The September 1972 issue of Black Belt Magazine  captured James Yimm Lee, protege of the one and only Bruce Lee, demonstrating the fierce power of wing chun! Although not family, the close friendship between James Lee and Bruce Lee played a crucial role in the growth and development of both of their martial arts journeys. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

Michael Johnson, better known as "The Menace," has etched his name in UFC history as one of the most explosive and unpredictable fighters in the lightweight and featherweight divisions. Known for his blistering speed, devastating knockout power, and gritty performances, Johnson has thrilled MMA fans for over a decade. As he prepares to face Ottman Azaitar this Saturday at UFC Tampa, let's take a trip down memory lane to revisit some of his most iconic moments in the Octagon. 1. The Star-Making Victory Against Tony Ferguson On May 5, 2012, Michael Johnson faced future interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson at UFC on FOX 3 . Despite entering as the underdog, Johnson put on a striking clinic, outpacing Ferguson with precise combinations and impeccable footwork. The unanimous decision victory not only snapped Ferguson's winning streak but also showcased Johnson as a legitimate threat in the division. 2. A Highlight-Reel KO of Gleison Tibau Johnson delivered one of his most memorable performances at UFC Fight Night 28  in 2013. Facing the always-durable Gleison Tibau, Johnson showcased his evolved striking game. He landed a perfectly timed left hand that sent Tibau crashing to the canvas, earning a stunning second-round TKO. The victory underscored Johnson's knockout power and earned him widespread recognition. 3. Stopping Dustin Poirier in His Tracks Arguably Johnson's most iconic victory came against Dustin Poirier at UFC Fight Night 94  in 2016. Poirier, riding a wave of momentum, was expected to steamroll Johnson. However, "The Menace" silenced doubters with a jaw-dropping first-round knockout. A lightning-fast right-left combination floored Poirier, marking one of the most spectacular knockouts of Johnson's career and a statement to the division. 4. Going Toe-to-Toe with Justin Gaethje In a bout that many consider one of the greatest fights in UFC history, Michael Johnson took on Justin Gaethje at The Ultimate Fighter 25 Finale  in 2017. While Johnson ultimately fell short via TKO in the second round, the back-and-forth war highlighted his incredible heart and willingness to engage in firefights. The bout earned "Fight of the Night" honors and remains a fan favorite. 5. Dominating Edson Barboza At UFC Fight Night 61  in 2015, Johnson faced the dangerous striker Edson Barboza. Displaying an aggressive game plan, Johnson neutralized Barboza's kicks with relentless pressure and accurate striking. The unanimous decision win demonstrated his ability to execute a smart game plan against elite competition. 6. A Gritty Comeback Against Andre Fili In a razor-close bout at UFC Fight Night 137  in 2018, Johnson faced featherweight standout Andre Fili. Despite Fili's early success, Johnson's striking and takedown defense shone through in the later rounds, earning him a split decision victory. It was a testament to his durability and veteran savvy. 7. The TUF Legacy Before his UFC stardom, Michael Johnson gained fame as a finalist on The Ultimate Fighter: Team GSP vs. Team Koscheck  in 2010. Although he fell short in the finals against Jonathan Brookins, his performances on the show hinted at his future potential. Over the years, Johnson has proven that hard work and perseverance can turn a reality show prospect into a legitimate UFC contender. What Makes Michael Johnson Special? Michael Johnson's unique blend of speed, power, and technique has made him a perennial fan favorite. With nine career knockouts to his name, he is on the hunt for his 10th against Ottman Azaitar. His ability to adapt and evolve has allowed him to remain competitive in one of the toughest divisions in MMA. Known for his aggressive striking style, Azaitar presents a tough challenge, but Johnson's experience and knockout power make him a dangerous opponent. If he can secure a 10th KO victory, it will further cement his legacy as one of the most exciting fighters in UFC history.

