For many who grew up in the early 2000s, Japoy Lizardo was and continues to be a household name – his dynamic kicks, unbeatable spirit, and winning smile graced the covers of countless MILO® packs and ads.
For years, Japoy was the face of taekwondo in the Philippines, inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams through dedication and discipline. But now, almost two decades later, you might be wondering – what’s the iconic champion up to these days?
Over August 24–25, the 2024 MILO® Taekwondo Championship event at Ninoy Aquino Stadium brought back memories of Japoy’s glory days on the mat – with young athletes taking inspiration from the MILO® taekwondo legend. In a recent exclusive interview, Japoy reflected on his journey from being a young taekwondo enthusiast to one of the country’s most iconic athletes.
His passion for the sport began at just 11 years old when he watched a neighborhood competition that ignited a fire in him. From then on, his days were filled with grueling training sessions, balancing schoolwork, and sacrifices – his and his family’s – to support his athletic dreams.
“My parents didn’t have a lot of money, but they made sure I never missed a training session or a competition. It wasn’t easy, but taekwondo taught me discipline and perseverance,” he shared.
Taekwondo is a martial art that requires immense dedication. Athletes advance through a series of belts, each representing a new level of expertise and personal growth. Japoy detailed the promotion tests, the long hours of training, and the mental fortitude required to reach the black belt level. The sport also emphasizes respect, honor, and humility – values Japoy continues to pass on to his children, who have taken on the same sport to continue his legacy.
Today, Japoy is a devoted family man, but that’s not to say he has let go of the sport. He now not only serves as a mentor of taekwondo – he also goes beyond as he actively passes the torch he lit to the next generation. And beyond his classes, he also takes great pride in his child’s taekwondo progress. “I see the same determination in them that I had. It’s fulfilling to watch them develop not just as athletes but as strong, confident individuals,” he says.
The recent MILO® Taekwondo Championships is a testament to Japoy’s impact and power of sports to transform lives, just as it transformed his. He makes it a point to instill in his kids – and the students he mentors – the values that made him a champion. “It’s about mental toughness, respect for others, and learning that success doesn’t come overnight,” he explains. He also emphasizes the importance of staying grounded, remaining humble despite wins, and always working harder after setbacks.
As MILO® continues to champion youth sports, Japoy’s story remains a beacon of what can be achieved through discipline, perseverance, and a passion for sports. His journey from young athlete to national icon, and now mentor and father, exemplifies how sports lay the foundation for success in all aspects of life.
Learn more about the MILO® Sports Clinics via https://www.milo.com.ph/Sports-Clinics and get your kids into sports today!
