In a much-anticipated showdown at UFC 298, Amanda Lemos showcased her superior striking and resilience, securing a victory over Mackenzie Dern. The fight was a rollercoaster of emotions and technique, with Lemos proving once again why she's considered one of the strawweight division's most formidable competitors. Fans and critics alike are now buzzing with speculation about who Lemos should face next in the octagon. One name that keeps coming up is Tatiana Suarez, a fighter whose skills and record make her a tantalizing potential opponent for Lemos. Suarez, known for her wrestling prowess and unbeaten streak, was scheduled to make a highly anticipated return against a yet-to-be-named opponent, but unfortunately, her bout was canceled. This twist of fate has left the division on its toes, wondering what's next for both fighters. Suarez's grappling could pose a new set of challenges for Lemos, whose striking has been her ticket to victory. This matchup could offer UFC fans a classic striker vs. grappler bout, testing both fighters' abilities to adapt and overcome in the face of contrasting styles. Moreover, with Suarez's return being highly anticipated, pitting these two athletes against each other could generate significant interest and prove to be a blockbuster event for the UFC. As we speculate on future matchups, it's clear that the strawweight division is brimming with talent and potential. Whether Lemos takes on Suarez next or another top contender, one thing is for sure: the fans are in for a treat. The coming months will be crucial for both fighters as they prepare for what lies ahead, and the anticipation only adds to the excitement surrounding the UFC's strawweight division. Stay tuned as we continue to follow these fighters' journeys and the dynamic matchups that await. The road ahead is filled with opportunities, challenges, and the promise of unforgettable moments inside the UFC octagon.

Muscle inflammation is a natural immune response that occurs when the body is subjected to physical activities more intense than its usual routine. This process involves muscle stress and an increase in acidity levels, leading to microscopic damages. As a physiological response, the body's defense mechanisms are activated to repair these injuries, typically manifesting as inflammation within 24 to 48 hours post-exercise. Symptoms include pain, muscle tightness, and stiffness. The capacity of a muscle to perform optimally is contingent upon its access to oxygen-rich blood. A deficiency in oxygen leads to the accumulation of lactic acid, upsetting the pH balance and resulting in microtears. The body then initiates several biochemical processes to mend these tears, including an increased blood flow to the affected area and the mobilization of macrophages. These cells play a crucial role in clearing debris, enhancing blood vessel dilation through nitrogen oxide production, and facilitating muscle repair and growth. At rest, the body derives 70% of its energy from fats and 30% from carbohydrates. With elevated physical activity, the demand for ATP (adenosine triphosphate) surpasses the body's oxygen supply capabilities, prompting muscles to generate energy anaerobically, using glucose. This process produces pyruvate, which, in the absence of sufficient oxygen, leads to an increase in lactate levels in the blood, causing a drop in pH and perceived pain or fatigue. Contrary to popular belief, lactate or lactic acid accumulation is not directly responsible for muscle inflammation but rather the increase in hydrogen ion concentration that the body cannot adequately neutralize. Mechanical damage to the muscles also contributes to the sensation of pain. Post-exercise, lactate levels in the blood peak approximately five minutes later, returning to normal within an hour. Light post-training activity can accelerate lactate removal, enhancing recovery. Reasons Behind Muscle Inflammation in Martial Arts Practitioners Muscle inflammation in martial artists can stem from various factors, including the need for structured training aligned with health requirements, breaks due to illness or injury, and changes in training modalities or techniques. Acute inflammation shortly after exercise leads to muscle swelling and tension, which typically subsides within a few hours. Experts advise against using painkillers as they can inhibit natural repair processes. Three Levels of Muscle Inflammation Mild discomfort with slight muscle tension. Moderate pain appearing 24-48 hours after exercise, lasting 3-5 days, indicative of systemic acidity. Severe muscle fatigue, rendering the muscle non-functional, often experienced by professional athletes. Alleviating Muscle Inflammation Strategies include massages, light cardio, alternating warm and cold showers, stretching, and hydration. Consuming alkaline foods like cherries, cottage cheese, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, coffee, salmon, watermelon, eggs, and bananas can also mitigate inflammation. Conversely, sugar, alcohol, and certain meat and dairy products should be avoided due to their potential to exacerbate inflammation. Muscle inflammation is a natural, if not chronic, reaction signaling the body's adaptation and boundary-pushing through physical activity. While some muscle growth is achievable without inflammation, achieving significant gains typically requires navigating through these natural physiological responses. Continuous training is essential in martial arts, where accepting and understanding muscle inflammation is part of the journey towards mastery and improved physical health.

