Leo Fong is one of the wisest people I know. Now in his ninth decade in the martial arts, he’s also one of the most experienced, accomplished and versatile. When he talks, I listen. A few of the pearls he’s dispensed over the years have been rattling around in my pocket for some time now. As a firm believer in the power of principles, Fong encourages his students to seek the deeper truths of the martial arts. “There is an important difference between understanding what makes a clock tick and knowing how to tell the time,” he once said. But in this quest for truth, Fong doesn’t advocate merely replicating the masters’ journeys but rather seeking what they sought — striking out for the same destination, paralleling their paths, not merely trying to duplicate them. Fong maintains that five masters in particular helped shape the martial landscape of the 20th century: Gichin Funakoshi, Jigoro Kano, Morihei Ueshiba, Bruce Lee and George Dillman . With this in mind, I hatched a plan to examine the principles these masters laid down — the trails of breadcrumbs they left — to see if there might be some common ground. Here are Martial Arts Masters: While each set of principles is sufficiently different to indicate independent evolution through separate journeys, there are certain commonalities that will help illuminate the critical turns along the way for those who seek the same ultimate destination. INITIATIVE In many contests, the winner is the one who acts first. The fastest horse out of the gate, for example, often (but not always) crosses the finish line ahead of the others, and the quicker draw in a gunfight has a good shot at being the last gunslinger standing. In some confrontations, then, a first strike will be sufficient both to begin and to end the matter. And even if it does not, it likely will force most adversaries into a reactive posture, particularly if said adversary has little experience with this particular brand of physical interaction. Why, then, does Funakoshi tell us, “In karate, there is no first strike”? Well, as a threshold matter, if no one ever launched a first strike, there would be no more fighting, and the world might be a better place in which to live. But on a more practical level, notice that he begins by limiting the universe in which his edict applies. He does not say “In this world …” or “In fighting. …” He says, “In karate. …” This proviso at least implies that the combatants are operating within the parameters of his art — that both have at least some idea of what they’re doing. And as we know all too well, one of the most valuable lessons that the fighting arts bestow early on is the ability to take a hit and keep moving forward. When confronting an experienced adversary, then, launching the first strike may not be tactically advantageous. In fact, when engaging a seasoned fighter, striking first may be disadvantageous.  Consider this: Every offensive move that an attacker makes commits one or more of his limbs to a particular trajectory or position, meaning that if the defender can anticipate and/or exploit that trajectory or position, he or she will actually have more control over the confrontation than someone who’s simply waiting for any of an infinite number of possible attacks to be launched. For example, being grabbed by the lapels commits both of the attacker’s hands to static and relatively nonthreatening positions while leaving the defender with all four limbs free to counter. In this context, forcing the opponent to attack first is really a way of taking the strategic initiative. DUALITY/MULTIPLICITY by Martial Arts Masters C ontinuing with both Funakoshi’s wisdom and the interplay between ethical and pragmatic principles, it’s self-evident that it takes at least two to have a fight. In the ring, this might be an amicable and mutually beneficial training exercise. On the street, it could be a matter of life and death. But either way, it’s not a solo activity. And in most cases — even the highly confrontational ones — showing a measure of courtesy is usually a good idea. It’s not just because we all should strive for the common good in a larger sense but also because many an angry hand has been turned aside by a gracious word or deed. But even when two combatants come to blows in earnest, Fong maintains, “We are still communicating with each other.” And this kind of communication becomes much easier to master by recognizing the role the other person plays in the engagement — what his strengths, weaknesses, goals and motivations may be. Given the way in which aikido advocates using the opponent’s energy against him, it’s not surprising that Ueshiba’s principles focus heavily on understanding the partner’s mind, place and energy. It takes two to tango, and fighting is a pas de deux in which it’s not enough to consider just your part. This precept is especially important for instructors to understand, as in this role, their focus should shift — at least, when teaching — from self to others. Lee’s pronouncement that, “There is but one family,” may be the highest form of expression of this principle, and its truth is borne out by Dillman’s point that it’s much harder for one human to harm another when he has to look his victim in the face. MENTAL/SPIRITUAL STRENGTH On this topic, there’s near universal agreement among the masters. Without certain cerebral components, physical technique is just brawling. And without some kind of moral compass, even the most effective fighter is missing the bigger picture. The mental and spiritual pieces don’t just help