The stage is set, the excitement is building, and the countdown begins! GLORY’s 2025 calendar kicks off with a bang on February 22  at the iconic RTM Stage in Rotterdam. Following the blockbuster announcement of Jamal Ben Saddik  (36-9, 29 KO) returning to face Uku Jurjendal  (20-9, 16 KO) in the main event, another electrifying clash has been added to the GLORY 98 lineup. In the co-main event, GLORY Welterweight World Champion Chico Kwasi  (43-5-1, 23 KO) puts his belt on the line against the division’s #2-ranked contender, Teodor Hristov  (18-3, 7 KO). Kwasi, a name synonymous with dominance, claimed the welterweight throne at GLORY 91 in Paris  with a show-stopping performance, becoming the first fighter to stop the legendary Endy Semeleer  in the GLORY ring. The 26-year-old then delivered an epic battle in November, retaining his title in a potential Fight of the Year  draw against lightweight champion Tyjani Beztati. Now, all eyes turn to Bulgaria’s rising star, Teodor Hristov.  The 24-year-old phenom has been on a meteoric rise since entering GLORY in late 2023, racking up four consecutive victories. His resume already boasts wins over former GLORY champion Murthel Groenhart  and former title contender Jay Overmeer. This showdown between two undefeated GLORY warriors represents the new generation of kickboxing . With contrasting styles and a shared hunger for greatness, Kwasi vs. Hristov is shaping up to be an unmissable clash that could define 2025. Tickets and Viewing Information Fans, don’t miss your chance to witness history! Presale tickets for GLORY 98  go live on Monday, December 23, at 9 AM CET.  General ticket sales open on Tuesday, December 24, at 9 AM CET. Can’t make it to Rotterdam? Catch all the action live and exclusively on Videoland  in the Netherlands. For global broadcast details, visit GLORYKickboxing.com . Mark your calendars and get ready for a night of high-octane kickboxing action. GLORY 98 is set to deliver fireworks from start to finish! 🌟

Hold on to your seats, fight fans—GLORY Kickboxing is set to kick off 2025 with an explosive bang! After months of speculation, it’s official: fan-favorite Jamal Ben Saddik (36-9, 29 KO) will step back into the ring for a highly anticipated return. The Goliath is scheduled to face the Estonian powerhouse Uku Jurjendal (20-9, 16 KO) at GLORY 98 , taking place on February 22 at the RTM Stage in Rotterdam, the Netherlands . This matchup has everything a kickboxing fan could ask for: raw power, thrilling knockouts, and a clash of two heavyweights with a lot to prove. For Ben Saddik, this will be his first fight in almost two and a half years. The 34-year-old former title contender boasts a resume filled with victories over some of the sport’s biggest names, including Guto Inocente, Junior Tafa, Errol Zimmerman, Remy Bonjasky, and Rico Verhoeven. Now, he’s ready to make a triumphant return to reclaim his place among the elite. Standing in his way is Uku Jurjendal , GLORY’s No. 8-ranked heavyweight and one of the division's rising stars. Since joining GLORY in 2023, Jurjendal has gained a reputation as a knockout artist, most notably with his jaw-dropping TKO victory over the legendary Badr Hari at GLORY 89 . With an opportunity to take down another kickboxing icon, Jurjendal is coming into this bout hungry to cement his place as a true force in the heavyweight division. A Showdown of Behemoths The stakes couldn’t be higher for this monumental clash. Ben Saddik aims to send a message to the rest of the division with a dominant performance, while Jurjendal is eager to add another legend to his list of conquests. Expect fireworks when these two titans collide, with the RTM Stage promising to shake under the roar of the crowd as Ben Saddik’s loyal fans welcome him back to the GLORY ring. Kickstarting 2025 in Style GLORY 98 is more than just a single fight; it’s the first event of the GLORY 2025 calendar and promises to deliver an unforgettable night of action. With more exciting matchups to be announced in the coming days, the event is already shaping up to be a must-watch for kickboxing enthusiasts. Tickets and Broadcast Details Want to be part of the action? Fans can register now to secure their tickets during the presale, starting Monday, December 23, at 9 AM CET . General tickets will be available beginning Tuesday, December 24, at 9 AM CET . For those watching from home, GLORY 98 will stream live exclusively on Videoland in the Netherlands . Fans around the world can visit GLORYKickboxing.com  for the full list of global broadcast options. Get ready for an epic night of kickboxing as GLORY 98 sets the stage for an explosive year ahead!

