BRAVE Combat Federation is set to return to Slovenia for the second time in 2024 with BRAVE CF 88 on September 28 and the show will feature a blockbuster main event. The headlining bout of BRAVE CF 88 will see European superstar Erko Jun facing German knockout artist Alexander Wesner for the vacant Light Heavyweight title in what will be a historic fight for MMA in Europe.  Erko Jun recently secured a knockout victory over Arab legend Mohammed Said Maalem at BRAVE CF 81 in Slovenia, earning him a shot at the Light Heavyweight title. With the upcoming title fight at BRAVE CF 88, Erko will be preparing for his third consecutive BRAVE CF main event and his third straight BRAVE CF fight in Slovenia. Erko is on a five-fight winning streak, with both of his BRAVE CF fights so far ending in first-round finishes. He aims to continue his streak and bring the BRAVE CF World title to Europe. Alexander Wesner, on the other hand, is also on a five-fight winning streak. He has finished four of his last five fights and is a proven finisher with eight of his 10 wins coming via stoppages. The German superstar seeks to disrupt Erko Jun’s streak and secure his place in history books as the BRAVE Combat Federation champion. BRAVE CF 88, held in association with WFC, will be one of six events during BRAVE Combat Federation’s 70-day global tour. The event follows BRAVE CF 87 in the Netherlands and will precede BRAVE Combat Federation’s trip to Spain on October 19, solidifying the organization’s position as the industry leader in Europe.

It can be pretty confusing to figure out who's who. So, we decided to cut through the noise by asking some of the most respected black belts from various generations to share their criteria for what truly makes a Master in Martial Arts. Mike Stone I was asked to share my opinions, definitions, and qualities I would seek, which are required for a black belt and a master's. The difference between a black belt and a master may vary significantly in the length of training, abilities, skills, and talents. The most important differences are wisdom, experience, time, and chosen lifestyle. A black belt may pursue their training and interest in the martial arts, but I believe a master would have chosen martial arts his life. By his life, I mean a master would approach his life and martial arts training 24/7. A master would include the three aspects of his humanity in living his daily life experiences. In contrast, a Black belt would be satisfied with teaching karate. John Sepulveda I believe a master goes beyond the physical aspect of achieving a Black Belt or any rank.  It is more about a strong character emphasizing respect, honor, integrity and leadership skills.  Simon Rhee My definition of a master is a person who spends most of his life dedicated to still learning and teaching his specific style of martial art to others . To simply put it, a Master is like a professor at a college level. Ron Van Clief The definition of a master is the continuation of 10,000 hrs in training.   The term master is overused.  Mastery of the self and technical application is a lifetime occupation.  My martial arts training started 65 yrs ago with Moses Powell at the St John's community center in Brooklyn, New York.  I have never referred to myself as a master.  I am a student and lifetime practitioner.   Rank is not important to me.  13 yrs ago I put my red belt away and put on a white belt to study Relson Gracie Jiujitsu.  Learning is a lifelong process that should never stop. To master yourself is the objective of martial arts.  To create a better version of yourself.  To become the best person you can become. Ricardo Liborio  A Master of Martial Arts is an individual who has achieved a high level of proficiency in both the technical skills and philosophical knowledge of martial arts. Beyond physical prowess, they embody the mental attributes of focus, discipline, and perseverance. They demonstrate humility and possess strong leadership qualities. A true master exhibits emotional intelligence, empathy, and a generous personality, consistently striving to support and uplift others within and outside the martial arts community. Jeff Smith  To receive the rank of Master level  Black belt should require at least a rank of 5th Degree level and at least 18-20 years of martial arts training having passed the other levels of 1st-4th degree black belt in the appropriate time required in their style. They should have also been teaching and developing black belts under them and sharing their knowledge with the beginner, intermediate, advanced, and other lower-ranking black belts. Too many people have been awarded higher levels of Master and Grandmaster black belts without having put in the appropriate time or training in Martial  Arts. It’s not the belt you wear but the knowledge, technique, and everything you have contributed to the betterment of the Martial Arts and the continued training weekly and sharing that knowledge with other students and black belts that really make you a Master or Grandmaster! Bram Frank  It's a position and title that's sought by many, given to a few, and held as proof of being more than the average black belt. The title has the connotation of years of experience and knowledge.  Being a Master of the martial arts is the next step after becoming a BLACK BELT. You can finally use all the basic skills and teach those skills to others. The information of learning has become knowledge and morphed into EXPERIENCE.  You no longer copy moves and techniques: you use, innovative, and translate those moves into novel and unique ways and expressions of those moves. You've mastered the ways of martial arts that you can USE it without thinking it out beforehand. Simple words have become a vibrant language. Being a Master of Martial arts is being able to use, express, and demonstrate to others the fluid language of being a true martial artist.  It's like being a master craftsman: martial arts are the craft of your soul and WHO you are. Herb Perez  A modern-day master in Taekwondo transcends the black belt and embodies a harmonious blend of technical expertise, unwavering discipline, and deep respect for the art's traditions and philosophy.  They embrace challenges with humility, understanding that every experience, win or lose, is an opportunity for learning. Their mastery extends beyond personal achievement, encompassing a responsibility to inspire and uplift others, fostering a community where respect, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence thrive.  They are not just practitioners, but living embodiments of Taekwondo's values, leaving a legacy that resonates far beyond the dojang.  KC Jones A martial arts master is an individual who has dedicated many years to training in their chosen discipline, demonstrating exceptional proficiency, knowledge, and skill. The title of “master” is an honor that does not necessarily correspond to a specific rank or belt color. Instead, it signifies a revered and distinguished status within the martial arts community. A master adheres to rigorous practice routines, showing unwavering commitment and consistency. Their discipline extends beyond physical training to encompass mental fortitude and self-control.   Tom Callahan  Being called a master is a heavy burden for one who follows the principles of Budo. It requires a deeper understanding of the art. A master must not only excel in their physical abilities and techniques (or must have done so in their younger years if older) but also be an exemplary instructor, capable of transmitting the art’s knowledge on a profound level. A master’s devotion to the art defines their character and informs their life choices. This commitment spans many years and stems from a place of love. Through this deep and prolonged dedication, mastery is achieved. Jian Lee A master is more than an embodiment of personal technical skill. They take what they know and are always looking for further innovation. Their mastery is not only for personal use but to help cultivate strong training environments where others learn and grow. Masters serve as mentors who help guide the next generation of martial artists. Graciela Casillas  A martial arts master is defined not solely by their exceptional technical expertise and combat skills but by their embodiment of the core principles and philosophies of their art. This mastery reflects a deep understanding and internalization of techniques, discipline, and the underlying spirit of the martial arts. A true master demonstrates wisdom, patience, and humility, serving as a guide and mentor to others. They inspire through their actions, fostering respect, integrity, and a commitment to continuous learning. Their influence extends beyond physical training, as they impart valuable life lessons and ethical values, shaping the character and spirit of their students and contributing to the broader community. Harinder Singh A master is someone who knows who they are, why they are here, and that they belong to something greater than themselves. They are humble explorers on the path of self-discovery, honest self-expression, and the never-ending pursuit of mastery. Mastery is not a result, a destination, or a title, rather it is the constant change and transformation of the being. It is the art of freeing yourself from fear and doubt, so you can live wholly and totally in this moment, and from this place be able to create, connect, and adapt in any situation and circumstance. Driven by humility, openness, and detachment from results they are ready to explore, discover, learn, grow, and create. They know that the greatest enemy is within and that the service of others is the ultimate objective.

