Nordine Mahieddine is unable to participate in the GLORY Heavyweight Grand Prix on March 9 due to an inability to comply with GLORY’s new safety and health regulations that were implemented at the start of 2024. The 34-year-old was scheduled to face Nabil Khachab in the opening round of the Grand Prix. “We are disappointed not to have Nordine competing in the Grand Prix,” said Robbie Timmers, GLORY Head of Talent & Sports. “However, part of being on the GLORY roster is compliance with our health and safety regulations to ensure a fair environment for all athletes and their opponents. On this occasion, Nordine was unable to make it through our health and safety procedures that are required in advance of the Grand Prix. We respect Nordine’s skills in the martial arts and no doubt we will soon see him back in the GLORY ring.” GLORY will announce which heavyweight from the division will be selected as a wildcard to replace him in the coming days. Taking place at the GelreDome in Arnhem, the Netherlands, the GLORY Heavyweight Grand Prix will feature eight of the best heavyweight kickboxers on the planet competing in a tournament where they must win three bouts in one night to claim the prize of $500,000. Confirmed participants include Rico Verhoeven (61-10, 20 KO), Levi Rigters (15-1, 7 KO), Tariq Osaro (25-3-1, 13 KO), Sofian Laïdouni (35-2-1, 17 KO), Uku Jürjendal (20-8, 16 KO), Bahram Rajabzadeh (65-1, 58 KO), and Nabil Khachab (25-18, 13 KO). Tickets to the event are on sale right now from  GLORYKickboxing.com .

So, you’re curious about martial arts for self-defense, huh? It’s a common reason many of us dive into the world of martial arts, sometimes even more than the thrill of competition or the dream of being as cool as our favorite action heroes. But when it comes down to it, which martial arts actually stand up to the test of real-world self-defense? First off, let’s sidestep any martial art that promises instant knockouts or talks about disrupting energy flows – these aren't what we're looking for. And we can also gently pass by those without rigorous sparring. So, what's on our list? Well, we've got Boxing, Full Contact Karate, Sanda, Sambo, Judo, BJJ, various Wrestling styles, and, of course, Muay Thai. But how does Muay Thai stack up for self-defense on the streets? Let's dive in and explore. Unraveling the Street Fight Myth: Muay Thai for Self Defense Let's clear the air about the idea of a seasoned street fighter – it's more myth than reality. The notion of someone roaming the streets, ready to outmatch trained martial artists, doesn't really hold up. Even the toughest guy you know is likely no match for someone with a bit of BJJ training. But, it's worth noting that street fights come with their own set of unpredictable dangers, making them risky for anyone, martial artist or not. There's no telling if an attacker has a weapon, backup, or if bystanders might jump in. It’s chaotic, unpredictable, and definitely not a controlled environment like the dojo. What To Do If Confronted? The First Move: Run If You Can When it comes to self-defense, the best martial art might just be the "100-meter dash" or "parkour." Putting distance between you and a potential threat is often your safest bet. Muay Thai can actually help here – maintaining distance with kicks can give you the moment you need to make your escape. When You Can't Run: The Long Guard If running isn't an option, adopting a long guard stance can be a good move. Stretch out your arms with palms facing outward, showing you're not looking for a fight, but also setting up a barrier between you and the other person. This position, often referred to as "the fence" in self-defense circles, can help de-escalate the situation while keeping you prepared. If You Must Defend Yourself: : Muay Thai for Self Defense In dire situations where conflict is unavoidable, there are a few Muay Thai techniques that stand out for their effectiveness: The One-Two Combo : A basic jab followed by a straight can be surprisingly effective. It's simple, quick, and can give you the upper hand or even deter the attacker from continuing. Knee Strikes to the Groin : Aiming lower than usual with your Muay Thai knee strikes can incapacitate an attacker quickly, especially effective in close quarters. Elbow Strikes in Close Range : If the fight gets close, an elbow strike can be a powerful tool, capable of causing significant damage without putting you at too much risk. After the Conflict: Call for Help Once the situation is under control, find a safe place and call the authorities. It's important to report what happened, as you might need to explain the self-defense situation. Muay Thai, like any martial art, offers tools that can be adapted for self-defense. The key is knowing when and how to use them, and always prioritizing safety and de-escalation. Stay safe out there, and remember, the best fight is the one you avoid.