The electrifying Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok will once again serve as the battleground for one of Muay Thai’s most highly anticipated showdowns. Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong, a seasoned Thai legend, takes center stage this Friday, December 20, as he squares off against the rising phenom Shadow Singha Mawynn in the main event of ONE Friday Fights 92. Sitthichai, who’s been through the highs and lows of a storied career, is coming off an impressive victory over Masaaki Noiri at ONE 167. Determined to reignite his path to the top, the Thai striking maestro aims to stop Shadow’s meteoric rise in its tracks. For Sitthichai, this fight is more than just another matchup—it’s a chance to show the world he’s still one of the best in the business. “I took this fight because I want to test myself against a rising star,” Sitthichai shared with ONE Championship. “It’s a big challenge, but I’m ready to prove I’ve still got it.” On the other side of the ring, Shadow Singha Mawynn is a young fighter on fire. After a rocky start in ONE Championship, the 24-year-old has stormed back with a three-fight winning streak, positioning himself as a serious contender in the featherweight division. With his sights set on breaking into the rankings, Shadow sees this clash with Sitthichai as the perfect opportunity to make his mark. “I was thrilled when I learned I’d be fighting Shadow,” Sitthichai said. “He’s in great form, and I’m excited to go blow-for-blow with him. This is a chance for me to use all my experience and show I can still hang with the best.” Ranked #3 in the bantamweight Muay Thai division, Sitthichai knows his position in the rankings makes him a target. But with years of battle-tested experience under his belt, he believes he holds the upper hand in this high-stakes encounter. “Shadow has power and endurance, no doubt,” Sitthichai admitted. “But I’m faster, and my experience gives me the edge. I’ve faced countless opponents over the years, and that has prepared me for moments like this.” With the unforgiving nature of four-ounce gloves, the stakes couldn’t be higher. But Sitthichai is no stranger to the art of eight limbs. Though he’s spent much of his recent career dominating in kickboxing, the 32-year-old remains deeply rooted in Muay Thai and plans to bring the best of both worlds into this fight. “Some people think I’m just a kickboxer, but Muay Thai has been my foundation my entire life,” Sitthichai explained. “I’ve adapted to kickboxing rules in the past, but Muay Thai will always be in my veins. I’m ready to show fans a fusion of both styles.” The atmosphere at Lumpinee Stadium is set to be electric as Sitthichai looks to deliver a standout performance and gift fans an unforgettable night of martial arts action. “It doesn’t matter if it’s Muay Thai or kickboxing—I’m ready,” Sitthichai declared. “This fight will be my gift to the fans. Let’s make it a night to remember.” Catch all the action live and free on ONE Championship’s official YouTube channel this Friday, December 20, at 7:30 a.m. EST/4:30 a.m. PST. Don’t miss it!

The Professional Fighters League (PFL), has unveiled the electrifying undercard for the PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series. This event isn’t just another fight night—it’s a revolution in MMA, bringing global talent and local heroes to the forefront on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai’s City Walk. The Fights to Watch: Dubai's Stars and Global Warriors Tarek Suleiman vs. Ahmed “Lee” Samy Kickstarting the night, Tarek Suleiman (13-8) faces Egypt’s Ahmed “Lee” Samy (11-4) in a clash destined for fireworks. These seasoned warriors will bring their A-game to prove who reigns supreme in the SmartCage. Hadi Omar Al Hussaini’s Redemption Arc Dubai’s own Hadi Omar Al Hussaini (5-1-1) is ready to reclaim his winning streak after a disappointing loss in July. Fighting in front of a passionate home crowd, he’ll square off against Ruel “Bagsik” Pañales (5-2), a former RSF champion with dangerous striking skills. Yakub Sulimanov vs. Jarrah “Jordanian Lion” Al-Selawe In a fight that screams don’t blink , Dubai-based undefeated phenom Yakub Sulimanov (7-0) takes on Jordan’s MMA veteran Jarrah “Jordanian Lion” Al-Selawe (20-7). Can Sulimanov hold onto his perfect record, or will the lion roar in Dubai? Ireland’s John Mitchell vs. Algeria’s Souhil Tairi Representing Dubai’s 971 Academy, five-time Irish MMA champ John Mitchell (9-2) will test his grit against PFL MENA’s Algerian powerhouse Souhil Tairi (7-5-1) in a battle that promises high stakes and high drama. More Local Heroes and Rising Stars Emirati favorite Youssef Al Housani (4-1) takes on Egypt’s unbeaten Assem Ghanem (4-0) in a fight to establish supremacy in the region. Saudi Arabia’s Mostafa Nada (9-3), riding an epic five-fight win streak, faces the British-Pakistani PFL debutant Haider “Darth” Khan (8-1), who has stormed through his last four opponents. Undefeated Mirafzal “Mirko” Akhtamov (7-0-1) from Uzbekistan locks horns with England’s KO artist Mike “Lefty” Thompson (7-2) in what could be the sleeper hit of the night. Headliner Showdown: Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes The Road to Dubai  culminates in a jaw-dropping main event featuring “The Pride of Dagestan,” Usman Nurmagomedov (18-0), defending his lightweight title against Ireland’s surging star, Paul “Big News” Hughes (13-1). Fresh off his career-defining victory over AJ McKee, Hughes is determined to end Nurmagomedov’s perfect streak. Can he pull off the upset, or will Nurmagomedov continue his reign of terror? This groundbreaking event marks the first Road to Dubai  under the PFL’s multi-year partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Sports Council (DSC). This collaboration not only cements Dubai as a global MMA hub but also paves the way for Emirati fighters to rise to PFL stardom. Future Champions Series events will build toward epic finales in Dubai, the sport’s newest fight capital. Don’t miss history in the making! The Road to Dubai Champions Series  promises unforgettable battles, electric energy, and the brightest stars in MMA. Be there on January 25, 2025, as Dubai transforms into the ultimate destination for fight fans worldwide.

