Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix is proud to announce the return of the Bushido Classic 2026, taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Apollo High School in Glendale, Arizona. This special event marks the 21st year of the Ucelo family hosting such event, continuing a long tradition of helping students challenge themselves, build confidence, and gain valuable martial arts tournament experience in a positive and supportive environment.
The Bushido Classic 2026 is a Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix students-only event. It is designed to give our students the opportunity to participate, perform, compete, and grow alongside their classmates and training partners. Whether a student is competing for the first time or has participated in past events, this tournament is a meaningful chance to test skills, demonstrate progress, and experience the excitement of martial arts competition.
Bushido Classic 2026 Event Details
The Bushido Classic 2026 will be held at Apollo High School, located at 8045 N 47th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85302. The event begins at 9:00 AM.
This year’s tournament will include the following divisions:
Sumo Fight
Sumo gives students the chance to practice balance, strength, movement, control, and strategy in a fun and exciting format.
Point Sparring
Sparring helps students apply timing, distance, focus, defense, and control while learning how to stay calm and confident under pressure.
Jiu Jitsu for Kids & Adults
The Jiu Jitsu competition allows students to demonstrate grappling skills, positioning, technique, patience, and problem-solving on the mat.
Traditional Forms (KATA)
Forms competition gives students the opportunity to showcase discipline, precision, memory, focus, power, and martial arts spirit.
All divisions will be separated by age and rank so students can participate in a fair and appropriate competition setting.
Registration and Exclusive Early Offer
Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix students can register now at the front desk, by phone, or by email.
Registration options:
1 event: $50
2 events: $55
Early registration bonus: Sign up by May 9 and receive 1 free spectator entrance.
Regular spectator entrance fee: $5
Parking: Free
To register, visit the front desk at the dojo, call (623) 570-1370, or email [email protected].
Students are encouraged to register early to secure their spot and take advantage of the free spectator entrance offer before the May 9 deadline.
Last day to register is Thursday May 14th. 2026
Why Students Should Participate in the Bushido Classic 2026
Participating in a martial arts tournament is about more than winning. The Bushido Classic 2026 gives Phoenix martial arts students a valuable opportunity to grow in ways that support their training, confidence, and character.
For many students, stepping onto the mat is a major accomplishment. It takes courage to participate, especially for students who may feel nervous or unsure. That is exactly why this event is so important. Students learn how to face challenges, control their emotions, and trust their training.
The Bushido Classic helps students build confidence by giving them a goal to work toward. Preparing for Sumo, Sparring, Jiu Jitsu, or Forms teaches discipline, focus, consistency, and responsibility. Students learn that effort and preparation matter.
Competition also teaches sportsmanship. Students learn how to win with respect, lose with dignity, support their teammates, and appreciate the hard work of others. These lessons are valuable both inside and outside the dojo.
For kids, this type of martial arts competition can be especially powerful. A kids martial arts competition gives young students the chance to practice listening, following directions, managing nerves, and performing in front of others. These experiences can help students become more resilient and self-assured.
A Positive Tournament Experience for Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix Students
The Bushido Classic 2026 is built around student growth. Because this is a Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix students-only event, participants will be surrounded by familiar instructors, classmates, families, and supporters. This creates a positive environment where students can challenge themselves while feeling encouraged.
Whether a student enters a karate tournament-style Forms division, a sparring tournament division, a Jiu Jitsu competition, or Sumo, each event gives students a chance to practice important life skills. They learn how to set goals, prepare with purpose, overcome nervousness, and give their best effort.
Students who participate often walk away with more than a medal or result. They gain experience, courage, memories, and a stronger belief in themselves. Every match, form, and division becomes a lesson.
Students Who Feel Nervous Should Still Participate
Feeling nervous before a tournament is normal. In fact, nervousness is part of the learning process. The Bushido Classic gives students a safe and supportive place to experience those feelings and learn how to move through them.
Students do not need to feel “perfect” or “ready enough” to benefit from participating. Tournament experience is how students grow. By stepping onto the mat, students practice bravery, focus, discipline, and resilience.
This event is a great opportunity for students to learn that courage does not mean having no fear. Courage means showing up, trying your best, and learning from the experience.
Local Martial Arts Tournament in Glendale, AZ
The Bushido Classic 2026 is an important annual event for Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix and our student community. Hosted in Glendale, AZ, this martial arts tournament brings together students and families for a day of competition, growth, and encouragement.
For families searching for a martial arts tournament in Glendale AZ, a Phoenix martial arts students event, a kids martial arts competition, a sparring tournament, a forms competition, or a Jiu Jitsu competition, the Bushido Classic is a special opportunity within the Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in the Bushido Classic 2026?
The Bushido Classic 2026 is for Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix students only.
When and where is the event?
The event will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Apollo High School, located at 8045 N 47th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85302.
What divisions are available?
Students may participate in Sumo, Sparring, Jiu Jitsu, and Forms. Divisions will be separated by age and rank.
How much does it cost to register?
Registration is $50 for 1 event or $55 for 2 events.
Is there an early registration bonus?
Yes. Students who sign up by May 9 will receive 1 free spectator entrance.
How much is spectator admission?
Regular spectator entrance is $5.
Is parking available?
Yes. Parking is free.
How do students register?
Students can register at the front desk, by phone at (623) 570-1370, or by email at [email protected].
Register for the Bushido Classic 2026 Today
Ucelo Martial Arts Phoenix students are encouraged to participate in the 21st annual Bushido Classic 2026. This is your opportunity to challenge yourself, build confidence, demonstrate your skills, support your teammates, and gain valuable martial arts tournament experience.
Register by May 9 to receive 1 free spectator entrance.