Gear up for an electrifying evening at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas this February 10, 2024, because UFC Fight Night is bringing the heat with a stacked card headlined by the middleweight battle between Jack Hermansson and Joe Pyfer. The stage is set for UFC Fight Night: Hermansson vs Pyfer With fighters from all corners of the globe and every weight class you can think of, UFC Fight Night: Hermansson vs. Pyfer promises to deliver non-stop action, heart-stopping moments, and maybe a knockout or two (or three, who's counting?). Main Event Breakdown: Hermansson vs. Pyfer At the top of the bill, we have the main event featuring Jack Hermansson and Joe Pyfer in a middleweight showdown. Hermansson, known for his grappling prowess and high fight IQ, is facing off against the up-and-coming powerhouse, Joe Pyfer, whose striking has been turning heads in the MMA community. This fight is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup, and it's anyone's guess who will come out on top. Co-Main Event Spotlight: Ige vs. Fili Not to be overshadowed, the co-main event sees featherweights Dan Ige and Andre Fili squaring off in what's expected to be a striking clinic. Both fighters are known for their aggressive styles and durability, making this bout a potential fight-of-the-night contender. Will Ige's precision or Fili's power decide the outcome? Main Card Highlights Middleweight Madness:  Ihor Potieria vs. Robert Bryczek and Brad Tavares vs. Gregory Rodrigues promise to showcase the depth of talent in the 185lb division. Expect technical battles with a high chance of finishes. Lightweight Action:  Michael Johnson takes on Darrius Flowers in a bout that's sure to please fans who love stand-up wars. Jiu-Jitsu vs. Kickboxing:  Rodolfo Vieira, a world-class grappler, faces Armen Petrosyan, a striking specialist, in a classic martial arts style clash. Don't sleep on the prelims! With matchups like Trevin Giles vs. Carlos Prates and the exciting strawweight bout between Loma Lookboonmee and Bruna Brasil, the prelims are packed with potential show-stealers. Plus, the diversity in weight classes from light heavyweight battles like Devin Clark vs. Marcin Prachnio to the bantamweight clash between Daniel Marcos and Aoriqileng ensures there's something for every MMA fan. Prelims are set for 6:30 PM PT, Main Card Starts at 9:30 PM PT on ESPN+

Fili Hopes To Break Into The Top-15 With A Dominant Win Over Dan Ige This weekend, the UFC octagon lights up in Las Vegas for the much-anticipated UFC Fight Night: Hermansson vs Pyfer. But let's not let the main event steal all the spotlight, as there's a co-main event that's just as electrifying. Featherweight dynamo Andre "Touchy" Fili is set to throw down with Dan "50K" Ige in a battle that's got more at stake than just bragging rights. Andre Fili, a fighter known for his striking versatility and resilience, is on a mission. And it's not just any mission; it's a quest to break into the featherweight top-15 rankings. Facing off against Dan Ige, a competitor as tough and determined as they come, Fili knows that this isn't just another fight. It's a golden opportunity, a chance to prove he belongs among the elite in one of the UFC's most competitive divisions. So, what does a win mean for Andre Fili? Well, it's huge. First off, beating a fighter of Ige's caliber is a statement. Ige, renowned for his heart and hard-hitting style, has been in there with some of the division's best, making him a formidable gatekeeper for anyone looking to climb the ranks. A win for Fili not only catapults him into the top-15 but also sends a clear message to the division that he's not just here to participate; he's here to compete at the highest level. Moreover, a dominant performance could be the key that unlocks bigger fights for Fili. We're talking about potential matchups with top-10 opponents, main event slots, and, of course, inching closer to that coveted title shot. For Fili, a fighter who's had his ups and downs but has always remained a fan favorite due to his never-say-die attitude and exciting fighting style, this is the moment to shine. Beyond the rankings and future matchups, a win over Ige at UFC Fight Night represents personal growth for Fili. It's about overcoming adversity, refining his skill set, and proving to himself and the world that he has what it takes to be among the best featherweights on the planet. Every fighter dreams of having their hand raised in the octagon, but for Fili, this win could be the defining moment of his career. As we gear up for this featherweight clash, the anticipation is palpable. Both fighters have a lot to prove, but for Andre Fili, the stakes are just a bit higher. A victory on Saturday night doesn't just mean moving up the rankings; it's about solidifying his place in the UFC, earning the respect he deserves, and setting the stage for the next chapter of his career.

