Matthew Mullins

Five-time world champion Matthew Mullins has been practicing martial arts for more than a decade. Honing his skills, studying under legendary martial arts instructor John Sharkey at Sharkey's Karate Studio in Naperville, Illinois, Matt took to the competition circuit and quickly excelled in all divisions. A third-degree black belt in Shorei-Ryu, Matt is also a six-time North American Sport Karate Association (NASKA) national champion and a five-time American Karate Association (AKA) national champion.

While at Sharkey's, Matt also trained alongside three-time world champion Mike Chaturantabut. There, the two men perfected their skills in sport karate, what would later become known as XMA, or extreme martial arts, a fluid blend of traditional forms with powerful acrobatics and gymnastics.

Matt's training with Mike, their talent and the fascinating transition between traditional martial arts and XMA were recently featured on the Discovery Channel documentary, "XMA: Xtreme Martial Arts." The documentary showcases the amazing grace and fluidity of the human form and also studies the latest scientific analysis, motion-capture techniques and bio-mechanics of body movement. "XMA: Extreme Martial Arts" is now one of the best-selling DVDs in the Discovery catalog.

"XMA is the next phase in the evolution of martial arts, combining traditional styles with more unusual and entertaining moves such as acrobatic kicks, spins and flips," explains Mullins.

Mullins also travels across the country, hosting exclusive training camps at karate schools. These appearances allow him to share his experiences and educate the public on the mental and physical benefits of martial arts. Mullins' passion for his art has become an inspiration to many aspiring future-generation martial artists.

When he is not performing, training or hosting a martial arts camp, Matt is actively pursuing an acting career. He has been featured in national commercials for America Online, Applebee's, NBC, Nike and Pepsi, and as the lead in several films, including "Kung Fu Love Triangle," "Freshmyn," and "Bloodsport 2050."