Counting down the 10 greatest fight scenes in a martial arts movie , the category ONE vs. MANY.  In this list, we examine the greatest fight scenes with the twist where the hero fights more than one opponent. To make this top list we had two important criteria: Creativity and Skill. Creativity With the advancement of wires and CGI. It's almost impossible to surprise us these days and yet so many films take it to the next level. Such is the case with the 2022 Academy Award film Everything Everywhere All at Once. Creativity can be more than just the choreography, it's the use of elements and surroundings to make the fight so much more interesting.  Skill This is about how flawlessly movements are performed, such as kicking, elaborate hand techniques, grappling locks and throws, and of course the use of traditional weapons, and the ones that go bang! Skill can also be translated to technical perfection. The most important part of skill comes from the person actually performing the technique, thus the reason we love Jackie Chan, Tony Jaa, and Wesley Snipes is because we know they perform their own moves. One vs. Many from Most Recent to Oldest  Ke Huy Quan vs. the IRS  Everything, Everywhere All at Once, 2022 We loved him in  Indiana Jones  and the  Goonies , but he stole our hearts with that leather fanny pack in this Academy Award-winning film. Real-life actor, martial artist, and, yes, fight stunt director Quan started working behind the camera choreographing action sequences. His first project after graduation came with renowned Hong Kong filmmaker Corey Yuen, who asked him to help with the fight sequences on X-Men  (2000). In the unforgettable fight scene that takes place in the IRS office, he amazes us with “Fanny Pack Fu.” The fight scene can best be summed up by a fan who said, “How can someone so adorable be so dangerous?” Charlize Theron vs. Everyone in the 10 Minute Fight Scene  Atomic Blonde, 2017 We all have to take our hats off to Charlize Theron. This A-list superstar performed most of her own martial arts stunts brilliantly in Atomic Blonde .  In a scene that literally goes for 10 minutes, she pulls out every trick in the book! She kicks, punches, elbows, and knees; you name it, she does it.  There are so many behind-the-scenes videos of her training and clips from the movie, but treat yourself to the full monty and sit down and watch this masterpiece. Kudos to Sam Hargrave, second-unit director, and stunt coordinator, who both choreographed and shot the scene. Rama vs. The Machete Gang  The Raid, 2011 This 2011 Indonesian martial arts/action film was written and directed by Gareth Evans and starring Iko Uwais (I ndonesian actor, stuntman, fight choreographer, and martial artist) . The film follows an Indonesian police squad sent to raid a ruthless drug lord’s apartment block in the slums of Jakarta, only to be surrounded by the criminals forcing them to fight their way through the complex. Uwais is powerful, creative, and absolutely brilliant in the fight scene against multiple machete assassins. This brutal action film is a must-see.  Jason Statham vs. the Gang  Transporter 2, 2005 Set in Miami, this movie has everything including slick-back-hair bad guys, beautiful female assassins, and, of course, Jason Statham in prime form. With a little help from legendary fight director Corey Yuen, Jason Statham is spectacular as he faces off against gang thugs. We really get to see his skills that include an impressive display of kicking, acrobatics, and weapon work using a makeshift steel pipe that doubles as a martial arts staff. Tony Jaa vs. The Club On Bak, 2003 The film that started it all– Ong Bak  starring Tony Jaa. In a club scene, Jaa takes on multiple opponents one by one and it is here we are introduced to the original Muay Thai style of Tony Jaa. He puts on a kicking and striking clinic of Muay Thai moves that had previously not been seen in major films. This is the film that started it all and propelled Jaa into stardom. Wesley Snipes Blade vs. the Vampires Blade, 1998 One of the best martial artists on the silver screen is Wesley Snipes. Fans of  Blade  will agree, he is spectacular when he faces the vampires. We're treated to a masterful display of kicking techniques, Karate hands, a few stylized capoeira moves, and, of course, the use of his blade! All is beautifully done while his sunglasses never leave the face. Now, that's what we call style! Jackie Chan Pachinko Gaming Casino   Thunderbolt 1995 This is the Jackie Chan we know and love. Acrobatic, quick on his feet, using both his kung fu and gymnastics skills to take on a gang in a Tokyo Casino. The scene gets more interesting when the sumo guy shows up, but true to form, Jackie does not disappoint. The scene goes for more than five minutes, and probably took several months to film but it's worth every second. Cynthia Rothrock & Michelle Yeoh vs. a Bunch of Bad Guys Yes, Madam 1985 This film is forty years old and if you haven't seen it it's a must-see. It's the breakout film for both Cynthia Rothrock and Michelle Yeoh who play detectives in this Hong Kong martial arts action masterpiece. The final scene includes an incredible display of empty hand fighting weapons and some of the most amazing stunts! Swords, staff, spears, lots of broken glass, and hand-to-hand combat that still hold up today. It's the film that launched both careers that continue today. Steven Seagal Bar Fight  Out for Justice  Quintessential Steven Seagal, ponytail and all. This fight scene displays Seagal in his prime, with the finest moments utilizing multiple disciplines of martial arts including Aikido, Karate Kendo, and Filipino stick fighting. We're even treated to a showdown battle facing Danny Inosantos, appropriately named “sticks.” Bruce Lee in the Alley Return of the Dragon They don't make them like this anymore. Bruce Lee faces off against a gang of stick-carrying thugs who are trying to take over his family's Chinese restaurant in the middle of Rome (where else would it be?)  Back to the alley, Bruce and his signature white tank top bust out all the moves and signature lines like a dragon whips his tail and, of course, how can we forget two sticks and a chain? Then the world went crazy for the Nunchaku and the classic line, “We’ll show him Chinese Boxing.”