Colby Covington, the man who needs no introduction, is set to make waves yet again as he prepares to enter the Octagon this Saturday at UFC Tampa . Known as much for his polarizing persona as his impeccable skillset, Covington has become one of the most talked-about fighters in the UFC. Here’s an in-depth look at his journey and what fans can expect from him in Tampa. The Rise of “Chaos” Covington’s rise to prominence in the UFC has been nothing short of dramatic. A two-time NCAA All-American wrestler, he transitioned seamlessly into MMA with a solid foundation in grappling. Signing with the UFC in 2014, Covington quickly established himself as a relentless competitor, amassing an impressive streak of victories against names like Max Griffin and Bryan Barberena. However, it wasn’t until his 2017 fight against Demian Maia that Covington transformed into “Chaos.” After defeating Maia in hostile territory in Brazil, Covington grabbed the mic and delivered one of the most infamous post-fight speeches in UFC history. While controversial, this moment catapulted him into stardom. Champion Material Covington’s defining moment came at UFC 241  when he dismantled former champion Robbie Lawler with a record-breaking volume of strikes. This performance solidified his place as one of the most relentless fighters in the welterweight division. His cardio, wrestling, and ability to pressure opponents became his trademarks. Covington claimed the interim welterweight title  at UFC 225 with a dominant performance over Rafael dos Anjos. Though he fell short in his two championship bouts against Kamaru Usman, both fights showcased his toughness and skill, particularly in the razor-close rematch at UFC 268. The Persona That Divides Fans Covington’s brash, trash-talking persona isn’t just for show. His antics—whether mocking opponents, flaunting MAGA hats, or bringing in WWE-style theatrics—have made him a polarizing figure. Love him or hate him, Covington’s ability to generate headlines has made him one of the UFC’s biggest stars. But beneath the chaos lies a dedicated athlete. Training out of MMA Masters in Miami, Covington’s preparation is second to none. His relentless work ethic has earned respect even from those who criticize his persona. What to Expect This Saturday at UFC Tampa Covington’s upcoming fight at UFC Tampa is critical for his career. Set to face a rising contender in the welterweight division , this bout could determine whether Covington earns another shot at the title or slides down the rankings. With stakes this high, fans can expect “Chaos” to bring his A-game. Key factors to watch in this fight: Relentless Pressure:  Covington’s hallmark style of grinding down opponents with his wrestling and high-volume striking will undoubtedly be on display. Mind Games:  Will Covington’s trash talk and psychological tactics affect his opponent’s performance? Historically, his antics have rattled more than a few competitors. Cardio Edge:  Covington is known for maintaining an insane pace. Can his opponent keep up? Can Covington Cement His Legacy? While Covington is no stranger to the spotlight, this fight is a must-win for the former interim champion. With a victory, he could position himself for a trilogy fight against Leon Edwards or even face the rising stars of the division like Shavkat Rakhmonov. A loss, however, would open up questions about whether his time at the top is fading. Find out this Saturday at UFC Tampa , where the stakes couldn’t be higher, and the drama is guaranteed.

The stage is set for an electrifying main event at UFC Fight Night Tampa 2024: Covington vs. Buckley, where former interim Welterweight Champion Colby “Chaos” Covington  will square off against the dynamic and unpredictable Joaquin “New Mansa” Buckley . This clash of welterweight warriors not only promises fireworks but could also have major implications for the divisional rankings. The Build-Up: Colby Covington’s Grit vs. Joaquin Buckley’s Explosiveness Colby Covington (17-3), one of the most polarizing figures in MMA, is known for his relentless cardio, wrestling pedigree, and unrelenting pace. A staple of the welterweight elite, Covington has faced—and beaten—some of the biggest names in the division, including Tyron Woodley and Robbie Lawler. However, after coming up short in two title bids against Kamaru Usman, Covington is on a mission to reestablish himself as a top contender. For Covington, this fight isn’t just about victory; it’s about dominance. "I’m going to grind him into the ground," Covington declared in a recent interview. "I’m here to remind everyone why I’m still the king without a crown." On the other hand, Joaquin Buckley (17-6) has steadily climbed the ranks with his jaw-dropping knockouts and growing arsenal of skills. Buckley, who catapulted to fame with his viral spinning back kick KO of Impa Kasanganay, has since evolved into a well-rounded fighter. A win over Covington would cement Buckley’s place among the division’s elite and could set him up for a marquee fight against a top-5 opponent. What to Expect: A Clash of Styles The Covington vs. Buckley matchup is a classic clash of styles. Covington thrives on grinding his opponents with suffocating pressure, chaining takedowns, and overwhelming them with volume striking. Buckley, however, is a highlight-reel finisher with knockout power in both hands and feet. His unorthodox striking and explosive athleticism could pose a significant threat to Covington’s forward pressure. Key Questions to Consider: Will Covington’s cardio and wrestling neutralize Buckley’s power? Can Buckley land a game-changing strike before being dragged into deep waters? How will Covington’s experience against top-tier opponents fare against Buckley’s raw athleticism and hunger? High Stakes for the Rankings This fight holds significant weight for the welterweight rankings. A win for Covington could thrust him back into title contention, especially with current champion Belal Muhammad keeping a watchful eye on the division. For Buckley, a victory over a name like Covington would not only validate his rise but also open doors to a potential top-5 matchup or even a title eliminator. Both fighters are aware of the stakes. "This isn’t just another fight; it’s my ticket to the top," Buckley said at the pre-fight press conference. Covington, unfazed, responded, "I’ve fought killers before. Buckley’s just another name on my list." Expect Fireworks As fight night approaches, fans are bracing for an unforgettable showdown. Will Covington’s relentless wrestling grind out another victory, or will Buckley’s power and creativity deliver a shocking upset? One thing is certain—when these two welterweights meet in the Octagon, Tampa will witness a battle for the ages.