Former BRAVE CF two-division champion Mohammad Fakhreddine is back—and he’s making waves. At BRAVE CF 92, Fakhreddine delivered a show-stopping performance, dismantling Algerian knockout artist Abdel Rahmane Driai in the main event. But while his electrifying TKO earned headlines, it was his fiery post-fight declaration that left the MMA world buzzing. With the crowd still roaring from his victory, Fakhreddine called out Light Heavyweight champion Erko Jun, accepting Jun’s previous challenge for a Middleweight showdown. And he didn’t mince words. Fakhreddine vs. Erko Jun is building up.. “I know Erko is looking to become a double-weight champion and be the second man to hold two titles at the same time in BRAVE CF, but Erko, I’m going to have to spoil the plan for you, brother,” Fakhreddine declared, igniting what could be the promotion's most heated rivalry yet. Erko Jun wasted no time responding. In a spirited video shared on social media, Jun shouted “Let’s go!” repeatedly, brimming with excitement at the challenge. The undefeated Light Heavyweight champion, who captured his belt earlier this year at BRAVE CF 88, now has his eyes set on making history as a two-division champion. But Fakhreddine, a former king of both the Middleweight and Light Heavyweight divisions, is determined to stand in his way. The stakes couldn’t be higher. Not only is the vacant Middleweight title on the line, but this fight promises to cement one fighter’s legacy as the face of BRAVE CF. With Fakhreddine aiming to reclaim his throne and Jun looking to carve his name into the history books, the stage is set for an epic clash. BRAVE CF 92 was a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable 2024 for the promotion. But with Fakhreddine vs. Jun looming on the horizon, BRAVE Combat Federation is already shaping up for an explosive 2025. Buckle up, fight fans—this is going to be one for the ages!

The flyweight kickboxing super-fight of the century is officially set! Mark your calendars for Sunday, March 23, as the Saitama Super Arena in Japan plays host to ONE 172, headlined by the electrifying showdown between Takeru Segawa and Rodtang Jitmuangnon. This is the battle fans have been clamoring for, and the wait is finally over. Initially planned for early 2024, this epic clash was delayed due to an injury suffered by the Thai sensation, Rodtang. But now, with both fighters back to full health and riding high on recent victories, the stage is set for a collision of striking legends at their peak. Takeru’s Road to Redemption Takeru Segawa bounced back in style after a gritty debut against Superlek Kiatmoo9. At ONE Friday Fights 81, he showcased his trademark speed and razor-sharp striking in a masterclass performance against Thant Zin. The Lumpinee Stadium crowd erupted as Takeru delivered a jaw-dropping second-round knockout, proving he’s more than ready to take on “The Iron Man.” Rodtang’s Relentless Dominance Rodtang Jitmuangnon, the indomitable Thai superstar, has been unstoppable in 2024. With back-to-back wins under his belt, he first dismantled Denis Puric at ONE 167, then followed it up with a clinical decision victory over Jacob Smith at ONE 169. His relentless pace and iron-clad willpower have set the stage for this monumental showdown with Takeru. Fans can expect nothing less than fireworks when these two striking maestros go toe-to-toe in a five-round kickboxing extravaganza. But That’s Not All! ONE 172 isn’t just about Takeru and Rodtang. The event will also feature a blockbuster bout for the vacant ONE Flyweight MMA World Championship. Top contenders Adriano Moraes and Yuya Wakamatsu are set to lock horns in a thrilling rematch. Moraes, the #1-ranked contender, earned his spot with a spectacular submission victory over Danny Kingad at ONE 169. Meanwhile, Wakamatsu secured his chance by defeating Gilbert Nakatani at ONE Fight Night 26. This isn’t their first meeting. At ONE X, Moraes defended his championship by submitting Wakamatsu in the third round. But Wakamatsu is a different beast now, determined to prove his evolution as a fighter and claim his first World Championship. On the other hand, Moraes is laser-focused on reclaiming the throne he once ruled for years. ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang promises to be an unforgettable night of combat sports, airing live on Sunday, March 23, from the iconic Saitama Super Arena. Stay tuned for more fight announcements and updates as we count down to this historic event!

