Steve Cardenas

Steve Cardenas is an American actor and martial artist recognized for his role as Rocky DeSantos in the children's action franchise "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers." Cardenas portrayed Rocky DeSantos, the second Red Ranger in "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers," and later the Blue Zeo Ranger in "Power Rangers Zeo." At age 20, Cardenas moved from Texas to Los Angeles to audition for "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers," beginning his acting career without prior experience.

Cardenas' background in martial arts contributed to his performances in the Power Rangers franchise. He began training in martial arts at age 12, earned a black belt in Taekwondo at 16, and later achieved a fifth-degree black belt in Taekwondo and a third-degree black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His competitive achievements include a gold medal at the American National Championship, silver medals at the Copa Pacifica, a gold medal at the Jiu-Jitsu Pro Gear Open, and a silver medal at the No-Gi World Championships. This extensive martial arts experience informed his work in action television and film.

Cardenas departed from the "Power Rangers" series during "Power Rangers Turbo," shifting his focus to his martial arts career. He later operated martial arts studios in Burbank, California, and San Antonio. Cardenas has remained active within the Power Rangers community, making appearances at conventions such as Power Morphicon and Undiscovered Realm Comic Con, where he has hosted panels and shared insights into his career and the production of the series.

Cardenas has returned to the "Power Rangers" franchise for special episodes, including "Power Rangers Super Ninja Steel" and the Netflix special "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Once & Always." These appearances highlight his ongoing association with the action television genre and his continued engagement with fans of the Power Rangers franchise.