Things are already heated between the headliners of ONE 169. O NE Heavyweight MMA World Champion Anatoly Malykhin and "Reug Reug" Oumar Kane had to be separated at the athlete hotel in Bangkok prior to their collision on Friday, November 8. In the video posted by ONE Championship, things first appeared to be light-hearted. The challenger was being filmed when Malykhin walked into the frame and told the camera what he planned to do in the ONE 169 main event. "This one shot, head shot. Three days. One shot. This guy, sleep. One shot," Malykhin professed. "Reug Reug" took the words in stride, smiling, and only responded by saying, "You're going to see." As the two then faced each other, their demeanors changed. The intensity between the heavyweights ramped up, and Malykhin put his fist to Kane's chest and pushed the Senegalese star backward a step. At that point, Kane responded with his own shove, and members of his team stepped in to separate the two hulking heavyweights. The encounter showed that there is a growing heat between the two talented athletes ahead of their World Championship matchup. With so much on the line, both men are on edge and looking for a big showing on a massive platform. Hopefully, the ring inside Lumpinee Stadium will be reinforced as these two behemoths prepare for a thunderous showdown at ONE 169. ONE 169 airs live and free on Prime Video at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST on Friday, November 8.

Born in São Paulo, Brazil, in 1977, Demian Maia was introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in his early teens. This discipline wasn’t just a sport for Maia; it was a way of life. Rooted in respect, patience, and technique, BJJ became the foundation of his skillset and mindset. Maia trained under the tutelage of Fabio Gurgel, an esteemed black belt and multiple-time world champion, who instilled the importance of humility and the warrior ethos in Maia. Bridging Traditional and Modern Martial Arts in the UFC When Maia joined the UFC, he brought with him a unique style that emphasized submission grappling over striking—a rarity in the increasingly hybrid world of MMA. His approach honored the traditional values of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: achieving victory through control, precision, and respect for one’s opponent. Maia's adherence to these principles earned him admiration and respect within the UFC community, despite the sport's ever-evolving nature. In a world where most fighters focus on knockout power and aggressive stand-up tactics, Maia’s commitment to ground fighting exemplified his loyalty to his martial roots. His fights were showcases of grappling mastery, often highlighting his willingness to win by submission rather than brute force. A Gentle Warrior: Maia’s Philosophy and Influence Maia has frequently spoken about martial arts as a discipline beyond mere combat. He believes in embodying the "gentle art" philosophy of BJJ, which promotes self-control, discipline, and respect. For Maia, martial arts extend beyond the octagon and into daily life—a philosophy that resonates with many traditional martial artists worldwide. This approach has inspired younger fighters and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners to consider a more grounded path within MMA. Maia’s influence is evident as many modern fighters now include Jiu-Jitsu in their training, recognizing the importance of grappling skills to round out their game. Celebrating Maia’s Legacy on His Birthday Today, as Maia marks another year, fans celebrate not just a fighter but a martial artist who upheld the values of discipline, respect, and honor. His commitment to traditional martial arts principles has ensured that his influence will persist even after his official UFC tenure. In reflecting on his career, Maia’s connection with traditional martial arts remains an inspiration for those who believe in the core philosophies of martial arts. His legacy in the UFC is not just about his impressive record but also about how he honored his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu roots and showed that traditional martial values still hold a vital place in modern combat sports. His story is a testament to how martial arts, when practiced with integrity and respect, can transcend sport and become a way of life. Happy Birthday, Demian Maia! Thank you for reminding us of the strength in humility and the art in combat!!