The world of martial arts is vast, encompassing a myriad of techniques ranging from the basic to the complex. Students immerse themselves in learning a variety of skills, including blocks, kicks, punches, weaponry, and katas. Yet, an old adage reminds us of the importance of mastering basic skills before advancing: one must learn to stand before they can run. This principle highlights the fundamental technique in martial arts: standing. Standing in Martial Arts The Essence of Stance in Martial Arts Stance training is a cornerstone across various martial arts disciplines, emphasizing the significance of establishing a strong base. A proper stance, whether it be the horse stance, fighting stance, or San Ti Shi, serves as the foundation for developing power, stability, and agility. The rationale behind this focus is clear: the ability to harness power from the ground, maintain stability with bent legs, and acknowledge the critical role of kicks in striking martial arts underscores the importance of cultivating strong legs through disciplined stance training. In my own martial arts experience, each class typically began with calisthenics followed by extensive periods dedicated to maintaining static stances. These moments, which stretched into seemingly endless periods of time, were crucial for testing and strengthening our stances under the watchful eye of our Sifu. His guidance to "Breathe, relax, stand" resonated in the quiet room, punctuated only by our heavy breathing as we fought through discomfort and fatigue. This rigorous practice was not merely about enduring pain; it was about transforming our bodies into resilient foundations for all subsequent martial arts techniques and skills. Beyond the Physical: Internal Martial Arts and Qigong Standing practices extend beyond the physical domain, particularly in internal martial arts and Qigong. One of the most iconic Qigong stances involves standing as if embracing a large, invisible sphere. This stance, though seemingly simple, is a profound exercise in health, meditation, and martial prowess. It quickly reveals its complexity and demands on the practitioner, challenging perceptions of ease and comfort. Internal martial arts and Qigong offer a spectrum of standing forms, each with its own degree of intensity and purpose, from enhancing martial capabilities to fostering health and inner tranquility. The act of standing quietly, even for a short duration daily, can yield significant benefits across these areas. A Platform for Learning Moreover, the practice of standing still transcends physical conditioning and internal cultivation; it is also an effective method for learning new material. By holding each step of a form, kata, or technique, practitioners can more deeply integrate these elements into their muscle memory and cognitive understanding. Standing, in its simplicity, is a multifaceted tool in the martial artist's arsenal. It supports the development of a stronger physique, a serene mind, and heightened energy. Sometimes, the most profound growth comes not from constant motion, but from the quiet strength of standing still.

The shoulder, while often overlooked due to its range limitations, is a formidable weapon in close combat encounters. This approach, rooted in the historical context of naval melee combat, is referred to as "closed quarters," a term I prefer for its piratical origins and specificity. The shoulder can be utilized in three primary ways: slams, butts, and grinds, each offering distinct advantages within the confines of close-range combat. Developing Shoulder Slam Techniques: Power of the Shoulder The foundation of mastering the shoulder slam lies in deconstructing a familiar technique: the hammer hook. This move begins by elevating the leading elbow to create a parallel line with the floor, locking the arm at a 90-degree angle. This action, combined with a pivotal movement from the rear foot and a coordinated turn of the body, propels the technique with force. Practicing this technique against a heavy bag not only reinforces the concept of a "fused" limb but also prepares you for the next step: the slam-the-door drill. This drill, performed within the proximity required for a clinch, emphasizes using the body as a single unit to execute a powerful shoulder slam. By envisioning the upper body as a door and the rear foot as its hinge, you can simulate the slamming motion with intensity, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of both the hammer hook and the shoulder slam. Mastering the Shoulder Butt The shoulder butt, executed within the same close-quarters clinch, is a versatile technique that offers both offensive and strategic benefits. It involves a series of quick, inward strikes using a relaxed shoulder, ideal for wearing down an opponent or creating opportunities for more devastating attacks. Additionally, the shoulder butt can be delivered at an upward angle, facilitating follow-up techniques without compromising stability. Applying Shoulder Grinds Primarily utilized by grapplers, shoulder grinds can also be effective in situations where an opponent is backed against a vertical surface. This technique focuses on applying pressure with the shoulder to the opponent's chin, jaw, or teeth, using the environment to prevent escape and increase discomfort, setting the stage for further offensive maneuvers. The shoulder, with its capabilities for slams, butts, and grinds, is a valuable component of close combat strategy. While this exploration covers the basics, the full potential of shoulder techniques, including setups and follow-ups, awaits discovery through dedicated training. Whether for self-defense or competitive MMA, the shoulder offers a unique blend of power and versatility for the close-quarters combatant.

