Instructors
Anthony marquez
Anthony Marquez is a world-class martial artist and actor whose career serves as a masterclass in the practical application of discipline and technique. Born and raised in Chicago, Marquez rose to international prominence as the original live-action performer for Kung Lao in the iconic Mortal Kombat franchise, specifically in Mortal Kombat II and Mortal Kombat 3. His transition from a NASKA Rookie of the Year to a digital action hero was built on a foundation of authentic mastery in Wushu, Sanshou, and MMA. This rare blend of cinematic experience and competitive pedigree allows him to teach students not just how to move, but how to perform with the precision and intensity required at the highest levels of both sport and screen.
As the founder and head coach of EKF Martial Arts, Anthony leverages decades of high-stakes experience to cultivate an environment of technical excellence. His background in Chinese Martial Arts and Muay Thai provides his students with a comprehensive striking arsenal. Having worked alongside legendary creators to motion-capture some of the most famous fighting sequences in gaming history, Anthony possesses a unique ability to break down complex mechanics into functional, repeatable movements. His coaching philosophy centers on the idea that "training" is a lifelong pursuit of refinement, moving beyond mere physical combat to foster a sharp, resilient mind.
For those looking to begin or advance their journey, training with Anthony Marquez offers more than just standard instruction; it is an invitation to learn from a verified pioneer of the craft. His approach is grounded in real-world application and neurological efficiency. Anthony’s career as a "Kung Fu Rockstar" is a testament to the power of persistence and a refusal to quit, qualities he instills in every student who steps onto his mats. At EKF, you aren't just learning from a coach—you are training with a master who has defined the visual and technical standards of martial arts for a generation.
taylor oh
Taylor Oh is a Chicago-based martial artist and performer whose expertise bridges the gap between traditional mastery and modern athletic application. As a lifelong practitioner of Chinese Martial Arts, Taylor has earned a reputation for technical excellence, notably showcased through his competitive success in Wushu and high-level forms. His deep understanding of movement mechanics isn't just theoretical; he has spent years refining the fluidity, explosive power, and mental focus required to excel in one of the world's most demanding physical disciplines. This background serves as the bedrock for his coaching, where he translates complex martial concepts into actionable skills for students of all levels.
In the world of entertainment, Taylor has carried forward a storied legacy while carving out his own distinct path. Following in the footsteps of his father, Anthony Marquez, Taylor transitioned his martial arts prowess to the screen as a stunt and motion-capture performer. He notably portrayed Kung Lao in the unreleased Mortal Kombat HD Arcade Kollection and contributed to the motion-capture work for the Mortal Kombat and Injustice franchises. His experience on professional sets and in performance capture suites has honed his ability to execute strikes and movements with extreme precision—a skill he now utilizes to help his students develop better spatial awareness, timing, and "camera-ready" technique.
As an instructor at EKF Martial Arts, Taylor focuses on empowering the next generation of martial artists through a blend of traditional discipline and contemporary training methods. His coaching style emphasizes the "how" and "why" behind every movement, ensuring students build a functional foundation that serves them both on the mats and in their daily lives. By leveraging his background in competitive Wushu and professional stunt work, Taylor provides a unique perspective on performance-based training and combat efficiency. For anyone looking to learn martial arts from a coach who embodies the fusion of elite athleticism and cinematic artistry, Taylor offers a training experience that is as inspiring as it is technical.
izzy gonzalez
Israel "Izzy" Gonzalez is a decorated Chicago-based boxing coach whose journey is defined by resilience, deep technical knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to the sport. Having competed at a high level as a semi-professional boxer until 2003, Izzy understands the visceral realities of the ring — the discipline, the pressure, and the mechanics required to succeed. His personal experience navigating the intensity of competition, combined with his own physical and mental dedication following the sudden end of his competitive career, instilled in him a profound empathy for his students. This foundation ensures that he doesn’t just teach the physical mechanics of a punch; he imparts the mental fortitude necessary to weather any storm, making him an invaluable guide for both novices and seasoned athletes.
