Nicholas Hwende’s meteoric rise from the heart of Zimbabwe to global MMA stardom is a story that reads like a Hollywood blockbuster—grit, redemption, and ultimate triumph. Today, as the reigning BRAVE CF Bantamweight Champion , Hwende isn’t just wearing gold—he’s rewriting the narrative for African fighters in the world of mixed martial arts. Born in Zimbabwe and now training out of Johannesburg, South Africa, ‘The Saint’  has stormed through the competition with a lethal mix of precision, power, and a warrior’s heart. Despite having just 10 professional fights, he has already left a trail of defeated opponents, proving that his dominance is no fluke. With three devastating finishes and five hard-fought decision wins , Hwende has cemented himself as one of the most dangerous fighters on BRAVE CF’s roster in 2025. From Knockdowns to Comebacks: Hwende’s Defining Moment Hwende was a force to be reckoned with in Africa’s Extreme Fighting Championship , where he captured the bantamweight title and obliterated challengers with ease. But when he made his highly anticipated BRAVE CF debut at BRAVE CF 71  in June 2023, reality struck hard. Against Russian powerhouse Velimurad Alkhasov , Hwende suffered the first loss of his career  via unanimous decision—a humbling moment that could have shattered lesser fighters. But Hwende isn’t like most fighters. Instead of backing down, he doubled down. Six months later, he roared back into the cage, dismantling Mutolibsho Akobirov  with a clinical unanimous decision victory. That win sparked an unstoppable momentum, culminating in a dominant showcase against Hurshed Nazarov  at BRAVE CF 82  in May 2024. The reward? A title shot that would change everything. Crowning Africa’s Next Champion December 13, 2024, BRAVE CF 91 —the moment Nicholas Hwende’s name would be etched in history. Facing his toughest opponent yet, fellow African warrior Nkosi Ndebele , Hwende stepped up when it mattered most. In a thrilling display of striking mastery, wrestling control, and sheer heart, he outclassed Ndebele over five grueling rounds to win by unanimous decision . With that victory, Hwende became just the second African fighter in history  to wear BRAVE CF gold, igniting a firestorm of excitement across the continent. In a sport where Africa is rapidly becoming a powerhouse , Hwende now finds himself as a flagbearer for the next generation of MMA talent. What’s Next for ‘The Saint’? As 2025 kicks off, the question isn’t if  Nicholas Hwende can keep his belt—it’s who dares to take it from him . Will Ndebele demand an immediate rematch to reclaim his lost crown? Or will a new contender rise from the shadows to challenge Africa’s bantamweight king? One thing is certain: Hwende is just getting started. With his relentless work ethic, unbreakable mindset, and ever-evolving fight game, ‘The Saint’ is on a mission to not only dominate the BRAVE CF bantamweight division but to elevate African MMA to new heights . This isn’t just about a title defense—it’s about a legacy . And if history has taught us anything, it’s this: Never bet against Nicholas Hwende.

Andre Muniz has been withdrawn from his middleweight fight against Ikram Aliskerov due to travel issues, leading to the cancellation of this bout from this weekend's event in UFC Saudi Arabia Similarly, Bolaji Oki has been pulled from his lightweight fight with Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady because of an injury, resulting in the cancellation of this bout from this weekend's event. UFC Saudi Arabia airs at a special time: Prelims start Saturday at 9am ET/6am PT, while the main card kicks off live at 12pm ET/9am PT.