By Michael Miller What do Bill Wallace, Don Wilson, Benny Urquidez, Bob Wall, Fumio Demura and Keith Vitali have in common? In addition to having acted in a ton of movies, these famous fighters are all champions. They used their skills to defeat opponent after opponent and rise through the ranks of martial arts stardom. The reasons they prevailed in the ring are many, but each of them relied on a crucial skill: a strategic approach to maneuverability. Some of them stood their ground, while others hopped around like rabbits. This article will tell you who did what and why, and their reasons are sure to make you a better fighter. Four Fighting Methods In the martial arts world, personal combat can be divided into four main categories: point fighting, kickboxing, mixed martial arts and street fighting . Although they’re similar in many respects, each has a unique personality. For instance, in point fighting, strikes aren’t supposed to be full contact. The goal is to get in and out with a clean point. Once you score, the ref stops the action for a moment before restarting it. Kickboxing is full contact. Victory comes after a knockout, technical knockout or judges’ decision. If you participate, you’ll get hit hard, and that forces you to fight differently than you would in a point match. MMA takes full contact to the next level by adding ground fighting and knee and elbow strikes. If you’re a pure striker, you’ll probably have trouble in an MMA bout. If you’re a pure grappler, you’ll likely have just as much trouble, albeit of a different kind. Street fighting is the real deal. An attacker will do whatever it takes to put you down. You don’t know whether you’ll be fending off one person or five. You may face a club, a knife or a gun—and it might be in the hands of someone who’s intoxicated or high on drugs. Furthermore, there’s no mutual consent. In other words, you don’t know you’re going to fight until he jumps you. Obviously, each type of fight requires its own training and techniques. If you’re gearing up for a point tournament, focus on starting and stopping. Learn how to pull your punches and how to strike certain areas of the body so you don’t get disqualified. If you want to be a full-contact fighter, you’ll need to hit hard during your sparring sessions and never stop after you’ve made contact. You’ll have to whip yourself into fighting shape so you don’t run out of gas in a match. Along the way, you’ll build your tolerance to pain whether you like it or not. Being good at street defense requires the performance of plenty of reality-based drills with no rules and no time limits. Adrenal-stress training is another proven method for developing yourself mentally and physically. One thing all these types of combat have in common is mobility. Victory comes more easily when you move just the right amount at just the right time. Against a Knife You should be mobile as you try to gain control of your attacker and his weapon. Your hands will be in motion, and your body will be maneuvering. A benefit of employing this type of defense is that it forces your opponent to commit to reach you. That will lure him in close, making it easier for you to control him. —Joel Huncar, October 2005 Ring Wars When the aforementioned champions fought their winning methods fit the era. The strategies and techniques that worked in the 1960s were different from the ones that worked in the 1970s and so on right up until today. Modern martial artists are fortunate in that they have more moves at their disposal than their counterparts did in the past and that their training methods are more advanced. Nevertheless, they can always learn from the past. Demura competed in the 1960s as a point fighter. At that time, karate was a one-point ordeal. “When I fought, I didn’t move,” he says. Back then, if you were mobile, you lost. He and his contemporaries minimized their motion to conserve energy. Because protective gear didn’t exist, their strategies leaned toward the defensive, much more so than in today’s offensive-oriented matches. Urquidez also fought in the 1960s, but he preferred the opposite strategy. His point fights were marked by movement. “It was all about timing,” he says. “[I used] quick-twitch moves, like sprinters do. [I was] quick on the draw.” His philosophy was simple: Never stand still unless you’re defending. In his kickboxing bouts, however, Urquidez used a different approach. He avoided dancing around because it burned too much energy. Instead, he concentrated on using a swaying movement in front of his opponents. “You allow him to make a move, and you make your counter,” he says. It’s OK to be mobile, he adds, but try not to waste energy doing it. To that end, he adopted a rhythmic movement that took him up and down, forward and backward, and side to side. Wallace, who competed mostly in the 1970s, believes that the choice between standing and moving is an individual one. Neither method is markedly superior, he says. “In point fighting, I stood solid so I could drive everything in. When I was kickboxing, I liked to move because I didn’t want to be a target. When I was point fighting, I wanted to score on you really fast, and when I was kickboxing, I wanted to hurt you.” Solid as a Rock During the self-defense application, kung fu master Pan Qing Fu grounded himself in a forward stance as he grabbed another man’s head and gently struck it against his hardened abs. Instantly, the 200-pounder somersaulted backward and rolled on the ground. Pan’s stance didn’t change. —Dianne Naughton, October 2001 The