Unfortunately, active-shooter incidents have become not only a frequent story on the nightly news but also a threat to people of all ages in virtually all locations. These horrible events can and do occur at any time, so it’s important to have an overarching plan to protect yourself and your loved ones should you ever wind up in the presence of an active shooter. If you’re reading this article, it can be assumed that you’re either a martial arts instructor like me or a practitioner. (If you’re not already a martial artist, I highly suggest you join a program — there’s nothing more empowering!) Through your martial arts training, you have the ability to defend yourself, which means you already have a last-resort plan of action should you find yourself confronted by an active shooter. However, it’s very unlikely that you will ever face such a criminal in a fair fight because an active shooter, by definition, has the advantage of possessing a firearm — and he’s already using it. That’s precisely why my team and I developed an active-shooter training course that teaches students to place their focus on being aware and devising an exit strategy, as well as recognizing threats before they manifest. I started teaching active-shooter tactics because of my background in law enforcement and martial arts. Additionally, our school is a certified krav maga center that teaches all kinds of weapon disarms, so developing the course was a natural fit. The program has garnered a lot of press because whenever a tragedy occurs, martial arts school owners scramble to find a course that will help them help their students. For several years, I’ve conducted this training around the country, as well as online. Here, I will present it to yet another audience that may be in need of a plan for an active-shooter scenario. How to Respond Run The No. 1 option is to run. If you find yourself in a situation in which shots are being fired, your priority is to get away. To that end, have an exit strategy in place. Always be aware of potential escape routes no matter where you are. Some people mistakenly assume that the best exit is the same door they used to enter the room or building, but that’s not always the case. In a restaurant, the best exit might be a backdoor or a window. Even a Sheetrock wall can be broken through in an emergency. Hide The second option is to hide. When running isn’t possible, it’s a good way to increase the odds that you’ll survive, but you need to understand where and how to hide. Here is what I recommend in our course: Strategically position yourself in a room where the shooter isn’t so you have the best chance to defend yourself. Barricade the door(s) with any furniture that can be moved. Stay quiet and stay by yourself (unless you’re with loved ones). If possible, darken the room. Consider using your belt, purse strap, or cellphone charging cable to secure the door. Fight The third option is to fight. Think of this as the last resort in any active-shooter situation. Our course focuses on this component for obvious reasons: I’m a martial artist and I’m usually teaching other martial artists, so it only makes sense to spend time fine-tuning the physical side. Martial arts schools that follow our method often incorporate the combatives they teach every day, along with our gun-disarm strategies. Those gun disarms grew out of my background as a National Rifle Association instructor, as well as a krav maga, jiu-jitsu, and karate black belt. All that enabled me to create a set of disarms that are easy to learn, easy to remember, and easy to implement under stress. Of course, there are other ways to take a gun away from a shooter, but it’s always best to concentrate on methods that a person with no previous experience can retain. Having a Gun Might Not Help I’m a gun owner and a believer in the Second Amendment, but I caution my students — and they always find out in our course — that carrying a firearm can add a huge variable to a mass-shooting situation. If you draw a gun in an active-shooter scenario, you might be putting yourself and those around you in greater danger. Here’s why: When responding to an active-shooter report, law-enforcement officers immediately will perceive any person holding a gun as a suspect — even if that person is just reacting to shots being fired. There will be precious little time for the police to ask questions because ending the threat is their top priority. The other thing you need to remember is that if you deploy your gun and the shooter sees you, you will inadvertently draw his fire, which will endanger you and the people around you. In cases in which the shooter has a semi-automatic weapon, you might cause a hail of bullets to be unleashed in your direction. For Ongoing Training I always advise people to find a martial arts school that includes an active-shooter training program. It’s likely you can find such a facility in your town. By all means, consider joining — after you’ve checked the instructor’s credentials. As we all know, participating in a program is the best way to learn the real-life application of martial arts skills. It’s one more way to get people to learn awareness skills and physical techniques that can save their lives.