The UFC middleweight division is on the brink of a seismic shift, and Nassourdine Imavov stands at the epicenter of it all. After a winless 2023, the Paris-based powerhouse turned his career around with a sensational 2024 campaign. Now, on February 1, he faces the ultimate test—former champion Israel Adesanya in a high-stakes five-round battle in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Can Imavov pull off the upset of the year and punch his ticket to a title shot? From the Ashes of 2023 to a Breakout 2024 MMA is a brutal sport where only the strong survive, and Imavov has proven he belongs among the elite. After a year of frustration in 2023—marked by a loss to Sean Strickland, an unfortunate no-contest against Chris Curtis, and visa issues that kept him sidelined—Imavov knew he had to evolve or risk fading into obscurity. A camp switch to Venum Training Camp  under Nicolas Ott proved to be a game-changer. His first step toward redemption came in February 2024, when he squared off against Roman Dolidze. Though the fight wasn’t without controversy—thanks to an illegal kick that cost him a point—Imavov ultimately got his hand raised, breaking a 15-month dry spell. That win ignited a run that saw him take down two of the division’s biggest names— Jared Cannonier  and Brendan Allen . The Cannonier fight, a Louisville headliner, was a proving ground. The former title challenger was expected to be next in line for gold, but Imavov dismantled him, earning a fourth-round TKO in a performance that many believe solidified him as a true title contender. Then came Allen, a fighter riding a scorching seven-fight win streak. Billed as a showdown between two rising stars, Imavov left no doubts about his superiority. His takedown defense and striking precision overwhelmed Allen, earning him a decisive victory. Three fights, three wins—Imavov was back, and the MMA world was taking notice. A Chance to Shock the World Against Israel Adesanya Now, with all the momentum on his side, Imavov faces the biggest challenge of his career—taking on Israel “The Last Stylebender” Adesanya, one of the most decorated middleweights in UFC history. Adesanya is coming off a stunning loss to Sean Strickland and has been absent from competition, but overlooking him would be a grave mistake. The former two-time champ remains one of the best pure strikers in the sport. However, Imavov believes the timing couldn’t be better. With Adesanya potentially showing signs of slowing down and the middleweight division undergoing a shake-up, this could be the changing of the guard . A victory over Adesanya in Riyadh would catapult Imavov straight into title contention, possibly setting up a showdown with the winner of Dricus Du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland  at UFC 298. The Biggest Fight of His Life—And a Career-Defining Moment Everything is on the line for Nassourdine Imavov. He has clawed his way back from the depths of disappointment to within striking distance of UFC gold. But the question remains— Can he do what Strickland did and break Adesanya’s puzzle? On February 1, the world will find out. 📅 UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov 📍 Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 📺 Live on ESPN+ – Prelims at 9 AM ET | Main Card at 12 PM ET

The Octagon is set to ignite in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as two of the most electrifying strikers in MMA collide in a co-main event that promises fireworks. Shara “Bullet” Magomedov vs Michael “Venom” Page are stepping up for what could be a career-defining fight—and fans better buckle up because this one has all the makings of an instant classic. Before former middleweight king Israel Adesanya and the surging Nassourdine Imavov throw down in the main event, the spotlight belongs to Magomedov and Page. This isn’t just a fight; it’s a clash of styles, power, and sheer octagon mastery. The stakes are high, and the consequences? Even higher. Shara Magomedov: The Knockout Machine Looking to Make a Statement Shara Magomedov has been tearing through the UFC’s middleweight division like a wrecking ball. Since making his debut in 2023, “Bullet” has put together a flawless 4-0 record, annihilating opponents like Bruno Silva, Antonio Trocoli, Michal Oleksiejczuk, and Armen Petrosyan. With a jaw-dropping 12 knockouts in his 15 professional wins, Magomedov is a human highlight reel. His most iconic moment? A double spinning backfist knockout  of Petrosyan that left the MMA world speechless. Ranked No. 14 in the division, Magomedov knows that another explosive finish could propel him into the top 10 and bring him within striking distance of a title shot. And let’s not forget—he already owns the Saudi crowd. The last time Magomedov fought in the Kingdom, he put on an absolute masterclass, finishing Trocoli in the third round. Now, he’s back, and he’s ready to steal the show. Michael “Venom” Page: The Unpredictable Showman Making His Middleweight Debut Michael “Venom” Page isn’t just a fighter; he’s an entertainer, a puzzle that opponents struggle to solve. Known for his flashy and unorthodox striking , Page is making his highly anticipated move up to middleweight after a stint at 170 pounds. Page’s UFC debut saw him outclass Kevin Holland in a dominant decision win, but a tough fight against Ian Machado Garry left him with his first UFC loss. Now, he’s hungry to make a statement—and what better way than by stopping one of the division’s most feared knockout artists? With 14 knockouts and three submissions among his 23 career wins, Page has shown he’s a finishing machine in his own right. But stepping up in weight against a powerhouse like Magomedov is a massive challenge. Can he handle the size and power difference? Or will his slick movement and pinpoint accuracy be enough to neutralize Magomedov’s relentless aggression? Striking Stats That Could Decide the Fight Both men are elite strikers, but the numbers tell an interesting story: Striking Accuracy:  Magomedov (65.4%) vs. Page (62%) Strikes Landed Per Minute:  Magomedov (6.82) vs. Page (2.07) While their accuracy is close, the volume difference is staggering. Magomedov throws almost three times  the number of significant strikes per minute compared to Page. If Page can’t find a way to slow Magomedov down, he could be in for a long night—or a very short one. High Stakes, Higher Consequences This fight isn’t just about bragging rights. With the UFC Middleweight Championship on the line next weekend at UFC 312 in Sydney, both men know that an emphatic victory could catapult them into title talks. Magomedov is eyeing his shot at gold, while Page is determined to prove he belongs among the elite at 185 pounds. Will Magomedov add another devastating knockout to his resume, or will Page’s unpredictable striking shock the world? One thing is certain—this fight is must-watch MMA . Don't blink. Don't miss it.  UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov goes down LIVE from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 1, 2025. 📅 Prelims Start:  9 AM ET / 6 AM PT🎥 Main Card on ESPN+:  12 PM ET / 9 AM PT Set your alarms, fight fans—this one is going to be electric!

