About us
Our late Grand Master Li Sing Ming
Grand Master Li Sing Ming (“Eddie Li”) was born in 1939 in Hong Kong. He was the last direct student of Grand Master Jow Bill – one of the five founding brothers of Jow Ga – and learned Li Ga (Li’s family style) from his uncle Grand Master Li Ngou. Being from a wealthy family, M. Li spent his early life completely dedicated to learning and practicing kung-fu.
Curious, cunning and ahead of his time, M. Li did not limit his learnings to Jow Ga and Li Ga but also studied under other Grand Masters of various styles, most notably Hung Fat Pai, Praying Mantis, White Crane, Chen style Tai Chi and Grinding Palm wooden dummy (Mook Yan Jong). Finally, M. Li also learned some pre-war judo.
Above and beyond kung-fu, M. Li mastered Chinese medicine and acupuncture, was schooled in philosophy and became an established chef.
He opened Wudokan in Montreal in 1971and taught his art for 50 years. Grand Master Li passed away in 2021 at the age of 82.
Ari Tagalakis
Sifu
instructors
Kim
I began learning martial arts at the age of 10, studying Karate and Judo. However, it wasn’t unil my late teenage years that I discovered the school and teacher that changed my life forever. I joined Wu Do Kan Kung Fu in 1993. The moment I walked in, I knew it was a school like no other, and that Master Li was a teacher of unique and unparralled quality. I knew this was the school for me. I joined on the spot and remained Master Li’s dedicated student for 28 years, until his passing in 2021. During that time, he taught me traditional Chinese martial arts and so much more.
I have been an instructor at Wu Do Kan since 2006 and became the main instructor for beginners and intermediates in 2008. After Master Li’s passing, I was proud to join his most senior student, my Sihing 师兄 (oldest brother), Ari Tagalakis, and my other brothers in relocating the school to continue his teachings.
In addition to my training with Master Li, I have pursued further study in Chen Tai-Chi with Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei and Master Hai Yang for brief periods.
Cristian
David
I joined Wudokan in 1991, in the same cohort as Cristian.I had done a few years of Hung Gar kung-fu before but was blown away by Wudokan – both its science and its traditions. Grand Master Li was really someone out of this world…I then left for Europe and, unable to find another Jow Ga school, I practiced Judo, Kendo and different types of boxing (English, French and Thai).
Upon my return to Montreal, I eagerly rejoined Wudokan to continue my Jow Ga training.
Today, I am an instructor in Jow Ga, hold a 3rd dan in Kyokusdhin Budokai, a 1st dan in Judo and am an IBJJF certified BJJ black belt. I train under Sifu Ari, teach regularly at Wudokan and also coach MMA.
advanced students
jonathan
Back in 2003, my cousin Harry and I decided to join Wudokan. Growing up, I’d always been crazy about martial arts, but the schools I tried before just didn’t hit the mark. Then came Wu Do Kan, and I knew instantly that I was onto something special.
It wasn’t like any other school. Wudokan wasn’t just techniques and hard training; it was a place that shaped my mindset. Grand Master Li, our incredible teacher, left a mark on me. His teachings still resonate, guiding me even today. It gave me discipline and resilience that I carry far beyond the training sessions.
These days, I’m still on my journey, now with Sifu Ari.
Harry
I always had passion for traditional martial arts since a very young age. I started with Kyukushin Karate and Wing Chun Kung Fu. In 2003, the path of my life changed completely when I joined Wu Do Kan Kung Fu.
The moment I walked in the school, I knew it was the one when I saw Master Li’s ways of teaching and ritual. What I enjoy about WDK is the values and all the roots of a tradtional Kung Fu that are being taught.
Adil
In 2012, I had the pleasure of joining Wudokan, a martial arts school that perfectly met my goals of learning useful skills while getting into shape. I vividly recall visiting around 10 different schools before stumbling upon Wudokan, and from the moment I stepped in, it felt like I had entered an old Kung Fu movie.
It was an honor to become the last student under Grand Master Li’s guidance, and I consider myself fortunate to continue learning something new with every visit to the school.
One remarkable aspect of Wudokan is the instructors’ unparalleled attention to detail. They prioritize ensuring that students not only progress but also grasp the techniques properly. This focus on mastering the art, rather than rushing through it, has significantly contributed to my growth as a martial artist.
Recently, I achieved my 2nd dan. However, I am well aware that there is still an abundance of knowledge and expertise to absorb. As long as I reside in Montreal, I see myself remaining dedicated to Wudokan, constantly evolving and deepening my understanding of the martial arts.
History of Wudokan
In the heart of Central Montreal, an extraordinary journey unfolds at Wudokan—the home of Jow Ga Kung Fu. Steeped in history and tradition, Wudokan stands as a sanctuary for seekers of physical prowess, mental discipline, and spiritual growth.
The story of Wudokan traces back to its illustrious founder, Grandmaster Li Sing Ming, a revered master of Jow Ga Kung Fu. Born in Hong Kong in 1939, Grandmaster Li’s destiny intertwined with martial arts at an early age. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to explore various styles, becoming a student of renowned masters in Li Ga, Praying Mantis, Chen style Tai Chi, Grinding Palms, Panther, White Crane, and Judo.
Grandmaster Li’s mastery extended beyond martial arts. He pursued the path of a Chinese doctor, delving into acupuncture and herbalism. His diverse skills merged seamlessly, establishing Wudokan as a haven for martial arts practitioners seeking a holistic approach to health and self-discovery.
A Typical Class at Wudokan
Step into Wudokan’s world, where classes ignite self-discovery and martial prowess. As students gather in Central Montreal, the journey begins.
Breathing exercises and meditation cultivate inner strength, while body hardening techniques foster resilience. With makiwara and iron palm, strikes grow mightier. One-on-one techniques fortify self-defense skills. Katas and twin sets honor tradition, refining timing and coordination. Guided by devoted instructors, each step fuels growth and camaraderie.
Leaving the dojo, students carry a sense of fulfillment, knowing they’ve embraced the path of Jow Ga Kung Fu. Wudokan’s typical class sparks dedication and passion, shaping skilled practitioners.