Taimak is an internationally renowned martial artist, actor, and stuntman, best known for his starring role in the 1985 martial arts classic ‘The Last Dragon’. As a child, I dreamed of one day becoming the next Bruce Lee, and Taimak was a major source of inspiration for me. I was so fascinated by his training and skills that I eventually followed in his footsteps and pursued a career in martial arts. After watching The Last Dragon, I was determined to learn more about the man behind the screen. In this article, I will be exploring the life and career of Taimak, from his humble beginnings to becoming a martial arts icon.
Taimak on How He Landed ‘The Last Dragon’ Role (Flashback)
Who is Taimak?
Taimak is an accomplished actor, martial artist, and stuntman, best known for his lead role in the 1985 film, The Last Dragon. Born in Washington, D.C., Taimak began training in martial arts at the age of 11 and made his film debut in 1984 at the age of 21. Since then, he has gone on to appear in several feature films and television shows, including the 2016 hit Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny.
Taimak is a 6th-degree black belt in goju ryu karate, a 5th-degree black belt in tang soo do, and a 4th-degree black belt in wushu. He has also trained in many other martial arts styles such as muay thai, judo, jeet kune do, and krav maga. His martial arts skills have earned him the nickname “the Bruce Lee of martial arts.”
In addition to his acting and martial arts abilities, Taimak also has a background in stunt work. He has worked as a stunt performer on films such as Big Trouble in Little China and The Last Dragon. He has also been the stunt coordinator for such films as the television series Xena: Warrior Princess and the 2013 film Tomorrow You’re Gone.
Taimak’s talents have not gone unrecognized, as he has been the recipient of numerous awards including the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame Legend Award in 2017. He has also been featured in documentaries such as The Last Dragon:
Early Life
Taimak Guarriello, born in 1960, is an actor and martial artist best known for playing the titular role in the 1985 martial arts film, The Last Dragon. He was born and raised in Harlem, New York City, and was inspired to pursue martial arts after watching Bruce Lee movies at a young age. Taimak began taking karate lessons at the age of 12, and was trained by Grandmaster Willie “The Bam” Johnson. He studied with Johnson for six years, ultimately achieving a black belt.
In addition to his martial arts experience, Taimak was also a dancer, performing often in the city with a group of friends. His dancing talents were noticed by a talent scout and he began appearing in television commercials and small roles in films. His big break came when he was cast as Bruce Lee in the 1985 television movie “The Curse of the Dragon”.
Taimak’s career was launched by his role in The Last Dragon, in which he played the main character, Leroy Green. The film was a success, and Taimak has since reprised his role in various sequels and spin-offs. He has also starred in several other films, notably The Adventures of Ford Fairlane and the television series “America’s Next Top Model”.
Today, Taimak continues to teach martial arts, and is also a motivational speaker and author. He has written several books, including “The Last Dragon: A Guide to Martial Arts and Life”
Career Beginnings
Taimak Guarriello, is a well-known actor, martial artist, and stuntman who rose to fame with his iconic role as Leroy Green in the 1985 cult classic film, The Last Dragon. Born in Washington D.C in 1963, Taimak began his career at a young age training in martial arts and martial arts-based choreography. He soon found success in Hollywood as a stuntman and choreographer, working on a number of blockbuster films such as Beverly Hills Cop II and Lethal Weapon.
In 1985, Taimak starred in Berry Gordy’s The Last Dragon – the film earned over $25 million at the box office and is considered one of the most beloved martial arts films of all time. Following his success in the film, he was cast in a number of martial arts films such as No Retreat, No Surrender and Best of the Best II. He also starred in the action-packed television series, M.A.N.T.I.S. which ran from 1994-1995.
Aside from his acting, Taimak is a six-time martial arts world champion, having won titles in judo, karate, tae kwon do and jiu-jitsu. He has also written and directed the action film, Book of Swords, which was released in 2016. Taimak continues to work in the industry, appearing as a guest on the hit series, Cobra Kai, and recently publishing a comic book series entitled The Chronicles of Taimak.
Taimak
Acting Roles
Taimak Guarriello is a multi-talented actor best known for his leading role in the 1985 martial arts film The Last Dragon. His performance in the movie gained him appreciation from fans all around the world and his on-screen charm won the hearts of many.
Taimak’s acting career began in the early 80s when he was cast in the television show Kids Incorporated. After a few appearances in other TV shows, he then starred in The Last Dragon where he plays the main character, Leroy Green. His role in the movie saw him become the first African-American martial arts lead in a major motion picture.
