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For over four decades, Gualberto Moncayo has immersed himself in martial arts, beginning as a young practitioner in Buenos Aires, Argentina. His dedication led him to become an 8th-degree black belt in Kajukenbo, specializing in the Gaylord Method.
Recognized as the Ambassador for South America by the Kajukenbo Association of America (KAA), Moncayo’s journey reflects a deep commitment to the art.
“I train every day, anytime and anywhere,” Moncayo said. “I enjoy training with Grandmaster Armando Saldana and participating in his Texas Kajukenbo Memorial Tournament. It is one of the biggest tournaments in Texas, and the city honors Great Grandmaster Charles Gaylord Day. It is one of the best tournaments in the world.”
Moncayo’s passion for Kajukenbo was ignited by the teachings of Great Grandmaster Charles Gaylord, a pivotal figure in the martial arts community.
Although they never met in person, their online interactions left a lasting impression. Following Gaylord’s passing, Moncayo continued his training under Master Frank Wholer, and before Wholer’s death, he encouraged Moncayo to seek out Grandmaster Armando Saldana in Texas, believing that Gaylord would have wanted them to connect.
“I am the Texas Representative of the Kajukenbo Association of America appointed by Great Grandmaster Charles Gaylord,” Saldana said.
Saldana began his training in the Gaylord Method in the early 90s and was promoted by Gaylord to professor in 2007. Saldana was later promoted to Grandmaster by the KAA in 2016.
Moncayo’s search for Saldana was challenging; lacking a social media presence, he proved elusive. After more than eight years, Moncayo finally established contact. Upon sharing his experiences and expressing feelings of isolation in South America, Saldana responded, “You’re not alone; you’re with me.” This connection led Moncayo to travel to Mercedes, Texas, where he now trains under Saldana’s guidance as a visiting black belt, deepening his understanding of the Gaylord Method.
Grandmaster Saldana, a prominent figure in the Kajukenbo community, leads the Texas Kajukenbo School of Karate in Mercedes. He continues the legacy of his mentor, Grandmaster John “Johnny” Valdivia, who introduced Kajukenbo to the region in the 1970s.
Under Saldana’s leadership, the school emphasizes not only martial arts proficiency but also community involvement, hosting annual tournaments to support cancer awareness and assistance programs.
“Moncayo’s journey from Argentina to Texas exemplifies the unifying power of martial arts, transcending borders and fostering connections,” Saldana said. “His story is a testament to the enduring bonds formed through shared discipline and mutual respect within the global Kajukenbo Gaylord Method community.”
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