Counting down the greatest fight scenes in a martial arts movie, one against one! In boxing, there is a saying: “Styles make fights.” The same can be applied to make a great movie fight scene. However, we added two more important criteria: Opponents and Emotion. Opponents: Just like an MMA fight or a heavyweight boxing match, it's all about who's fighting who. You can have the most creative and skilful fight in a movie, but it's always better when the two facing each other are either of equal skill or have skills that are believable on screen. The classic example of course is Bruce Lee vs Chuck Norris in the Roman Colosseum; two gladiators facing off in an epic battle that people still talk about 50+ years later.  Emotion: The best fights are when we are invested emotionally in the final outcome. It's that rare cinematic instance when we genuinely want to rise and cheer when the bad guy goes down.   When compiling this list, we deem it crucial to consider every aspect, aiming to create an inclusive and comprehensive compilation that appeals to people of all ages and generations. But keeping in mind the most important element is that the reader has a critical eye and opinion on the martial arts. So this list is for those of you who love martial arts and want to see it at its very best. ONE AGAINST ONE [Counting down from the most recent to oldest] Keanu Reeves vs. Mark Dacascos  John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, 2019 It's great to watch real-life Hollywood A-list stars do their stunts, and Keanu does many of his own as he faces off against real-life martial arts master Mark Dacascos. This battle includes open-hand fighting and great samurai sword action. The fight has many master shots and it's great to watch Keanu performing his own moves that include empty hand and weapons. Of course, not to forget that he's fighting against a man with a lifetime of martial arts experience and the title of chairman in the Iron Chef! Donnie Yen vs. Sammo Hung  IP Man 2, 2010 For simplicity, we'll just call this the “tabletop fight.” Ip Man (played by Donnie Yen) takes on a few Kung Fu Masters but saves the big fight for Sammo Hung. In a showdown that includes Wing Chun vs. well, let’s just spell it out, Hung Gar, some Southern style, and cool acrobatic kicks. Sammo is so versatile you really can't pinpoint one particular Kung Fu style, but what makes the fight scene even more amazing is that they do it all while standing on top of a table, it brings a whole new meaning to “breaking bread.” Michael Jai White vs. Matt Mullins  Blood and Bone, 2009 A favorite among so many,  it's become a cult classic. Michael Jai White elevated his status in this fan favorite  Blood and Bone .  The showdown vs. Matt Mullins is beautifully filmed and displays many wide shots to showcase Michael Jai White's masterful moves in both his hand and kicking skills. Matt Mullins is no slouch either; a real clinic of kicking skills! Phillip Rhee vs. Simon Rhee  Best of the Best, 1989 We all cried at the final battle as the eye-patch-wearing Simon Rhee (aka Dae Han) faces off against his real-life brother Philip Ree in the ending battle of Best of the Best. Jackie Chan vs. Benny Urquidez  Dragons Forever, 1988  Many martial artists consider this one of the greatest martial arts fight scenes of all time.  World kickboxing champion Benny “the Jet” Urquidez never looked better! One of the things that makes this fight scene so great is that it doesn't rely on over-produced, multi-cut edits to speed up the action. This fight uses many wide shorts and master shots where you get to really appreciate the skill of both martial arts masters. It's the one fight that we're actually afraid Jackie's going to lose because we all know the true skill of Benny the Jet! Jean-Claude Van Damme vs. Bolo Yeung Bloodsport, 1988 This is the movie that turned Van Damme into one of the biggest action stars in the world. Made for only 1.5 million dollars, it eventually grossed 50 million worldwide and introduced the “Muscles from Brussels” to a global audience.  The ending fight scene featured a young JCVD against the “Asian Hercules” Bolo Yeung. Only a decade and some change since Enter the Dragon  Bolo is still muscular and fit. Van Damme's kicking techniques are so clean and beautiful that even the best Korean Taekwondo stylist would say,  “Damn! That boy can kick!” And indeed he did!! Bruce Lee vs. Sammo Hung opening fight scene  Enter the Dragon, 1973 Some may say this was the world's introduction to MMA as Bruce Lee in a very young Samo Hung face-off at the Shaolin Temple. The fight includes striking grappling and even finger gloves. Not to mention some fancy gymnastics, but that, of course, was for show.  Back to the fight, Bruce showed us the future. It was the original mixed martial arts battle! Chuck Norris vs. Bruce Lee  Return of the Dragon, 1972 Over 50 years and people still argue over this fight scene of a young Bruce Lee and a young Chuck Norris facing off in the Roman Colosseum. This fight still holds up today, no fancy camera work, no special effects, just two of the most skilled martial artists in the world going mano a mano! Honorable Ego Mention: 8 Greatest Fight Scenes Jet Li vs. George Chung  Dragon Fight,  1989 Okay, sometimes being a publisher has its perks and it’s not a card always used, but for this list, I had to toss in this little nugget of Kung Fu delight! This is why it’s only an honorable mention. The 1989 American-made Jet Li movie was shot entirely on location in San Francisco, mostly on the streets, airport parking lots, and even a horse stable in Marin County. The film was made for a very modest budget and had no special effects or  wire work, only a young Jet Li using his amazing wushu skills to kick ass on several members of the original West Coast demo team. If you can find it, it's a wonderful and pure little gem.