complete the martial puzzle; in many ways, they are the puzzle. Consider: With a little luck and a modicum of awareness, the average person may be fortunate enough never to have to use the martial arts for self-defense, but no one can navigate life without calling on the kind of mental agility and spiritual strength those same arts can teach. CREATIVITY/ADAPTABILITY It’s rare that combatants of vastly disproportionate abilities actually come to blows. Common sense generally tackles the weaker of the participants before he gets in over his head. As a result, if you do find yourself in a fight, it’s generally unwise to assume that you have your opposition totally outgunned on all points. Rather than simply trusting that your hands are so fast or your legs so powerful that no one could possibly block them, the masters collectively advise planning your attack with at least a little creativity. (“If you wish to attack West, first attack East.”) They also recommend keeping your options open in case the response isn’t quite what you expect. (“Keep to the middle path/Know where to stop.”) As Mike Tyson so eloquently explained: “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” Fate rarely deals the cards we expect, and it’s not making and executing a perfect plan that leads to victory — it’s being able to adapt, improvise and overcome when the plan falls apart. Or as Fong advises, “Don’t try to drive the situation; surf it.” INDIVIDUALITY We come into this world alone, and we will leave it the same way. Spending the entire time between these immovable markers following others seems like a tremendous waste of the gift of individuality. So in martial practice, while we certainly work for the art, the art also should work for us. The teaching of the masters in this regard is that self-knowledge and self-expression are, in many ways, the most valuable gifts the arts can impart. PERSISTENCE It’s in this realm that mental, physical and spiritual toughness converge. Funakoshi said that training should be consistent and lifelong. Dillman echoes a former British prime minister in commanding us never to surrender. And Lee directed us to “Walk on.” Setbacks are an inevitable part of progress. What truly counts many times is the ability to take a hit, get back up and keep moving forward. ENVIRONMENT We don’t employ our arts in a vacuum. In addition to the opponent, there’s also the environment to consider. The dangers and opportunities presented by the world in which we operate are vital variables in the equation of self-defense, and the masters encourage us to be on guard at all times, watchful for both danger and opportunity at every turn. MISCELLANY The many other principles reproduced herein — the nuances of forms, the yin aspects of technique, the overall goal of the art, the nature and length of the journey, and so on — are equally important aspects of training. However, they feature explicitly in only one of the sets of instructions under examination. Martial artists spend a great deal of time learning the mechanics of a given system, but it’s important to take a step back every once in a while to ensure that you’re also hearing its overall message. If you have not already formulated a set of principles for your personal practice, now is as good a time, and here is as good a place as any to begin. Wherever your path may lead, may you travel hopefully.

Undefeated Russian sensation, Viktoriia Dudakova, is poised to make waves in the flyweight division as she gears up for her third UFC bout against Melissa Gatto this Saturday in Atlantic City. With a flawless record in her initial UFC appearances, Dudakova's journey has not been without its challenges, sparking intrigue about her true standing in the competitive landscape. At just 25, Dudakova's journey began with a swift victory marred by her opponent's injury, followed by a narrow miss on the scales before securing a win at UFC 294. As she transitions to the 125-pound category for the first time professionally, this adjustment aims to mitigate past health and injury concerns that have shadowed her rigorous preparations. Dudakova's confidence shines through, bolstered by a successful training camp and a more comfortable weight management process. Her aspirations in the flyweight division are high, supported by her proven track record and a decisive win on Dana White's Contender Series that catapulted her into the UFC spotlight. The flyweight division is currently a hotbed of talent and competition, highlighted by recent performances from established and emerging fighters alike. Dudakova's entry adds another layer of excitement, as she and the MMA community eagerly anticipate her performance against Gatto to gauge her potential impact. Despite her undefeated status, Dudakova embraces a humble outlook on her career and the hard work ahead. She views each fight as an opportunity to grow and showcase her skills, without the pressure of maintaining an unblemished record. Her preparation, mental fortitude, and anticipation for Saturday's fight reflect her dedication to excelling in the UFC.

October 1994 cover features Kathy Long, the then already retired kickboxing champion. The article focuses on the MMA competitor, pro boxer and actresses newest endeavors. Her martial arts training includes a black belt in Aikido, master rank in Kung Fu San Soo, and a student of Kali, Brazilian Jujitsu, and Mixed Martial arts. Her amazing record includes 18 wins and only one loss and winning five world titles in the process, became world renowned simply as "The Punisher."

