“I Trained With Him After the Film” – Hollywood Star Ralph Macchio Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Late Martial Arts Legend From ‘Karate Kid’

Published 11/09/2023, 2:00 PM EST

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Painting a bright profession in martial arts, Pat E Johnson, a renowned trainer, recently passed away in his Los Angeles home. At the age of 84, Johnson’s lifelong experiences included winning a ninth-degree black belt, carving his unparalleled legacy in the field. With a saddening update, the sensational artist left behind his golden career after he expired from natural causes on November 5.

Johnson’s niece Colleen Mary Johnson Summerville informed the situation with a grim Facebook post, stating, “I’m sharing my Uncle Pat has passed this Sunday morning.” Majorly remembered for his extraordinary martial arts choreography from the renowned series ‘The Karate Kid‘, Johnson led a fulfilling life that left a trail of encouragement.

Remarkable journey of martial art star

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Hailing from Niagara Falls in New York, Johnson was exposed to karate, in 1963, during his service at the army chaplain in Korea. Balancing his martial arts prowess, the dedicated practitioner also made a significant mark in stunt coordination. He even worked as a stuntman, contributing his expertise to create epic scenes in movies like ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’, ‘Mortal Kombat’, and ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’.

Johnson was inducted into the North American Sport Karate Association Hall of Fame, ascending his journey since 1993. The martial artist flourished with excellence throughout his tenure in the U.S. Army. The experience delved his passion into Tang Soo Do, a Korean form of karate. Remarkably, Johnson’s life took a turn when he crossed paths with none other than the legendary Bruce Lee. Leading on his professional journey, he joined the team of the iconic film ‘Enter the Dragon’.

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Standing shoulder to shoulder with Bruce Lee, Johnson’s passion and immense love for martial art initiated his success journey. Incredibly, Johnson landed the prestigious spot of becoming the captain for Chuck Norris’s fighting team, etching his name in cinematic history! After his departure, notable names from the industry, including Ralph Macchio, acknowledged the icon’s capabilities, while many conveyed their last tribute.

Fond remembrance of Johnson’s legacy

Upon his passing, Johnson’s wife Susan, his sons Garth, Larry, Erik, and Brett, remembered him for his inspiring, high-spirited lifestyle. Johnson’s legendary crane kick in the film ‘Karate Kid’ eventually became synonymous with the series’ brand. He also trained Ralph Macchio, who portrayed the character Daniel LaRusso, to execute the move.

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Macchio shared with Fox News Digital, “So very saddened to hear the news of the passing of my friend and martial arts master, Pat E Johnson. Pat was the driving force in all of the martial arts choreography and stunts we have come to know and love from the projects we worked on together.” Macchio’s co-star from movies like ‘Cobra Kai’ and ‘Karate Kid’, William Zabka, also shared his respect for the inspirational trainer, quoting, “The discipline that he gave physically, mentally and technically was incredible; so much so, that I trained with him after the film was over.”

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Pat E Johnson’s calm, gentle, and supportive demeanor had a lasting impact on many Hollywood personas, instilling them with confidence and the belief, while staying in the corner. With his ability to blend authenticity and storytelling, the martial arts superstar also graced the screen as the tournament referee, appearing in the first three ‘Karate Kid’ films. Undoubtedly, Johnson’s influence extended far beyond the silver line, with many in the industry appreciating the talent-rich artist’s marvelous life.

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Written by:

Sanchari Bhaduri

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Sanchari Bhaduri is a Viral Sports Moments writer at EssentiallySports. Graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English from IGNOU, she embarked on her content creation career in 2015 with freelance projects. Her previous role involved her serving as a Content Manager for Reddit.
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Edited by:

Debmallya Chakraborty