Consider the following: “None of Morihei Ueshiba’s students has reached his level in aikido, and none is likely to.” “Since the fighters of the Gracie family at times seem virtually unbeatable, their art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu is also unbeatable.” "Taekwondo is more functional for self-defense than wing chun kung fu.” The correct interpretation of these and other controversial martial arts statements almost always depends on whom you’re asking. This might lead you to wonder if there are any absolute truths in the martial arts. Many would argue that there are not. The problem lies with the lack of historical accuracy and scientific provability in the martial arts field in general. From great masters long ago learning secret breaking techniques to obscure tribes in far-off deserts to the mysteries of the delayed death touch, there’s plenty of smoke and obfuscation. Occasionally, however, a fresh wind clears away some of the haze — as in the case of the Gracie family and the rise of MMA, both of which have inspired many to examine their own art more closely. If there are any absolute truths or guidelines in the martial arts, what might they be? Sit back and sink your teeth into the following. Here are the universal truths of martial arts. Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 1 Any art or technique will work in a fight if the difference in the skill level of the opponents is sufficiently large. Quite a few articles have been written, mostly by taekwondo practitioners, about how and why high kicks and flying kicks work on the street. There may well be an occasional taekwondo champ or instructor who can successfully apply such a technique against an inexperienced or drunken attacker. Surely, however, any survey of people with street experience — such as bouncers and police officers — will reveal that elbow strikes, eye jabs and the like are better choices. Consider this: How many high kicks have you seen being used in a bar brawl or UFC match? Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 2 Any martial art or martial arts technique will work if you have the element of surprise on your side. The element of surprise can have two applications. The first occurs when your opponent is not aware that you are about to strike. An example of this would be a sucker punch used in a street fight. The second application occurs when your opponent is not aware of certain techniques that you might use. For a memorable example of this, think back to UFC 4 when Royce Gracie caught Dan Severn in a triangle choke. The element of surprise is used in other circumstances. Think of how many martial artists have been defeated by an opponent who was pretending to be injured. And imagine how many muggers have regretted picking on some harmless-looking old man who turned out to be a martial arts master.\ Universal Truths of the Martial Arts No. 3 All training is specific; the closer your training is to the envisaged application, the more efficient it is. This notion is widely accepted in sports science. For example, to become a great marathoner, you need to do a lot of long-distance running. The days of a power lifter training by lifting light weights frequently are long gone. In the martial arts, however, some people still firmly believe — and it is a matter of faith rather than knowledge gained through experience — that years of kata (forms) practice on a wood floor will prepare you for a nightclub brawl against multiple opponents and weapons. That is incorrect. To prepare for a fight, you need to include some form of fighting in your training. Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 4 Real combat cannot be trained for in a completely realistic manner. In times of war, special-forces units have been put through war games and combat drills using live ammunition. Predictably, this has led to many training casualties. Equally predictably, the survivors of such training were some of the toughest and most vicious combat soldiers the world has ever known. In civilian martial arts practice, the price of such training is clearly too high. This is understandable, and furthermore, not everyone studies the arts for self-defense. What is not understandable and in many cases not responsible is how some instructors sell their martial art by telling their students that non-contact sparring using a limited repertoire of often-nonfunctional techniques does prepare them for the street. It follows from this that MMA is not a street fight. It’s one against one, no weapons, a large clear floor, some rules and a referee. The differences between this and what may happen in a back alley late at night are obvious. On the other hand, as a testing area or laboratory, MMA is about the best that’s available — and that’s morally and legally acceptable. Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 5 The ability of an occasional outstanding martial artist does not prove the superiority of a martial art. Looking at the myth-filled history of the martial arts, it seems doubtful that there ever was a style that did not have at least one exponent who became famous for his exploits as a fighter. There are, however, a few things one should remember. There have always been people who, because of their physical attributes, mental attitude or both, would have been superb fighters even if their training had been in classical dance. Furthermore, we will never know how valid such legends really are. How would the ancient Shaolin monks have fared against modern muay Thai practitioners? We will never know, but we do know that often in modern times, muay Thai fighters have beaten teams of kung fu fighters. How would aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba have fared against Brazilian jiu-jitsu legend Rickson Gracie? A silly and unanswerable question perhaps, but the point remains that a style, represented by one man in challenge matches long ago in a possibly limited environment, may be fairly useless on today’s mean streets. Aside from this, it is doubtful the average aikido instructor of today trains like Ueshiba did — in terms of technique and intensity. Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 6 The fighting ability of an instructor does not guarantee the fighting ability of the student. The fact that an instructor has a certain amount of experience means that his or her teachings will be that much more realistic and the training may produce some ability in the student. It is wrong, however, to assume that the student of an experienced fighter will automatically be competent. Furthermore, fighting ability does not automatically imply teaching ability. Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 7 Many creators of new martial arts fail to produce students who equal them in ability. There could be many reasons for this, ranging from teaching incompetently to leaving a secret ingredient or two out of the recipe as it is handed down, but one reason seems to occur frequently. A master teaches a final product that he has created over a lifetime, forgetting that much of his own ability comes from the learning process itself and from the techniques, drills and exercises that he learned but subsequently discarded. In the martial arts, ability comes from the many experiments that have failed and even from challenge matches that at best could have been described as a draw. In other words, ability is a matter of drills executed and techniques tested over time, thus resulting in the development of certain attributes and the acquisition of experience. You can teach techniques and drills that develop certain attributes, but you cannot teach experience. You can tell students about your experiences and you can encapsulate your teachings on paper, but in the end, the students have to create their own experience. Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 8 Nothing beats experience. Seeing Rickson Gracie when he dominated his matches in MMA, watching Eric Knaus of the Dog Brothers when he would stick-fight an opponent to the ground or witnessing a boxer come back to win a bout after getting knocked down shows grace under pressure. It is the ability to remain calm in the worst circumstances. The best fighters make it look simple because they have been in such situations so often. Some martial arts teach students to use meditative techniques to enhance relaxation and increase their performance under pressure. As useful as meditation may be, if it is not combined with realism-oriented competitive drilling, it might not be able to override the emotional response you experience in a life-threatening situation. Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 9 Morality and ethics in the martial arts vary from style to style and instructor to instructor. There are many who prefer the earthy directness and hands-on experimentation of Choki Motobu to the schoolteacher ethics of Gichin Funakoshi. Well-known Filipino martial arts master Cacoy Canete (1919-2016) was interviewed many years ago. “The only way to prove that your style is the best is to accept any challenge," he said. "How can you claim that your style is the best when you do not accept any challenge? "That is why in our group whenever there is a student who refuses to fight, I always ask him to retire. What use will our techniques be if he has the technique [but] doesn’t use it in actual fights?” Many doce pares students of Canete’s owe their lives to this philosophy. In our modern Western society, however, it is not only unethical but also illegal to look for a fight. Yet it is also extremely foolish for martial artists not to be prepared to the best of their ability in case they are forced into one. Ethics and morality are often used by instructors to enforce discipline on their students — and sometimes even to hide the fact that the instructor is incompetent in combat terms. Universal Truth of the Martial Arts No. 10 The one basic quality or attribute that underlies martial arts ability is awareness. A high level of awareness enables you to avoid a crisis rather than solve it after it begins. In any crisis situation, your awareness tends to shrink to a pinpoint of perceived danger. Open awareness in this context means staying relaxed, continuing to breathe deeply and remaining peripherally sensitive to other potential threats. With open awareness in such a situation, you often experience the so-called “master’s phenomenon” of everything seeming to move in slow motion. This can give you ample opportunity to respond appropriately. The Verdict on the 10 Truths Are these really martial arts truths? One way of testing them is to turn them around and see what the exact opposite sounds like. In the case of the first truth, for instance, it would be something like this: “There are techniques that will work irrespective of the difference in skill between two opponents.” The only solution that springs to mind is a gun. An eye jab may be a great equalizer, but first you have to get to your attacker's eyes. It’s a useful exercise to examine the other nine truths in the same manner. Of course, some martial artists will disagree with several of the 10 truths, or even all of them, but whether or not they are actually truths is perhaps not even the ultimate issue. What is of much greater importance is that martial arts students ask questions and think about what they are doing and why they are doing it. It is exactly this process of continuous questioning and experimentation that leads to growth and to the finding of truth.

