
Who We Are
Alone I am Strong, Together we are Invincible
World Kobudo – One World, One Family
Our Mission
We are committed to preserving the traditions of martial arts while embracing modern innovation. Through world-class training, leadership development, and international events, we empower martial artists to reach their highest potential and foster a culture of respect, discipline, and lifelong learning.
John Therien – President & Co-Founder
9th Dan Can-Ryu Jiu-Jitsu | A Legacy of Excellence in Martial Arts
Hanshi John Therien stands as a towering figure in the martial arts world, renowned for his expertise, leadership, and global influence. As the founder of Therien Jiu-Jitsu & Kickboxing Dojo, established in 1968, he has built one of Canada's largest and most successful martial arts schools—a legacy that proudly celebrates years of unparalleled excellence. This milestone is a rare achievement, solidifying his dojo as a cornerstone of martial arts education and inspiration.
Over his illustrious career, Hanshi Therien has certified and graduated more than 1,000 black belts and currently leads over 3,000 active students in the Can-Ryu system. His impact extends far beyond his dojo walls, with approximately 200 schools worldwide connected to him or his lineage.
As the co-founder of the World Kobudo Federation (WKF), Hanshi Therien has fostered a non-political martial arts organization uniting affiliates around the world with thousands of members. He also serves as the Executive Director for the Canadian Black Belt Hall of Fame, furthering his mission to honor and preserve the martial arts legacy.
Hanshi Therien’s influence extends to large-scale events as well. In 1991, he founded Capital Conquest, one of the world’s premier martial arts training camps, with participants and masters from across the globe. This annual event is stronger than ever


Alain Sailly, Ambassador & Co-Founder
WKF World Ambassador & Vice-President
9th Dan Goshindo
Born in 1958, Hanshi Alain Sailly began his martial arts journey at just five years old under the guidance of his father, training in judo. Even as a child, he was no stranger to rigorous practice, often training alongside adults. By his teenage years and early twenties, he was competing internationally in disciplines like judo, freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, sambo, and full-contact jiu-jitsu.
Today, Alain Sailly is celebrated as a world-class martial artist whose unparalleled movement and mastery leave even seasoned practitioners in awe. As the founder of Goshindo—the "Way of Self-Defense"—he has seamlessly fused the best elements of aikido, karate, judo, grappling, and jiu-jitsu into a unique and dynamic system. His teaching improves not only strength, flexibility, and coordination but also mental clarity and flow.
A graduate of the prestigious Sport University in Vichy, Alain now resides in Carignan, near the Belgian border, where he recently established a new dojo. This dojo serves as the international headquarters for Goshindo, a martial art that continually evolves under his vision.