This Saturday, Atlantic City's iconic Boardwalk Hall will host an electrifying UFC Fight Night: Blanchfield vs. Fiorot, that has fans and enthusiasts buzzing with anticipation. In a clash that promises fireworks, Erin Blanchfield is set to face off against Manon Fiorot in a flyweight category battle that could very well dictate the future trajectory of the division. Erin Blanchfield, hailing from the United States, has quickly made a name for herself with a string of impressive performances that have showcased her well-rounded skill set. Known for her grappling prowess and submission skills, Blanchfield has proven time and again that she can hold her own against the division's best. Her relentless pursuit of victory, combined with a tactical mind, makes her a formidable opponent inside the octagon. On the other side of the octagon stands Manon Fiorot from France, who has been on a meteoric rise within the UFC flyweight ranks. Fiorot, nicknamed "The Beast," brings a striking pedigree that has left many of her opponents bewildered and defeated. Her precise and powerful striking, coupled with her ability to maintain distance and control the pace of the fight, has made her a fan favorite and a serious threat to anyone in the division. Blanchfield's ground game could pose significant challenges for Fiorot, who primarily dominates her fights standing up. Conversely, Fiorot's striking and ability to dictate the fight's tempo could disrupt Blanchfield's strategy and open up opportunities for a knockout or a decision victory. The fan favorite tag is a tough call, as both fighters bring distinct styles and fan bases to this match-up. Fiorot's striking and finishing ability have garnered her a significant following, especially among fans who appreciate stand-up warfare. Blanchfield, with her submission victories and gritty performances, has endeared herself to fans who love a tactical ground game and the chess match aspect of MMA. Both fighters have shown resilience, skill, and the ability to adapt under pressure. However, if Fiorot can keep the fight standing and use her striking effectively, she could edge out a decision victory or possibly secure a late stoppage. Conversely, if Blanchfield manages to close the distance and bring the fight to the ground, her submission skills could very well earn her a victory. The battle between Erin Blanchfield and Manon Fiorot is a testament to the incredible talent and diversity within the UFC's flyweight division. Saturday night will not only showcase two of the best fighters in the world but also highlight the evolution of women's MMA. Don't miss it!

by Christopher Cockrell The word "legend" conjures up images of larger-than-life figures who have performed unbelievable feats over the years. In the realm of martial arts, certain names immediately come to mind: Miyamoto Musashi, Mas Oyama, Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris. To that list, I would add two-time Black Belt Hall of Fame inductee Fumio Demura. Demura’s accomplishments are numerous: He holds a ninth-degree black belt in shito-ryu karate. He founded the Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Genbu-Kai International organization. He was an accomplished tournament fighter in his day and is still regarded as a master of Okinawan weaponry. He’s been an actor and an author, but perhaps most important, he’s a teacher with tens of thousands of followers around the world. Fumio Demura is the kind of black belt other black belts look up to — which is why many high-profile martial artists have ended up on his doorstep in search of instruction. They include Dolph Lundgren, Billy Blanks, Steven Seagal and Richard Norton, as well as the aforementioned Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. The martial way is a path Demura began walking as a youth. Now, at age 78, he’s still following the path, and he’s still preaching and teaching in an effort to help others do the same. LAND OF THE RISING SUN Fumio Demura was born on September 15, 1938, and grew up in the city of Yokohama, Japan. With the world at war and an economic depression rolling across his nation, hardship was a frequent visitor at the Demura house. At times, he says, his family found it impossible to afford basic necessities like shoes. With his typical stoicism, he simply says he went through “many sad things.” Around that time, Demura recalls, he had a neighbor named Asano, who was a kendo teacher. The martial art fascinated the boy, and he longed to take lessons. Sadly, his family lacked funds to buy the necessary equipment. In the spirit of improvisation, the youth set about carving a tree branch into a makeshift shinai so he’d be able to practice. It was a lesson he’d remember. Later, when Demura was introduced to a famous shito-ryu karate practitioner named Ryusho Sakagami, his martial arts career was poised to blossom. Sakagami, third master of the Itosu-Kai organization, took the promising pupil into his charge, unknowingly launching the boy on what would become the adventure of a lifetime. JOURNEY TO AMERICA By the early 1960s, Demura was gaining fame as a karate practitioner. He’d reached the rank of first-degree black belt in 1956, and in 1961 he’d won his first major tournament, the All Japan Karate Championship. In addition, he’d begun studying kobudo, or traditional Okinawan weaponry, under Taira Shinken. And then the Americans entered the picture. Donn F. Draeger, a martial arts practitioner and world-traveling scholar, became acquainted with Demura through the Japanese martial arts grapevine, and soon after, he introduced Demura to Dan Ivan. Ivan operated a handful of karate schools in Southern California, and after getting a chance to see Demura in action, he knew he had to find a way to get this guy to the United States. The process happened in fits and starts. Demura arrived in the States in 1963, but it wasn’t a permanent relocation. His first engagement was for a one-year teaching spot, after which his visa ran out and he was forced to return to Japan. Almost immediately, Demura longed to go back. “This was a mistake,” he said to himself on arriving in his home country. “I should’ve stayed in the United States.” Japan was too small, too confined for the karateka. In America, he felt he had more room to move and room to