In our countdown, we're shining a spotlight on the most iconic martial arts characters brought to life by real martial artists. These portrayals not only mesmerized global audiences but also remain ingrained in the actor's legacy to this very day. In a realm dominated by green screens, wires, and CGI, distinguishing genuine skill from Hollywood magic can be a challenge.  However, in this article, the discerning eye of the Black Belt team and advisors narrow in on these memorable characters we both admire and despise, highlighting their authentic mastery of martial arts! Here is a list of Martial Artists and the Greatest Characters played by them. Bruce Lee “Kato” Donnie Yen “Yip Man”  Steven Seagal “Nico” Scott Adkins “Boyka” Chuck Norris “JJ McQuade”   Jackie Chan “Lee”  Bolo “Bolo”  Wesley Snipes  “Blade” Tony Jaa “Ong Bak” Michael Jai White  “Isaiah Bone” Jean Claude Van Damme “Frank Dux”’ Simon Rhee  “Dae Han”  Cynthia Rothrock  “China” Tai Mak “Leroy Green” Robin Shou “Liu Kang” Chris Casamassa  “Scorpion” Bruce Lee “Kato” Donnie Yen “Ip Man”  If ever a character more associated with a real-life actor Donnie Yen's portrayal of Ip Man is a perfect embodiment of the legendary Wing Chun master is nothing short of captivating. He flawlessly captures the essence of Ip Man's stoicism and prowess. With each fluid movement and intense gaze, Yen brings depth and authenticity to the character. Through Yen's portrayal, audiences are not just witnessing a martial arts master in action, but also a man of integrity navigating the tumultuous landscape of 20th-century China with grace and resilience. Donnie Yen's performance as Ip Man is a testament to his exceptional talent and commitment to his craft. Steven Seagal “Nico” in "Above the Law" Fans around the world will still admit their favorite ass-kicking hero is Steven Seagal's character in "Above the Law." Even more interesting in 1988-1989 the number of children named Niko or Nico spiked 5x from the previous year.   Scott Adkins “Yuri Boyka” Scott Adkins gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Yuri Boyka,  in the "Undisputed" film series.   As Boyka, Adkins masterfully embodies the essence of a conflicted anti-hero striving for redemption through his unparalleled martial arts prowess. With his intense physicality and compelling character depth, Adkins transforms Boyka into a fan-favorite figure in the action genre. Chuck Norris “JJ McQuade”  To this day the term "Lone Wolf" is still iconic to the Chuck Norris brand. Although the Texas Marshall character was made famous in his TV series, it was Chuck Norris's portrayal of J.J. McQuade in "Lone Wolf McQuade" that launched the character that would be pop culture epitome of the lone wolf archetype.  Jackie Chan  “Yan Naing Lee”    Although the world knows him for his countless starring roles dating back to the 1970s. Jackie Chan's role in Rush Hour as Detective Lee. Made him a global mainstream superstar, the franchise made over 500 million dollars, leading the pack as one of the all-time martial arts success stories.  Jean-Claude Van Damme in “Bloodsport” Jean-Claude Van Damme is widely recognized for his portrayal of Frank Dux in the cult classic film "Bloodsport." Inspired by the real-life martial artist of the same name, Van Damme brought an electrifying energy to the character, embodying Dux's journey from a skilled fighter to a champion in the underground world of Kumite. With his signature splits and dynamic kicks, Van Damme captivated audiences, showcasing both his physical prowess and his ability to convey depth of character. "Bloodsport". Bolo “Bolo” in "Enter the Dragon" Imagine that the name of a character you play in a movie is so popular it becomes your name to the public for the next 50 years. That's Bolo.  Born Yeung Sze at the age of 10, Yeung embarked on his martial arts journey in Canton, training under multiple kung fu masters. Fate intervened when Yeung crossed paths with Bruce Lee during the filming of a Winston cigarettes commercial. Their chance encounter blossomed into a deep friendship, with Lee extending an invitation for Yeung to join him in the legendary "Enter the Dragon," where he immortalized the character "Bolo." Wesley Snipes  “Blade” in "Blade" Franchise Having starred in more than 100 films, fans still admire Wesley Snipes for his memorable role as Blade.  Actor, film producer, martial artist, and author extraordinaire, Snipes kicked off his martial arts journey at the tender age of 12. His passion and hard work paid off big time, earning him a prestigious 5th degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and a slick 2nd degree black belt in Hapkido. His killer role as the vampire-slaying badass Blade in the "Blade" film trilogy (1998-2004). Snipes completely owned that character, wowing audiences with his jaw-dropping martial arts moves and bringing the iconic vampire hunter to life like never before. Talk about leaving a mark! Michael Jai White “Isaiah Bone” in "Blood and Bone" Michael Jai White’s body of work is simply amazing from playing Mike Tyson to Spawn, comedy, and drama he can do it all.  But his martial arts films where he can showcase his traditional mastery of Karate are really what fans love about this actor martial arts master. But his roles in such films as "Blood and Bone" and "Never Back Down" showed his skill beyond comparison. Simon Rhee “Dae Han” in "Best of the Best" Simon Rhee, Tae Kwon Do Grandmaster, champion, and stuntman, is renowned for his portrayal of "Dae Han" in the martial arts film "Best of the Best," which delivered a memorable performance that left an indelible mark on audiences. "Best of the Best" follows the riveting tale of a diverse group of martial artists, including Dae Han, as they come together to represent the United States in a high-stakes tournament against their Korean counterparts. Cynthia Rothrock  “China” in "China O'Brien" Cynthia Rothrock, a five-time world champion and Hall of Fame inductee, mesmerizes audiences with her on-screen prowess. Portraying a former big-city cop, she embarks on a journey fueled by two powerful motivations: avenging her father's tragic murder and stepping into his shoes as the county sheriff named China O’Brien. Taimak “Leroy Green” Taimak is best known for his role as Leroy Green in the cult classic film "The Last Dragon." An accomplished actor, author, and martial artist, his embodiment of the film's central themes of self-discovery and inner strength resonates with audiences worldwide, cementing his legacy as a cultural icon. Robin Shou “Liu Kang” in "Mortal Kombat" Robin Shou is known for his iconic portrayal of Liu Kang in the "Mortal Kombat" film series,  As Liu Kang, Shou seamlessly blends determination with a noble spirit, capturing the character's journey from a humble warrior to the Earthrealm's champion. With his dynamic performance, Shou not only brings Liu Kang to life but also elevates the character into a symbol of resilience and heroism, leaving an indelible mark on the "Mortal Kombat" legacy. Chris Cassamasa “Scorpion” in "Mortal Kombat" Chris Casamassa is known for his portrayal of the iconic character "Scorpion."  With a background deeply rooted in martial arts, he is a Grand Master and President of Red Dragon Martial Arts. Casamassa's expertise lent authenticity to his portrayal of the vengeful ninja warrior. "Scorpion" stands as one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in the "Mortal Kombat" universe.

