Cape Town’s Kung Fu champion, Muhammad Junaid “MJ Li” Chafeker, a Goodwood local, has officially been inducted into the World Action Martial Arts Hall of Fame and Honors, which took place in Atlantic City, US this past weekend, 31 January to 1 February.
MJ made history by becoming the first Muslim South African to achieve this milestone, having won more than 30 gold medals for his country on his 30-year Kung Fu journey.
“I am still speechless and feel tremendously honoured to be inducted into the World Action Martial Arts Hall of Fame and Honors, and to become the first South African and African Kung Fu champion to achieve this feat. This is truly special, a moment to savour.
“It has always been a dream to be recognised by the greats and global elite in martial arts, whom I have followed since I was a little kid. To be congratulated by icons such as Don ‘The Dragon’ Wilson, Benny ‘The Jet’ Urquidez, Cynthia Rothrock and two-time world heavyweight boxing champion Tim Witherspoon on receiving this auspicious honour is just special.
“I hope this inspires the next generation of martial artists in South Africa and Africa. To dream of, believe in and work hard for anything make achieving it possible.”
Along with MJ, fellow South African and seasoned master in Ju Jitsu Sensei Herman Kordom from Mahikeng was also inducted into the Hall of Fame.
MJ was due to arrive back this week.