The UFC Apex is set to witness an intense welterweight showdown this Saturday as veteran Neil Magny faces off against the rising force of Carlos Prates. The main event of UFC Fight Night: Magny vs. Prates promises a dynamic clash of experience versus hunger, with both fighters eager to make their mark in one of the UFC's most competitive divisions. Here’s a deep dive into the lead-up to the fight, the fighters' preparations, and what fans can expect from this electrifying welterweight face-off. The Build-Up to UFC Fight Night: Magny vs. Prates Neil Magny, known for his durability and unyielding spirit, has long been a staple in the welterweight division. His journey to the top has been filled with battles against some of the division’s best, solidifying his status as a seasoned contender. After recent setbacks, Magny sees this fight as a crucial opportunity to prove he’s still a top contender. Facing the challenge of Carlos Prates, a hungry, younger fighter eager to rise in the ranks, Magny finds himself in the perfect setting to remind fans of his prowess. Carlos Prates, on the other hand, has built a reputation for his explosive finishes and aggressive fighting style. His road to this main event has been nothing short of remarkable, with a string of impressive wins that have catapulted him into the UFC spotlight. Known for his knockout power, Prates has consistently showcased his skill set and ability to dominate in the cage, making this matchup a potential stepping stone to bigger bouts. Fighter Preparations and Training Camps Both Magny and Prates have shown a level of dedication and preparation that reflects the high stakes of this fight. Magny’s camp has focused on conditioning and technical precision, aiming to outlast Prates if the fight goes into the later rounds. His extensive grappling experience and reach advantage could prove crucial in controlling the pace, giving him the edge over a more power-reliant opponent. Prates, however, has been sharpening his striking and takedown defense, anticipating Magny’s strategic attempts to take control of the fight. His focus on power and explosiveness has made him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division, and with a solid ground game to back his striking, Prates is prepared to handle whatever Magny throws his way. Where They Stand: Road to the Main Event Magny’s standing in the UFC welterweight division speaks to his experience, with notable wins over elite fighters. His reputation as a relentless competitor makes him a challenging test for anyone. However, recent performances have called his durability and speed into question, and he enters this fight with the pressure to remind fans and the UFC brass of his skills. Prates stands on the brink of a potential breakthrough, with his current momentum putting him in a strong position to capitalize on the opportunity. While he may lack the veteran experience of Magny, Prates’ trajectory shows a fighter on the rise, aiming to establish himself as a contender by toppling a seasoned opponent. Possible Outcomes: How Will It Unfold? Magny Controls the Distance: If Magny can effectively utilize his reach advantage and control the fight’s tempo, he has a chance to neutralize Prates’ power strikes. With patience and strategic movement, Magny could grind out a decision win, adding another impressive name to his resume. Prates Unleashes the Power: Prates is known for his knockout ability, and if he manages to close the distance and connect with Magny, he could end the fight early. This outcome would mark a significant leap forward in Prates’ career, potentially setting him up for more high-profile matchups. A Ground Battle: Should the fight move to the ground, Magny’s grappling could be the deciding factor. He may look for submissions or attempt to tire Prates out. However, if Prates showcases strong takedown defense, he could remain dangerous, even on the mat. UFC Fight Night: Magny vs. Prates is a classic battle of youth versus experience, of power versus precision. Don’t miss regular updates on www.blackbeltmag.com

The most updated UFC rankings are now out. Discover the movements following UFC Edmonton and what's at stake at UFC Fight Night: Magny vs Prates. Seven divisions, including women’s pound-for-pound, flyweight, bantamweight, welterweight, heavyweight, women’s flyweight, and women’s bantamweight, witnessed changes. **Women’s Pound-For-Pound** Erin Blanchfield climbs to No. 6 after defeating Rose Namajunas in the co-main event, while Namajunas drops to No. 8. Kayla Harrison moves up to No. 7. Former champion Raquel Pennington shares the No. 8 spot with Namajunas. Jessica Andrade and Natalia Silva swap places, with Silva now at No. 14. **Flyweight** Brandon Moreno defended his No. 2 ranking against Amir Albazi, keeping their positions. Steve Erceg takes No. 8 from Manel Kape, who falls to No. 9. Tim Elliott, Tagir Ulanbekov, and Bruno Silva all move up one spot. Charles Johnson rises to No. 13, and Matt Schnell re-enters at No. 15. **Bantamweight** Mario Bautista drops to No. 10 from No. 9. **Welterweight** Sean Brady ties at No. 4 with Jack Della Maddalena. **Heavyweight** Jairzinho Rozenstruik falls to No. 10. Marcos Rogerio De Lima advances to No. 13, while Waldo Cortes Acosta and Mick Parkin enter the rankings at No. 14 and No. 15, respectively. **Women’s Flyweight** Blanchfield maintains her No. 3 spot. Natalia Silva and Rose Namajunas switch places, with Namajunas now at No. 6. Jasmine Jasudavicius rises to No. 13, and Ariane da Silva drops to No. 14. **Women’s Bantamweight** Norma Dumont ties at No. 4 with Macy Chiasson. Ailin Perez and Chelsea Chandler move up to Nos. 13 and 14. Jacqueline Cavalcanti debuts at No. 15. **Previewing UFC Fight Night: Magny vs Prates** The upcoming fight card at the UFC APEX on Saturday includes three bouts with ranking implications. In the main event, Neil Magny faces Carlos Prates, who is on a hot streak. Karolina Kowalkiewicz vs. Denise Gomes could open up the No. 15 spot. Luana Pinheiro vs. Gillian Robertson is set to kick off the main card.