Reality-Fighting Point of View Wilson’s career, which began in the late 1970s, focused on kickboxing. That made him a believer in motion—the more, the better. “I fought from a side stance and used a lot of movement,” he says. “You move first to make sure you’re not getting hit. Your first priority is to not get hurt. To [generate] power, though, you need to stop, lower your center of gravity a couple of inches and throw your kick or punch.” For Vitali, a ring veteran of the 1970s and ’80s, victory came from bucking tradition. At a time when martial artists used little or no movement, his success stemmed from his mobility. “I called solid-base fighters ‘targets,’ ” he says. Standing still, his opponents found it nearly impossible to counter his speed and skill. With Weapons Among the things you should look for in a comprehensive stick-fighting program are tactical footwork and fighting stances that maximize mobility. —W. Hock Hochheim, April 2003 Vitali encourages competitors, both point fighters and kickboxers, to reposition themselves constantly. “I made it to the top by fighting stand-still fighters, but by the end of my career, many fighters were moving,” he says. The change was a natural part of evolution from the 1970s to the 1980s, he adds. Wall’s heyday lasted from 1965 to 1972, during which he competed on a high-profile team that included Chuck Norris, Mike Stone, Joe Lewis and Skipper Mullins. Wall won world titles in 1970, ’71 and ’72. One of the secrets of his success was movement, he says. “Only someone who wants to get hit is going to stand still and let somebody move around and hit them.” To this day, Wall’s fighting philosophy is simple: “You want to avoid pain. If you move around, you’ll be more able to give pain and less likely to receive pain.” Fight Like a Wrestler … Not! The typical wrestler’s stance is good for wrestling— and for getting punched in the face or kicked in the groin. When examined through the eyes of a martial artist, numerous problems become apparent. Therefore, a functional combat stance—one that allows you to attack with punches, kicks, clinches and takedowns, as well as defend against them—needs to be devised. —Mark Mireles, December 2005 Street Defense When you’re training for self-defense, the champs say it’s essential to understand that a different set of the dynamics is involved. There are no rules, rounds, referees or protective gear. Because every altercation is unique, you never know what to expect. One thing is for certain, however: In a real fight, you need to end things quickly. You need not pace yourself as you would in a full-contact tournament. “On the streets, it’s about timing, knowledge and experience,” Demura says.  When you’re forced to fight, he adds, you should never back up. Wallace says he’d use the same techniques on the street that he used in the ring. “But I wouldn’t kick to the face,” he stipulates. Such potentially risky maneuvers leave you vulnerable to a loss of balance or a counterattack, he adds. “There’s no difference in my philosophy when it comes to tournaments and the street,” Wilson says. “I turn to the side and rely on the side kick and lateral movement.” Urquidez advises martial artists who are forced to defend themselves to be aggressive with full-power shots delivered from a solid stance. “When you’re rooted, there is power and strength,” he says. The key to victory, in Vitali’s view, is proper form—whether you’re engaged   in a tournament match or a street fight. “I make all my students technicians,” he says. “Once you have form, it will work on the street and in tournaments.” Anyone who believes tournament competitors are weak because they’re used to fighting under a set of rules is misguided, he adds. Your entry is facilitated by your fighting stance. Start by raising your elbows high like Thai boxers do. Then, when your attacker throws a punch or high kick, you can use your elbows to destroy his weapons. If he opts to execute a low-line kick, perhaps one aimed at your groin or thigh, you can use your knee to intercept the blow and damage his legs. The RAT System teaches you to envision yourself as a porcupine, hunkered down inside a protective layer of mobile elbows and knees. It doesn’t teach you to block, duck, or bob and weave. It implores you to destroy your opponent’s weapons right after he launches them. The resulting pain provides the perfect moment to enter. —Paul Vunak, July 2006 Conclusion Whether you stand your ground or move around, your goal in a physical altercation is the same: Don’t get hurt. With respect to mobility, the answers are less concrete. Some martial artists, including Demura, preferred not to move in point fighting, while others, including Urquidez, favored it. Both were excellent fighters in the same era. The fact that they and the others successfully employed different methods means one isn’t superior to the other. Success depends on the implementation. Therefore, when it comes to competition, training is the key. Experiment with both methods when the stakes are low so you’ll be better prepared when the stakes are high. Then, whether you’re engaged in a championship bout or a life-or-death fight, you’ll automatically use the fighting method that’s right for you. About the author: Michael Miller is a freelance writer and karate instructor based in Bradford, Pennsylvania. He holds a fourth-degree black belt. For more information, visit www.blackbelt mag.com and click on Community, then Black Belt Authors. This article originally appeared in a Black Belt Magazine print edition.

