Ron Balicki

Ron Balicki: From the Streets of Chicago to Hollywood

If you're a martial arts enthusiast, an action movie aficionado, or an aspiring stunt performer, then you are likely familiar with the name Ron Balicki. This martial arts expert, former law enforcement officer, and Hollywood professional has become a legend in his own right. But who is Ron Balicki? This article aims to delve into his life, from the streets of Chicago to the international martial arts scene, and finally to the Hollywood entertainment industry.

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A Windy City Upbringing

Born and raised in Chicago, the 'Windy City', Ron's journey to the top started at a young age. His dedication to mastering martial arts is as relentless as the city's famous winds, with over 35 years spent honing his skills.

Training with the Masters

In his quest to learn from the best, Balicki sought out the legendary martial artist, Dan Inosanto. After years of dedicated study, Ron earned full instructorships in Bruce Lee's art of Jun Fan Gung Fu (Jeet Kune Do Concepts), Maphilindo Silat, and Filipino Kali from Sifu Dan Inosanto. His arsenal of skills didn't stop there. Balicki also earned instructorships in Thai Boxing, Savate, Lameco Escrima, Wing Chun Gung Fu, Latigo y daga (whip fighting), and Shoot Wrestling.

From Law Enforcement to Bodyguard‍

In 1987, Ron became a Cook County Deputy Sheriff, stationed in his hometown of Chicago, Illinois. He was instrumental in forming the Cook County Sheriff's Special Operations Resistance Team (S.O.R.T.), a team trained to handle riot control. At the same time, he also began working as a bodyguard for various Hollywood movie and music stars, gaining a reputation as a dependable protector in high-stakes situations.‍

Competing and Training Worldwide‍

Balicki's martial arts expertise took him around the globe. From Japan to Indonesia, he trained and competed in "No holds barred" fighting tournaments. As a professional Shoot Wrestler, he competed numerous times in both Japan and America.‍

Sought-After Trainer and Expert‍

His unique blend of skills didn't go unnoticed. Organizations from the military, DEA, SWAT, FBI, and Home Land Security, along with international law enforcement agencies, Anti-Terrorist groups, and even the French President's Secret Service, have all sought out Balicki for his experience and teaching skills.‍

Author and Film Industry Professional‍

Balicki's wealth of knowledge extends to the written word. He is the author of a best-selling book on Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do and has written numerous articles for magazines worldwide. In the film industry, he's worked as a stunt coordinator for several films, working and training with the top talent in Hollywood helping them realize their full martial potential.‍

Establishing Zen Mountain LLC‍

In a natural progression of his diverse career, Ron, along with his wife Diana Lee Inosanto and their manager Tarik Heitmann, have established their own production company, Zen Mountain LLC. Their first film, "The Sensei," showcases the breadth of their collective experience in the fields of martial arts and the film industry.

The tale of Ron Balicki is one of constant growth and unending dedication to his craft. From martial arts to law enforcement, and from Hollywood stunts to film production, his journey is a testament to where passion, talent, and an indomitable spirit can lead. Today, he stands as a paragon in his field, an icon who inspires martial arts enthusiasts and action film fans alike.