Martial arts phenom Bruce Lee reached his peak in the late 1960s and early ’70s and then, as we all know, tragically passed away in 1973 at age 32. Yet 44 years later, his combat creation, that which we call jeet kune do , remains as popular as ever. That fact speaks volumes about Lee’s genius. In this tutorial, second-generation jeet kune do instructor Lamar M. Davis II — who’s trained under Ted Wong, Joe Lewis, Howard Williams, Patrick Strong, Jesse Glover, and other JKD luminaries — offers advice that’s guaranteed to help you fine-tune your understanding of Bruce Lee’s fighting method. — Editor 1: Power-Side Forward In jeet kune do, it’s essential to position your stronger side forward. In other words, the hand with which you hit the hardest should be in front, where it’s closest to the opponent and can be used most quickly. A secondary reason for this is the notion that if one of your hands needs more distance to travel so it can generate more force, it’s the one on your weak side. Need yet another reason to get that power hand out in front? Recall that jeet kune do means “way of the intercepting fist.” With your strong hand as your lead, you have a better chance of intercepting your opponent with knockout force. This is in contrast to what’s taught in many traditional martial arts. For years, practitioners of these systems were told to keep their strong side in the rear and weak side in the front. The justification was that the lead hand should function as the primary defensive tool while the rear, or stronger, hand was reserved for the “killing blow.” But if you think about it, this doesn’t make sense. Your weak hand is closer to the opponent, which means it can more easily strike, yet your power hand is farther away, which means he has more time to see it coming. More time to see it coming translates to more time to block, parry, or simply get out of the way. I like to think of this JKD principle in terms of firearms. Imagine having a .22-caliber handgun positioned where you can’t miss the target and a .44-caliber handgun positioned where it will take you more time to aim it and pull the trigger. It would be nonsensical to go into combat that way. It’s much more efficient to place the powerful weapon in the front so it immediately can eliminate the threat. 2: Longest Weapon, Nearest Target Another foundational principle of JKD is using the longest weapon to strike the nearest target. This enables you to intercept an adversary at the earliest opportunity. Of course, in most situations, your longest tool is your leg. The longest leg weapon is the leading side kick to the opponent’s shin or knee, so this is an obvious choice when it comes to kicks. The longest hand weapon is the leading finger jab, making it an obvious choice when you can’t kick. If you hit an attacker with a finger jab to the eyes or a side kick to the knee, you’re well on your way to ending the fight. 3: Non-Intention This JKD principle refers to the ability to strike without giving away your intention to do so. Unfortunately, it’s easier said than done. Patrick Strong, a close friend of mine and a Bruce Lee student from the Seattle period, has taught me much about non-intention. Strong says Lee used to describe the concept by likening it to a set of keys sitting on a table. If someone bumps the table and the keys fall off, do they just fall, or do they “think” about falling, pause for a moment, and then fall? Of course, keys can’t think, but it’s the principle that’s important here. Yes, the keys just fall. You should do the same when you strike. The moment you detect an opening, strike. Don’t think about striking before you do it. If you have to think, it’s likely that by the time you strike, the opportunity will have disappeared. If you need a visual reminder, watch the restored version of Enter the Dragon . Fast forward to the scene in which Lee is talking to the monk in the garden. “I do not hit,” Lee’s character says. “It hits all by itself.” For an illustration of why you should strive to not give away your intention, consider these wise words on how you can exploit an opponent who isn’t quite so careful: "Once you’ve made physical contact with your opponent, you can feel his intention. You learn to flow or 'fit in' with his force or movement by developing second-nature reflexes. Ultimately, you expand that heightened awareness to include any thought or emotion your opponent has." — Jerry Poteet, Black Belt Magazine 4: Immovable Elbow This principle comes from wing chun kung fu, one of the arts that contributed to JKD. It holds that your lead elbow should be at least a fist’s width (4-6 inches) in front of your lead-side ribs at all times. Never allow your elbow to rest against your body or out to the side of it. Here’s why. When your elbow is against your body, it’s in what’s called a pre-pinned position. That makes it easier for an adversary to trap your lead arm. If your elbow is held out to the side and away from your centerline, your ribs on that side of your body are exposed. Clearly, that makes it much more difficult to protect your core. A fringe benefit is that properly positioning your elbow in front of