Benny Urquidez

Who is Benny Urquidez?

Benny Urquidez is an American kickboxer, martial arts choreographer and actor. Nicknamed The Jet, Urquidez was a non-contact karate competitor who later pioneered full-contact fighting in the U.S. He made the transition from point to full-contact karate in 1974 – the year of its inception in the U.S. – frequently fighting in bouts where the rules were ambiguous and contrasts in styles were dramatic. Urquidez is also known for once holding the rare achievement of six World Titles in five different weight divisions, and Urquidez remained largely undefeated in his 27-year career. His only loss came in a Muay Thai bout.

Between 1974 and 1993, he amassed a documented professional record of 49–1–1 with 35 knockouts and two controversial no-contests, although he is also supposed to have an additional record of 10–0–1 in undocumented pro fights, making a total of 59–1–2–2. However, sources vary with Ratings listing Urquidez as 63–0–1, and on his own official webpage, Urquidez lists his fight record as 200–0, and says he was 63–0, with 57 knockouts in title defenses. Also, he claims to have been undefeated in the "Adult Black Belt Division" prior to entering full-contact karate. Black Belt magazine voted Urquidez "Competitor of the Year" in 1978.