In addition to karate, I teach traditional Japanese swordsmanship, usually with a bokken. When contact is to be made, however, we switch to ActionFlex padded swords. Not surprisingly, it can be difficult to find a volunteer to go full force with a sword-wielding student who’s trying to improve his or her skills. Enter the BOB. Kenjutsu Sword Drills The student with the sword squares off against BOB and draws a padded sword. Two people are required to back up the striking dummy — one to push and the other to reach around the torso and swing a sword, using one hand, as if the blade belonged to a live opponent. The second person also can help stabilize the unit. When BOB attacks, the student nullifies the strike by blasting it in the head, the neck, or any other target that’s available. The student can practice all his or her techniques — including the stab, the downward cut, the downward-angle cut, the upward-angle cut, and the horizontal cut — while moving into and out of the appropriate stances. All this must be accomplished while avoiding BOB’s slashing and stabbing padded blade. Of course, there are many other methods for using BOB in sword training. The first time I did any of this was when I attended Dana Abbott’s three-day workshop in Phoenix. We used a regular BOB, and Abbott had us whack it with a shinai in all manner of ways. That training inspired me to devise my own BOB exercises for my sword students, one of which is described earlier. Regular BOB Regular BOB is what we call the Body Opponent Bag when the base is full of water. This configuration offers so many possibilities that it’s impossible to list them all. Certainly, one of the best involves, as I mentioned in Part 1, boxing. Because BOB has a realistic head and torso, you can have your students practice all their head shots — including the jab, cross, hook, uppercut, and overhand punch — as well as their body shots. If you want to give them a really good workout, have them add some kicks. Because regular BOB is a stand-alone training partner, students can do this on their own. Another training method involves having your students practice their precision. Instruct them to execute a specific set of self-defense techniques that require them to aim for specific vital areas, which is what BOB seemingly was designed for. For example, students can do eye gouges with their thumbs, throat strikes with their open hands, and ear strikes with their palms, all using full force. Most kicks and knee strikes can be done on BOB with full force as well. You can even let your students add headlocks and chokes to their self-defense sequences because of the ease with which the dummy’s head and neck can be squeezed. Full-Power Weapon Strikes When your students are ready to practice full-power weapon strikes on BOB, you’ll want to shield it with whatever protective gear you deem necessary based on the weapons and the targets. After all, the Body Opponent Bag is way too valuable to take a chance on damaging. I’ve found that BOB can absorb strikes from wooden weapons like the bokken, the tonfa, and the nunchaku. However, I always tell my students to avoid using a real sword, as well as a sai or kama. If they’re disappointed, I console them by saying they can go all-out with ActionFlex padded weapons. When no one else is in the dojo, that’s what I do. But don’t tell my students. It’s easy to confuse serious training with having fun. BOB is available from   centurymartialarts.com . Part 1 of this column on novel ways to use a Century Body Opponent Bag (aka BOB) for martial art training drills to improve the skills and learning experience of your students can be found HERE .

The Spring 2023 issue of Black Belt Magazine  spotlighted Claressa Shields , the undisputed world champion in both boxing and MMA. Her rapid rise through combat sports showcases her unmatched skill and determination. Shields' journey is redefining the possibilities for women in martial arts, inspiring fighters worldwide with her fearless pursuit of excellence. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

The word legend  conjures up images of larger-than-life figures who have performed unbelievable feats over the years. In the realm of martial arts, certain names immediately come to mind: Miyamoto Musashi, Mas Oyama, Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris. To that list, I would add two-time Black Belt Hall of Fame inductee Fumio Demura. The legend himself, Fumio Demura Demura's accomplishments are numerous: he holds a 9th-degree black belt in Shito-Ryu Karate, he founded the Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Genbu-Kai International organization, and he was an accomplished tournament fighter in his day. He’s still regarded as a master of Okinawan weaponry, and his career has spanned acting, writing, and teaching. Perhaps most important of all, Demura is a teacher, with tens of thousands of followers around the world. He is the kind of black belt that other black belts look up to, which is why many high-profile martial artists have sought him out for instruction. These include Dolph Lundgren, Billy Blanks, Steven Seagal, and Richard Norton, as well as the aforementioned Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. The martial way is a path that Demura began walking as a youth. Now, at age 78, he continues down that path, still preaching and teaching to help others do the same. Land of the Rising Sun Fumio Demura was born on September 15, 1938, in Yokohama, Japan. With the world at war and an economic depression sweeping across his nation, hardship was a frequent visitor at the Demura household. At times, he says, his family found it impossible to afford basic necessities like shoes. With typical stoicism, he simply says he went through "many sad things." Around that time, Demura recalls having a neighbor named Asano, who was a Kendo teacher. The martial art fascinated the young boy, and he longed to take lessons. Sadly, his family lacked the funds to buy the necessary equipment. In the spirit of improvisation, the young Demura carved a tree branch into a makeshift shinai so he could practice. It was a lesson he would remember. Later, Demura was introduced to a famous Shito-Ryu Karate practitioner named Ryusho Sakagami. It was under Sakagami, the third Master of the Itosu-Kai organization, that Demura's martial arts career began to truly blossom. Sakagami took the promising youth under his wing, unknowingly launching Demura on what would become the adventure of a