your body makes it easier to deliver a non-telegraphic strike with your lead hand. While wing chun was being created, the first technique developed was the vertical punch. It’s more powerful because the elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, and stance are behind it all the way. When the elbow is at the centerline of the body, the distance the punch must travel is only one-third the distance the horizontal punch travels. Furthermore, the vertical punch doesn’t require any preparation. The wing chun vertical punch is just like jeet kune do — simple, effective, and dynamic. — William Cheung, Black Belt Magazine 5: Hammer Principle The last of the five JKD principles you need to know makes maximum use of the immovable elbow. Called the hammer principle, it greatly increases your non-telegraphic striking capability. The principle is actually simple in concept but not so simple in application because most students still telegraph when they’re trying to use it even though the idea entails eliminating all signs that a strike is on the way. The most common techniques that are taught in conjunction with the hammer principle are the leading finger jab and the leading straight punch. Both are effective strikes that can be made even more effective by adding this principle. The best way to explain the hammer principle is to start from the beginning. Have you ever noticed that when you use a hammer to drive in a nail, most of your arm movement is from the elbow out? This is what keeps the hammer blows accurate. If you don’t believe it, try pounding a nail into a board using your whole arm. You’ll experience an immediate decrease in accuracy — hopefully, a decrease that won’t involve a smashed thumb. This motion, which stems from the elbow functioning as a hinge, is the origin of the hammer principle. When using it to propel your punch, remember that your arm movement remains basically the same as when you’re pounding: from the elbow out. If you’re an experienced striker, you probably keep your lead arm moving when you’re in your fighting stance. Usually, it’s small circling, rising/falling, or weaving motions. You likely realize that these movements go a long way toward concealing the initiation of your punch. After all, if your arm is already in motion, there’s no “startup” for your opponent to see. Enter the hammer principle. When you’re making those small motions, keep your lead elbow in basically the same spot. In other words, move mostly your forearm, wrist, and hand. Think of the immovable-elbow principle outlined above. Your lead elbow should stay 4 to 6 inches in front of your lead-side ribs. This is where the hammering movement comes from. To execute the strike, drop your lead limb until your forearm points at your opponent’s nose and then let your fist fly. Done properly, this motion will conceal your intention to strike. This crux is referred to as “dropping the hammer.” I once witnessed Bob Bremer, one of the original Chinatown JKD students, repeatedly land strikes against a much younger opponent using the hammer principle — and that was after Bremer had suffered a heart attack. Even more amazing, it occurred even though the opponent knew exactly what Bremer was going to do. Nevertheless, again and again Bremer got in and touched the man’s forehead with a bil jee before he could do anything about it. When teaching the hammer principle, I like to use an analogy: Imagine you’re standing on the sidelines and watching an archery match. When the archer releases the arrow, you can follow it all the way to the target. Now imagine that same scenario except that now you’re the target. Horribly, the arrow would hit your face before you even realized it had been released. Direct linear motion is the key. At times, I refer to this jeet kune do principle as “aiming the gun” to help students better understand it. Think of your forearm as the barrel of the gun and your fist (or finger jab) as the bullet. Wherever you aim, the bullet goes. If the gun’s already aimed, it’s ready to fire. That’s why I teach my students to “track” their opponent’s nose with their lead hand. It greatly simplifies interception. "Your lead hand should be like greased lightning and must never be held rigidly or motionless. Keep it slightly moving (without exaggeration) in a threatening manner, as it not only keeps your opponent on edge but also can be delivered faster than motion from immobility." — Bruce Lee, Tao of Jeet Kune Do Training Time Although a few of the five principles presented in this article are unique to jeet kune do, all can be adapted to any martial art to improve the effectiveness of the practitioner. This makes it easy to understand why Bruce Lee was such a phenomenal martial artist. The bit of advice I’ll leave you with comes from the mouth of the master. “Learn the principle, abide by the principle, then dissolve the principle,”  Lee said. At that point, the principle has become part of you. Photography by Robert Reiff Lamar M. Davis II teaches Jun Fan gung fu and jeet kune do. He’s a head instructor at Hardcore Jeet Kune Do Academy in Leeds, Alabama. For more information, visit HardcoreJKD.com .