ONE Championship returned to U.S. primetime and delivered incredible excitement throughout the night at ONE Fight Night 19 . Felipe Lobo gave everything to Jonathan Haggerty, but it was not enough to dethrone the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion. The main event was a complete firefight. After surviving the knockdown, Haggerty turned the corner and responded with an onslaught of his own. Lobo tried to withstand the heat, but Haggerty finished the job in the third round. Saemapetch Fairtex was out to prove his last loss against Mohamed Younes Rabah was an aberration. In 93 seconds, Saemapetch ended Rabah’s evening with three knockdowns. His power and pressure were unmatched on this night, and he was positioned back in the hunt at bantamweight. Lito Adiwang and Nauzet Trujillo got in the win column with unanimous decisions. Adiwang bested Danial Williams in a strawweight MMA battle, and Trujillo upset Liam Nolan in a lightweight Muay Thai war. Hiroyuki Tetsuka was not fearful of BJJ World Champion Abraao Amorim. The Japanese star took the action to the mat and secured a shocking armbar finish right before the buzzer. It was a big win for “The Japanese Beast,” who moved another step up the welterweight ladder. American Muay Thai took center stage for the featherweight scrap between Luke Lessei and Eddie Abasolo. It was everything it was meant to be, and Lessei edged it out by split decisions as both men scored knockdowns during the contest. Lessei ranked #5 in the division and picked up a big win to become a title contender in 2024. Martyna Kierczynska made an impactful ONE debut. She kept her professional record clean with a commanding second-round TKO over Nat “Wondergirl” Jaroonsak. With her performance, the Polish striker became an immediate threat in the strawweight division. Mansur Malachiev returned to the win column with a narrow unanimous decision win over former titleholder Yosuke Saruta. He had to battle through adversity with close submissions from the Japanese star, but he escaped and did enough offense to take the bout on the cards. Thongpoon PK Saenchai got the night rolling with a dazzling 97-second TKO over Timur Chuikov. The Thai star was on point from the opening bell and scored another victory, bringing him closer to the top of his division. ONE Fight Night 19 Full Results Jonathan Haggerty def. Felipe Lobo via TKO at 0:45 of the third round Saemapetch Fairtex def. Mohamed Younes Rabah by TKO at 1:33 of the first round Lito Adiwang def. Danial Williams by unanimous decision Nauzet Trujillo def. Liam Nolan by unanimous decision Hiroyuki Tetsuka def. Abraao Amorim via submission (armbar) at 4:57 of the first round Luke Lessei def. Eddie Abasolo by split decision Martyna Kierczynska def. Nat Jaroonsak by TKO at 1:24 of the second round Mansur Malachiev def. Yosuke Saruta by unanimous decision Thongpoon PK Saenchai def. Timur Chuikov by TKO at 1:37 of the first round

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion,  debuted in Manassas, VA with an action-packed BKFC Prospect Series event at the sold-out Salisbury Center on Friday night.   In the main event on Friday night,  Brandon "The Shredder" Shavers knocked out Stanislav Grosu in the fourth round of their highly anticipated middleweight matchup. The Jena, LA product Shavers picked himself up off the canvas in the second round before dropping Sterling, VA’s Grosu twice in the fourth frame. Time of the stoppage was 1:32. With the win, Shavers improved to 2-1 in the squared circle, while Grosu saw his record drop to 3-3.   "We've been in the gym putting in work every single day, and we want to stay active. I'm only getting better when I'm getting in here more,” Shavers told the jam-packed Salisbury Center.   In the co-main event, Indianapolis, IN native  Cameron "Jumpman" VanCamp brought home his first BKFC victory with a knockout over the debuting Micah "See Me" Terrill of Millersville, MD in their middleweight showdown. The fight was stopped 25 seconds into the second round. VanCamp is now 1-1 in BKFC.   "I've just got to keep working,” the UFC vet VanCamp told the sold-out Salisbury Center. “Everything is starting to click now. I came here, I beat him in his hometown up a weight class ... I'd say that's worth a bonus." Gloucester, MA’s  Zach "Shark Attack" Calmus earned his second straight BKFC victory with a technical knockout over Washington, D.C.’s Josh "The Predator" Freeman. The fight was stopped at the conclusion of the third round after Freeman injured his hand and couldn’t continue. Calmus is now 3-2 in the BKFC heavyweight division, while Freeman’s record falls to 0-1.   Russian  Murat Kilimetov dropped Tre "The Truth" Cook of Winchester, VA four times before their cruiserweight battle was stopped nine seconds into the second round.   James “Get Down” Brown is now 3-0 in BKFC after the Wilmington, NC featherweight stopped Ukraine’s  Bovar "The Gladiator" Khanakov via technical knockout in their featherweight matchup. The highly entertaining bout was called to a halt by the ringside physician at the conclusion of the third round. Brown entered fight night as the number four ranked contender in the BKFC featherweight division. Khanakov is now 1-2.   