grow the martial arts. Demura found his way back in 1965 and settled in California, where he opened a dojo. He built a reputation for riveting demonstrations that displayed consummate skill, speed, accuracy and technique. The performances garnered the newcomer some badly needed attention. It was badly needed because of the national mood. For most Americans, World War II was fresh in their memory. Still adjusting to what to him was a foreign culture — which meant his command of English was a work in progress — Demura was viewed with suspicion by many Americans. He often encountered prejudice in the community he was trying so hard to become part of. The successes outnumbered the setbacks, however, and he persevered. CALL OF HOLLYWOOD With his growing reputation as a martial arts master, Demura eventually found his way to Hollywood courtesy of his friend, a professional wrestler who competed under then name “The Great John L.” Demura landed an audition for 1977’s The Island of Dr. Moreau. Before starting work, he signed an agreement without taking the time to digest the details. It turned out to be a release regarding fights that would involve lions, tigers and bears. The experience proved an interesting one, to say the least. Throughout the ’70s, Demura worked with a number of martial-artists-turned- actors, including Bruce Lee, whom he personally trained in the use of the nunchaku, and Chuck Norris, who came to him wanting to learn traditional karate to supplement his kicking-based tang soo do skills. “He’s a super-good martial artist,” Demura says of Norris.  “Not just a fighter — a martial artist. I respect Chuck, and he respects me.” But it was Demura’s association with Pat Morita, as well as stunt coordinator and fight choreographer Pat Johnson, that led to his involvement in what would become one of the most iconic martial arts films of all time. Demura was initially eyed for the role of Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid. As you probably know, Miyagi is the wise old master who takes the awkward Daniel- san under his wing and teaches him martial arts. But there was a problem. “I look through the script, and I see ‘Miyagi, Miyagi, Miyagi,’” Demura says. Realizing that he didn’t have the language skills to carry such an important role, he bowed out, and the part went to Morita, who went on to receive an Oscar nomination (Best Supporting Actor) for his efforts. But Demura stayed on as Morita’s stunt double and assisted with the fight choreography. MIYAGI’S MISSION For Fumio Demura, America really has been the land of opportunity. By all accounts, his life here has been a success. He runs an established dojo and karate organization with students around the world. He’s rubbed shoulders with nearly everyone who’s anyone in the martial arts, and he’s found success in Hollywood. But as has been the case since he was a child, life still throws down the gauntlet and presents him with challenges that need to be overcome. Such was the case in 2011 when he suffered a stroke that put him in the hospital and took away his ability to move his right arm and right leg. Or when he experienced kidney failure in 2015, which required him to undergo daily dialysis. But he met both challenges head-on, as a warrior. Demura has regained much of his lost movement, and his kidney functionality is improved. Despite those health setbacks, Demura devotes considerable time to the martial arts — as he’s always done. Unfortunately, that’s left him with some concerns about the state of karate. “There are not too many traditional groups left,” he says. With karate’s push to become an Olympic sport — which, on August 3, 2016, achieved success — he fears that the art is losing its -do, the focus on being a way of life rather than just a way of fighting. He says karate is about more than being a “mean, strong guy”; it’s about being a better person and a better citizen. Demura also takes issue with the way karate is often viewed as merely an activity for children. Referencing movies and TV shows like Power Rangers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, he says, “The image today is that karate is only for kids. It’s shown as a kid’s game, but it’s not. It’s an adult’s game.” But perhaps more than anything else these days, Demura is focused on the challenge of preserving his legacy. “I don’t want to lose my art,” he says, which is why he’s pouring his energy into propagating the style. Having become, in essence, a shito-ryu missionary, he wants to make sure it doesn’t pass away when he does. For that reason, when Demura was approached by his student Kevin Derek about making a documentary a few years ago, he was thrilled.  The result was "The Real Miyagi," released in 2015. Demura says that he was honored to be part of the production and hopes that, if nothing else, viewers will walk away having learned one crucial life lesson: “If something happens, don’t give up,” he says. “Look at me — I set the example.” He hopes the many ups and downs of his life in the martial arts will provide inspiration for everyone who watches The Real Miyagi long after he’s gone. About the author: Christopher Cockrell is a freelance writer and martial artist. This article originally appeared in a 2021 edition of Black Belt Magazine.

Larry Lam, a martial artist and stunt coordinator, discusses his background in kung fu and transition to taekwondo. He shares his experiences working with Pat Johnson and the evolution of his career from stuntman to fight coordinator and stunt coordinator. Larry also talks about the impact of technology on the industry and his upcoming projects. In the House of Nine Dragons segment, Larry answers rapid-fire questions about his favorite martial arts action stars and A-list stars who can do great martial arts. Larry Lam discusses his favorite martial arts movies, fantasy fights, and superpower skills in a conversation with George Chung. They cover topics such as the best old school and modern martial arts movies, choosing heroes for a zombie apocalypse, the most complicated martial arts fight in a movie, and casting the "Magnificent Seven of martial arts. " In these clips, Larry talks about how to succeed as a stunt person and his working experience with Tom Cruise (who perform his own stunts). Watch the full interview here!

