showing at the 2026 Wing Chun National / Kung Fu Regional Championships
One of the biggest highlights of the spring came at the 2026 Wing Chun National / Kung Fu Regional Championships in Dayton, Ohio.
Five Red Tiger students competed and represented our school exceptionally well.
For some, this was their very first tournament experience. Brody Hawkins and Lauren Rengstorf stepped onto the competition floor for their first Kung Fu forms performances and did an outstanding job. Competing for the first time takes courage, and we are proud of how they handled the challenge.
Our more experienced students also delivered excellent performances.
Alex Wohl earned Gold in Open Forms, while Matt Bryan earned Silver in Open Forms.
In sparring events, Alex, Matt, and Jesús Lucero all demonstrated tremendous skill and composure, earning podium finishes and qualification for the Pan American Kung Fu Championships in Buenos Aires, Argentina this October.
Pan Am Qualifiers
Alex Wohl
Silver — Siu Nim Tau Form
Gold — Chi Sau Sparring
Gold — Mai San Jong Sparring
Jesús Lucero
Gold — Mai San Jong Sparring
Matt Bryan
Silver — Chi Sau Sparring
Bronze — Mai San Jong Sparring
Beyond medals and placements, what made me most proud was their sportsmanship, etiquette, and work ethic. These qualities matter just as much as technical skill and competitive success.
Looking Ahead
Spring reminded us that martial arts is about much more than punching, kicking, or winning trophies. It is about growth, character, community, and the pursuit of excellence over time.
Whether competing in MMA, performing at community events, pursuing advanced certifications, or stepping onto the tournament floor for the first time, our students continue to show courage, humility, and resilience.
We’re proud of what Red Tiger accomplished this spring—and even more excited for what lies ahead.