Grandmaster Clarence D. Luna (aka Clarence Luna Emperado) is the third eldest of eight children to Linda K. and Benny B. Luna, Sr.

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii Clarence lived most of his childhood in the district of Kalihi, along with his siblings who were then raised by their step-father, Adriano D. Emperado (aka Sijo).

In the early 70’s, Clarence was inspired and eager to learn first-hand from Sijo who founded and created the Kajukenbo Self-Defense System in 1949. This unique mixed martial art blends together: Korean Karate, Judo/Jiu-jitsu, Kenpo, Chinese Boxing and Kung Fu. While training under the direction of Sijo and assistant instructor, Dennis Sibala, Clarence continued to train with friends in their garage for many years. In 1980 Clarence secured a training location at Royal Elementary School in Honolulu and eventually acquired a second location in Kaneohe at Ahuimanu Elementary School. After decades of teaching in school cafeterias, Clarence acquired a vacant space which required major renovations and is today the Hawaii Headquarters located at 777 S. Hotel St., Honolulu, Hawaii. It is Clarence’s mission to continue Sijo’s legacy to keep Kajukenbo strong for generations to come.

Recently retired from the Honolulu Star Advertiser after 38 years of service, he was a working supervisor overseeing the maintenance of the newspaper press. When not teaching class 5 days a week, Clarence manages to find time to do what he enjoys most - home repairs. He also has a natural talent for building and repairing hollow tile walls, yard work and “getting rid of clutter” says his wife, Laureen, of 33 years. With 3 adult children and one grandson, he stresses the importance of “family time” by having dinner together at least once during the work week and on the weekends. He is proud to have taught his wife and children who have all earned their black belt degrees…and hopefully 5 year old grandson, Noah, will also rise to the ranks as well.

Having a sense of accomplishment, Clarence is honored to have dedicated students and instructors, some of whom have been training with him for over 25 years. Says Grandmaster Clarence, “As long as I can walk and talk, I will carry on Sijo’s legacy to see that Kajukenbo lives forever!”