Yes, we have Captain Kirk, William Shatner himself! The 1974 cover celebrated his climb to fame and love of the martial arts. The article mentions "I've always believed that if you don't define your limits by trying everything, you'll never know your capabilities." At the time of the interview, Shatner had two years of karate under his belt. The story also mentions that he trained in boxing, judo and fencing.

Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao faced former K-1 champion Rukiya Anpo in a three-round exhibition during the co-main event of Super RIZIN 3 in Tokyo, Japan, on Sunday. Here are the results of Pacquiao vs Anpo. The match, held without ringside judges, ended in a draw as no knockout occurred. Pacquiao, with the advantage of 72 professional boxing bouts, faced a tough challenge against Anpo, who is 17 years younger and the tallest opponent Pacquiao has ever encountered. Anpo started strong, landing a slick right hand followed by a hard combination. Pacquiao retaliated with intense punches in the final seconds of the opening round. However, in the second round, Anpo used his significant reach advantage to keep Pacquiao at bay, preventing him from landing dangerous shots. In the final round, both fighters exchanged fiercely. Anpo landed several hard shots in the first minute, including a solid right to the body, followed by another punch that rocked Pacquiao. Pacquiao fought back with a right hand in the last minute, leading to a brawl until the final bell. Pacquiao stated to the audience after the fight, "First of all, I'd like to thank God for giving me this opportunity. The Japanese fans have welcomed me warmly, and I hope this won't be my last. Ambo is a strong and wonderful fighter. Although he has no experience in boxing, I believe he will be unique from now on. Thank you to the Filipino fans."

I was recently talking with a friend who’s a high-level taekwondo guy. He was telling me about a school he’d visited that really impressed him. It had a large, highly motivated group of students. Most were athletic and pushing to achieve as much as they could, regardless of age or size. The forms were crisp. The self-defense drills were sharp. The school was excellent in every way except one. There was no real contact in sparring, not even among the black belts. My friend, who’s lived in South Korea and trained in the competitive atmosphere there, just shook his head. No matter how good a training hall is, he said, “you’ve got  to have people hitting each other in the face sometimes.” I’m mostly into mixed martial arts now, so my friend was preaching to the choir. I believe that all empty-hand arts benefit from some kind of sparring practice. Everything from aikido to wing chun gets better when you take practitioners out of their comfort zones. On the surface, it seemed like this is what my taekwondo friend was talking about. To him, learning taekwondo without sparring means you’re leaving out something important. But I’ll go him one further: Learning any empty-hand art in an environment in which no one hits means you’re missing something essential. IN THE STRIKING ARTS, this seems obvious. If people are supposed to be learning how to fight with punches and kicks, they should be punching and kicking each other. Otherwise, you descend into the absurdity that Bruce Lee used to mock with his swimming analogy: Everyone is learning the crawl and the backstroke on dry land, but no one ever gets in the water because it’s too dangerous. But it’s not just the striking arts that need the rough reality of contact to remain meaningful. The grappling arts need it just as much, if not more. In some aikido and judo schools, people can train all the way to expert level and never encounter a real punch or kick. Granted, aikido is more about what happens when someone grabs you or attacks you with weapons, but all grappling arts are, to some extent, answers to the problem of someone beating on you. Practicing them in the complete absence of striking is like learning an answer without knowing what the question is. This is especially true in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, an art that built its reputation through empty-hand challenge matches. The danger of getting punched or kicked into oblivion shapes virtually every technique in the style. BJJ schools that focus mainly on grappling competition and neglect MMA and self defense seem weirdly out of touch with this. Without a little contact training, they’re swimming on dry land just as much as any karate or taekwondo school that omits sparring. JUST TO BE CLEAR, I’m not advocating full-contact brawling in every school for every style. Even professional fight gyms discourage that kind of thing, although it does happen sometimes. What I am advocating is confronting the truth of striking directly by acknowledging it and dealing with someone who’s actually trying to hit you in training. He or she doesn’t have to blast you in the face full force, but the person does have to really try to tag you and to make your life as frustrating and difficult as it would be in a real fight. And that is the truth of striking: It’s frustrating and difficult to defend against. Getting hit is both dangerous and unusual in any kind of conflict. This is because striking is the entry-level technique of fighting. Even a person who knows nothing can swing wildly and have a good chance of hurting someone. There really isn’t any equivalent in grappling, there’s no such thing as flailing around wildly and getting a lucky finishing hold. This leads to another core truth of fighting, one of the things that shape the empty-hand arts: People who know the least hit the most. When they do, it doesn’t have a clear, predictable pattern. So mimicking this in any kind of empty hand training is essential if your goal is to be able to handle it for real.