Transitioning from competitor to mentor, Coach Izzy began his coaching journey at Northeastern Illinois University and has since become a cornerstone of the Chicago boxing community. Notably running the highly respected "Izzy Duz It Fitness" and serving as a boxing coach at EKF Martial Arts, he has dedicated thousands of hours — and thousands of sparring rounds — to refining the art of boxing for his students in the gym. He possesses a unique ability to break down complex boxing fundamentals, from footwork and head movement to intricate counter-striking, into digestible, repeatable actions. His meticulous attention to detail and ability to safely orchestrate high-volume sparring sessions allow his students to test their skills in a controlled, supportive, yet intensely challenging environment.
For those looking to learn boxing, training under Israel Gonzalez offers an authentic, transformative experience that transcends the typical heavy bag workout. He treats boxing as a physical chess match, emphasizing defensive responsibility, crisp technique, and cardiovascular endurance. Whether you are stepping into the gym for the first time to get in shape or preparing to elevate your physical intensity, Coach Izzy tailors his approach to bring out the absolute best in his athletes. His legacy in the Chicago boxing scene is built on a track record of elevating practitioners to new heights, proving that with the right instruction, anyone can unlock their highest potential. Training with Izzy means learning from a proven, passionate tactician who is completely invested in your growth and refinement.
andrew thorp
Andrew Thorp is a multifaceted Chicago-based boxing coach and performer whose career perfectly illustrates the intersection of elite athleticism and dynamic physical expression. With an impressive competitive pedigree as a four-time Chicago Golden Gloves Champion and a two-time National Masters Super Middleweight Champion, Andrew possesses a deep, battle-tested understanding of the art of boxing. His background isn't limited to the ring; as a seasoned actor, comedian, and educator, he brings a uniquely engaging energy to his craft. This rare combination of high-level combat sports experience and professional performance allows him to understand not just the physical mechanics of training, but the psychology of movement, timing, and composure under pressure.
At EKF Martial Arts, Andrew translates his championship-winning experience into highly accessible, transformative coaching. As an instructor for EKF's boxing program and the high-energy "King Fit" conditioning classes, he excels at breaking down the complexities of boxing fundamentals for students of all skill levels. Because of his background in performance and teaching, Andrew possesses a rare gift for communication — he can take the nuanced elements of footwork, head movement, and combination striking and deliver them in a way that is engaging, digestible, and highly effective. His approach to the gym goes beyond simply throwing punches; he focuses on building a safe, solid foundation while pushing his students to safely achieve their personal fitness and competitive goals.
For those looking to step into the world of boxing, working with Andrew Thorp offers a uniquely engaging and rigorous experience. Whether you are taking his early-morning classes to build explosive conditioning or refining your ring strategy in a dedicated boxing session, Andrew’s infectious energy and deep technical knowledge make every workout deeply rewarding. He understands firsthand the discipline required to succeed at the highest levels of amateur boxing, and he leverages that insight to build up the confidence and mental resilience of everyone he teaches. At EKF, learning from Andrew means you are being guided by a proven champion who knows exactly how to bring out the absolute best in his students, both physically and mentally.
danny flores
Danny Flores is a dedicated Chicago-based martial artist whose extensive competitive background in Mixed Martial Arts translates into elite-level, comprehensive instruction. Competing notably as a Bantamweight, Danny has tested his skills across multiple disciplines, building a robust foundation that seamlessly integrates Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Boxing. His time spent navigating the physical demands of high-level competition has given him a profound understanding of what it takes to perform under intense pressure. By blending dynamic striking with intricate grappling, Danny has honed a highly practical understanding of body mechanics, timing, and spatial awareness—knowledge that forms the core of his approach to martial arts education.
As a vital coach at EKF Martial Arts, Danny brings his deep reservoir of competitive insights directly to the gym. He excels at taking the complex, multi-layered strategies of MMA and breaking them down into digestible, highly effective training drills. Danny recognizes that genuine skill development requires more than just physical repetition; it demands a clear understanding of the intricate relationship between the brain, physical intensity, and the processing of long-term sensation. By focusing on technical precision and safe, high-level drilling, he creates an environment where students can safely push their limits, build immense confidence, and master the seamless transitions between striking and ground control.