As the UFC gears up for UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley  at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, on December 14, 2024, fans are brimming with anticipation. This marks the UFC’s fourth visit to Tampa and the first since October 2019, making it a nostalgic return for the promotion. Before Colby Covington and Joaquin Buckley step into the Octagon, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the last time the UFC electrified Tampa. Joanna Jedrzejczyk: A Masterclass Against Michelle Waterson-Gomez The main event of UFC Tampa 2019 saw former strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk  dominate Michelle Waterson-Gomez  in a five-round clinic. Jedrzejczyk’s superior size, strength, and striking precision overwhelmed Waterson-Gomez, leading to a unanimous decision victory with scores of 50-45, 50-45, and 49-46. While Waterson-Gomez had her moments, Jedrzejczyk’s clinch game and relentless elbows and knees proved too much. The fight peaked in the third round when Waterson-Gomez nearly secured a rear-naked choke, showcasing her tenacity. However, Jedrzejczyk finished strong with her elite kicking game, earning her 11th career decision win. Amanda Ribas and Mackenzie Dern’s First Showdown The 2019 event also featured the first meeting between Amanda Ribas  and Mackenzie Dern , two rising stars who have since climbed the ranks in the strawweight division. Ribas, now ranked No. 8, outclassed Dern, currently No. 6, with superior striking and grappling. Ribas turned Dern’s takedown attempt into a spectacular throw, dominating from the top position and dictating the pace throughout the bout. The unanimous decision win showcased Ribas’ elite grappling and precision, setting the stage for their highly anticipated rematch, now scheduled for January 11, 2025, at the UFC APEX. Deiveson Figueiredo’s Breakout Performance Long before becoming a UFC Flyweight Champion, Deiveson Figueiredo  made waves in Tampa with a stunning first-round submission of Tim Elliott. Figueiredo’s lightning-fast guillotine choke forced Elliott to tap within minutes, solidifying his contender status. The victory propelled Figueiredo into title contention, where he would later capture the flyweight belt and engage in a record six consecutive championship bouts, cementing his legacy in the division. Catch all the action live from Amalie Arena this Saturday, December 14, 2024. Prelims begin at 7 PM ET/4 PM PT, with the main card airing on ESPN2 and ESPN+ at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT . Don’t miss this thrilling chapter in UFC history!

Just three days before his return fight at BRAVE CF 91, Muhammad Mokaev requires a new opponent. This change is due to Luthando Biko withdrawing from their planned flyweight match because of health concerns.  Mokaev's return to BRAVE CF is one of the year's most eagerly awaited match-ups, following his re-signing with the promotion earlier this year after becoming the most sought-after free agent in MMA. The fight has been dubbed “The People’s Main Event” of BRAVE CF 91. Undefeated in both his amateur and professional MMA careers, Mokaev holds a professional record of 13 wins, no losses, and one no contest. Known as “The Punisher,” he is one of the top flyweights in the world and a former two-time IMMAF World Champion. BRAVE Combat Federation is now in a race against time to find Mokaev a new opponent in the coming days, or they may have to cancel the superstar's return bout to the promotion. BRAVE CF 91 features a packed fight card for fans, with the Bantamweight World Title fight between champion Nkosi Ndebele and challenger Nicholas Hwende as the main event. The co-main event will see the return of Arab MMA legend Hamza Kooheji, who will battle Turkish superstar Alperen Karabulut. BRAVE CF 91, held during BRAVE International Combat Week, will be followed by BRAVE CF 92 on December 15, concluding a record-breaking year for the MMA organization.

Tonight, while you sleep your deepest sleep, 100 black-clad figures gather in meditation. Their mantra fills the air around their clandestine mountain retreat and contrasts with the hiss of their controlled breathing. They prepare for their upcoming mission by believing they are turning into tigers; by force of will, they drift into a different phase of being. Their breathing becomes deeper, and they count backward from nine to one, mentally taking a step down an imaginary flight of stairs with each number. They control their inner voices and bring what they call their “five minds” into a single point of focus. Their preparations complete, they arm themselves with shuriken, garrotes, knives, and crossbows. Then they depart, their destination a guarded building nestled in a valley miles away. There, a dozen of them scale the walls meant to protect the inner compound. In silence, they make their way past sentry after sentry, finally coming to a small room guarded by still more sentries. With those guardians looking almost directly at them, they steal documents of great value and return, completely undetected, to their retreat. Is this a fantasy of Tibetan monks raiding a neighboring monastery in ancient times? Perhaps a script for a new martial arts thriller? No, this drill actually takes place somewhere on the East Coast of the United States, and the participants are 100-percent American boys who once volunteered for the Green Berets. But these hardy souls weren’t quite satisfied with the tortuous training they’d already received. They wanted more. They were aware that the art of guerrilla warfare had once again become the world’s most popular game, and they wanted to be the very best in a contest in which you either took first place or died. So they volunteered — again — for this special school operated under the supervision of one Michael D. Echanis, a