Taimak’s career has included a wide range of roles in films, TV shows, and theatre productions. His credits include roles in the movies Beverly Hills Cop 3, Death Spa, and The Adventures of Ford Fairlane. He has also starred in television shows such as NYPD Blue, The Heights, and Kung Fu: The Legend Continues.
Taimak’s influence has extended to the world of martial arts. He served as the fight choreographer for the 2004 movie Blade: Trinity, and has been the stunt double for actors such as Will Smith, Wesley Snipes, and Denzel Washington. He also teaches karate and martial arts techniques to students and actors all around the world.
Overall, Taimak has had a successful acting career. His acting has been praised by critics and fans alike and his influence on martial arts films and fight choreography is undeniable. He continues to use his
Martial Arts Career
Taimak is a martial artist, actor, and stuntman, best known for his role as martial artist and lead character in the 1985 cult classic martial arts movie, ‘The Last Dragon’. Born Stephen Taimanglo, Taimak began his martial arts training at the age of five in the style of Goju-Ryu Karate. Over the years, he has added various martial arts styles to his repertoire, including Shotokan Karate, Judo, Jujutsu, Kung Fu, and Aikido.
Taimak’s career began when he competed in tournaments, and was eventually noticed and scouted by Berry Gordy Jr., the founder of Motown and producer for ‘The Last Dragon.’ While filming ‘The Last Dragon,’ Taimak had to do most of his own stunts, leading to immense physical training and preparation. His incredible martial arts abilities have earned him the nickname “The Dragon,” a reference to his most famous role.
Taimak has held various roles both on and off screen since his time on ‘The Last Dragon.’ He has appeared in television shows such as ‘China Beach’ and ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’, and has served as a stunt coordinator and fight choreographer for many movies and television shows including ‘The Wayans Bros.,’ ‘Noah’s Ark,’ and ‘Barabbas.’
Taimak has become an inspiration for many
Music Career
Taimak Guarriello is an American actor, producer, martial artist, and musician. He first found fame for his role in the 1985 cult classic movie, The Last Dragon, and is now using his platform to pursue his music career.
Taimak is a multi-instrumentalist and has released a number of EP’s since 2011. His sound is a mix of Neo-soul and R&B with an element of funk reminiscent of classic Motown soul. He has performed in some of the country’s top venues including SXSW, The Kennedy Center, and House of Blues.
Though music is his focus, Taimak has kept his martial arts training in the forefront of his career. He has created a school of martial arts called Taimak Martial Arts, which teaches a mixed martial arts style that combines elements of muay thai, karate, judo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He also utilizes his platform to promote self-confidence and self-defense to both men and women.
Besides his music and martial arts, Taimak is also a motivational speaker. He is an ambassador for the Health, Education, and Literacy Program (HELP) and has appeared at numerous events and conferences where he speaks about overcoming adversity and the importance of staying focused on achieving success.
Overall, Taimak Guarriello is an inspiring figure that has used his platform to make an impression in several arenas. His music and martial arts are a testament to his versatility and determination to excel in
Legacy
Taimak is a legendary martial artist, actor, and stuntman best known for his iconic role as ‘Leroy Green’ in the 1985 cult classic ‘The Last Dragon.’ With his physical prowess, endless dedication, and positive attitude, Taimak has left an indelible mark on martial arts cinema and the martial arts world.
Taimak has trained extensively in several martial arts, including taekwondo, kenpo karate, and hwarang-do. His impressive martial arts background and exceptional athleticism earned him roles in several films, including ‘The Last Dragon’, ‘Breakin’, and ‘Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo.’ His role as Leroy Green in ‘The Last Dragon’ was particularly memorable and has become a classic in martial arts cinema.
Taimak’s legacy as a martial artist has extended beyond film. He has appeared in commercials and music videos, and he has written a book on martial arts entitled ‘Glow: The Autobiography of a Martial Artist.’ He founded the school Taimak World Hwarang-Do in 2007 and has continued to teach and share his knowledge of martial arts around the world.
Taimak has also been a strong advocate for the martial arts community. He has been a member of the Martial Arts History Museum and has served as a judge for the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of
Conclusion
Taimak offers a unique approach to martial arts training and self-defense. His teachings have helped countless people become stronger, more confident, and more secure in their abilities. The combination of physical conditioning, mental discipline, and emotional intelligence he promotes is truly inspiring. I believe that Taimak’s commitment to teaching martial arts and self-defense is a valuable asset to our society. I encourage anyone looking to become a better version of themselves to consider learning from Taimak. His dedication to helping others reach their potential is truly admirable. Let’s all take a moment to recognize and appreciate the work of Taimak and others like him who are working to make our world a safer and more secure place.