Joe "Ruthless" Ray of Martinsville, VA sent Bellefontaine, OH’s  Paul "The Zombie Cowboy" Shough to the canvas three times enroute to the second-round knockout victory in their back-and-forth heavyweight bout. Time of the stoppage was 1:50. Ray is now 1-0 under the BKFC banner, while Shough’s record drops to 1-2.   Waldorf, MD middleweight prospect  Shawn “The Midnight Express” Brooks turned heads in his BKFC debut with a third-round knockout against Las Vegas’ JorDan "The Haymaker" Christensen. Brooks, a former Marine, dropped Christensen twice in the third round. Christensen’s record fell to 2-4 with the loss.   Crystal “The Lovely” Van Wyk dug deep to earn a unanimous decision victory over  "Crazy" Cristina Crist in their action-packed women’s flyweight showdown. Van Wyk, who hails from Rock Hill, SC by way of Cape Town, South Africa, is now 1-0, while the Rockwall, TX product Crist is now 0-2.   In the Van Wyk-Crist matchup,  Michelle Myers made history as the first female referee in BKFC history.   Atlanta’s  Nathan Rivera smashed his way to 2-0 under the BKFC banner with a first-round KO at the expense of Murphy, NC’s Dustin "Elmo" Garrett. Time of the stoppage was 1:22 of the opening frame. Garrett’s record fell to 0-1 with the loss.   Laurel, MD’s  Cary "Cap Vs. The World" Caprio improved to 2-1 in BKFC with a physician stoppage technical knockout over St. Louis, MO’s “Savage” Mike Livingston. The bantamweight bout was called to a halt at the conclusion of the second round.   BKFC Prospect Series Results Brandon Shavers def. Stanislav Grosu via KO in Round 4 (1:32) Cameron VanCamp def. Micah Terrill via KO in Round 2 (0:25) Zach Calmus def. Joshua Freeman via TKO in Round 3 (2:00) Murat Kilimetov def. Tre Cook via KO in Round 2 (0:09) James Brown def. Bovar Khanakov via TKO (physician stoppage) in Round 3 (2:00) Joe Ray def. Paul Shough via KO in Round 2 (1:50) Shawn Brooks def. Jordan Christensen via KO in Round 3 (0:52) Crystal Van Wyk def. Crystal Lawson via Unanimous Decision (50-45, 49-46x2) Nathan Rivera def. Dustin Garrett via KO in Round 1 (1:22) Cary Caprio def. Mike Livingston via TKO (physician stoppage) in Round 2 (2:00)

ONE Friday Fights 52  was filled with finishes. The 13-bout lineup only saw three of its bouts hit the judges' scorecards. Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Thai sent his "Left Meteorite" right into Julio Lobo's face. The Thai star peppered Lobo repeatedly with his vicious left hand. After two knockdowns, another flurry sent the referee in to save the Brazilian from additional punishment. Chalawan Ngorbangkapi showed his toughness in his KO win over Kaoklai Chor Hapayak. Kaoklai looked to be on his way to winning after scoring knockdowns over his fellow Thai athlete, but Chalawan was consistently hitting the mark. In the third round, Chalawan finally stung Kaoklai and then put together a fight-ending combination. There were almost too many knockouts to recount. The crowd in Lumpinee Boxing Stadium was treated to an exceptional night of martial arts action. ONE Friday Fights 52 got off to a hot start with three finishes. The first bout of the night ended in just 62 seconds when 16-year-old phenom Luapong Kaewsamrit got a TKO over Makuto Sato. Soe Lin Oo had the opposite experience as his match almost went to the final bell, but he beat the buzzer with a TKO just 20 seconds before the end of the match. Maxwell Djantou Nana put the pressure on Adnan Larry in the first MMA match of the night. Larry was unable to answer the call for the third round, resulting in a TKO stoppage. Relive all of the action from Lumpinee Boxing Stadium on-demand on ONE's official YouTube channel . ONE Friday Fights 52 Full Results Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai def. Julio Lobo by TKO at 2:47 of the first round Theptaksin Sor Sornsing def. Singdomthong Nokjeanladkrabang by split decision Chalawan Ngorbangkapi def. Kaoklai Chor Hapayak by KO at 0:27 of the third round Samingnum M Ekachart def. Thanungern FA Group by TKO at 2:47 of the second round Petpattaya Silkmuaythai def. Got Taipetburi by KO at 0:59 of the second round Jongangsuk Sor Theppitak def. Payakmekin Jomhodmuaythai by TKO at 1:54 of the second round Mamuka Usubyan def. Shadow Singha Mawynn by unanimous decision Yodthongthai Sor Sommai def. Omar El Halabi by TKO at 1:38 of the second round Thant Zin def. Jaising Sitnayokpunsak by TKO at 0:40 of the second round Ilyas Eziyeu def. Asset Anarbayev by unanimous decision Maxwell Djantou Nana def. Adnan Larry by TKO at 5:00 of the second round Soe Lin Oo def. Masayoshi Tsuhashi by TKO at 2:40 of the third round Luapong Kaewsamrit def. Makuto Sato by TKO at 1:02 of the first round

