Jozsef Gombar – Head Instructor, Schools of Kung Fu Epsom

A Lifelong Passion for Martial Arts

Jozsef Gombar’s martial arts journey began in the late 1980s, fuelled by a deep admiration for legendary martial artists like Bruce Lee and Jean-Claude Van Damme. As a child, he spent summers at his uncle’s house, where he discovered a book on Kyokushin Karate. Fascinated, he would spend hours studying its pages, absorbing the techniques and philosophy of the art. His uncle and cousin, both Kyokushin Karate practitioners, saw his passion and began teaching him the basics—punches, blocks, and kicks. When his uncle gifted him his first karate gi, Jozsef felt an overwhelming sense of pride, sparking a love for martial arts that would shape his future.

At just 10 years old, he was already sharing his newfound knowledge, gathering his friends in the garden and teaching them the techniques he had learned. This early experience of passing on martial arts skills to others was a glimpse of what would later become his calling.

Karate Years & Competition Experience

In 1991, Jozsef formally began training in Wado Ryu Karate under Sensei Mátyás Mohácsán in Mohács, Hungary. Over the next six years, he honed his skills, taking part in competitions and developing a strong foundation in discipline, technique, and perseverance.

After moving to another part of Hungary, he continued his journey in Shotokan Karate, further expanding his knowledge and experience in traditional martial arts.

A New Chapter in England & Discovering Wing Chun

In 2012, Jozsef moved to England, where life’s responsibilities took priority, but his passion for martial arts never faded. By 2017, he was searching for a martial arts school for his children when he discovered Schools of Kung Fu Sutton. Inspired by the atmosphere and high-quality instruction, he and his entire family—his wife Ilona and their children Joseph and Jacob—joined together, making martial arts a family journey.

From the very beginning, Jozsef was dedicated, disciplined, and eager to learn. His enthusiasm quickly stood out, and he began assisting in kids’ and adult classes, helping wherever he could to support his fellow students and instructors.

Becoming an Instructor & Opening Schools of Kung Fu Epsom

In 2023, Jozsef formally joined the Schools of Kung Fu instructor team, assisting SiFu Keith Monk in teaching both children and adults. His commitment, passion, and leadership skills saw him take on a greater role, working full days at the Sutton school, immersing himself in training and teaching.

To further develop his knowledge and skill, Jozsef regularly trains under SiFu Alan Paterson, the UK Head Instructor of Schools of Kung Fu. He has also attended numerous instructor training sessions and seminars with SiFu Sergio, refining his understanding of Wing Chun at the highest level.

With the guidance and support of his SiFu, SiFu Keith Monk, Jozsef took the next step in his martial arts journey—opening Schools of Kung Fu Epsom. His goal is to inspire, teach, and develop students in the same way he was guided on his own journey.

Committed to Excellence

Jozsef still trains weekly, as he has discovered that learning never stops. He is dedicated to continuously improving his skills, knowing that personal growth in martial arts is a lifelong journey. He wants his students to adopt the same mindset—always striving for improvement and pushing their boundaries, both in their martial arts practice and in life.

Jozsef is committed to advancing his Wing Chun journey, and he’s excited to share his experience and knowledge with his students, ensuring they grow not only as martial artists but as individuals.

Under his instruction, students will not only learn powerful self-defence techniques but also develop discipline, resilience, and a strong mindset—skills that will benefit them both inside and outside the training hall.

Jozsef’s story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and passion, and his journey from a martial arts-obsessed child in Hungary to a full-time Wing Chun instructor in the UK is truly inspiring.

Join Jozsef at Schools of Kung Fu Epsom

Whether you’re looking to learn self-defence, improve fitness, or challenge yourself in a new way, Jozsef and his team are ready to help you unlock your potential. Come train with us and become part of one of the fastest-growing martial arts communities in the UK!