Graciela demonstrates swift skills with stick and blade in these two clips: Blade: Considering the scope of self-defense with blades, Filipino martial arts stand unrivaled. kali's superiority lies in its emphasis on fluidity, fostering speed and unpredictable motion. Unlike memorization of structured techniques, kali refines reflexes and patterns that emerge organically. This approach minimizes the risk of freezing during a violent encounter, ensuring practitioners can adapt seamlessly to threats both wielding and defending against blades. Kali's dynamic training proves its unparalleled effectiveness in blade combat. Stick: Martial arts, such as kali, encompass artistry, sport, and street smarts. While it may seem artistic initially, kali's practicality shouldn't be underestimated. Its training instills essential qualities like speed, accuracy, and power in using impact weapons. The value extends beyond the artistic realm. I embrace all facets of this art, from combat skills to the meditative aspects, recognizing their significance in a comprehensive martial journey. To learn more about these techniques, connect with Graciela on Facebook here or on Instagram here! An undefeated boxer and kickboxer, Graciela Casillas is the first athlete male or female to hold 2 world championships in martial arts and boxing at the same time. Long-time advocate of self defense training for women, Graciela has expertise beyond the ring as a certified NRA weapons instructor, Kali FMA master, and one of the first and few women to graduate the ESI Executive Protection Program. Today she is one of the most sought-after martial arts and tactical trainers in the world teaching self-defense programs with stick, blade, gun and empty hand to civilian law enforcement and even military personnel around the world. She is also an adjunct professor at Oxnard College with two masters degrees.

Sifu Harinder Singh is a speaker, author and high-performance coach. He specializes in training the trainers and has worked with black belt school owners, military, special forces, Secret Service, and SWAT teams across the globe. His leadership programs have been taught to instructors of over 150 law enforcement agencies, business executives, and professional athletes. He is a Master Instructor of Jeet Kune Do, Tai Chi, Filipino Martial Arts, Wing Chun, and holds a Black Belt in BJJ. He is the founder of “Master Your Center” and the CEO of the Jeet Kune Do Athletic Association. Learn more about SifuSingh at www.sifusingh.com Sifu Singh is also the host of The Black Belt Podcast  currently in its third season. Back Belt Publisher, George Chung, sat down with Sifu Singh to talk about martial art styles, training technique, philosophy, and hypothetical show-downs!

In the high-octane world of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where every fighter dreams of leaving their mark, Yan Xiaonan is stepping up for what could very well be the defining moment of her career. As UFC 300 looms on the horizon, this fierce competitor is not just preparing for another fight; she's gearing up for the battle that could etch her name in the annals of MMA history. Let's dive into the whirlwind of excitement, determination, and sheer grit that Yan brings to the octagon as she eyes the coveted title. Yan Xiaonan's path to UFC 300 has been a journey of grit and grace. From her early days in the sport, she has shown an unparalleled dedication to mastering the art of MMA. Her striking is crisp, her movements fluid, and her strategy in the octagon, a blend of intelligence and instinct. But what truly sets Yan apart is her relentless work ethic and the heart she pours into every fight. As the countdown to UFC 300 begins, Yan's preparation has kicked into overdrive. Her training camp is a rigorous blend of technical refinement, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude. Yan and her team are leaving no stone unturned, analyzing every possible angle to ensure she steps into the octagon in the best shape of her life, both physically and mentally. It is all of blood, sweat and strategy. In her own words, "Every fight is a lesson, and every lesson brings me closer to my dream." It's this humble yet fearless approach that has endeared Yan to fans worldwide. Her focus? Sharpening her striking to razor-edge precision, enhancing her grappling to counter any challenge, and building an ironclad game plan that anticipates her opponent's every move. What makes Yan Xiaonan a formidable force at UFC 300 isn't just her skill set or her physical prowess; it's her heart. In the face of adversity, she's shown time and again that she's a fighter who thrives under pressure, turning challenges into stepping stones. Her resilience, coupled with a burning desire to claim the UFC title, makes her not just a fighter to watch but one to root for. As Yan Xiaonan inches closer to the title fight at UFC 300, the anticipation among MMA fans is palpable. Winning the title would not only be a personal triumph for Yan but a historic moment that celebrates her journey from a hopeful contender to a champion in the making. UFC 300 promises to be an event that will have fans on the edge of their seats, and at the heart of it all is Yan Xiaonan, ready to turn her dreams into reality. As she prepares for the fight of her life, one thing is clear: Yan is not just fighting for the title; she's fighting for her legacy. Will Yan's dreams come true? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – she's ready to give it her all, because Yan Xiaonan is coming for gold, and she's not taking no for an answer.