Toshio Fujiwara might not be a household name among fight enthusiasts today, but his contributions to combat sports during a pivotal era cannot be overlooked. As the first non-Thai champion of the Rajadamnern Stadium in Muay Thai and a key figure in the early days of kickboxing, Fujiwara's story is intertwined with the sport's evolution. The journey into the world of kickboxing began with Osamu Noguchi, a Tokyo-based boxing promoter with a keen interest in Muay Thai. Recognizing the potential for Japanese fighters in this discipline, Noguchi proposed sending karate practitioners to Thailand, believing their skills would be more adaptable to Muay Thai's demands than those of traditional boxers. This led to a partnership with Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate, who agreed to prepare his fighters for competition in Thailand. In 1964, a landmark event took place, albeit a year later than planned, leading to confusion about its actual date. Three karate fighters, trained in kickboxing techniques and the Kyokushin karate style, faced off against Muay Thai opponents. Despite one loss, the event was a success, especially for Kenji Kurosaki, who, inspired by his defeat, merged Kyokushin with Muay Thai techniques, laying the groundwork for the world's first kickboxing gym, Mejiro Gym in Tokyo. This gym would become famous for nurturing Toshio Fujiwara, Kurosaki's most distinguished student. Fujiwara, whose initial sporting background was in tennis and Taikiken, a martial art with deep roots in the Japanese and Chinese traditions, found his calling in the nascent sport of kickboxing. Under Kurosaki's tutelage, Fujiwara honed a distinctive fighting style that emphasized boxing and low kicks, which later influenced the development of the Dutch kickboxing style through Jan Plas, a pioneer who trained under Fujiwara. Fujiwara's most notable achievement came on March 18, 1978, in Tokyo, where he won the Rajadamnern Championship, becoming the first non-Thai to do so. His victory, marked by strategic distance management and a decisive clinch move, was a significant milestone in Muay Thai and kickboxing history. Although Fujiwara did not defend his title successfully in Thailand and much of his later career remains undocumented, his legacy in shaping kickboxing is undeniable. Fujiwara's influence extends beyond his championship title, contributing to the global spread of kickboxing and its strategies, particularly the integration of boxing techniques and low kicks. His story is a testament to the enduring impact of pioneers in martial arts, shaping the sports in ways that continue to resonate today.

UFC 298 is right around the corner, and it's shaping up to be a blockbuster event you won't want to miss. Headlined by the featherweight championship clash between Alexander Volkanovski and Ilia Topuria, this night promises non-stop action, jaw-dropping moments, and maybe a few surprises along the way. Main Event: Featherweight Championship Showdown Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria The main event is a featherweight championship bout that has fans buzzing with anticipation. Alexander Volkanovski, the reigning champion, is set to defend his title against the rising star, Ilia Topuria. Volkanovski, known for his remarkable endurance and strategic fighting style, faces a young challenger with knockout power and an undefeated streak. Will experience prevail, or will we witness the crowning of a new champion? This fight is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good underdog story. Co-Main Event: Middleweight Clash Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa In the co-main event, former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker faces off against the powerhouse Paulo Costa. This match pits Whittaker's precision and versatility against Costa's aggression and raw power. It's a classic striker vs. brawler matchup that guarantees fireworks. Both fighters are looking to make a statement and edge closer to a title shot, making this fight a critical crossroads in their careers. Main Card Highlights Welterweight Battle: Geoff Neal vs. Ian Machado Garry Two welterweights with a penchant for finishing fights. Neal's striking meets Garry's dynamic offense in a bout that's unlikely to go the distance. Bantamweight Showdown: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Henry Cejudo Dvalishvili's relentless pace against Cejudo's Olympic-level wrestling. This fight is a stylistic chess match with high stakes in the bantamweight division. Middleweight Encounter: Anthony Hernandez vs. Roman Kopylov Hernandez and Kopylov are set to deliver a middleweight contest filled with potential for highlight-reel moments. Expect a battle of wills in this one. Preliminary Card Notables Strawweight Contest: Amanda Lemos vs. Mackenzie Dern A fascinating stylistic matchup that could have title implications. Lemos' striking versus Dern's world-class jiu-jitsu. Heavyweight Power: Marcos Rogério de Lima vs. Justin Tafa Twice the fun with heavyweight sluggers ready to bring the thunder. Whoever lands first could end the night early. Emerging Talents: Rinya Nakamura vs. Carlos Vera, Mingyang Zhang vs. Brendson Ribeiro, and more The prelims are stacked with fighters eager to make their mark. From flyweights to light heavyweights, every bout has the potential to steal the show. Don't miss a second of the action! Catch UFC 298 live on Pay-Per-View through ESPN+ in the United States. The prelims kick off at 8 PM ET, followed by the main card at 10 PM ET. For international viewers, check your local listings for broadcast times and channels. Get ready for an epic night of fights. UFC 298 is about to deliver an adrenaline-pumping spectacle you'll be talking about for weeks to come. See you at the octagon!