BRAVE CF Bantamweight champion Nkosi Ndebele is open to the idea of fighting Jose ‘Shorty’ Torres for the third time but with one stipulation – The fight should happen in Africa. The rivalry between Jose Torres and Nkosi Ndebele kickstarted back at BRAVE CF 73 in Colombia when these two fought for the vacant BRAVE CF Bantamweight title.  Following a closely contested bout that lasted 25 minutes, the judges awarded Torres the victory via split decision, much to the disbelief of Nkosi who was under the impression that he had done enough to win the title. In fact, Nkosi was not the only one that was surprised by the decision. This controversial ending evoked mixed reactions in BRAVE Nation and even BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid himself voiced his disbelief.  Nkosi was adamant about getting an immediate rematch due to the controversy and his efforts paid dividends quickly as well.  Four months after their initial outing, Nkosi and Torres locked horns for a rematch at BRAVE CF 80 in Bahrain. This time around, Nkosi made sure that the judges were not involved and forced Torres to quit in the third round, in turn, becoming the BRAVE CF Bantamweight champion.  While Torres called for a quick rematch after BRAVE CF 80, Nkosi gave a lukewarm response claiming that he wants to grow as a fighter by facing new challenges. But the prospect of defending his title in Africa has created a newfound interest in the champion.  Nkosi feels that both the fights that happened so far presented home ground advantage for Torres considering his ties to Colombia and Bahrain. The South African now wants to flip the script and bring the trilogy to his home continent of Africa.  “Concerning the fight with Shorty, I will be able to take the fight with Shorty anywhere but this time I want it to be in my home soil. In my African continent. I followed him in Colombia, which is his hometown, you know his home ground, his continent, where he had his fans. And also in Bahrain, you know, he says is his second home. I’ll be glad to take the fight but in my home soil in Africa,” the champion said.  If the fight indeed happens in Africa, it would become the first-ever trilogy in MMA history with each fight taking place in a different continent as the previous two fights happened in South America (Colombia) and Asia (Bahrain) respectively.  Interestingly, BRAVE Combat Federation is the only international MMA organization to have hosted events in Africa and the company is all set to return to the continent in May with a debut event in Mauritius; making matters easier for Nkosi to fulfil his wish.

Cage Warriors - Europe’s Leading MMA Organisation - have today announced a change in the scheduled opponent for Irish superstar Paul Hughes at Cage Warriors 170.  An injury occurring just days after he signed to fight Hughes has forced Yemi Oduwole out of the contest.  The promotion wishes him a speedy return to full health.  CW officials have moved quickly to secure a suitable replacement, today confirming that Hughes will remain on the Saturday, April 6th bill, now facing off with Edgar ‘Smooth’ Escarrega.  The bout will feature on the main card of CW 170 at Dublin’s iconic RDS, and air live on UFC Fight Pass and international broadcast partners.  The 29-year-old Escarrega, who hails from the port city of Ensenada in Baja California, Mexico, brings an impressive 12-3-1 record to the contest.  The Victory Fight Club man - who is a striker by trade - is unbeaten in his last six contests, and from twelve victories has a total of five KOs, two submissions and five points wins to his name.  “From Mexico to the world, here I come!”  said Escarrega, when signing on the dotted line for what is undoubtedly the biggest opportunity of his professional career.  Hughes, from County Derry, is widely considered to be on the cusp of signing with the UFC following a series of impressive performances in the famous yellow gloves of Cage Warriors.  ‘Big News’ recently vacated his featherweight title, moving up to the 155lb division to stop top contender Jan Quaeyhaegens in the first round.  Also scheduled for the CW 170 card, Dublin’s James ‘Jimbo Slice’ Sheehan contests the vacant welterweight title with Switzerland’s Daniel Konrad, with Ger Harris, Solomon Simon, Decky McAleenan, Taka Mhandu and more set to feature.

ONE Championship will bring 10 bouts to its latest edition of ONE Friday Fights on Friday, March 29. ONE Friday Fights 57  offers eight Muay Thai contests and two mixed martial arts affairs on the lineup. In the marquee slot, Alexey Balyko will try to extend his perfect promotional record to 3-0 against Panrit Lukjaomaesaiwaree in a 140-pound catchweight contest. Panrit will try to get back-to-back wins on the global stage for the first time by stopping the Russian’s quick rise in the organization. The main event offers a chance for both men to stand out and make a big splash under the bright lights. Petgarfield Jitmuangnon and Numpangna Eaglemuaythai will go toe-to-toe in a rematch from their meeting last October. After Petgarfield won the unanimous decision, Numpangna got a quick KO to earn a return date with his fellow Thai athlete to try and even their series. Fabio Reis returns with a prime opportunity to regain lost momentum. Reis got a quick start to his ONE career that made him look like a surefire contender, but recent tough losses have set him back. In a bantamweight showdown, the Brazilian will try to get back in the win column against Soe Lin Oo, a winner in his ONE debut in February. MMA will open the action inside Lumpinee Boxing Stadium with two 163-pound catchweight battles. Khojinsa Komoldinova will take on Akari Ogata, followed by Mikhail Gritsanenko and Seiya Matsuda exchanging leather inside the ring. ONE Friday Fights 57 airs live and free on ONE’s official YouTube channel. The action begins at 8:30 a.m. ET/5:30 a.m. PT. ONE Friday Fights 57 Full Card Panrit Lukjaomaesaiwaree vs. Alexey Balyko Petgarfield Jitmuangnon vs. Numpangna Eaglemuaythai Tai Sor Jor Piek Uthai vs. Thant Zin Chalongsuk Jacksonmuaythai vs. Donking Yotharakmuaythai Songpandin Chor Kaewwiset vs. Wanchuchai Kaewsamrit Fabio Reis vs. Soe Lin Oo Otop Or Kwanmuang vs. Parham Gheirati Moe Htet Aung vs. Tomoya Maruyama Mikhail Gritsanenko vs. Seiya Matsuda Khojinsa Komoldinova vs. Akari Ogata

