We’re looking forward to introducing you to Raul Shelton. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Raul, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
It is usually an easy for me, but after 1pm, the AKR team shows up and we train till 7pm. So pretty much coaching kids all day, right no druing the summer.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Raul Shelton, and I am the proud owner and president of AKR. Our main dojo is located in the Spring Branch/Memorial area of Houston, Texas, and I’m honored to lead a federation that now includes 60 dojos worldwide. At AKR, we are committed to building not just skilled martial artists, but disciplined, determined, and respectful individuals.
Currently, I am training 23 dedicated athletes who will be representing our federation at the USANKF National Championships in Fort Worth, Texas. Among them is my grandson, Kaden Talley, who is trying out for the Junior USA Team in the 10–11-year-old, -35kg kumite (sparring) category. Watching Kaden grow as a martial artist has been one of the great joys of my life and career. Over the past six months, we have trained intensely, and his dedication has been nothing short of inspiring.
Kaden is a remarkably talented young competitor, having already won over 100 medals since he began his journey in karate. His consistent performance has earned him a strong reputation in the martial arts community—so much so that multiple teams have requested him to join their team kumite squads at Nationals.
As a coach and a grandfather, I’m incredibly proud to be by his side on this journey. To compete at this level takes immense commitment, and I couldn’t be more excited to watch him step onto the mat and give it his all.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I am from Havana, Cuba. That is where I learned karate, from Sensei Rizo. I also studied and recieved a Masters in Mechanical Engineer. Cuba is where I created a passion for karate. When i left cuba, that is when I opened my first dojo in Houston. Ever since then I have had students on the jr/ Sr. USA team.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, I am very honest and sincere person.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Akrkarate
- Facebook: American Karate-do Rengo Kai
Image Credits
Photos taken by me