The UFC is set to make history once again, bringing its electrifying brand of MMA action to Saudi Arabia with UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the prestigious ANB Arena in Riyadh. Fans are in for a night of adrenaline-pumping bouts featuring some of the biggest names in the sport. Here is a detailed breakdown of the event's thrilling fight card: Main Event: Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov Middleweight Bout In the headliner, former Middleweight Champion Israel "The Last Stylebender" Adesanya takes on France’s rising star Nassourdine Imavov. Adesanya is renowned for his precision striking and show-stopping knockouts, while Imavov, riding high on a three-fight win streak, looks to solidify his place among the division’s elite. This fight promises a clash of styles—Adesanya's kickboxing mastery against Imavov’s well-rounded skillset. Co-Main Event: Shara Magomedov vs. Michael Page Welterweight Bout In a co-main event destined for highlight reels, the undefeated Dagestani phenom Shara "Bullet" Magomedov faces Michael "Venom" Page, the British superstar known for his flashy striking. With Magomedov’s relentless aggression meeting Page’s unorthodox and pinpoint striking, fans should expect fireworks from the opening bell. Main Card Sergei Pavlovich vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik - Heavyweight Bout Two of the heaviest hitters in the UFC collide as Sergei Pavlovich squares off against Jairzinho “Bigi Boy” Rozenstruik. With Pavlovich’s devastating first-round knockouts and Rozenstruik’s kickboxing pedigree, this fight is almost guaranteed to end in a spectacular finish. Said Nurmagomedov vs. Vinicius Oliveira - Bantamweight Bout Said Nurmagomedov, a striking specialist with a flair for spinning attacks, takes on Brazil’s Vinicius Oliveira, a submission ace hungry to climb the division’s ranks. Will Nurmagomedov’s dynamic stand-up prevail, or will Oliveira drag him into deep waters on the mat? Fares Ziam vs. Mike Davis- Lightweight Bout France’s Fares Ziam meets the ever-dangerous Mike Davis in a clash of lightweight strikers. Ziam’s tactical approach will be put to the test against Davis’ relentless pressure and knockout power. Muhammad Naimov vs. Kaan Ofli - Featherweight Bout In this high-stakes featherweight showdown, Muhammad Naimov, known for his gritty fighting style, faces Kaan Ofli, a Turkish newcomer making his UFC debut. Both fighters are eager to make a statement on the big stage. Preliminary Card Shamil Gaziev vs. Thomas Petersen - Heavyweight Bout Shamil Gaziev, an explosive heavyweight prospect, faces off against Thomas Petersen, who brings a wrestling-heavy style. This battle could end quickly with a knockout or grind on the mat over three rounds. Terrance McKinney vs. Damir Hadžović - Lightweight Bout Terrance McKinney, a fast-finisher with incredible submissions and striking, takes on Damir Hadžović in a clash of experienced lightweights. This fight promises to be a barnburner. Jasmine Jasudavicius vs. Mayra Bueno Silva - Women’s Flyweight Bout Canada’s Jasmine Jasudavicius looks to continue her rise in the flyweight division as she takes on Mayra Bueno Silva, a Brazilian finisher with a knack for submissions. This is a pivotal fight for both athletes in a stacked division. Bogdan Grad vs. Lucas Alexander - Featherweight Bout Bogdan Grad brings his striking prowess to the Octagon against Lucas Alexander, a dynamic Brazilian fighter. Both competitors are looking to break into the featherweight rankings with an impressive performance. Hamdy Abdelwahab vs. Jamal Pogues - Heavyweight Bout Egyptian powerhouse Hamdy Abdelwahab faces off against Jamal Pogues in a heavyweight clash. Expect a back-and-forth brawl between these two determined competitors. What to Expect UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Imavov marks a monumental moment for the UFC’s expansion in the Middle East. With a stacked card featuring elite fighters and rising stars, this event is set to captivate MMA fans worldwide. From high-stakes title eliminators to thrilling heavyweight slugfests, the night promises non-stop action. Mark your calendars and don’t miss this historic night of fights in Riyadh on February 1, 2025. The UFC continues to deliver unforgettable events, and this one will be no exception.

When opportunity knocks, champions answer. Nabil Anane seized the moment of a lifetime at ONE 170, stepping in for the sidelined Superlek Kiatmoo9 and delivering a jaw-dropping performance to claim the ONE Interim Bantamweight Muay Thai World Championship. What unfolded in front of a sold-out crowd was nothing short of electrifying. Standing tall at 6’4”, the Muay Thai phenom used his remarkable reach to keep Nico Carrillo—known as the “King of the North”—on the outside. With precision and power, Anane dropped Carrillo with a series of crisp punches. Carrillo, clearly rattled, couldn’t recover. Two more knockdowns later, the 20-year-old sensation achieved his dream of global gold. “I haven’t felt this excited since I was a very young boy. For this fight, I felt like I became that young boy again,”  Anane confessed after the event. “I knew I had to give a hundred percent. I didn’t expect a knockout, but when the opportunity came, I went for it.” Anane’s humility shone as brightly as his victory. Rather than bask in self-glory, the new interim champion took a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to the pillars in his life: his parents. “Thanks to my dad, who inspired me and pushed me every day in the gym, and my mom, who always cooks me food,”  he said with a smile. “I couldn’t have done this without them.” Determined not to let fame derail his focus, Anane vowed to stay grounded. “There are many people behind me—my coaches, my parents—who teach me how to stay humble and disciplined. I will continue working hard and stay in my lane, no matter the money or fame.” Anane’s victory not only secured him the interim title but also locked in a highly anticipated rematch against Superlek at ONE 172 on March 23 inside Japan’s iconic Saitama Super Arena. For Anane, this is more than just another fight—it’s redemption. Reflecting on his 2023 debut loss to Superlek, Anane said, “First of all, I want to thank Superlek for giving me the opportunity to know what a world-class athlete is like. Since that loss, I’ve been improving myself and training very hard. I’m ready to face him.” With only a few days to savor his monumental win, Anane is already preparing for the challenge ahead. “I’ll rest for a few days, but then it’s back to the gym. I’ll be better than ever and ready for Superlek,”  he promised. As fans eagerly await the showdown in March, one thing is certain: Nabil Anane is not just a rising star. He’s a force to be reckoned with, a humble warrior who’s just getting started. Missed the action? You can catch the entire ONE 170 event on demand via ONE’s official YouTube channel—and witness the birth of a new champion for yourself.