Howard Jackson's April 1974 Cover Howard Jackson, the "California Flash,'' is a former kickboxing, Muay Thai, and point karate world champion. In 1973 he won every major tournament on the karate circuit, making him the sport's biggest money-winner on record at that time, as well as being the first African-American fighter to be ranked number one in the United States. He frequently trained with such individuals as Chuck Norris, Bob Wall, Pat Johnson, and Joe Lewis. Jackson would become one of Chuck Norris closest friends and training partners as well as featured in several movies including Delta Force. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format. https://www.blackbeltmag.com

Events are planned for the following dates and locations: April 20 in Slovenia, May 25 in the Netherlands, September 28 in Croatia, October 12 in Germany, and October 19 in Slovenia once again. Additionally, an event is set to take place in France in November 2024, though the exact date is yet to be announced. BRAVE Combat Federation president Mohammed Shahid hinted recently at major plans for Europe and the most global organization in the world can now confirm at least six events taking place in the continent throughout this year. The BRAVE CF 2024 Europe Tour will feature shows in five different countries, from April 20, in Slovenia, to a date to be announced in November, when the organization returns to France.  BRAVE CF will be hosted for the first time in Croatia and in the Netherlands, pushing its world record to 32 host countries, a feat no other promotion has been able to achieve. BRAVE CF Netherlands takes place on May 25, while Croatia welcomes the fastest-growing MMA organization on September 28.  The company will host two shows in Slovenia, in partnership with WFC: BRAVE CF 81 kicks off the calendar year on April 20, and BRAVE CF returns to the Hala Tivoli, in Ljubljana, on October 19.  Finally, BRAVE Combat Federation can confirm its return to two huge MMA markets in Europe. BRAVE CF will host its third show in Germany on October 12, while France will witness its second BRAVE CF event on a date still to be announced in November. BRAVE CF will look to increase its reach as the only promotion to have hosted events in 13 European countries in the last five years, with that number set to increase to 15 with the additions of Croatia and the Netherlands. Additionally, BRAVE CF has put on 22 shows on the continent thus far, with the number expected to increase to at least 28 by the end of the year.  In the coming days, BRAVE Combat Federation will announce more events in different (and new) locations, as the organization gears up for a history-making year in 2024, with a New Era of mixed martial arts on the horizon around the globe.

Inflammation can be a double-edged sword in the realm of health. On one hand, it's your body's natural response to fighting off harm. On the other, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can lead to a myriad of health issues. The good news? Your diet plays a crucial role in managing inflammation. Following up on our previous discussion on foods to avoid, this article shifts focus to what you should incorporate into your diet to soothe and prevent inflammation. The Underlying Cause: Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress Before diving into the anti-inflammatory diet, it's essential to understand the root cause of inflammation. Imagine your body as a car, and inflammation as rust that slowly deteriorates it. This "rust" is the result of oxidative stress, caused by free radicals attacking healthy cells. Just like a car needs rust protection, your body needs antioxidants to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage. Why Antioxidants Matter Antioxidants are your first line of defense against the harmful effects of oxidative stress. They safeguard your cells by neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing inflammation. This makes a diet rich in antioxidants not just beneficial, but necessary for maintaining optimal health. Top Anti-Inflammatory Foods 1. Green Leafy Vegetables From kale to spinach, green leafy vegetables are powerhouses of antioxidants, notably Vitamin E. This vitamin is a potent antioxidant that plays a significant role in reducing inflammation throughout the body. 2. Berries and Cherries For a sweeter option that's still packed with anti-inflammatory properties, berries and cherries are ideal. These fruits are rich in catechins and anthocyanins, antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce inflammation, especially noted in tart cherries. 3. Healthy Fats The balance of fatty acids in your diet can influence inflammation. Foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados, almonds, olive oil, and salmon, not only offer antioxidants but also help maintain this crucial balance. They contribute to reducing inflammation through their content of monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. Essential Nutrients to Include 1. Curcumin Found in turmeric, cur-cumin is a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. For those looking to maximize its benefits, consider incorporating a curcumin supplement, as the concentration in turmeric alone may be insufficient. 2. Vitamin C A well-known antioxidant, Vitamin C is vital in the fight against inflammation. While citrus fruits are a natural source, a Vitamin C supplement can be a sugar-free alternative to bolster your intake. 3. Water Often overlooked, water is fundamental to your overall health and in combating inflammation. Proper hydration ensures the efficient removal of toxins, contributing to reduced inflammation. So, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Managing inflammation through diet isn't just about eliminating harmful foods; it's equally about enriching your diet with foods and nutrients that fight inflammation. By incorporating these anti-inflammatory foods and nutrients, you're not only protecting your body from oxidative stress but also promoting long-term health and well-being. Remember, the key to combating inflammation lies in a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.

