It was an honour and pleasure to be able to hand this 5th Dan black belt award to my long term friend and fellow martial artist, Lee Rivers, who couldn’t be more deserving of achieving this master status.
I started training under Lee around 32-33 years ago in Swindon where he was an instructor in a different club, and Lee trained me until I reached my 1st dan black belt when we were part of another organisation (Not the CMAA), I went on to the open my own club and that’s where my martial arts journey started.
Lee is a perfect example of years of continued commitment and dedication to the martial arts world and community.
A few years ago, Lee and his club joined the CMAA, so we are now both part of this great organisation.
This 5th Dan black belt award was given to Lee Rivers at his club All Stars Kickboxing in Cirencester on the 17th May 2026 by the chief instructor of Impact Martial Arts Wayne Timlin.
The award was made possible by the head of the Cobra Martial Arts Association, Andy Morrell.
Congratulations Master Lee Rivers.