former Green Beret himself. Not everyone who volunteered made it. In fact, nearly half quit within 24 hours. “I don’t have much time to get these men ready,” Echanis states, “so I push them right from the start. At the end of the first day, I sit them down and tell them they can get out if they want to.” But few leave at that point; the ones who are going to quit have already been scared away. “By lunch, I will lose about 10 out of every 25 volunteers,” he says. There’s a good reason for that. Ancient Military Methods Become Modern As you may have guessed, this is not a normal military training center. Echanis has been given permission by our military to instruct a portion of our fighting forces in the ancient ways of hwa rang do. More precisely, he shows them the secrets of the sul sa , the “magical” technicians of hwa rang do whose prime counterparts in Asia long ago were the famed ninja of Japan. The ninja and sul sa  were regarded as almost superhuman. They could dislocate joints to slip out of knots. They could scale walls. They could walk on water — using special boat-like shoes. And it was said they could make themselves invisible. All these things, combined with supreme empty-hand and weapons techniques, made them invaluable to the warlords of the day. The art originated in Korea when the Hwarang warriors came into being in the old kingdom of Silla, located at the southeast tip of the peninsula. Silla was being harassed by its larger neighbor to the north, the kingdom of Koguryo. Koguryo had almost finished swallowing the kingdom of Paekche and was eyeing Silla. In response, Silla united internally and created one of the premier fighting forces of its day: the Hwarang. From 661 to 935, these warriors expanded Silla’s territory until it covered more than the current geographical area of Korea. Later, martial arts fell into disrepute in Korea, leading to the banishment of warriors. Some of them took refuge in Buddhist temples, where the art was preserved. In the past several decades, with a worldwide renaissance of the fighting arts and a heightened interest in guerrilla warfare, hwa rang do began to be publicly taught in Korea. It later found its way to the United States. Search for a Warrior’s Art One person to whom the teachings fell was Michael Echanis. Today, he credits all his skills to his mentor Joo Bang Lee, who was instrumental in introducing the art to America and who periodically tutors Echanis on the “inside” aspects of it. Although Echanis has studied judo since the age of 4 and later got involved with taekwondo in Korea and Vietnam, he kept searching. When he discovered hwa rang do five years ago, he was ecstatic. “I had finally found a martial art that combined everything necessary to make a man a modern-day warrior,” he says. Echanis’ experiences in the 75th Ranger Battalion during the Vietnam War made him wish more than once for such a system. Although given the best military training available, our Special Forces still had much to learn. Using the knowledge embodied within hwa rang do, Echanis developed a new concept of training that would ensure our men would know all they needed to know before going into action. Naturally, American military leaders didn’t accept his theories the first moment he mentioned them. Teaching ancient Asian philosophy to combat soldiers is not the easiest idea to sell. Echanis had to prove the benefits of his system. He did that by demonstrating the physical effects of the ki power he’d developed as a result of his own training. He let cars run over him. He hung 25 pounds from a needle piercing his neck. He moved a volunteer 15 feet with his 1-inch punch. He demonstrated his kicking, punching, and weapons skills. The generals were impressed. They gave him an assignment that involved teaching a series of three-week classes for the Special Forces at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The results were so impressive that Echanis was catapulted into military prominence. Rangers, SEALs, and other commandos became interested in his teaching. He was asked to prepare a series of manuals on hand-to-hand combat, the first such texts to be produced since World War II. “The first week is like hell week,” Echanis says. “The idea is to put these guys in the right frame of mind. We begin at 6 o’clock in the morning. I give them an introduction to the martial arts in relationship to each of them as a soldier, as a warrior. I don’t care if the men have had previous martial arts training or not. I start them all over again.” Those who have studied the martial arts are shocked to learn how out of shape they still are. “They might have been in shape for normal living but not for combat,” Echanis says. Civilian hwa rang do, like other martial arts, can be taken simply for physical and mental development. Echanis’ special version of sul sa  training is different. The difference is not just in orientation; it’s also a difference in intensity. Accelerated Learning Echanis has only a few weeks to get his people in shape, so he’s created a martial arts boot camp. “It’s tough,” he says. “We do anywhere from 250 to 500 knuckle push-ups a day. Then we do another 100 on our wrists. We do somewhere between 250 and 500 sit-ups a day. I run them to tunnels with water, run them through those back and forth. We then do our basic techniques. Then we do the same till lunch. After lunch, back to the same.” Some of his training methods are almost straight out of pro football. “I use a system of physical harassment,” Echanis says with a straight face. “I say, give me 30 push-ups, give me 50. Always give me more.” Some of his methods are not so familiar. At the beginning of each session, Echanis does something very Eastern. He puts all his students into a frame of mind that will let them comprehend and retain all they’re about to be shown. He won’t