Martial Arts History Museum to Honor World Champion Christine Bannon-Rodrigues with Special Weekend Celebration
The Martial Arts History Museum is honoring nine-time world champion and Hollywood stunt performer Christine Bannon-Rodrigues with a special weekend event that highlights her groundbreaking career and lasting impact on martial arts worldwide.
The Martial Arts History Museum is preparing a special weekend celebration honoring martial arts legend Christine Bannon-Rodrigues, a nine-time World Champion in karate and weapons forms who also served as a stunt double for Hilary Swank and Alicia Silverstone. The event, scheduled for November 14-16, 2025, will culminate with Bannon-Rodrigues receiving one of the highest honors in martial arts: induction into the Museum's Hall of Fame during an Honor Day ceremony on Saturday, November 15 from 4-6 PM.
Bannon-Rodrigues's career represents a significant chapter in martial arts history, marked by groundbreaking achievements that helped bring the discipline to mainstream audiences. She made history as the first person to win three gold medals at a single World Games, setting a precedent for martial arts excellence that continues to inspire practitioners globally. Her transition from competitive martial arts to Hollywood stunts further demonstrates the versatility and real-world application of martial arts training.
The weekend celebration will include multiple opportunities for fans to engage with the martial arts icon. On Friday, November 14 from 4-6 PM, the museum will screen "Sci-Fighter," the 2005 film where Bannon-Rodrigues played the main villain opposite martial arts star Cynthia Rothrock. Sunday, November 16 from 1-3 PM will feature a screening of 1994's "The Next Karate Kid," which marked her first stunt job doubling for Hilary Swank. Bannon-Rodrigues will participate in question-and-answer sessions following each screening, providing unique insights into her work in both competitive martial arts and film.
Martial Arts History Museum President Michael Matsuda emphasized the significance of honoring Bannon-Rodrigues, stating, "Christine's impact on martial arts is immeasurable. Her dedication, achievements, and trailblazing spirit continue to inspire practitioners of all ages, and we are honored to celebrate her legacy." Museum Representative Jerome Maida added that the Honor Day will feature a presentation examining Bannon-Rodrigues's life and career, along with opportunities for fans to meet the martial arts pioneer personally.
The recognition of Bannon-Rodrigues comes at a time when martial arts continues to gain global popularity, both as a competitive sport and as entertainment. Her career trajectory from world champion to Hollywood stunt performer illustrates the diverse career paths available to martial artists and the growing recognition of their contributions to both sports and entertainment industries. The museum's decision to honor her reflects the enduring importance of preserving martial arts history while celebrating living legends who continue to influence new generations of practitioners.
Admission for each day of the celebration is priced at $20 for adults and $5 for children, making the event accessible to martial arts enthusiasts of all ages. The Martial Arts History Museum, located at 201 N. Brand Blvd., Suite B100 in Glendale, California, serves as an important institution for preserving and celebrating the rich history of martial arts in America and beyond.