lifetime. Journey to America By the early 1960s, Demura was gaining fame as a karate practitioner. He had reached the rank of first-degree black belt in 1956, and by 1961, he had won his first major tournament, the Old Japan Karate Championship. In addition, he had begun studying kobudo, or traditional Okinawan weaponry, under Taira Shinken. Then, the Americans entered the picture. Don F. Draeger, a martial arts practitioner and world-traveling scholar, became acquainted with Demura through the Japanese martial arts grapevine. Soon after, Draeger introduced Demura to Dan Ivan, who operated a handful of karate schools in Southern California. After getting a chance to see Demura in action, Ivan knew he had to find a way to get him to the United States. The process happened in fits and starts. Demura arrived in the States in 1963, but it wasn’t a permanent relocation. His first engagement was for a one-year teaching spot, after which his visa ran out, and he was forced to return to Japan. Almost immediately, Demura longed to go back. "This was a mistake," he said to himself on arriving back in his home country. "I should have stayed in the United States." Japan was too small, too confined for the karateka. In America, he felt he had more room to move and space to grow the martial arts. Demura found his way back to the United States in 1965 and settled in California, where he opened a dojo. He quickly built a reputation for riveting demonstrations that showcased consummate skill, speed, accuracy, and technique. These performances garnered him the attention of newcomers, which was badly needed. This attention was crucial given the national mood. For most Americans, World War II was still fresh in their memory. As he was still adjusting to what was, to him, a foreign culture—his command of English was a work in progress—Demura was viewed with suspicion by many Americans. He often encountered prejudice in the community he was trying so hard to become a part of. Despite these setbacks, his successes far outnumbered the challenges, and he persevered. Chuck Norris and Fumio Demura Call of Hollywood With his growing reputation as a martial arts master, Fumio Demura eventually found his way to Hollywood, courtesy of his friend, a professional wrestler who competed under the name “The Great John L.” Demura landed an audition for 1977’s The Island of Dr. Moreau . Before starting work, he signed an agreement without taking the time to digest the details. It turned out to be a release regarding fights that would involve lions, tigers, and bears. The experience proved to be an interesting one, to say the least. Throughout the seventies, Demura worked with a number of martial artists turned actors, including Bruce Lee, whom he personally trained in the use of nunchaku, and Chuck Norris, who came to him wanting to learn traditional karate to supplement his kicking-based Tang Soo Do skills. “He’s a super good martial artist,” Demura says of Norris. “Not just a fighter — a martial artist. I respect Chuck, and he respects me.” But it was Demura’s association with Pat Morita, as well as stunt coordinator and fight choreographer Pat Johnson, that led to his involvement in what would become one of the most iconic martial arts films of all time. Demura was initially eyed for the role of Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid . As you probably know, Miyagi is the wise old master who takes the awkward Daniel-san under his wing and teaches him martial arts. But there was a problem. “I look through the script, and I see ‘Miyagi, Miyagi, Miyagi,’” Demura says. Realizing he didn’t have the language skills to carry such an important role, he bowed out, and the part went to Morita, who went on to receive an Oscar nomination (Best Supporting Actor) for his efforts. But Demura stayed on as Morita’s stunt double and assisted with the fight choreography. Miyagi’s Mission For Fumio Demura, America really has been the land of opportunity. By all accounts, his life here has been a success. He runs an established dojo and karate organization with students around the world. He’s rubbed shoulders with nearly everyone who’s anyone in the martial arts, and he’s found success in Hollywood. But as has been the case since he was a child, life still throws down the gauntlet and presents him with challenges that need to be overcome. Such was the case in 2011 when he suffered a stroke that put him in the hospital and took away his ability to move his right arm and right leg. Or when he experienced kidney failure in 2015, which required him to undergo daily dialysis. But he met both challenges head-on, as a warrior. Demura has regained much of his lost movement, and his kidney functionality is greatly improved. Despite these health setbacks, Demura devotes considerable time to the martial arts — as he’s always done. Unfortunately, that’s left him with some concerns about the state of karate. “There are not many traditional groups left,” he says. With karate now pushed to become an Olympic sport — which, on August 3, 2016, achieved success — he fears that the art is losing its -do , the focus on being a way of life rather than just a way of fighting. He says karate is about more than being a “mean, strong guy”; it’s about being a better person and a better citizen. Demura also takes issue with the way karate is often viewed as merely an activity for children. Referencing movies and TV shows like Power Rangers  and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles , he says, “The image today is that karate is only for kids. It’s shown as a kids’ game, but it’s not. It’s an adult’s game.” But perhaps more than anything else these days, Demura is focused on the challenge of preserving his legacy. “I don’t want to lose my art,” he says, which is why he’s pouring his energy into propagating the style. Having become, in essence, a Shito-Ryu missionary, he wants to make sure it doesn’t pass away when he does. For that reason, when Demura was approached by his student Kevin Derek about making a documentary a few years ago, he was thrilled. The result was The Real Miyagi , released in 2015. Demura says that he was honored to be part of the production and hopes that, if nothing else, viewers will walk away having learned one crucial life lesson: “If something happens, don’t give up,” he says. “Look at me — I set the example.” He hopes the many ups and downs of his life in the martial arts will provide inspiration for everyone who watches The Real Miyagi  long after he’s gone.