As UFC Fight Night: Magny vs. Prates approaches, anticipation builds for the high-stakes matchup between Gillian Robertson and Luana Pinheiro. Robertson, known as “The Savage,” has cemented herself as one of the most feared submission specialists in the UFC women’s divisions. With eight wins by submission, Robertson's ground game has become her calling card. Let’s dive into the most jaw-dropping submissions that have defined her career, showcasing her technique, patience, and relentless pursuit of victory on the mat. 1. The Rear-Naked Choke Against Molly McCann (2018) Robertson’s rear-naked choke against Molly McCann was a masterclass in opportunistic grappling. Facing a tough opponent known for her striking, Robertson waited patiently, taking advantage of a scramble to secure McCann’s back. Her transition was seamless, and once she locked in the choke, McCann had no escape. This victory not only highlighted her grappling prowess but also proved she could submit highly skilled opponents under pressure. 2. The Armbar Finish Over Veronica Macedo (2019) In her 2019 bout with Veronica Macedo, Robertson showcased her ability to adapt and apply a textbook armbar. As soon as the fight hit the ground, Robertson immediately positioned herself to isolate Macedo’s arm. Within moments, she found her opening and expertly extended the arm to force a tap. The swiftness of her execution demonstrated her precision and deep understanding of arm submissions, a technique she’s continued to utilize in her MMA career. 3. Triangle Armbar Against Courtney Casey (2020) Robertson’s bout with Courtney Casey was a showcase of endurance and calculated aggression. Known for her resilience on the mat, Casey proved to be a challenge, but Robertson’s patience paid off. After a relentless grappling exchange, Robertson secured a triangle position and transitioned into an armbar. The submission showcased her flexibility in mixing techniques, seamlessly chaining moves until Casey was forced to tap. 4. Submission Win Over Poliana Botelho (2020) One of the most notable aspects of Robertson’s submission game is her willingness to take risks for rewards. Against Poliana Botelho, she demonstrated her superior ground control and conditioning. The fight saw Robertson maintaining dominant positions and relentlessly searching for the finish. Ultimately, she outmaneuvered Botelho with positional control, leading to an eventual stoppage. Though not officially a submission finish, the fight underscored her ground dominance and ability to keep opponents under control. 5. Rear-Naked Choke Against Priscila Cachoeira (2021) Robertson’s submission win over Priscila Cachoeira is perhaps her most talked-about victory, primarily due to its intensity. After a series of ground exchanges, Robertson locked in a rear-naked choke with undeniable ferocity. The choke was tight, and while Cachoeira attempted to fight it off, Robertson’s relentless pressure led to a dramatic tap. This fight emphasized her resilience and marked another feather in her cap as a submission artist. What’s Next Against Luana Pinheiro? As Robertson prepares to face Luana Pinheiro, she brings with her the lessons and techniques from these memorable victories. Pinheiro is known for her aggression and striking, but Robertson’s expertise on the ground could serve as the ultimate equalizer. Fans can expect Robertson to attempt to bring the fight to the mat early, where her vast submission arsenal awaits. Will Robertson add another highlight to her submission reel this Saturday? With her track record of dominant finishes and ability to find chokes, armbars, and even triangle locks from almost any position, she remains a formidable threat. For fans of technical grappling and finishes, Robertson's bout against Pinheiro promises to deliver an edge-of-your-seat showdown at UFC Fight Night: Mangy vs. Prates.

