won 11 world titles, overall record of 72-5-2
Meet Don “The Dragon” Wilson
Don Wilson, also known as the legendary “Dragon,” stands out as one of kickboxing’s most respected figures.
Title‑Hopping Champion
- Racked up11 world titles across various sanctioning bodies.
- His undefeated streak showcases a record of72 wins, 5 losses, 2 draws.
Why the Dragons Eye Shine
- His grappling prowess earned him the nickname “Dragon.”
- Each win added to a legacy that still fuels the sport.
Take a Snap (or Skip the Video)
While the video reference adds a visual punch, the numbers alone brag enough: 72–5–2, a record that sings louder than any roar.
DON ‘THE DRAGON’ WILSON – 2015 INDUCTEE
The Cosmic Kickboxing Legend
Full‑Contact World Champion
Kickboxing Hall of Fame Inductee
11 World Titles Won
A Kid from Illinois with a Stellar Twist
During the disco‑frenzied 1980s nights at Cocoa Beach’s iconic Brassy’s Nightclub, the dance floor would often morph into a squeaky‑kick floor. The bouncers? They’d politely let the fighters toss punches before the club’s groove kicked in.
And then there’s Don “The Dragon” Wilson. He clashed on that makeshift ring over 11 times within just seven years. Imagine the hype – the thunderous gloves, the blazing kicks, and the breakthrough streak that would eventually make Don a household name in fights across the globe.
From Illinois to Brevard: A Family Story
Although born on the prairie of Illinois, Don’s roots quickly tied to Brevard, Florida, thanks to his dad’s engineering opportunity at the Kennedy Space Center. The space‑center vibe gave Don a mix of discipline and boldness; it’s no wonder he’d later become a legend in the ring.
Early Steps in the Martial Arts Odyssey
- Graduated high school in Boca Raton.
- Attended the U.S. Coast Guard Academy – where karate foundations began.
- Returned to Brevard in 1973 – earned an A.A. in Electrical Engineering at Brevard Community College.
- Had plans to continue at Florida Institute of Technology, but life had a different script.
Why the Dragon’s Story Still Fires Up
It’s the clash of rigorous science training and relentless combat enthusiasm. Think of a fighter who’s as comfortable solving electrical equations as throwing a flying kick. That combination turned Don into the first, the last, and the most unstoppable champion the sport could conjure.
Don Wilson: From Florida’s Sun to the Kickboxing Spotlight
Beneath the sunny skies of Cocoa Beach, a kid named Don Wilson snatched an unexpected punchcard on June 22, 1987 – not for a surfing lesson, but for a Mixed Fight (WKA Experimental) showdown against boxer Art Jimmerson at Brassy’s Nightclub. A small crowd, a big dream, and a whole lot of kicks.
From Kung Fu to Kickboxing
Wilson’s journey began after a humble, family‑run kung fu dojo. His older brother taught him the art of disciplined movement, planting the seed that would grow into a worldwide fighting career. Picture a kid in a Florida gym, dropping elbows into the sand, dreaming of titles – that’s Don’s early spark.
Florida’s Heavy‑Hit Round of 39 Fights
- All 39 bouts took place within the sunny belt of the Sunshine State – most on its rolling central plains.
- He racked up an impressive 32‑3‑1 record in those years, proving he was far from a “one‑hit wonder.”
State, U.S., and World Titles
In the full‑contact middleweight division, he wasn’t just a participant; he was the champion. He also capped off a light‑heavyweight world title, showing that the ring didn’t define his limits.
The Ultimate Gilded Hall of Fame
Even when you look past the official story, it’s clear* that Wilson’s résumé reads like a comic‑book of gritty triumphs:
- 11 world titles across various kickboxing sanctioning bodies.
- A staggering 72‑5‑2 career record, which is basically “kickboxing with a splash of legend.”
When the Drama Hit the Ring: 1999 Cruiserweight Showdown
Fast forward to May 1999 – Don Wilson faced a heavyweight in professional Dick Kimber for the cruiserweight world title. The match didn’t just tick a check on another accolade; it symbolized that Don could cross weight classes while still crushing the competition.
From an early bang in a Florida gym to a container of world titles, Don Wilson’s story stands as a triumph of grit, adaptability, and a relentless swagger in the world of kickboxing.
Big Cheers for a Hall‑of‑Fame Legend
Meet Ted Ruta – The Ring‑Ruling Maestro
When you think “referee”, you’re probably picturing a bland face in a uniform. Not Ted Ruta. He’s hit the four‑decade mark of officiating and now has a shiny plaque in the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame. The whole scene feels like a fireworks finale: a decade of work, a few smack‑downs, and glee for everyone.