Kelly McCann, author of Combatives for Street Survival , offers invaluable insight into an essential component of self-defense. Here are a few of his top tips! BUILD AND CRASH THE GAP. Continuously build gaps — space or distance — between you and your attacker to increase the power of your elbows and knees. To build the gap, get control of him and then shove him away. If you can’t push him away, push yourself away. Then violently jerk him back into your strikes. If you can’t, yank yourself back into him, leading with a knee or elbow strike. If you don’t create gaps, your strikes end up just pushing against your attacker rather than impacting on him. THINK CAR CRASH. The worst type of car accident is a head-on collision. That’s because the aggregate speed is determined by adding the speed of both vehicles. You may be wondering, “Yeah, but wouldn’t we both get hurt equally?” No, because you’re colliding your knee or elbow with his unprotected face, ribs, groin or thoracic cavity. USE FULL BODYWEIGHT. Striking is partly the application of physics. In the simplest terms, more mass moving at a higher velocity over a longer distance creates a greater impact. To take advantage of this formula, maximize each variable in it. ENGAGE MORE MASS. Always strike with your whole body and not just a limb. Exploding off your rear foot in the direction of your strike is called "vaulting". It’s far more powerful than standing in place and striking with only your arm. It doesn’t matter what hits your attacker – a knee, an elbow, a fist or an open hand — as long as it conforms to the principle of choosing the correct personal weapon. Violence of action and putting your bodyweight behind each strike are critical to generating power. CREATE MORE VELOCITY. Vaulting amplifies the speed with which your body crashes into an attacker. Seeing you literally explode off your back foot and then experiencing you plowing into him can inspire fear in an attacker. Don’t step forward, pulling your weight behind you. Instead, explode off your rear foot to propel yourself into the strike. Attack with your whole body. STAY LOOSE. Consciously avoid tightening up. Breathe. Be a little sloppy. Fighting isn’t demonstrating a form for points. When you stiffen up your hand, speed is detrimentally affected, and so are your reactions. Visualizing all this helps lower your anxiety level. DEVELOP YOUR FOOTWORK AND TIMING. Ensure your bodyweight drops into your strike as it makes contact, which should occur when your lead foot lands. With some practice, this will become second nature. LOAD AND UNLOAD VIOLENTLY. In addition to the aforementioned formula, know that involving your hips and shoulders when you strike improves the result of your action. Maximize the kinetic-energy transfer into what you strike using rotational torque. Generate torque by twisting and then untwisting your hips and shoulders. VISUALIZE EVERY STRIKE PASSING THROUGH THE ATTACKER. No matter what technique you throw, visualize it exiting the other side of your attacker like a bullet. If you don’t, you’ll unnecessarily limit the depth of the strike, resulting in a surface impact rather than penetration. STRIKE REPETITIVELY. Called “cycling,” this refers to quickly executing the same technique two or three times. If you stagger your attacker with a right hammerfist, immediately chamber your left hand (your “off hand”) and smash it into his face. Retract your off hand and smash his face with another hammerfist, and so on. Cycling works well with hammerfists, slashing elbows and knees. VISUALIZE. Imagine your striking hand and your off hand as pistons attached to a crankshaft (your shoulders). As one piston reaches top dead center, the other reaches its lowest point. As the first starts to descend, the other ascends with equal force. No matter what, while one hand cycles, your off hand should be doing something. BE FEROCIOUS AND INTENSE. Cycling strikes is all about ferocity and intensity. If you’re moving as fast and efficiently —as you should be when throwing slashing elbows— stay married to your attacker’s chest, keeping him within range even as he falls away. You’ll have plenty of time to land one or two more strikes before he hits the deck.

The UFC is no stranger to showcasing elite talent, but every year a fresh wave of fighters makes their way to the Octagon, hoping to leave their mark. In 2024, these standout athletes not only impressed fans but cemented their names as future stars. Whether through highlight-reel knockouts, dominant decisions, or unexpected upsets, these fighters proved they belong on the biggest stage. Here’s a closer look at 10 UFC newcomers who proved their worth in 2024. 1. Carlos Prates - The Knockout Machine Carlos Prates came into the UFC already seasoned, but what he achieved in 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. Making his debut in February, Prates delivered a Performance of the Night  knockout against Trevin Giles. He didn’t stop there, racking up two more first-round finishes against Charles Radtke and Li Jingliang , showcasing devastating striking power. His year culminated in a brutal KO win over Neil Magny , earning him another bonus and a spot in the welterweight Top 15. With four finishes and four bonuses in one year, Prates is the undisputed Newcomer of the Year . 2. Kayla Harrison - The Olympic Champion Arrives Two-time Olympic gold medalist and PFL standout Kayla Harrison entered the UFC with monumental expectations, and she lived up to every bit of the hype. Harrison made her debut at the historic UFC 300  in April, where she dominated former champion Holly Holm  with a second-round finish. She continued her rise by defeating Ketlen Vieira  in October, positioning herself as a major title contender in the bantamweight division. With her elite grappling and relentless pace, Harrison is already on track for a title shot in 2025. 3. Jean Silva - The Power-Packed Finisher Jean Silva wasted no time making his presence known in the featherweight division. The Dana White’s Contender Series  alum kicked off the year with a first-round TKO of Westin Wilson . His biggest moment came at UFC 303, where he handed Charles Jourdain  the first knockout loss of his career. Silva ended the year with a Fight of the Night  victory over Drew Dober, showcasing his talent, power, and undeniable charisma. Silva is a name to watch in 2025. 