Sam-A Gaiyanghadao returns to action on Friday, November 8, at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug. The Thailand superstar meets Zhang Peimian in an important strawweight kickboxing collision. The matchup is not a passing of the torch. Sam-A has every intention of winning and continuing to pursue gold at the highest level. The former multiple-time ONE Championship World Champion is not ready to go softly into the night. “I will keep fighting until my body can’t take it anymore,” Sam-A bluntly said to ONE. Beyond the chase for gold, Sam-A is motivated by his family. He knows he has a tremendous support system at home as he chases his dreams, and the strawweight hopeful hopes to continue to utilize his skills to provide as a father. “I have two motivation sources. The first is from my family, from my children. I think I still have the strength to fight to earn some money for my children’s education,” the Thai legend stated. “The second source is from my wife because she always motivates and pushes me. She says she will always be by my side.” Although Sam-A’s stature as an all-time great means he is close to a title shot, he does not believe he is just one fight away. Regardless, he knows he will have to oust “The Fighting Rooster” in a three-round war in Bangkok to get where he wants to go. “I want to get back to being a ONE World Champion before I retire. However, I think winning this fight is too early for me to have a shot at gold,” Sam-A remarked. “Everyone is doubting how long an old dog like me can stay in this game, but winning this kickboxing match will boost my confidence and prove that I can still fight.” Sam-A is under no illusion that he is a spring chicken. The Thai star knows he will have to use his veteran savvy to conquer the younger athlete. “This fight should be a challenge because he’s younger than me and he’s a tough fighter. This fight is a test of my body,” the strawweight contender said. With the understanding that he must exploit his opponent’s weaknesses, Sam-A has been working hard to identify Zhang’s flaws. The Thai athlete believes he has the right game plan to secure a major victory inside Lumpinee Stadium. “I discovered many weaknesses in him, such as when he punches, he leaves windows open. My main advantage in this fight is probably my experience. I’ve fought many different styles of fighters, and he’s not new,” the 41-year-old detailed. Even with a 26-year age gap, Sam-A has an unwavering belief that he will get the job done. The electric strawweight kickboxing battle is part of a massive lineup at ONE 169, and Sam-A is ready to steal the show to make his move back into title contention. “This fight should be fun because I will definitely give it my all. Let’s see who will attack more between me and him, or what game plans we will have. I’m confident, 100 percent,” Sam-A said. ONE 169 airs live and free on Prime Video at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST to all Amazon Prime subscribers in the U.S. and Canada on Friday, November 8.

Chuck Norris has worn many hats over the years. Beyond being a world-famous karate champion, he has appeared as a version of himself in cartoons, Marvel comic books, and video games. However, no role has become more synonymous with his legacy than that of Cordell Walker in the iconic 90s series Walker, Texas Ranger . Airing from 1993 to 2001, Walker, Texas Ranger is not only a staple of pop culture but also a significant catalyst for martial arts enthusiasts, inspiring many to take up training. Norris, a black belt in multiple disciplines, including Tang Soo Do and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, truly helped bring authentic martial arts techniques to mainstream television. A prime example of this lasting impact is Chuck Norris's relationship with the now-renowned Machado brothers—Carlos, John, Jean-Jacques, Rigan, and Roger. After they crossed paths in 1988, Norris began training with them. Initially, their sessions took place in the brothers' garage, but Norris later offered a dedicated space to establish their own academy. The Machado brothers would go on to appear on the Walker, Texas Ranger , helping to popularize Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) across the U.S. and beyond. Their contributions—both on the show and in subsequent years—played an extremely vital role in spreading the art of BJJ to a wider audience. Himself a dedicated martial artist, Chuck Norris' character on the show embodies the warrior spirit: someone who fights not for personal gain but to protect and serve. Norris' portrayal highlighted not only his impressive fighting skills but also the importance of discipline, respect, and perseverance—core tenets of martial arts training. Similar to the 1972 series Kung Fu , the show promoted the idea that martial arts is more than just physical combat; it’s a way of life that emphasizes integrity and self-defense. Walker, Texas Ranger's impact is still felt today, with many martial artists citing the show as a source of inspiration. It helped pave the way for future martial arts films and television series, solidifying the genre's place in popular culture. Walker's journey serves as a lasting reminder of the true spirit of a martial artist: to fight for what is right, with honor and respect.