In a sport defined by epic tournaments, GLORY Kickboxing is about to blow the roof off combat sports history with its boldest endeavor yet: ‘Last Heavyweight Standing.’  This year-long, five-event extravaganza will bring together 32 of the planet's most fearsome heavyweights in a relentless battle for glory, culminating in the biggest heavyweight tournament ever seen. The action kicks off April 5 at GLORY 99: Last Heavyweight Standing  in Rotterdam Ahoy, Netherlands. The stage is set for a jaw-dropping night of 16 bouts, as fighters from around the globe clash to stake their claim in this once-in-a-lifetime event. But this is just the beginning—across 2025, competitors will face grueling qualifying tournaments and career-defining matchups until only eight warriors remain. These elite finalists will converge in an epic one-night showdown  at the end of the year to crown the ultimate heavyweight king. “ This is a tournament like no other, ” said GLORY CEO Marshal Zelaznik. “Where else can you watch 32 of the baddest heavyweights on the planet put everything on the line? The ‘Last Heavyweight Standing’ will be a true test of heart and spirit, and it’s going to bring unmatched excitement to fight fans around the world.” The hype reached a fever pitch earlier today as the first nine fighters were unveiled at a press conference in Amsterdam, and they’re nothing short of spectacular: Jamal Ben Saddik (36-9, 29 KO):  The towering ‘Goliath’ is back after three years, with career wins over Rico Verhoeven and Remy Bonjasky. Bahram Rajabzadeh (70-4, 61 KO):  A wild, unpredictable fan favorite who dazzled in 2024’s Grand Prix events. Uku Jurjendal (20-9, 16 KO):  The Estonian KO artist who recently took down the legendary Badr Hari. Rade Opacic (21-6, 16 KO):  A Serbian powerhouse making his much-anticipated GLORY debut. Ahmed Krnjic (13-4, 4 KO):  Riding high on a nine-fight win streak, the ‘Bosnian Steel’ is ready to shine. Sofian Laidouni (37-4-1, 18 KO):  France’s flashiest heavyweight brings his signature flair to the tournament. Murat ‘The Butcher’ Aygun (32-4, 8 KO):  A Turkish slugger determined to make his mark. Tariq Osaro (26-4-1, 13 KO):  Former interim-GLORY champ and one of the sport’s most devastating hitters. Ionut Iancu (30-10, 12 KO):  Known as ‘The Romanian Tank,’ he’s made waves with his granite chin and iron fists. And this is just the beginning. More elite fighters will be announced in the coming days,  ensuring that the competition remains fierce and unpredictable. GLORY’s ‘Last Heavyweight Standing’ promises to be the most explosive event in kickboxing history—a true test of skill, power, and determination. Don’t miss your chance to witness history. ‘GLORY 99: Last Heavyweight Standing’  goes down on April 5 in Rotterdam. Pre-sale tickets launch Monday, February 3—secure yours at GLORYKickboxing.com . This isn’t just a tournament; it’s a revolution. Be there to experience it live!