UFC 304: Edwards vs. Muhammad 2 took place on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at the Co-Op Live in Manchester, England. The event drew an impressive attendance of 17,907 fans, generating a live gate revenue of $6,720,000. The night featured 14 electrifying MMA bouts, culminating in a highly anticipated rematch between Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad for the UFC Welterweight Championship. Here are the UFC 304: Edwards vs. Muhammad 2 Results. Main Event | UFC Welterweight Championship | 170 lbs Muhammad Topples Edwards in Unanimous Decision Showdown! Belal Muhammad defeated Leon Edwards via unanimous decision to claim the UFC Welterweight Championship. In a strategic and hard-fought battle, Muhammad's superior grappling and relentless pressure earned him the victory, dethroning Edwards in front of a roaring Manchester crowd. Co-Main Event | UFC Interim Heavyweight Championship | 265 lbs Aspinall's Stunning First-Round KO Shocks Blaydes! Tom Aspinall delivered a spectacular knockout victory against Curtis Blaydes at just 1:00 into the first round. Aspinall's counter jab followed by ground strikes left Blaydes unable to continue, earning Aspinall the interim heavyweight title. Main Card | Lightweight | 155 lbs Pimblett's Triangle Choke Secures Swift Win Over Green! Paddy Pimblett thrilled the home crowd with a submission victory over Bobby Green. Pimblett locked in a triangle choke at 3:22 of the first round, forcing Green to tap and solidifying Pimblett's rising star status. Main Card | Middleweight | 185 lbs Rodrigues Outpoints Duncan in Unanimous Decision Victory! Gregory Rodrigues showcased his striking and grappling prowess, defeating Christian Leroy Duncan via unanimous decision. Rodrigues' well-rounded performance kept Duncan on the defensive throughout the bout. Main Card | Featherweight | 145 lbs Allen's Masterclass Earns Unanimous Decision Over Chikadze! Arnold Allen delivered a dominant performance against Giga Chikadze, winning via unanimous decision. Allen's precision striking and effective game plan proved too much for Chikadze to handle. Preliminary Card Results Wood Dominates Pineda for Unanimous Decision Victory! Nathaniel Wood defeated Daniel Pineda via unanimous decision, showcasing his technical skills and cardio. Brasil's Striking Overpowers McCann in Unanimous Decision! Bruna Brasil defeated Molly McCann via unanimous decision, outstriking her opponent throughout the bout. Hadley Secures Unanimous Decision Over Loughran! Jake Hadley defeated Caolán Loughran via unanimous decision, demonstrating superior grappling and control. Mokaev Outlasts Kape in Unanimous Decision Win! Muhammad Mokaev defeated Manel Kape via unanimous decision, utilizing his wrestling and ground game effectively. Elliott's Unanimous Decision Win Over Parsons! Oban Elliott defeated Preston Parsons via unanimous decision, displaying relentless aggression and control. Bukauskas Submits Prachnio with Arm Triangle Choke! Modestas Bukauskas defeated Marcin Prachnio via submission (arm triangle choke) at 3:12 of the third round, showcasing his grappling skills. Patterson's Arm Triangle Choke Forces Crosbie to Tap! Sam Patterson defeated Kiefer Crosbie via submission (arm triangle choke) at 2:50 of the first round, impressing with his quick finish. Parkin's First-Round TKO Stuns Brzeski! Mick Parkin defeated Łukasz Brzeski via KO/TKO (punches) at 3:23 of the first round, delivering a powerful performance. Bannon Edges Ardelean in Split Decision! Shauna Bannon defeated Alice Ardelean via split decision, in a closely contested bout that thrilled the fans. UFC 304: Edwards vs. Muhammad 2 delivered an unforgettable night of fights, with thrilling knockouts, submissions, and hard-fought decisions. Belal Muhammad's triumph over Leon Edwards marks a new era in the welterweight division, while Tom Aspinall's knockout of Curtis Blaydes cements his status as a top contender in the heavyweight ranks. The event showcased the depth of talent in the UFC and left fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in these fighters' careers.

As the anticipation builds for UFC 304, fans are gearing up for a night filled with electrifying fights featuring some of the top talents in the business. This Saturday, at the Co-Op Live in Manchester, England, the Octagon will host a lineup of fighters who are set to deliver unforgettable performances. Here’s a closer look at the UFC Fighters that you can't miss at UFC 304 on this special fight card. Leon Edwards: The Sharpshooter Key Stats: Significant strike accuracy: 53.3% (tied 8th) Strikes absorbed per minute: 2.34 (3rd) Takedown defense: 70.2% (9th) Leon "Rocky" Edwards is renowned for his precision striking and well-rounded skill set. His clinch work is deadly, utilizing elbows and knees to dominate opponents. Edwards' defensive grappling and excellent footwork make him a formidable adversary, keeping his foes at bay with his distance control and sharp striking. Belal Muhammad: The Grinder Key Stats: Takedowns averaged per 15 minutes: 1.98 Control time: 57:12 (7th) Strikes landed per minute: 4.55 Belal Muhammad is known for his relentless pace and high-volume striking. A Chicago-born wrestler, Muhammad seamlessly integrates his grappling with improving striking skills. His cardio and wrestling foundation make him a relentless force, ensuring a grueling battle for anyone stepping into the Octagon with him. Tom Aspinall: The Heavyweight Phenom Key Stats: Average fight time: 2:10 (1st shortest all-time) Striking differential: +4.95 (1st all-time) Takedown defense: 100% Tom Aspinall stands out in the heavyweight division with his speed and versatility. His crisp boxing and black belt in jiu-jitsu make him a well-rounded fighter, comfortable in all aspects of the game. Aspinall’s quickness and agility allow him to evade strikes and set up powerful takedowns or knockout blows. Curtis Blaydes: The Dominator Key Stats: Takedowns landed: 62 (1st all-time among HW) Control time percentage: 49.4% (6th all-time among HW) Takedown accuracy: 53.5% (7th all-time among HW) Curtis "Razor" Blaydes is an explosive heavyweight with a wrestling pedigree that is unmatched in the division. His ability to control opponents on the ground while delivering devastating ground-and-pound makes him a dangerous contender. Blaydes’ underrated striking complements his wrestling, making him a complete fighter. Arnold