Wilson’s Show‑stopper Moment
- Round 3 Chelsea‑style showdown: Wilson burst into the ring, firing a flurry that shook the crowd and sent his opponent, Kimber, slumped on the canvas—completely still.
- Hall of Fame nod: In 2010, the Word Kickboxing League crowned Wilson for his sharp knock‑outs.
- From ring to commentary: After retiring, Wilson traded gloves for a mic and crackles through UFC broadcasts.
- UFC comeback rumors: Word spread that Wilson might re‑enter the fast‑punch arena, but fate had other plans.
The Bottom Line
Whether it’s a legend like Ruta getting a trophy or a former fighter turning his commentary voice into a crowd‑pleaser, the ties that bind all these characters are… passion, grit, and a dash of showmanship. In the world of sports, we’re lucky to have both cheering from the sidelines and fighting from the center. The vibe? Every fan’s got a ticket to the best show in town.
Don “The Dragon” Wilson: The Kick‑Boxing Legend Who Took Hollywood by Storm
Don “The Dragon” Wilson isn’t just a phantom of the ring; he’s a full‑time superstar who’s been popping up on the big screen (and the big screen‑big screen) since the 1980s.
From the Dojo to the DVD Rack
- Over 50 film, documentary, video, and TV spots—yes, 50 plus. (Think “Bloodfist,” the cult‑classic that even made the office dance floor proud.)
- Acting gigs that range from hard‑boiled martial‑arts hero to faded, wise sensei playing a role destined for the Philippines.
- Producing credits sprinkled across dozens of titles—he’s not just watching the action; he’s making it happen.
Real‑Life Heroics That Made Headlines
When Don wasn’t taking down the bad guys on the screen, he was tackling them off it.
Picture this: a martial‑arts tournament in Reno, Nevada, a packed crowd, and an elderly lady’s purse vanishing into the night. Don didn’t just watch—he strolled up, chased the would‑be thief, and had him pinned for, well, “until the police walked in”. Talk about a headline act.
Bloodfist: The Film With a Kick‑Back Twist
In “Bloodfist,” Wilson plays a savvy California dojo sensei who packs his bags, flies to the Philippines, and hunts down the killer who wrapped his brother up like a punch‑line. The result? Plenty of eyes on him and a story that’s as spicy as a pepperoni pizza.
Why Every Kick‑boxer knows his name
In his heyday, Don was more than a fighter—he was the guardian of the underground kick‑boxing community, the unsung hero whose punchlines could break steel plates. He still carries that legacy with his iconic “Drag‑on” swagger.
Other Sources
Want to see the full lineup of space‑coast legends? Talk to the Hall of Fame at 321‑615‑8111 or drop a line to @SpaceCoastDaily.com. (But remember, the real dragon is the story on screen, not the phone call!)
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Meet Don “The Dragon” Wilson: The Kickboxing Legend Who Clawed His Way to 11 World Titles!
When it comes to the art of kicking and punching, there’s one name that rings louder than a gong in a dojo: Don “The Dragon” Wilson. This legend has made more than a few waves—he’s carved a legacy that several generations of fighters still look up to.
Why “The Dragon” was Born
Born in a time when kickboxing was still polishing its reputation, Don’s first forays into the sport were fueled by pure passion and a relentless drive. Instead of just hopping onto a mat, he set out to carve a path that would prove that hard work and grit go faster than a well-thrown roundhouse kick.
Fighting 72 Times: A Dragon’s Tale
- 72 wins – tossing opponents into the sandbag of defeat.
- 5 losses – because even dragons have their swoops.
- 2 draws – moments when the referee couldn’t pick the winner.
11 Titles to Brag About
Each title was earned under a different sanctioning umbrella. That’s right: Don didn’t just settle for one organization’s crown. He licked the board, polished the gloves, and then stepped into the ring for the next challenge. No wonder wrestling fans still cheer when a dragon is in the gym!
Legacy in a nutshell
- Trained countless fighters who now keep the sport flourishing.
- Proved success isn’t just about talent; it’s about perseverance.
- In the echo of every punch, his name resonates—like a blast of applause from a hall full of roaring fans.
Don “The Dragon” Wilson didn’t just arrive to play the game; he rewrote its rules. Even the legends who followed him keep looking up to that same spirit of fire and perseverance.
