Sensei Lelagi Togisala known as Butch Togisala is a world renown martial artist. His martial arts career began in 1979 when he was eight years old. He began training under the keen eyes of his father, the late Senosa Togisala and the late Grand Master Sensei Richard Rabago. Senosa knew that martial arts would give Butch a grounding in discipline and respect to help keep him out of trouble.
Butch Togisala is a highly decorated martial artist and a Past World Champion often featured as a special guest and instructor at events hosted by Bob Mitchell and United Martial Artists for Christ (UMAFC).
Key Details and Connections
- Role in UMAFC: Togisala is a frequent guest of honor and instructor at the annual UMAFC Karate Championships. He is often listed alongside other legends like Raul Ries and Dennis Martinez as part of the leadership and inspiration for the organization [1, 2].
- Martial Arts Expertise: Widely recognized as one of the most prolific Japanese Karate Kata (forms) competitors in American history, Togisala is noted for a legendary 12-year winning streak in kata presentation.
- Relationship with Bob Mitchell: Mitchell, often nicknamed “The Animal” in the martial arts community, has a long-standing friendship with Togisala. They are both recognized as “Pioneers” of sport karate and are frequently honored together at events like the Sport Karate Museum Living Legends ceremonies.
- Sherman Oak Raiders: Togisala and Mitchell have historical ties as teammates during the “Sherman Oak Raiders” era, a well-known competitive karate team.
UMAFC Involvement
Togisala supports the UMAFC mission of “Youth and Family Outreach,” using his platform as a world-class athlete to mentor young martial artists in a faith-based environment. He often participates in seminars and judging for the organization’s tournaments.