“In order to taste my cup of water, you must first empty your cup. My friend, drop all your preconceived and fixed ideas and be neutral. Do you know why this cup is useful? Because it is empty.” Bruce Lee crafted that quote as a guide for other martial artists who were seeking the truth about what works in a real fight. Throughout his life, he constantly searched for the most effective techniques, tactics and strategies known to man. As he succinctly put in it his book Tao of Jeet Kune Do, “Use only that which works and take it from anyplace you can find it.” For Lee, the purpose of his research was twofold: to add to his  personal combat repertoire and to further his development of what would eventually emerge as jeet kune do. This take-it-from-anyplace approach set the martial arts world abuzz in the 1960s and ’70s — and again in the early ’90s when a man who had trained in an obscure art called Brazilian jiu-jitsu triumphed over all comers in a no-holds-barred contest: the inaugural Ultimate Fighting Championship. BJJ emerged from the shadows, and many of us assimilated its lessons into our personal self-defense systems. Everything I’ve written so far is well-known in the martial arts community. What isn’t so well-known is that before BJJ’s debut in the octagon courtesy of Royce Gracie, Lee was already ahead of the learning curve with respect to grappling. During the 1960s, he delved into it with help from experts like Gene LeBell and Wally Jay. Witness the opening scene in Enter the Dragon, which features a Filipino dumog throw and a submission hold. What even fewer know is that 50 years before that and halfway around the world in the Soviet Union, a similar search for combative truth took place, and it led to the creation of a martial art called sambo. Anyone who’s familiar with sambo and jeet kune do will tell you that they share numerous similarities. However, according to Bruce Lee biographer Matthew Polly, there are no known examples of Lee having mentioned sambo. Interestingly, both the Russian art and Lee appeared on the cover of this magazine — sambo’s first was the February 1967 issue and Lee’s was the October 1967 issue — leaving us to postulate that Lee likely was aware of sambo. Moreover, with his scientific study of combat, he certainly would have been open to examining its effectiveness. To learn more about sambo’s effectiveness, Black Belt connected with one of Canada’s foremost practitioners of the art: Phillip Duncan Jr. Duncan has a fourth-degree black belt — the art maxes out at six degrees — in close-quarters-combat sambo. He earned that rank under Greg Kalyna and was later certified by Michael Galperin, president of the U.S. Combat Sambo Association. In addition to his Russian martial arts background, Duncan teaches the Filipino arts. As such, he’s accumulated a plethora of fight experience. The real-world testing to which Duncan has subjected CQC sambo transcends the dojo and the ring. For the past three decades, he’s worked as an undercover police officer in a “guns and gangs” unit in Toronto. While on the job, he’s put his skills to use countless times to disarm and subdue criminals, many of whom were bent on killing him. A former use-of-force instructor, Duncan went on to convey his findings to hundreds of patrol and undercover officers, as well as military personnel and bodyguards, in the hopes that they’ll enjoy the same self-defense advantages that CQC sambo has afforded him. MOTHER RUSSIA According to Duncan, sambo was born after the Soviet Union embarked on a search for combative enlightenment not unlike Lee’s. It commenced after World War I ended and proceeded as follows: Several Russian martial artists — one of whom was Vasili Oshchepkov, a second degree under Jigoro Kano — were given 10 years to scour Asia, Europe and the Middle East in search of martial arts. Afterward, they returned and analyzed the knowledge they’d accumulated. In 1927 a man named Viktor Spiridonov put pen to paper and published a manual designed for use by the military, police and KGB. In 1938 the new system was officially recognized as a sport, and the name was changed from free wrestling to sambo, an acronym derived from the phrase samooborona bez oruzhia, or “self-defense without weapons.” Soviet research continued after World War II, when various techniques that were designed to combat the current crop of criminals were examined so that sambo could be updated. During the Cold War, this refinement went further when teams of researchers and experts got together to devise strategies and tactics to counter the techniques the Russians had borrowed from other arts. In other words, they set out not just to ensure that sambo practitioners would prevail in a fight but also to prevent their enemies from prevailing against them with the same moves. The Soviet government then decided that sambo should be taught to the masses. To ensure the greatest possible participation by its citizens, they split the art into three well-known substyles: sport sambo, self-defense sambo and combat sambo. Sport sambo is like judo but with some differences that pertain to rules, protocols and uniforms. Self-defense sambo is entirely defensive, designed for use against armed and unarmed attacks effected by individuals. Combat sambo is designed to prepare people to be effective in any fighting situation, which is why it occasionally hosts competitions that resemble mixed martial arts. A fourth style also was developed, one that was top secret and had the potential to be even more deadly. Called CQC sambo, it was reserved for the Soviet Union’s commandos. Fast-forward to the MMA era: Former sambo champions like Oleg Taktarov, Andrei Arlovski and Fedor Emelianenko achieved notable success in mixed martial arts. More recently, sambo has given us the UFC’s Khabib Nurmagomedov and Ukrainian three-weight world-champion boxer Vasyl Lomachenko. As such, few can argue that sambo is not an effective fighting system. ECONOMY OF MOTION Bruce Lee’s fight with Wong Jack Man has been immortalized in Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story and Birth of the Dragon. For our purposes, the important aspect of this historical confrontation is that after the fight, Lee found himself exhausted. As a result, he vowed to make his skills more efficient. That’s why his writings