4. Mauricio Ruffy - The Rising Brazilian Prospect Mauricio Ruffy, part of the famed Fighting Nerds squad , shocked the MMA world when he stopped Jamie Mullarkey  in less than a round during his UFC debut in May. While his November fight against James Llontop went to the scorecards, Ruffy demonstrated impressive composure and versatility. With his powerful striking and ever-improving ground game, Ruffy has all the tools to climb the lightweight ranks next year. 5. Felipe Lima - The Bantamweight Surprise Felipe Lima made headlines when he stepped in on short notice to fight Muhammad Naimov  in June. Despite moving up a weight class, Lima delivered a third-round submission, earning immediate praise from fans and analysts. In his second outing at featherweight, Lima dominated Miles Johns  to secure a unanimous decision win. Known for his slick submissions and aggressive style, Lima’s stock has soared, making him a rising force in the bantamweight division. 6. Zhang Mingyang - First-Round Finisher China’s Zhang Mingyang entered the UFC with an unbeaten streak of first-round finishes , and he continued the trend in 2024. Mingyang needed less than two minutes to dispatch Brendson Ribeiro  in his February debut. In November, he faced Ozzy Diaz  and delivered yet another first-round KO, lifting his professional record to 18 wins—all first-round finishes. Zhang’s devastating power and precision make him a true threat in the light heavyweight division. 7. Oban Elliott - The Welsh Warrior Welsh welterweight Oban Elliott has emerged as one of the most promising prospects in the division. Known for his gritty determination, Elliott earned a hard-fought decision win over Preston Parsons  before delivering a stunning knockout against Bassil Hafez . Elliott’s well-rounded skills and natural charisma have made him an instant fan favorite, and his momentum heading into 2025 is undeniable. 8. Vinicius Oliveira - The Bantamweight Powerhouse Vinicius Oliveira, a Dana White’s Contender Series graduate, lived up to his reputation as a dangerous striker. In March, Oliveira earned a double bonus for his jaw-dropping knockout of Benardo Sopaj . He followed that performance with a win over UFC veteran Ricky Simon  in June. Oliveira’s dynamic striking and relentless pace have already put him on the cusp of the bantamweight Top 15. 9. Lone’er Kavanagh - The Flyweight Phenom British flyweight Lone’er Kavanagh  turned heads with his spectacular first-round knockout of An Tuan Ho  on Dana White’s Contender Series. In his UFC debut, Kavanagh showcased his durability and well-rounded game by outpointing Jose Ochoa  over three rounds. Perfect at 8-0, Kavanagh’s blend of speed and power makes him a must-watch in the ever-competitive flyweight division. 10. Michael “Venom” Page - MVP Makes His Mark Already a star outside the UFC, Michael “Venom” Page  finally made his highly-anticipated debut in 2024. Known for his flashy and unorthodox striking, MVP defeated Kevin Holland  in his debut, showcasing why he’s one of the most exciting fighters at 170 pounds. Though he dropped a close decision to rising contender Ian Machado Garry , MVP proved that his skill set can hang with the best in the UFC’s stacked welterweight division.

Attack is imminent, you're ready with a stick strategy – and then life gets in the way! As a practitioner of arnis—or any other stick-based martial art—you devote a ton of time to training, especially to fine-tuning your offense. It's totally understandable because, after all, who doesn't want to be the first to land a clean, precise stick strike in a self-defense encounter that could turn deadly at any moment? But what happens when your opponent does something that takes you by surprise? What if he shoots in for a takedown before you have a chance to strike? What if he grabs your stick before you can even start swinging it? Or worse, what if you drop your weapon? What happens when the attacker deploys his own weapon and brings it into the conflict before you can start using yours? Worst of all, what happens when any of these scenarios play out in a real-world altercation, where rules and restraint are not part of the picture? Outside the Box In Filipino martial arts, we often practice box drills with sticks. A box drill is a series of repeated, choreographed strikes, locks, and counters. While box drills are good for developing technique—and should be practiced regularly to build muscle memory—they can degenerate into never-ending cycles of moves that are repeated ad nauseam, because there’s no definitive finish. As such, they don’t represent the optimal way to prepare for a real fight. As you know, real fights are chaotic and messy, which means they need to be ended quickly. They often involve eye gouges, "dirty boxing," knives, and other unexpected elements. If you’re a striker, you might feel comfortable on your feet with your opponent at a distance. But what happens when he unexpectedly rushes towards you with a punch aimed at your face? If you're a grappler, you might feel comfortable being taken to the ground, but what happens when your attacker pulls out a pocket knife and starts slashing? Only by training differently—outside the box—can you fine-tune your physical and mental skills for all the alternatives. The drills you engage in should contain ballistic “what-ifs” that teach you how to deal with the unexpected. Only by doing that can you learn how to respond with purpose, which is very different from simply reacting without a plan. Plan of Action Presented here are four real-world scenarios in which something unexpected occurs. That “X factor” crops up in a way that prevents you from executing the technique you had planned. Although the scenarios feature a stick as the defender’s weapon, these same techniques could apply to other implements—such as a police-style baton, a gun, a pocket knife, or even a flashlight or an umbrella. And by using the same concepts (with slight modification to the technique), the lessons can be adapted to empty-hand combat. In fact, to maximize your versatility, it's crucial to practice with a variety of weapons. If your primary concern is self-defense but your time is limited, focus on using items you normally carry. A shiny katana might look impressive in a demo, but you're unlikely to have one at your disposal when you're walking down the street. Scenario 1: Attacker Attempts a Takedown The Scenario : A potential assailant confronts you. He’s sufficiently threatening