Shonie Carter – “Mr. International”

Martial Artist | World Champion | Instructor

Shonie ‘Mr. International’ Carter is a highly decorated martial artist, mixed martial arts (MMA) competitor, and instructor known for his dynamic fighting style and larger-than-life personality. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Action Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductee,

Carter has left an undeniable mark on the world of combat sports through his impressive accomplishments across multiple disciplines.

Early Life and Martial Arts Journey

Born with a passion for combat sports, Carter began his athletic journey in wrestling, competing at the collegiate level. He was a two-time National Junior College Association (NJCAA) qualifier and earned All-American honors, ranking 4th nationally while alsoexcelling academically as an Academic All-American. His wrestling foundation led him to explore multiple martial arts disciplines, where he quickly developed into a well-rounded fighter. Carter became a two-time World Team Member for Team USA in Greco-Roman Wrestling, further showcasing his ability to compete at the highest levels of grappling.

Martial Arts Training Background

Shonie Carter has trained extensively in over 15 different martial arts, blending elements of wrestling, grappling, striking, and hybrid combat systems. His unique approach has made him one of the most versatile martial artists in the world.

Grappling & Wrestling Arts

• Folkstyle Wrestling
• Greco-Roman Wrestling
• Olympic Freestyle Wrestling
• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
• Japanese Jiu-Jitsu
• Judo (1st and 2nd Dan)
• Submission Grappling

Striking Martial Arts

• Muay Thai Kickboxing
• American Kickboxing
• San Shou Chinese Kickboxing
• Boxing
• Bare-Knuckle Boxing

Traditional & Hybrid Martial Arts

• Shidokan Karate (1st and 2nd Dan)
• Pancration
• Saunces-Ryu
• Arnis (Filipino Martial Arts)
• Kung Fu
• Extreme Cage Fighting

Competitive Career & Championships

National and International Titles

• 2× National Champion – Pancration
• Pan-Am Olympic Pancration Gold Medalist
• Illinois State Middleweight Kickboxing Champion (Defeated Roy Jones Jr.)
• North American Grappling Association Heavyweight Champion (2004, 2013)
• New Breed Grappling Heavyweight Champion
• Shidokan Team USA Middleweight Champion (2004)

MMA & Professional Titles

• Shidokan World Champion (Defeated Peter Angerer)
• Extreme Challenge Lightweight World Champion (Defeated Jesse Jones)
• International Fighting Council World Champion (Defeated Alex Carter)
• King of the Cage Welterweight World Champion (Defeated Jason Black)
• World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) Welterweight Champion (Defeated J.T. Taylor)
• World Fighting Council Middleweight World Champion (Defeated John Krok)
• Iron Heart Crown Welterweight North American Champion (Defeated Jay Buck)
• Throwdown Middleweight Invitational World Champion (Defeated George Lockhart)
• World Extreme Challenge North American Welterweight Champion
• Team USA 2002 Welterweight U.S. Champion (Defeated Max Adevale)
• Pancration World Team Member – U.S. Gold Medalist

The Ultimate Fighter & Legacy

Carter gained further popularity when he was featured on The Ultimate Fighter 4: The Comeback, where his flamboyant personality, unorthodox techniques, and unique fashion sense made him a fan favorite. His ability to entertain both inside and outside the ring solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s most charismatic figures.

Even after retiring from professional competition, Carter remained active in the martial arts community as a coach, mentor, and instructor. He continues to pass down his knowledge to future generations, ensuring that his experience and skills live on through the students he trains.

A Martial Arts Icon

Shonie Carter’s career embodies dedication, skill, and showmanship. As a world champion in multiple combat sports, a veteran of top-tier MMA promotions, and a respected martial arts instructor, he has earned his place among the legends of combat sports.

With a career filled with thrilling battles, highlight-reel knockouts, and unforgettable moments, Carter remains an inspiration to martial artists and fight fans worldwide. ‘Mr. International’ is not just a nickname, it is a testament to his impact on the global martial arts community.