For those looking to begin or elevate their martial arts journey, training with Coach Danny offers a dynamic, well-rounded approach to physical and mental development. Whether your goal is to improve your technical prowess, build real-world conditioning, or explore the diverse blend of disciplines that make up modern MMA, his coaching is expertly tailored to unlock your highest potential. Danny treats martial arts as a lifelong pursuit of refinement, instilling in his students the discipline and resilience needed to overcome adversity. Learning from Danny Flores means receiving instruction from a seasoned tactician who is deeply invested in your personal growth, providing a structured and deeply supportive path to mastery.
harley vu
Harley Vu is a dynamic Chicago-based martial artist whose comprehensive competitive background provides a formidable foundation for his career as a coach and instructor. With a profound commitment to mixed martial arts, Harley has rigorously tested his skills across multiple disciplines, distinguishing himself as a competitor in both the Chicago Golden Gloves and elite grappling circuits. This deep immersion in both high-level striking and intricate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has given him an intuitive understanding of the physical and mental demands of the sport. His time spent navigating the intense pressures of competition ensures that he doesn't just understand martial arts in theory, but possesses the practical, battle-tested knowledge required to perform at the highest levels.
Translating his competitive insights into elite-level instruction, Harley excels at breaking down the multifaceted elements of MMA into digestible, highly effective training routines for his students. Within the supportive environment of the gym, he focuses on seamlessly bridging the gap between dynamic stand-up striking and complex ground control. Harley recognizes that true progression requires more than just physical repetition; it demands a clear understanding of technique, timing, and body mechanics. By meticulously crafting training sessions that emphasize technical precision, he creates an atmosphere where students can safely push their limits, build immense confidence, and master the seamless transitions that define a well-rounded martial artist.
For those looking to begin or elevate their martial arts journey, training under Harley Vu offers a meticulously structured approach to physical and mental development. Whether your goal is to refine your grappling technique, build explosive striking conditioning, or explore the intricate blend of disciplines that make up modern MMA, his coaching is expertly tailored to unlock your highest potential. Harley treats martial arts as a lifelong pursuit of refinement, instilling in his students the discipline and mental resilience needed to overcome any challenge. Learning from Harley means receiving instruction from a seasoned, active competitor who is deeply invested in your personal growth, providing a clear and deeply supportive path to technical mastery.
alex austiff
Alex Austiff is a highly skilled, Chicago-based martial artist whose expertise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts provides a formidable foundation for his instruction. With a rigorous competitive background in elite grappling circuits and MMA, Alex has consistently tested his skills against top-tier opponents, honing a deep, battle-tested understanding of ground control and submission strategy. While BJJ is often referred to as "the gentle art," it requires immense technical precision, leverage, and physical chess—qualities Alex has mastered through years of intense dedication. His firsthand experience navigating the physical and mental pressures of high-level competition ensures that he doesn't just teach theory, but imparts the practical, visceral mechanics necessary for real-world application.
As a dedicated BJJ and MMA coach at EKF Martial Arts, Alex translates his competitive success into comprehensive, accessible instruction for his students. He excels at breaking down the multifaceted elements of grappling, focusing heavily on securing dominant positions, executing high-percentage submissions, and understanding the intricate weight distribution required for effective ground control. Working with athletes of all backgrounds—from absolute beginners to seasoned fighters looking to refine their grappling skills for the cage—Alex crafts an environment that is deeply supportive yet rigorously challenging. His methodical approach ensures that every student develops a robust defensive and offensive game, smoothly bridging the gap between traditional BJJ and the dynamic demands of modern MMA.
For those looking to begin or elevate their martial arts journey, training with Coach Alex offers an incredibly well-rounded approach to physical fitness and technical proficiency. Whether your goal is to compete, build elite cardiovascular conditioning, or simply learn the mechanics of the ground game in a safe setting, his coaching is expertly tailored to unlock your highest potential. Alex treats martial arts as a lifelong pursuit of refinement, instilling in his students the discipline, patience, and resilience needed to overcome adversity both on and off the mats. Learning from Alex Austiff means receiving instruction from a seasoned, active competitor who is entirely invested in your personal growth, providing a structured and empowering path to mastery.