began to reflect a new focus on efficiency, directness and simplicity in combat. In Lee’s words: “When you fight, if it is a real fight, use every tool that you have. Use your whole body. Use your fists, your legs, your fingers, your head if you have to, and hit them in every vulnerable spot, the [groin], the eyes, etc., to win.” CQC sambo stylists, like those who practice JKD, seek total control — or at least neutralization of their opponent in the most expedient manner. Duncan says his students aim to end confrontations in three to five seconds by focusing on techniques that have been proved effective in the real world. To reach that goal, CQC sambo advocates the use of basic principles that are often found in reality-based self-defense systems. They include attacking vital targets if you believe your life is threatened, not telegraphing your intentions and avoiding fancy techniques that are more prone to failure. Exponents of the Russian system go one step further by adding some principles that are uniquely their own. In CQC sambo, practitioners always assume that their adversary is stronger, faster and better trained. Second, they avoid using two arms to neutralize a weapon attack that’s effected with just one of the assailant’s hands because that would leave them unable to stop a counterstrike from the assailant’s empty hand. Third, they never strike twice in the same place. The first of these principles — training to defeat a more highly skilled opponent — is perhaps most important. While it’s common for reality-based systems to have students train to overcome an average attacker, CQC sambo focuses on defeating fighters who are above average. That’s because its founders knew that prison inmates, cartel members and terrorists actively train to counter standard defensive tactics. To illustrate, Duncan cites a staple of self-defense classes: disarming a gunman by immediately grabbing the barrel or slide of the firearm. His research has shown that the cutting action of a reciprocating handgun slide or the gases that escape from the gap between the cylinder and barrel of a revolver likely will be too painful for most people to endure — and criminals know this.  Their knowledge of the technique’s weakness can lead to an epic fail of the disarm. CQC sambo teaches that a more effective response to a firearm threat entails using open-hand slaps, sometimes referred to as “ballistic striking.” The slaps are delivered to vulnerable parts of the adversary’s head (for example, the temple and jaw) and to the body. This tactic, probably borrowed from the Chinese martial arts studied by sambo’s creators, has the practitioner use his body’s inertia to deliver maximum percussive force, often with devastating effect. Ballistic striking offers additional benefits in a life-or-death encounter, Duncan says. First, the average street fighter is used to getting punched and therefore can take a few shots and keep going. Using a ballistic strike to introduce a new pain stimulus into the altercation tends to disrupt the street fighter’s thinking process. Furthermore, this type of strike reduces the likelihood that bones in the hand of the defender will be compromised — which frequently happens when punches are thrown on the street. That ensures the CQC sambo stylist will be able to continue using his empty hands or his adversary’s weapon if he manages to take it away. FIGHTING WITHOUT FIGHTING When Bruce Lee said, “My style — you could call it the art of fighting without fighting” in Enter the Dragon and subsequently outwitted his opponent, he provided insight into perhaps the highest level of combat proficiency: the ability to defeat an opponent’s mind. Duncan says this is accomplished in CQC sambo by reacting counterintuitively to an attack. To explain the concept, he focuses on how this might apply against a gun threat: “If you can’t run away or disengage, [many] systems teach you to deflect, strike or grab the opponent’s delivery system — i.e., his arm. This action, however, shocks your opponent’s brain into doing something in reaction. He may quickly pull the weapon back if you grab it and then reset his brain to try a different attack. “In CQC sambo, we let the opponent commit to his attack by not interfering with the delivery system. We move forward. When you move toward an opponent who wields a weapon, [his] brain shuts down for a microsecond. He cannot comprehend that, despite having a weapon or a perceived advantage, you are moving toward the danger. This causes a short-term brain lockup. “We then ‘hide behind the wall’ — that is, move to the side of the opponent’s weapon-delivery system, keeping our body as close to the attacker’s body as possible. A hand is placed beside the weapon arm to prevent the firearm from drifting toward our new position. Then [there’s] a devastating strike delivered to a vulnerable area like the throat. One grabs the firearm only at the end of the disarm technique.” By not blocking or moving away from danger, Duncan says, “You let the opponent think he is winning until he realizes that he has lost.” EMPTY YOUR CUP Clearly, there’s a pattern among forward-thinking martial artists — Bruce Lee, the Gracies, the Soviets who developed sambo — to explore other arts, analyze their strengths and then incorporate their best moves, as well as defenses against those moves. Although not all of us have the resources to travel the world and compete at the highest levels in an effort to test our personal theories of combat, we can benefit from studying the work of those who already have done this. We can delve into JKD, we can bolster our ground skills with BJJ and we can learn CQC sambo. For many, the latter will provide a piece of the combative puzzle that few other fighting systems offer, especially with respect to weapon defense. So consider emptying your cup and then filling at least part of it with CQC sambo. I’m confident you’ll find the experience as enlightening as I have. Perry William Kelly has a sixth-degree black belt in jiu-jitsu and is an instructor in four other martial arts. He’s the former national coordinator for use of force for the Correctional Service of Canada. In 2017 he was a karate gold medalist at the World Police and Fire Games, and in 2018 he received the Joe Lewis Eternal Warrior Award. His website is perrywkelly.com .