Allen: The Almighty Key Stats: Strikes landed per minute: 3.39 Strikes absorbed per minute: 2.91 Takedown accuracy: 50% (tied 6th all-time among FW) Arnold "Almighty" Allen is a well-rounded fighter with impressive speed and technique. His ability to bounce in and out of range while maintaining a sharp southpaw jab makes him a tough challenge. Allen’s versatility in mixing kicks and punches, along with solid wrestling skills, keeps his opponents guessing. Giga Chikadze: The Striking Specialist Key Stats: Knockdowns averaged per 15 minutes: 0.77 Strikes landed per minute: 4.08 Takedown defense: 69% Giga Chikadze brings a devastating striking game to the Octagon, rooted in his karate background. His powerful kicks can end fights quickly, whether targeting the legs, body, or head. Chikadze’s ability to pick his shots and execute precise strikes from range makes him a formidable striker. Muhammad Mokaev: The Young Phenom Key Stats: Submission wins: 4 (tied 2nd all-time among FLW) Control time percentage: 59.4% (1st all-time among FLW) Strikes absorbed per minute: 1.36 (1st all-time among FLW) At just 23 years old, Muhammad Mokaev has already established himself as a force in the flyweight division. His wrestling skills, combined with his knack for spectacular finishes, make him a must-watch fighter. Mokaev’s relentless pace and ability to control opponents on the ground set him apart from his peers. Manel Kape: The Knockout Artist Key Stats: Knockdowns averaged per 15 minutes: 1.09 (4th all-time among FLW) Significant strike accuracy: 54.7% (5th all-time among FLW) Takedown defense: 77% Manel Kape’s sharp striking and all-around skills make him a dangerous opponent in the flyweight division. His speed and improved timing allow him to land powerful punches and dynamic strikes. Kape’s sudden explosiveness can turn the tide of a fight in an instant, making him a thrilling fighter to watch. UFC 304 promises to be an action-packed event with some of the best fighters showcasing their skills. From Leon Edwards’ precision striking to Muhammad Mokaev’s wrestling prowess, each fighter brings a unique set of talents to the Octagon. Tune in this Saturday to witness these top-tier athletes battle it out at Co-Op Live in Manchester, England. Prelims start at 8pm ET/5pm PT, with the main card kicking off live on PPV at 10pm ET/7pm PT. Don't miss a moment of the action!

The last time the UFC graced Manchester, a British champion captivated a boisterous crowd, with Michael Bisping headlining at Manchester Arena by successfully defending his middleweight title against long-time rival Dan Henderson in the main event of UFC 204. Now, nearly eight years later, the UFC is set to return to the city known for Oasis and Premier League giants Manchester City and Manchester United, with a pay-per-view event at Co-op Live. This time, two British champions aim to emulate Bisping’s success by defending their titles on home soil. With a stacked undercard featuring several top emerging talents from the United Kingdom and Ireland, Saturday’s pay-per-view is poised to deliver an electrifying night of action inside the Octagon. Here’s a closer look at what’s on tap at UFC 304: Edwards vs. Muhammad 2. Date:  Saturday, 07.27.2024 Venue:  Co-op Live, Manchester, England U.S. Broadcast:  Pay-Per-View Don't miss a moment of UFC 304: Edwards vs Muhammad 2, live from Co-Op Live in Manchester, England. Prelims start at 8pm ET/5pm PT, while the main card kicks off live on PPV at 10pm ET/7pm PT. Main Event Welterweight Title Bout: Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad In the main event, British welterweight champion Leon Edwards will defend his title in a rematch against Belal Muhammad. Edwards aims to solidify his reign on home soil, while Muhammad seeks redemption and championship gold. Co-Main Event Interim Heavyweight Title Bout: Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes The co-main event features a clash for the interim heavyweight title as Tom Aspinall takes on Curtis Blaydes. Aspinall, the hometown favorite, looks to capture interim gold against the formidable Blaydes in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Other Main Card Matches King Green vs. Paddy Pimblett Fan favorite Paddy Pimblett will square off against King Green in what is expected to be a thrilling lightweight contest. Pimblett, known for his charismatic personality and exciting fighting style, will look to continue his rise in the UFC ranks. Christian Leroy Duncan vs. Gregory Rodrigues Middleweight contenders Christian Leroy Duncan and Gregory Rodrigues are set to battle it out, with both fighters aiming to break into the top tier of their division. Arnold Allen vs. Giga Chikadze In a featherweight bout, Arnold Allen will face Giga Chikadze. Allen, a rising star from the UK, seeks to make a statement against the dangerous striker Chikadze. Preliminary Matches Nathaniel Wood vs. Daniel Pineda Bantamweight standout Nathaniel Wood takes on Daniel Pineda, looking to impress the home crowd with a dominant performance. Molly McCann vs. Bruna Brasil Flyweight Molly McCann will face Bruna Brasil in a bout that promises fireworks. McCann, another local favorite, is known for her relentless pace and aggressive style. Jake Hadley vs. Caolan Loughran In the flyweight division, Jake Hadley clashes with Caolan Loughran. Hadley aims to showcase his grappling skills against the tough Irishman Loughran. Modestas Bukauskas vs. Marcin Prachnio Light heavyweights Modestas Bukauskas and Marcin Prachnio will go head-to-head, with both fighters eager to climb the rankings. Oban Elliott vs. Preston Parsons Welterweights Oban Elliott and Preston Parsons are set to deliver an action-packed bout, with both fighters looking to make their mark. Muhammad Mokaev vs. Manel Kape In a highly anticipated flyweight bout, Muhammad Mokaev will face Manel Kape. Mokaev, a rising prospect, aims to continue his undefeated streak against the experienced Kape. Sam Patterson vs. Kiefer Crosbie Lightweights Sam Patterson and Kiefer Crosbie will battle it out, with both fighters seeking to advance their UFC careers. Mick Parkin vs. Lukasz Brzeski Heavyweights Mick Parkin and Lukasz Brzeski will collide, promising a bout filled with heavy-hitting action. Shauna Bannon vs. Alice Ardelean Women's flyweight contenders Shauna Bannon and Alice Ardelean will open the event, aiming to kick off the night with a strong performance.