About the Cotton Belt


Over the years the Texas Cotton Belt has become one of the most prominent karate tournaments in the state of Texas. Since its emergence in 1988, its founders Larry and Rose Wheeler took great pride in every aspect of the tournaments. They went to great lengths to make sure the tournament was efficient and most importantly fair.  Since 2005 the tournament has been produced by Joe McSpadden, the owner and instructor of the successful American Martial Arts Institute located in Mesquite, Texas. Joe has been active in martial arts for over twenty years and is excited to be the producer of such a well renowned tournament. Each year we exceed expectations and plan to continue to uphold the high standards that have been established for the tournament throughout the years.


The Texas Cotton Belt Karate Nationals has had thousands of competitors over the years, many of whom have gone on to become both state and national champions for such organizations as the Amateur Organization of Karate (AOK), Texas National Tour (TNT), Sports Karate International (SKI), The National Black Belt League (NBL) and have even represented out country in the Olympics.

We are excited about this years competition and as always are striving to bring the best to our competitors.