In the competitive featherweight division, Bill Algeo has made a name for himself as a formidable contender, boasting a 4-1 record over the last two years and securing a place just outside the Top 15 rankings. Algeo's journey, marked by a mix of victories and a keen sense of showmanship, has seen him triumph over significant opponents and engage fans with his charismatic post-fight celebrations. His entry into the UFC was challenging, facing Ricardo Lamas on short notice, a fight that tested his resolve but ultimately showcased his tenacity and skill. Before his UFC debut, Algeo carved out a successful path on the East Coast regional circuit, achieving notable victories and accumulating experience against future UFC fighters. His background includes attempts to join the UFC through Dana White’s Contender Series and significant achievements in promotions like CFFC and Ring of Combat. Outside the octagon, Algeo's life is equally busy and fulfilling. As a gym owner, coach, and family man, he manages to juggle the demands of his fighting career with personal responsibilities, setting a unique example for fighters by securing a stable life before and beyond his UFC tenure. Algeo's approach to fighting is distinct. He competes with a freedom unburdened by financial pressures, focusing on the love of the sport and the thrill of competition. This mindset has led to memorable fights and post-fight moments, including engaging promos that resonate with fans. As Algeo prepares to face Kyle Nelson, a fellow veteran with a solid track record, he remains focused on delivering another outstanding performance. Nelson, coming off a strong year, presents a new challenge, but Algeo is confident in his abilities and strategy.

It's fight week in London! Cage Warriors - Europe's Leading MMA Organisation - hits the capital for the first time in 2024 this Saturday night, with a huge night of MMA action from the indigo @ The O2. Former featherweight world champion Jordan 'The Epidemic' Vucenic returns in the evening's main event, in pursuit of his third consecutive finish as he eyes a call up to the UFC. He'll face Italy's Simone 'The Tiger' D'Anna, who'll be looking to capitalise on the momentum of his successful CW debut against Alberth Dias last October. In the co-main event, two of Europe's hottest undefeated prospects collide, as Lone'er Kavanagh and Shawn Da Silva go head to head in a clash that could have significant implications for the Cage Warriors flyweight division. Elsewhere on the card, London favourites Will Currie, Darren Stewart and Jamie Richardson are all in action, taking on Leon Aliu, Carlos Pereira and Olli Santalahti respectively. The final CW 169 card is now as follows… Cage Warriors 169: London | LIVE on  UFC Fight Pass Main Card – 14:00 (PT) | 17:00 (ET) | 21:00 (GMT) | 22:00 (CET) Featherweight Simeone D'Anna vs Jordan Vucenic Flyweight: Shawn Da Silva vs Lone'er Kavanagh Middleweight Leon Aliu vs Will Currie Catch (195lbs) Carlos Pereira vs Darren Stewart Welterweight Olli Santalahti vs Jamie Richardson Prelims – 10:20 (PT) | 13:20 (ET) | 17:20 (GMT) | 18:20 (CET) Featherweight Dimitry Solimeis vs Thomas Paull Bantamweight Yohan Salvador vs Jimmy Quinn Middleweight Mitchell Goode vs Angus Hewett Catchweight (160lbs) Aaron Johnson vs Ermil Xhaferi Flyweight Amir Malekpour vs Tom Creasey Bantamweight Kevin Simon Cesari vs Tommy Brunning Lightweight Shaun Fraser vs Tariq Pell Welterweight Mariusz Mikołajewski vs Joshua Onwordi Flyweight Jean Matos vs Jawany Scott Middleweight TBC vs Joe Middleton Strawweight TBC vs Rhi-Rhi Hudson Cage Warriors 169: London will air live on  UFC Fight Pass  and international broadcast partners.