I started taking formal martial art lessons in 1971 at age 11. By the time I tested for my first degree black belt in 1979, I was already starting to feel the effects of hip joint degeneration — I just didn't know it. My symptoms manifested as occasional but often debilitating lower back spasms and a very slight reduced range of motion in my hips. When the hips are inflamed or under some kind of degenerative distress, it can cause the muscles in and around them to tighten, which often results in the symptoms I experienced. Because I didn’t know it at the time, I weathered the discomfort for 20 years until, at age 39, I couldn’t tie my own shoes or comfortably walk a mile on flat ground. The fact is that the factors that precipitated my hip problems could have included the following: A predisposition caused by genetics Repetitive high-impact exercises (kicking bags that exceeded my bodyweight, kicking immobile objects, jumping and landing on concrete and hardwood floors) Overtraining without adequate rest and recovery A poor diet that was high in sugar and low in water intake Repeated impact trauma to the hip joints while a preteen and teen, which is when significant bone development takes place When the aforementioned tightness started, I thought it was normal. But in hindsight, I believe I already damaged my hips during my pre-adolescent bone-growth period. I was strong enough and young enough in my 20s to work around the problem, but in my 30s, I started to suffer mild to intense lower-back pain. The spasms would sometimes put me off training for two weeks or longer, and they got progressively worse until I was forced to seek epidural steroid injections in my spine to relieve the pain. At 40, I was on the operating table. The pain and immobility left me no option. Much soul-searching and research followed in an effort to find answers to two questions: How can martial artists vigorously train without causing undue wear and tear on their hips? How can we perform the repetitions needed to attain mastery without wearing out our bodies? I turned to medical professionals, as well as prominent martial artists. SOUND ADVICE: MINDFUL PRACTICE After my first hip replacement at age 40, I asked my doctor, Norman Young, “How do I keep this from happening to my students?” His answer gave me information I should have known decades earlier but didn’t. It might be the very thing you need to hear if you want to save yourself and those you teach from suffering the crippling pain of sports-related hip degeneration. Young said he’d just finished participating in an extensive study of professional golfers suffering joint pain, including pain in the hips and pain from hip-replacement surgery. He said the study determined that the best way to avoid injury was to focus on the quality of practice rather than the quantity of it. In other words, instead of hitting 1,000 balls in a single practice — which was common among the professional golfers in the study — they were advised to hit just 100 balls in a session with complete and absolute focus. The study determined that, done mindfully, less practice could yield the same results without causing unnecessary wear on the joints. That said, not everyone who trains hard with high repetitions of vigorous exercise will require surgery. DON WILSON’S HIP STORY: RECOVERY WITHOUT REPLACEMENT Don “The Dragon” Wilson is 62 years old but looks and moves like a much younger man. In college, he wrestled and played football and basketball. In 1980, he had his first professional kickboxing bout, and in the ensuing 28 years, he garnered 11 world titles. In 1998, he came out of retirement to fight again, but this time, he was nagged by a problem. “The way the pain felt was like a screwdriver digging into my hip,” Wilson said. “It hurt every time I took a step. I had to, literally, walk out of the gym. I couldn’t train through it.” But instead of going under the knife, Wilson turned to nutrition — and it worked. “I didn’t improve in a few days, but a few months in, I started to feel better,” he said. The Dragon also began eating better, which he believes is essential to healing and rebuilding the body. “I eat fruits and vegetables but mainly leafy green vegetables,” he said. “I don’t want people to think this is a scientific thing: this is what happened to me. Maybe it’s a fluke. Maybe I’m the only one who can change his diet and repair his body.” CYNTHIA ROTHROCK’S HIP STORY: SHE’S GOOD! Some martial artists will not, despite the extreme workouts they take part in, suffer hip degeneration or hip pain. The medical profession doesn’t know exactly why two people who undergo the same training won’t necessarily suffer the same injuries, which is why many attribute it to genetics. While conducting research for this article, I spoke with numerous martial artists who, for one reason or another, had to turn to hip-replacement surgery to deal with their pain. I also spoke with lifelong practitioners who work out just as hard and long as anyone else but have never known hip pain — people like Cynthia Rothrock. I first met Rothrock in the early 1980s, when we were part of the Ernie Reyes West Coast Demo Team. Back then, she was the No. 1 female forms competitor in America, and from there, she built a successful career in the Hong Kong film industry. “Despite all the training I’ve done and the intense stunt work and fight scenes I did in films, I’ve not had any issues with my hips,” Rothrock said. “I don’t know what to attribute that to except maybe genetics.” Cynthia Rothrock, as capable as ever! PLAN OF ACTION FOR HIP HEALTH Despite Rothrock's good fortune, the wise course of action is to take precautions. From my own experience with three hip surgeries, the recovery from those procedures, and the exchanges I've had with others who were forced to deal with hip pain — as well as many doctors — I've collected five pieces of advice for all martial artists interested in protecting their hips: Know that rest and recovery are as important as intense training.  Training to exhaustion may be the code of some athletes, but it shouldn't be more important than complete recovery afterward. Know that your diet is connected to your health.  The body needs the right nutrients to rebuild itself after a workout. It needs enough water to flush out toxins in addition to rehydrating tissues. Know how various joints work, what they're made of, and what their limitations are.  When it comes to staying hip health (or health in general), ignorance isn't bliss; it's a pathway to injury. Know that more isn't always better.  Better is better. Don't make the mistake of regarding thousands of reps as better than hundreds of reps done with focus. It's the quality of practice that matters. Know that there can be a high cost associated with high impact, as well as high repetitions. Testimonial: I haven't enjoyed the hip breakdown and pain I've suffered over the years, but that doesn't mean I'd radically change the training I did. When you're young and full of vitality, you almost have to grab life by the collar and live, move, stretch, jump, and kick the hell out of everything within reach. While I'd like to teach my students to live today with an acute awareness of what it could mean for tomorrow, part of being young is thumbing your nose at the future and living to the best of your abilities here and now. No one can tell you if you'll be one of those people who suffer the consequences of overtraining or impact-related injuries. However, I can assure you that living with gusto is better than playing it so safe you never push yourself, never feel the pleasure of being an elite martial athlete. At 57, I still love the martial arts — despite my injuries. I'm still able to get on the mat and go hard, just not as hard as I did when I was a 20-, 30-, or 40-something. While there are exceptions to the rule, all warriors in some way will bear the scars of their battles. Just be aware of the difference between reckless and safe training, then practice with your body's preservation in mind. Meanwhile, make sure you enjoy the years when you can move like a leopard and kick like a mule. For me, it would be more painful to not have tried to be the strongest, fastest, and toughest martial artist I could be. I suspect you are the same.

