About WWMAA
Martial Arts for Life — Built on Ethics, Unity, and Character
Who We Are
The Worldwide Martial Arts Association (WWMAA) is dedicated to unity, ethical leadership, and lifelong personal development through martial arts. Founded by O-Sensei Philip S. Porter, WWMAA exists to preserve tradition, promote integrity, and support martial artists on and off the mat.
We believe martial arts are a way of life. Through discipline, balance, respect, and responsibility, martial arts help individuals become better students, leaders, parents, and citizens.
Our Founder: O-Sensei Philip S. Porter
O-Sensei Philip S. Porter (1924–2011), known as the Teacher of Teachers, devoted more than six decades to martial arts as a competitor, instructor, scholar, and leader. His life embodied the core virtues of martial arts: discipline, balance, humility, and service.
“Martial arts are not about defeating others. They are about mastering yourself — your discipline, your balance, and your responsibility to others. Technique fades, but character remains.”
Why Martial Arts Matter
Many people think martial arts is only about fighting. In reality, consistent training develops everyday life skills that matter at home, at work, and in community.
Focus
Learning to be present and attentive in a distracted world
Discipline
Building habits through structured practice and accountability
Balance
Physical stability and emotional steadiness under pressure
Respect
For teachers, training partners, tradition, and oneself
Self-confidence
Learning that you are capable
Resilience
Learning from failure, adapting, and continuing forward
Our Philosophy
WWMAA respects all legitimate martial arts traditions. We promote ethical teaching, honest representation of rank and credentials, and lifelong learning rooted in character development. We exist to strengthen martial arts by supporting:
Unity and mutual respect across traditions
Ethical teaching, coaching, and rank practices
Honest representation of credentials, lineage, and experience
Safe, inclusive, and non-discriminatory training environments
Lifelong learning grounded in character development
Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission
The mission of the Worldwide Martial Arts Association is to promote unity, ethical leadership, and lifelong personal development through the practice and teaching of martial arts worldwide.
Our Vision
We envision a global martial arts community where training builds character as much as skill, where students are protected and respected, and where martial arts serve as a positive force for individuals, families, and society.
Our Core Values
Integrity
We act honestly, ethically, and responsibly in all matters.
Respect
We honor the dignity, traditions, and diversity of all people and martial arts.
Discipline
We value consistent effort, self-control, and lifelong learning.
Service
We place student welfare and community benefit above personal gain.
Accountability
We hold ourselves and our members to clear ethical standards.
Unity
We recognize and respect all legitimate martial arts traditions.
Governance & Oversight
The Worldwide Martial Arts Association is governed by a Board of Governors responsible for safeguarding the mission, ethical standards, and long-term integrity of the Association. The Board oversees:
Rank promotion and recognition of its members
Adoption and enforcement of the Code of Ethics
Membership standards and disciplinary procedures
Strategic direction and organizational continuity
WWMAA governance is designed to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability while honoring the traditions and diversity of martial arts worldwide.
International Affiliates
WWMAA welcomes affiliated schools, instructors, and organizations worldwide who share a commitment to ethical instruction and respect for martial arts traditions.
Affiliates agree to uphold WWMAA's Code of Ethics, represent credentials honestly, and support student welfare above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
Annual Ethics Commitment
To maintain the highest standards, WWMAA members are encouraged to reaffirm their commitment to the Code of Ethics annually. This practice reinforces accountability and reminds all members that ethical conduct is a continuous responsibility.
Members are encouraged to reflect on their conduct, teaching practices, and leadership responsibilities, and to recommit themselves to the principles of integrity, respect, and service.
Ethics & Crisis Response
WWMAA is committed to responding promptly, fairly, and responsibly to ethical concerns or incidents that may affect student safety, instructor conduct, or the reputation of martial arts.
When serious ethical concerns arise, the Association may take interim measures to protect participants while ensuring due process, confidentiality, and fairness for all parties involved.