About Sifu Master Wally Cornett
A Lifetime of Dedication to Martial Arts, Aviation, and Service
Sifu Master Wally Cornett is not only a highly respected martial artist but also a decorated military pilot, athlete, mentor, and devoted family man. His journey has taken him across the globe, shaping his skills both in combat and self-discipline, while always staying true to his Christian values and commitment to his students.
A Proud Tennessean & Collegiate Athlete
Originally from Maryville Tn, Sifu Master Cornett moved to Nashville before high school in the 1970s, where he became a standout athlete at Lipscomb Academy, excelling in football, basketball, and swimming. His athletic talent earned him a spot on the Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) football team, where he continued to develop the discipline and perseverance that would define his career.
A Decorated Military Pilot & Instructor
After graduating from MTSU, Sifu Master Cornett joined the U.S. Air National Guard, where he trained as a military pilot. His aviation journey led him through flight training, mastering the T-37 and T-38 before eventually flying the C-130 for the remainder of his distinguished 31-year career.
As a Lieutenant Colonel and C-130 instructor pilot, he traveled the world, serving in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other conflict zones, earning numerous military decorations for his service. His global travels provided him with the unique opportunity to train in various martial arts styles, learning directly from masters across different cultures.
A Passion for Martial Arts & Teaching
With decades of experience in Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu, Dillman Karate International (Ryuku Kempo), Chi Gigong, Wing Chun, Kali Stick Fighting, and more, Sifu Cornett has developed a unique system that blends deadly precision with real-world effectiveness. His training philosophy incorporates:
✅ Dim-Mak pressure point striking
✅ Internal energy (Chi Qigong) applications
✅ Practical self-defense and combat tactics
✅ Advanced techniques from global masters
"I might be the Sifu in class, but she's the boss at home." – Sifu Cornett on his wife, Cathy
A Family Man & Community Leader
Now residing in Mt. Juliet, TN, Sifu Cornett is deeply involved in his local church, Hickory Hills Baptist Church, where he serves as the Mission Director. Happily married to his beautiful wife Cathy for 20 years, he takes great pride in their life together.
He is also an incredibly proud father, supporting his son, who swam for the University of Tennessee—a testament to the family’s athletic legacy.
Outside of martial arts, Sifu Cornett enjoys:
🏡 Living on the lake
🐔 Caring for his 11 little chickens
🐕 Spending time with his German Shepherd, Cora
Train Under a True Martial Arts Master
Sifu Cornett’s diverse background in martial arts, military service, and mentorship makes him a one-of-a-kind instructor. If you’re ready to learn from a true master who has trained with experts around the world, contact Sifu Master Wally Cornett today and begin your Kung Fu journey!
What Does "Sifu Master" Mean?
Sifu Master Wally Cornett holds a dual martial arts title, a rare and distinguished achievement that reflects decades of dedication, mastery, and teaching across multiple disciplines.
The Meaning of "Sifu"
The title Sifu (師傅) comes from the Jook Lum Temple Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu tradition. In Chinese martial arts, Sifu means "teacher" or "mentor", but it carries a deeper meaning than just an instructor. A Sifu is someone who has:
✔ Achieved mastery in their art
✔ Dedicated themselves to passing down knowledge
✔ Guides students with wisdom, discipline, and personal mentorship
A Sifu is more than just a teacher—they are a leader, role model, and keeper of the tradition.
The Meaning of "Master"
The Master title comes from the Dillman Karate International System (Ryuku Kempo). Within this system, the rank of 5th-degree black belt is officially recognized as Master level. Achieving this rank signifies:
✔ High-level technical expertise
✔ Deep understanding of pressure point striking (Dim Mak)
✔ The ability to teach and develop new generations of martial artists
The Dual Title: Sifu Master
To earn the combined title of Sifu Master has taken Sifu Cornett over 50 years of training, dedication, and teaching. This title represents his high-level expertise in two distinct martial arts systems, blending the philosophies and techniques of:
✅ Traditional Southern Praying Mantis Kung Fu (Jook Lum Temple Chinese Boxing)
✅ Dillman Karate International System (Ryuku Kempo & Pressure Point Striking)
Because of this unique combination of training, ranks, and experience, Sifu Cornett holds the title Sifu Master—a designation that reflects his rare and extensive martial arts journey.
If you're looking to train under a true master of multiple systems, Sifu Master Wally Cornett is the perfect instructor to guide you on your martial arts journey!