Tawanchai PK Saenchai left no room for debate: he is the undisputed best featherweight Muay Thai artist on the planet. In a thrilling ONE 170 main event, Tawanchai defended his ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Title with a spectacular second-round TKO over Superbon. The sold-out Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, witnessed a masterclass as Tawanchai floored Superbon with a devastating boxing combination. Despite Superbon’s valiant effort to rise—not once but twice—he couldn’t find his footing against Tawanchai’s relentless precision and power. After a challenging 2024, Tawanchai emerged triumphant, silencing critics and reigniting his passion for the sport. Reflecting on his journey, he candidly shared: “The last time, I remember finishing a fight and feeling crushed by online criticism. I didn’t talk to anyone for weeks. But then I realized these are just words. I needed to train harder and prove to myself that I’m better.” Calculated Brilliance in the Ring Tawanchai’s Fight IQ shone brightly against Superbon. Using the first round as a tactical reconnaissance mission, he dissected his opponent’s strategy before unleashing his adapted game plan in the second. “Superbon prepared very well for this fight,” Tawanchai explained. “In the first round, I analyzed his approach. He relied heavily on counterattacks, so in the second round, I adapted and countered with everything I had. I believe he trained and planned exceptionally well, but my adjustments made the difference.” Eyes on History: Two-Sport Glory Tawanchai’s victory was more than a title defense—it was a statement. Now, his sights are set on an even loftier goal: becoming a two-sport World Champion. To achieve this, he may need to face Superbon once again, but Tawanchai is undeterred. “My next dream is to win the kickboxing belt and become a two-sport World Champion,” Tawanchai declared. “Many doubt me now, but I will prove them wrong. That belt will be mine.” ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong is optimistic but cautious, emphasizing the importance of Tawanchai maintaining his hunger and discipline. “Tawanchai is reminiscent of Samart Payakaroon, a Muay Thai legend,” Chatri noted. “But Tawanchai has something more: knockout power. If he stays sharp and disciplined, I believe he can claim the kickboxing belt. But fame and fortune can be dangerous distractions.” A Star Ascends Tawanchai’s electrifying performance has solidified his place among the sport’s greats. With his determination reignited and his ambitions clear, the future promises even greater triumphs for this Muay Thai phenom. Relive every breathtaking moment of ONE 170 on ONE’s official YouTube channel. You won’t want to miss the rise of a legend in the making!

Get ready for another groundbreaking year in MMA as BRAVE Combat Federation , the world’s most global MMA organization, unveils its first four jaw-dropping events for 2025! After a historic 2024, BRAVE CF is upping the ante, promising action-packed nights in some of the most iconic locations worldwide. April 18 – China Awakens for BRAVE CF 93 Kicking off the year, BRAVE CF returns to China  for the electrifying BRAVE CF 93 . Following the roaring success of BRAVE CF 84 , this event marks the organization's triumphant return to one of the largest MMA markets in the world. Fans can expect nothing short of epic fights and unforgettable moments. May 17 – Switzerland Joins the BRAVE CF Legacy In a major first, Switzerland  will host BRAVE CF 94  in Geneva , adding another European nation to BRAVE CF's unprecedented record as the most global MMA organization. Switzerland becomes the 17th European country  to embrace BRAVE CF, a feat unmatched in MMA history. June 7 – Slovenia Welcomes BRAVE CF 95 Slovenia, home to two record-breaking events in 2024, will once again be in the spotlight as BRAVE CF returns for BRAVE CF 95 . With two world champions crowned here last year, the stakes are high, and fans can expect history to be made once more. July 12 – Bulgaria Hosts BRAVE CF 96 Bulgaria, the site of BRAVE CF’s sensational debut in 2024, is ready for an encore! BRAVE CF 96  promises to bring even more heat as the organization touches down in Sofia , solidifying its legacy as a powerhouse in Eastern Europe. BRAVE CF’s Unstoppable Global Expansion With these thrilling announcements, BRAVE CF continues its march toward global domination, reaching fans in every corner of the world. And this is just the beginning—more events are set to be revealed, guaranteeing a 2025 packed with action, drama, and unforgettable moments.

In the 60s and 70s, Texas was known as the toughest place in the world to compete in tournament karate. Featured on the cover of the February 1977 Karate Illustrated , Galveston’s own Ishmael Robles is a two-time United States National Karate Champion and the former Welterweight Kickboxing Champion of the World. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com