Friday, March 8, marks International Women’s Day, and ONE Championship will bring a pair of women’s title fights to the marquee for ONE Fight Night 20 on Prime Video . At the top of the card will be a unification bout for the undisputed ONE Atomweight Kickboxing World Championship. Reigning queen Janet Todd will step foot into the ring one last time to defend her crown against interim champion “The Queen” Phetjeeja Lukjaoporongtom, as first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Justin Barrasso . The 38-year-old has a long list of accomplishments, and she will call it a career in the spotlight against one of the fastest-rising stars in martial arts. Phetjeeja stormed through her competition since setting foot in ONE with four consecutive TKO victories in Muay Thai action. Then, the Thai star moved over to kickboxing for an interim title collision with pound-for-pound great Anissa Meksen. The 22-year-old bested the French-Algerian and set herself up to become the undisputed queen in the next step of building a legacy. In the co-main event, ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Champion Allycia Hellen Rodrigues returns for her next title defense against Cristina Morales. Morales earned the shot with an impressive first-round TKO win over Anna “Supergirl” Jaroonsak last November. However, defeating Rodrigues will be an even tougher challenge. The title defense will mark Rodrigues’ return to the atomweight division after an all-out war with ONE Strawweight Muay Thai World Champion Smilla Sundell. Back at atomweight, Rodrigues is hopeful to reassert her dominance over the division and showcase her blistering speed against the Spanish striker. ONE Fight Night 20  airs live on Prime Video on Friday, March 8. The action begins at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST. The event is free for all Amazon Prime subscribers based in the U.S. and Canada.

On Friday, February 16, Felipe Lobo will try to break the heart of Jonathan Haggerty at ONE Fight Night 19 .   The two have had a rivalry brewing since Lobo called out the Brit last year, and the "Demolition Man" is excited for his opportunity to become the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion. "[Haggerty has] been calling me since my last fight with Saemapetch. When my fight with Saemapetch ended, back at the hotel, he walked past me and said, 'I liked watching you fight. You're next,'" Lobo told ONE Championship .   The chirping between the two bantamweight stars did not end on that night. It continued all through Haggerty's bid to become a two-division king against Fabricio Andrade. Constant chatter between the two sides helped lay the groundwork for their upcoming battles inside the ring.   "On the day of the fight with Fabricio, it was the same thing. [Haggerty] walked past me and said, 'You're next,'" Lobo recalled.   "I said, 'Let's see what happens next time. I'm waiting for you.' His coaches came and said a lot of things, but I couldn't understand because everyone was talking at the same time. He likes to talk a lot. He is talkative."   Lobo admitted that the trash talk has given him increased motivation ahead of the February 26 collision.   The Brazilian is out to prove himself to Haggerty but also announce himself to the world by upending one of the biggest stars in martial arts. However, Lobo understands it is a steep challenge as "The General" is in peak form.   "He knows how to use his boxing very well. He moves forward all the time and kicks very well. Furthermore, he has good feints that I need to pay attention to so as not to be surprised. But I believe his strong point is his speed. He moves very well," the challenger examined.   "And his weak point is that he can't take many hits. He's very good at hitting, but when it comes to defending himself, protecting himself, he's not so good." Win or lose, Lobo is coming to bring the fight to the Brit.   After dazzling the Muay Thai world with shocking knockouts, the "Demolition Man" is ready to add another to his list and become the undisputed ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion in the process.   "Like I said, I think there will be a lot of striking in this fight. I'm preparing myself for everything, walking backward, moving forwards, to suppress, but I keep in mind that I can't let him get comfortable in the fight," Lobo said.   "But my prediction is to win this fight by knockout. I'm going to knock him out – that's my prediction."   ONE Fight Night 19 airs live on Prime Video on Friday, February 16. The action begins at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST and is free for all Amazon Prime subscribers based in the U.S. and Canada.