use the word “hypnotize,” but it does pop into one’s mind. In any event, it works. Shown a perfect technique once or twice, the student is so free of doubt that he can mimic that perfection with only a few tries. Then he retains it in permanent memory. Obviously, all this is for more than just trophies for the dojo window. “We are not interested in the sport thing, tournaments and things like that,” Echanis says. “Our main concern is survival in combat. My goal is to develop a modern American warrior who can survive when he is called upon to protect his country.” He goes on to talk about his manuals and his courses. “This will be the most sophisticated approach to hand-to-hand combat, knife fighting, sentry stalking, hypnosis for combat, defense against armed attack, riot control, mind control, breath control, acupressure massage, standard punching and kicking techniques, throwing, joint locks, choking and neck-breaking techniques…and the development of ki power for use in the field.” To teach all the above in 21 days is quite a task, but Echanis has devised a way. “I’ve got this guy for three weeks, and I have to turn him into a fighter,” he begins. “I have to put him in a crash program, eliminate the nonessentials. Take an Olympic judo champion. He may know 50 takedowns, but he’ll use only two or three which relate to his body structure and mind.” He continues: “I don’t teach the whole art. I take out what specifically applies to my situation.” So Echanis simplifies, then adds intensity. “Sometimes by the second week, I have these men 24 hours a day,” he says. “We practice, eat, sleep and go out on operations together. Ours is a mountain-training situation. Isolated within my environment, I’m controlling the psychological aspects. I’m stimulating these men constantly, day in and day out.” And though Echanis feels that empty-hand techniques are important, he stresses armed combat. “I can take a black-belt martial artist and a person with no previous training,” he says. “I could train the black belt for two weeks at unarmed hand-to-hand combat and the other guy two weeks at knife fighting. Put them together in a combat situation, and there’s no doubt about which man to choose. You’ll have to take the man with the knife. The weapon in a trained hand makes the difference.” Life and Death Up to this point, one gets the picture of a Marine Corps boot camp carried to body-breaking extremes. Then comes the hint of more. After the first day, most dropouts are not quitters, Echanis says. They retire from injury. Try getting up at 2 a.m. and free-sparring full contact until breakfast — every night. Get used to not sleeping, for the predawn hours are when most people are least alert. Put on your fatigues after a night on the town, drunk and dead tired, and practice knife fighting for five hours. Try staying alive through the training. It is, put in the simplest terms, dangerous. And, of course, you have the techniques of hwa rang do, which you thought only other ancient warriors like the ninja could perform. One of those demanding techniques is called un shin bop , the art of “invisibility” or concealment. In ancient days, there were two reasons that warlords had their special forces study concealment. One was for gathering intelligence; the other was for eliminating key personnel. Echanis teaches un shin bop  for both those reasons but has added guerrilla-warfare training as part of the overall operational skills his men must have. Naturally, the ability to conceal oneself until the final moment is vital to the success of an operation — and vital to survival. Echanis stresses that in today’s military, the ultimate goal is survival, not the completion of an operation. He wants his men to come back alive. Then they can succeed time after time, instead of wasting their lives on a one-shot chance at success. Mastery of the techniques of concealment help them accomplish this goal. How to Be a Tree He starts by teaching the basics: “Concealment. Use what you’ve got. Look for depth and density of shadow. If you’re looking below a building offset from the ground, it looks like you’re looking into a cave at night. That is where I would conceal myself.” He thinks a moment. “Try to complement light shadows instead of contrasting them. If you have to be by a wall with horizontal brickwork, don’t stand vertically. In a tree, try to look like a tree. In open spaces, fold up like a rock. Between buildings, look like a connecting pipe.” More than simple body posture, there are the elements of clothing and disguise. If one of his warriors needs to pose alongside a featureless white wall, he does not present himself as a black-garbed man. He uses a reversible piece of cloth he has brought with him and holds up a white square in front of him as he moves. No man-like silhouette, no man. Yet if that were all it took to become a guerrilla, we would all be hiding in trees tomorrow. The most important part is more difficult, Echanis says. It’s the part that the meditation and the mantras are about. It teaches men how to control their own thoughts — as well as the thoughts of others. First, there is mind conditioning. Echanis’ approach is a mixture of modern psychological principles and ancient Zen Buddhist concepts. In many ways, his teaching resembles the traditional training of samurai warriors. “The samurai was taught to focus his mind on the activity to be done,” Echanis says. “He learned to be dispassionate about the operation, to coldly analyze the job and proceed in logical fashion to get it done.” So Echanis teaches his people to have control over their inner being. “Clear your mind with a black image,” he commands his soldier/warriors. “Think black. That is the nothingness. If a man is just firing a handgun without thinking about it, he’s just doing it. But the moment he thinks, ‘I might miss,’ he’s lost his focus of concentration. He’s listening to a little voice that’s saying, ‘Can I or can’t I?’ And the answer will be, ‘I can’t.’” Eyes Are the Mirror of the Mind Yet there is more reason for inner control than simply the improvement of performance. Echanis believes in the concept of “one mind,” which holds that all people share a sort of psychic oneness. In action, that translates into the fact that the sentry you are stalking can — if you are in a normal state of mind — feel you before he sees you. It’s like when you stare at the back of a person’s neck and they turn around. They’ve felt something. “There’s the thing of emotional projection,” Echanis says. “I come into this room, and I don’t feel good. You’ll get bad vibes as soon as you feel me. What I tell my people is to freeze the feeling point, which we say is at the tip of the sternum. When I freeze myself, I keep you from getting any vibration. It’s a feeling like my entire body is ice.” In addition to keeping one’s emotional content inside, Echanis says it’s important not to look at the “centers” of an opponent’s awareness — like his head, back or the center of his body. “Look at your target’s arms or leg. Don’t look at his eyes — even from the side — until the last second.” The eyes play another role in Echanis’ training: “You can create a freeze in a person by locking onto him with your eyes for a split second. You walk up to a person, not looking at him. Suddenly, you look up intently at him. As [your] eyes make contact, he looks at [you]. At that split second, as he is looking at [you] and his body is frozen, that is when [you should] hit him.” Adding the power of suggestion, you gain even more control over him. “You can talk smoothly, go into a monotone,” Echanis says. “Use body language — the way you stand, little gestures — to appear relaxed. And use the eyes. The eyes are the mirrors of the mind. [You] can project with [your] eyes: ‘No, I’m not going to stab or attack you.’ Then do it. If you’re totally relaxed in eyes, body and voice, it will not occur to the other person that you are ready to move on him.” Physical and Mental After reading the details of Echanis’ training methods, you might think the people who volunteer for such an assignment would be true gorillas — strong backs and weak minds. But the reverse is true. Only the most intelligent, most sensitive people can make the mind-control methods actually work. So there is the problem of desensitizing the volunteers so they can use their skills without hesitation. One exercise for this sounds like something straight out of Tim Leary’s commune textbook. “We do alpha exercises,” Echanis says. “A person relaxes until he is in what we call a good alpha. We then have him read a paper that suggests he put himself into the frame of mind of a tiger day after day. In time, he is no longer in the frame of mind of a man. He will actually visualize himself as a tiger.” And with other exercises, he also learns to think of his opponent as something other than a man, he adds. Yet desensitization is less of a problem once Echanis’ troops hit the beach. “Americans are probably the most violent when it comes to combat,” he says. “Take you out of this environment and put you into a war with your intelligence and your old pioneer spirit, and you will become desensitized in a very short time. Your ingenuity will come out. This is what makes the American soldier so unique — his ability to adapt.” Michael Echanis has certainly proved that last point. The American soldier is perfectly capable of taking an ancient Korean fighting style and turning it into the most effective system of combat in the modern world. If the Hwarang had known what would become of their art in the centuries ahead, they no doubt would have been pleased.

Muhammad Mokaev, one of the hottest Flyweight stars in MMA, is gearing up to face South Africa’s Luthando Biko at BRAVE CF 91 on December 13. But just days before his highly-anticipated return, "The Punisher" found himself locked in a fiery social media clash with none other than Irish Flyweight rival Gerard Burns – and the sparks are flying! The drama began when a clip resurfaced of Burns boldly calling out Mokaev mid-fight during an event in October. This viral moment reignited tensions, and Mokaev wasted no time taking a jab at his rival. “That’s why he declined (to fight me) on December 13,” Mokaev posted, sending the MMA world into a frenzy. Burns, never one to back down, clapped back with a stinging response. Referencing Mokaev’s pro debut against Glen McVeigh, Burns wrote, “Glen McVeigh, who fought you on short notice, was eating McDonald’s three times a day with zero training and still went three rounds with you. That says it all. (Laughs) See you soon!” But Mokaev wasn’t done. The undefeated Flyweight superstar threw down an unexpected challenge, offering his brother Mohammed Idrisov as a substitute. “No more talk. If you want to fight, here’s my brother Mohammed Idrisov ready to fight you in January,” Mokaev tweeted. “I think that’s more than enough time for you to prepare. (BRAVE CF President) Mohammed Shahid, make it happen – I’ll be there!” Idrisov himself chimed in, agreeing to the fight, while fans eagerly speculated whether Burns would accept the challenge. The social media war has only added fuel to the anticipation surrounding BRAVE CF 91, which takes place at Khalifa Sports City in Bahrain. The stacked card features a Bantamweight title showdown between champion Nkosi Ndebele and challenger Nicholas Hwende, while Bahrain’s own Hamza Kooheji will battle Turkey’s Alperen Karabulut in the co-main event. Will the bad blood between Mokaev and Burns spill into the cage in the future? Or will Mokaev’s brother Idrisov step in to settle the score? One thing’s for sure – BRAVE CF 91 just got a whole lot spicier! Don’t miss it.

