Grand Master Uri Refaeli, 10th Dan Black Belt in Krav Maga
Grand Master Uri Refaeli, born on 23 November 1957, is a legendary figure in the world of Krav Maga. His journey began in 1974 during the Yom Kippur War when he sought a meaningful and challenging after-school activity. With limited options available, Uri discovered Krav Maga, a decision that transformed his life and career.
At just 15 years old, Uri became one of the pioneering students training directly under Krav Maga founder Imi Lichtenfeld and Grand Master Haim Zut. His dedication to Krav Maga continued even as he served in the IDF’s ‘Golani’ infantry regiment from 1976. During his military service, and even after his discharge in 1979, Uri trained intensively, often up to three sessions per day at various locations such as Pardes Hana, Karkoor, and Natanya.
In 1981, Uri completed the prestigious instructors’ course at the ‘Wingate’ Academy, marking the beginning of his mission to spread Krav Maga. By 1983, he had achieved his first Black Belt under Imi, becoming the first student under Haim Zut to reach this high rank. His commitment to Krav Maga saw him training with top instructors and joining the professional committee of Imi’s KM Federation by 1989.
Grand Master Uri Refaeli played a crucial role in the dissemination of Krav Maga. He trained a significant number of students who went on to become Black Belts and established their own federations. The split of Imi’s federation in 1993 led to the formation of several Krav Maga federations across Israel. In 1995, Uri and Haim Zut founded the International Krav Maga Federation, with Uri heading the professional committee.
Uri’s expertise is recognised globally. In 2001, he completed an elite martial arts trainer course at the ‘Wingate’ Academy, reflecting his high professional standards and training skills. Under Haim’s mentorship, Uri advanced to an 8th Dan Black Belt and, in 2015, achieved the prestigious 10th Dan rank, earning the title of Grand Master.
Grand Master Uri Refaeli is renowned for his global seminars, including annual events in Brazil, Mexico, the UK, and other countries. His influence extends to students and instructors who now lead Krav Maga training in the IDF and various security agencies worldwide. Uri’s philosophy sees Krav Maga not just as a martial art, but as a way of life that instils positive social values, respect for others, and promotes a healthier, safer lifestyle.
For over 40 years, Grand Master Uri has been unwavering in his commitment to Krav Maga. Today, he continues to inspire and instruct at the Krav Maga Uri Refaeli school in Hadera, Israel, welcoming students from around the globe to learn and master this powerful self-defence system.