Grand Master George Cofield was a pioneering figure in the world of Karate during the 1960s and 1970s, known for being one of the first black instructors in the United States. Born in 1934 in Brooklyn, New York, Cofield's interest in Karate was sparked during his time serving in the US Marine Corps in the 1950s, where he was stationed in Japan and began learning Shotokan Karate. Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved Upon returning to New York in 1959, Cofield established the Tong Dojo, a martial arts school where he not only taught Karate but also instilled values of resilience and discipline in his students, drawing from his own experiences growing up in tough neighborhoods. At the time he was one of the first Black instructors to commercially teach martial arts in the United States. Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved His dojo produced several notable fighters, including Thomas LaPuppet, Alex Sternberg, Doug “Hawk” Frazier, and the Wilder Twins, Melvin, and Calvin, who gained recognition as some of the best competitive Karate fighters of their time Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved Known as the "Gunners," these students epitomized excellence in competitive Karate, their achievements resonating far beyond the confines of the dojo. Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved Despite his dojo's growing reputation, Cofield remained committed to serving his community. He expanded his network to ten dojos across Brooklyn, offering training to students regardless of their financial situation. Cofield's dedication to empowering youth led him to become a symbol of hope for those at risk of falling into gang culture, providing them with a positive outlet through Karate. Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved His contributions to the martial arts community were recognized when he was featured in Black Belt Magazine in 1968. Throughout the years, the Tong Dojo thrived under his leadership, becoming known not only for its martial excellence but also for its sense of community. From the August 1968 Issue of Black Belt Magazine His student Thomas La Puppet would be the first Black man to grace the cover. In 1994, former students gathered to celebrate the Tong Dojo's 30-year reunion, a testament to the lasting impact of Cofield's teachings. However, tragedy struck on March 22, 2001, when George Cofield passed away at the age of 66. Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved. His legacy lives on as a testament to the transformative power of Karate and his unwavering commitment to empowering his community. Through his teachings, Cofield instilled a positive self-image and sense of empowerment in generations of students, leaving a lasting impact on the martial arts world. Photo courtesy of Sensei George Cofield all rights reserved. (Above: Three of the greatest masters of their time. Dr. Moses Powell, Ron Duncan, and George Cofield.)

The quintessential images of superheroes often conjure visions of Superhero like Superman soaring above Metropolis or Spider-Man navigating the cityscape with his iconic webs. Some superheroes, however, are celebrated not for otherworldly powers but for their self-made prowess. Icons like Batman, Green Arrow, Nightwing, and The Punisher exemplify this, having honed their abilities through intense training and unwavering commitment. It's an inspiring thought, isn't it? That perhaps, we too can craft our own superhero narrative. Crafting Your Superhero Persona Before you dive into selecting your superhero moniker or mastering the art of covert operations, it's essential to focus on the foundational skills that will earn you the "super" in superhero. Here's how to start: Mastering the Art of the Punch A superhero's punch needs to be nothing short of powerful. Training in disciplines such as Western boxing or karate is indispensable. Consider incorporating these exercises into your routine: Heavy Bag Work : Alternate between punching combinations for one minute and resting for thirty seconds. Knuckle Push-ups : Perform these for 45 seconds followed by a 15-second rest to build strength. Focus Mitts : Train with a partner who can help you practice combinations and improve your reflexes for dodging. The Kick Factor When facing a horde of villains, maintaining distance is crucial. A blend of close-range punching and long-range kicking, integrating karate, kung fu, and taekwondo techniques, will prepare you to fend off attacks from all directions. Practice by setting up four chairs to represent opponents in all cardinal directions, and work on kicking higher than the back of each chair. Beyond Punching and Kicking: Grappling and Ground Techniques The reality of superhero confrontations often means getting up close and personal. Training in a grappling art becomes essential for those moments when you find yourself in a tight spot. Whether it's judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, shuai chiao, or wrestling, mastering the art of the takedown can turn the tide of battle. Practice is key, and finding a sparring partner can enhance both your skills and your network of allies. The Superhero Aesthetic: Embracing the Cape Dedication to your training is critical. Without actual superpowers, perfectionism becomes your closest ally. Imagine the day you'll stand, cape billowing behind you, surveying the city from a rooftop. That is until reality calls you back to ground level for more practice. Becoming a superhero isn't about the costume or the name, but the relentless pursuit of excellence and the commitment to use one's abilities for the greater good. So, are you ready to embark on your journey to superhero status?