to make you deploy a weapon—in this case, a stick. Before you have a chance to raise it to strike, the man dives in for a takedown. The Solution : Immediately counter with a popping downward strike, a move that looks like a block but isn’t. Because you're holding the ends of the stick, use the shaft to hit the attacker’s outstretched arms. It’s a non-traditional technique in the eyes of FMA stylists, but it can cause enough discomfort to take him down. Follow up with the same strike delivered to the base of the attacker's skull. That will surely put him down. Once he’s on the ground, you know you've avoided the grappling encounter, and that means you have a moment to analyze the situation while maintaining a safe distance. If the assailant is not yet out of commission, you can initiate a finishing blow. The Side Note : Takedowns can be fast. Your choice of targets—whether the aggressor’s arms or skull—depends on his relative positioning at the moment of truth. The technique will be effective in either case. If necessary, the popping strike can be used as you sprawl on top of an opponent who’s being pushed down, in which case the strike benefits from the downward force of your body weight. Scenario 2: Attacker Grabs Your Weapon The Scenario : Watching a video of public unrest around the world, there's a good chance you'll see a situation in which a police baton is grabbed by an aggressive suspect before the officer can use it. The bad guy then unleashes a series of punches designed to incapacitate the cop. Such a strategy can also be used against you in self-defense situations. The Solution : Once the opponent grabs your stick and starts throwing punches, use the stick as a defensive barrier rather than immediately struggling to regain control. Grab the other end of the weapon with your empty hand and use it as a shield against his punches. If he’s persistent and throws a kick, you can block it, too, using the shaft of the stick. If the aggressor is still holding the stick after you repeatedly maneuver it to block his blows, you need to execute a release. One example involves twisting the weapon, pushing it down, and pulling it away to break free of his grasp. With the stick under your control, use the punyo (butt end) to strike his temple. If necessary, subdue him with a choke. The Side Note : In the Philippines, it's common for police to hold a baton in front of their bodies. This tactic is designed to create distance but can also encourage people to grab the weapon. Grabbing a cop’s baton is considered an attack, meaning the officer can legally employ a variety of techniques to control, strike, or take down the suspect. In contrast, police in the United States and some other countries are taught to keep the baton—and other weapons—behind them while using their empty hand to create distance. Scenario 3: Attacker Makes You Lose Your Weapon The Scenario : You’re facing an opponent who happens to be fast—fast enough to dart in and take you to the ground. That’s enough to make you drop your weapon in the process. The Solution : Your immediate priority is self-preservation. That likely means using your arms to shield your face and perhaps your forearms to protect your forehead—you don’t want any punches to land while you’re in this position. Your next priority is to visually locate your dropped weapon (assuming it fell nearby). If it’s within arm’s reach, you’ll need to deflect one of his blows and trap a limb or two to create space to retrieve the stick. As shown in the photo sequence, use the arm that trapped the punch to grab the man’s neck and pull him close. Then execute a close-range punyo strike to his temple. Maintaining your hold on his head, plant your right foot and lift your hip while driving another punyo strike into his temple. The stick strikes should weaken him sufficiently for you to flip him. This will leave you in an offensive position, from which you can gouge his eyes or continue to pound his temple. The Side Note : It’s essential to be aware of where you roll your attacker. You don’t want to move them close to the weapon you dropped, because then he could use it against you. Although the scenario depicted here involves a stick, it would be even more devastating if it was a knife or a gun, and the opponent managed to get control of it. Scenario 4: Attacker Deploys a Weapon First The Scenario : The severity of the threat causes you to deploy a stick for self-defense. Unfortunately, your opponent manages to get the jump on you with his bludgeon. The Solution : As soon as the opponent swings, create distance by sliding backward. With your body out of range, you can deal with the club that was just swung in front of you. Close the gap by stepping forward with your stick held in both hands, making it a superior blocking tool for his next attack. Use your left forearm to make contact with the attacker’s hand to reduce the momentum of his swing—which is essential if he’s using a heavy implement like a baseball bat. Your left hand is close to his face, so it makes sense to initiate a quick eye gouge and then regrasp your stick. Because he’s still close, you can drive a punyo strike into his face. As before, the temple makes an ideal target. The Side Note : The blocking technique used in this scenario is suportado . It involves supporting the stick with your free hand. The extra support means the block is sturdy enough to absorb a lot of force. If you possess sufficient speed and timing, you might be able to step in and get close enough to meet the attacking hand instead of blocking the stick. The theory is that the closer you get to the source of the power, the safer it is to intercept the attack, because the angular velocity of the point of contact is reduced. Translation: the closer you are, the less force it takes to stop the swing, and it doesn’t damage your hand. That kind of win-win situation is what stick fighting is all about. Photography by Peter Lueders Julius Melegrito operates Martial Arts International in Bellevue, Nebraska. He is the creator of Stix 4 Kids, Philippine Combatives, and Sandata System. A seventh-degree black belt in Filipino martial arts and a fourth-degree black belt in Tang Soo Do/Taekwondo, he serves as the stick and knife director for the International Combat Hapkido Federation. Melegrito is the founder of the Philippine Martial Arts Alliance, with affiliated schools in Australia, Russia, and the USA.