The GelreDome in Arnhem, Netherlands, witnessed a night of high-octane action on Saturday, December 7, as GLORY COLLISION 7  delivered one of the most electrifying events in kickboxing history. With over 22,000 fans roaring in attendance, it was the second-largest spectacle in GLORY’s legacy, featuring stunning knockouts, emotional retirements, and jaw-dropping comebacks. Rico Verhoeven: The King Reigns Supreme (Again!) The main event lived up to its billing as a classic, with Rico Verhoeven (65-10, 21 KO)  defending his heavyweight crown for a record-breaking twelfth time. Facing the formidable Levi Rigters (19-3, 9 KO) , Verhoeven had fans on the edge of their seats. In a dramatic turn of events, "The King of Kickboxing" was knocked down early but rallied back like a true champion to secure a decision victory. This thriller cemented his status as one of the greatest in the sport. Tarik Khbabez Retains Light Heavyweight Gold, Abena Bows Out In the co-main event, Tarik Khbabez (52-11-1, 28 KO)  showcased his resilience by edging out Donegi Abena (30-11, 10 KO)  in a back-and-forth battle to retain his light heavyweight title. The drama didn’t end there—Khbabez made a bold call for a "Champ vs. Champ" showdown against Verhoeven. Meanwhile, Abena shocked the crowd with an emotional retirement announcement, removing his gloves in the ring after the fight. Bahram Rajabzadeh’s Explosive Return Fan favorite Bahram Rajabzadeh (70-4, 62 KO)  returned to his devastating ways, finishing Daniel Stefanovski (34-6, 25 KO)  in the very first round. “The Golden Wolf” wasted no time calling for a title fight in 2025, adding even more intrigue to the heavyweight division. Sergej Maslobojev Eyes Gold Veteran Sergej Maslobojev (40-7, 24 KO)  put on a masterclass against young prospect Stefan Latescu (17-5, 8 KO) , dominating his way to a unanimous decision victory. With three straight wins in the COLLISION series, the Lithuanian powerhouse is knocking on the door of title contention. Rising Stars Shine Bright Emerging talents stole the spotlight as light heavyweight prospects Cem Caceres (18-1, 14 KO)  and Mory Kromah (31-2-1, 18 KO)  remained undefeated in GLORY with commanding wins. Heavyweight standout Sofian Laidouni (37-4-1, 18 KO)  also made a statement, outclassing Ionut Iancu (30-10, 12 KO)  in a dominant decision victory. Prelims Packed with Drama The COLLISION 7 prelims were equally thrilling, featuring: Younes Smaili (42-3, 19 KO)  settling the score with rival Tayfun Ozcan (87-11-3, 28 KO)  in a grudge match. Serkan Ozcaglayan (47-10, 36 KO)  securing back-to-back wins with a victory over Ramy Deghir (7-2, 1 KO) . Former welterweight champ Endy Semeleer (37-3, 18 KO)  bouncing back with a win over Jay Overmeer (30-8, 16 KO) . Ukrainian heavyweight Oleh Pryimachov (16-5, 5 KO)  defeating Barkouch (45-8-2, 5 KO) . Ayoub Bourrass (16-2, 4 KO)  celebrating his first GLORY win against Anass Ahmidouch-Fatah (33-6-1, 13 KO) . With Verhoeven’s dominance, Khbabez’s fiery challenge, and Rajabzadeh’s call for a title shot, GLORY fans have plenty to look forward to in 2025. Stay tuned for what promises to be an explosive year ahead!

What a dynamic duo: Benny "The Jet" Urquidez and the late Howard "The California Flash" Jackson ! The two champions showcased their skills on the August 1983 cover of Fighting Stars and defined the era of kickboxing to the next generation Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

The Kingdom of Bahrain is gearing up for a night of thrilling MMA action as the iconic Sabrina de Sousa, hailed as the greatest female athlete in the history of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), makes her much-anticipated return. On December 13, at BRAVE CF 91 in the legendary Khalifa Sports City, Sabrina is ready to remind the world why her name is synonymous with excellence in mixed martial arts. The Pride of Bahrain with Brazilian Roots Though born in Brazil, Sabrina de Sousa proudly represents Bahrain on the global MMA stage. She has been a driving force behind the Kingdom’s rise in the sport, securing multiple medals as an amateur and earning a legacy as one of the most dominant forces in international competition. Training at the world-renowned KHK MMA gym, Sabrina embodies the spirit and pride of Bahrain every time she steps into the cage. A Professional Debut to Remember Sabrina’s professional debut at BRAVE CF 80 last year was nothing short of legendary. Facing Monika Kiran Ghag, she ended the bout in a jaw-dropping 30 seconds, showcasing a blend of precision, power, and poise that left fans in awe. That emphatic victory solidified her reputation as a rising star and set the tone for her professional journey. A New Challenge Awaits Now, a year later, Sabrina is set to face the tough and determined Mariane Mariano from the Philippines. Fans are on the edge of their seats, eager to witness another electrifying performance as Sabrina looks to extend her undefeated streak and cement her position as a trailblazer in women’s MMA. BRAVE CF 91: A Night to Remember The event promises to be a blockbuster, with Sabrina’s fight being just one highlight of the night. The main event features champion Nkosi Ndebele defending his Bantamweight world title against Nicholas Hwende, while “The Pride of Bahrain” Hamza Kooheji takes on Alperen Karabulut in the co-main event. Additionally, global flyweight sensation Mohammed Mokaev will make his triumphant return to the BRAVE CF stage, ensuring a lineup that fans won’t want to miss.