It's time to take your first step toward being able to say, “I learned Muay Thai in Bangkok!” One of the most popular combat sports to emerge during the martial arts boom of the 1980s was Muay Thai, and it’s remained popular in the West ever since. We now have kickboxing federations in most countries with competitions taking place on a regular basis. Because of the art’s reputation for effectiveness, it’s common nowadays for martial artists looking to improve their full-contact skills to train in Thailand. For most of us, however, packing up and relocating to Southeast Asia just isn’t realistic. Fortunately, you can acquire vast amounts of knowledge and skill from a short sojourn — say, the kind you’d experience on a summer vacation. Know the History Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and has been practiced here for hundreds of years. It’s part of the Thai psyche, the fodder of myths and legends that stretch back to the 1600s when the nation was known as Siam. At the time, Siam was at war with neighboring Burma and Cambodia, and Muay Thai was an essential component of the military training of Thai troops. Later, Muay Thai evolved into a fight sport that became popular with the lower strata of society. Not surprisingly, it appealed to countless youngsters who dreamed of becoming champions and gaining fame and fortune — not unlike boxing in Western nations. Nowadays, Muay Thai is also treasured as a means of getting fit, as well as a system of self-defense, both of which make it attractive to people who have no interest in competition. The good news is that in the past 10 years, Thai boxing gyms have proliferated in Bangkok and other major cities, and they’re drawing increasing numbers of foreigners, called farang in the Thai language. Many of those trainees are casual practitioners who may or may not have trained in other martial arts. Nevertheless, they benefit immensely from the experience. Those who happen to be competitors — perhaps in Muay Thai, kickboxing, or MMA — also come here, usually to polish their ring skills or to fight in tournaments to gain experience. That’s led to a population of foreigners who participate at the highest levels of the sport, which has prompted promoters to match them against talented locals. Needless to say, the bouts that result have a true international flavor. Know What to Expect Most training sessions in Thailand run about two hours. The workouts tend to be similar at the gyms that accept farang, but they can differ in intensity and in the technical aspects that are emphasized. Much of the program at the center you wind up in will depend on your level. Often, it will begin with a warm-up and some stretching, followed by shadowboxing. After that may come one-on-one pad work with an instructor, a session on the heavy bag, a few rounds of sparring, clinch work, technique training, and a cool-down. Don’t let any of that scare you off. The warm-up — jumping rope, running in place, and so on — and the stretching will be similar to what you’re used to at home. One thing you may not be familiar with is the truck tires you often see here. Thai martial artists like to bounce on tires while shadowboxing because it limbers up the legs and builds balance. Standing on the edge while moving makes the exercise ideal for learning how to keep your feet in proper position at all times. Another odd training method you might encounter entails using a skateboard. Many coaches will have you stand on one while shadowboxing or hitting pads, claiming it hones your balance and ability to fight in the clinch. As you can see from what I’ve already mentioned, shadowboxing is common in Thai training camps. It fosters smooth combinations and good posture. Your instructor might have you do this in a group or individually in front of a mirror. You may do it as part of your warm-up and possibly as a recuperation break between more strenuous phases of training. The sparring that most foreigners engage in is fairly light, with no real contact. However, if you happen to be an experienced martial artist, the camps will accommodate you with protective gear and a worthy opponent. In general, that more advanced training won’t include clinching, the “ground and pound” of Muay Thai in which knees and elbows come into play. At the gyms I visited, clinching is reserved for the best kickboxers, people who are actually preparing for fights. A large part of your training here will be dedicated to pad work and the heavy bag. Experience has taught Thai instructors that hitting pads is great for developing power and speed while allowing you to practice combinations according to commands. Chances are your trainer will correct you during your workout, pointing out defensive problems and focusing on any weaknesses he spots in your skill set. Know Where to Go To help Black Belt readers determine which Thai gym might be best for fine-tuning their skills, I visited some of the most prominent facilities in Bangkok and worked out with the locals. The following are among the most accommodating ones I found. YOKKAO TRAINING CENTER This centrally located gym is one of the most popular in Bangkok, in part because it shares a name with a leading maker of Muay Thai products and apparel. Yokkao is one of the more upscale clubs, meaning it’s new, clean, and well-equipped, and its staff knows how to cater to foreigners who are beginners or intermediate-level martial artists. The training is directed by Saenchai, a living legend in the Muay Thai world who has more than 300 victories in the ring. Several top Thai boxers are sponsored by Yokkao, and they train here alongside visiting foreigners. That guarantees that the coaches are top-notch, which benefits students of all levels. ELITE FIGHT CLUB This is another unique gym in Bangkok; it’s located on the 10th-floor roof terrace of the Waterford Diamond Tower. From its ring, you’ll have an outstanding view of the city below. Contributing to its uniqueness is its ownership: Elite Fight Club is one of the few training centers in Thailand owned and operated by a foreigner. A Frenchman named Cedric Gautier came to Thailand five years ago and fell in love with the country and its national sport. Since then, he’s fought in several professional bouts and become involved in the Thai boxing scene. In 2017 he took over Elite and put together a program that’s tailored to foreigners who already have a certain level of expertise in the art and who come to Thailand to polish their skills and possibly compete. It has an ambiance of friendliness, and even though it’s casual, it will push you hard. 96 PENANG GYM This is one of the grittiest Muay Thai clubs you’ll find in Bangkok — or anywhere else. It sits in the seedy, semi-industrial slum of Khlong Toei in the southeastern part of the city. Here, you’ll be far from the flowing fountains, lush gardens, and bright lights of downtown. The sidewalks are dirty, and the lots are filled with piles of scrap metal and building material. The gym is sandwiched between an auto-repair shop and a truck-salvage operation. Not surprisingly, the atmosphere at 96 Penang Gym is a little foreboding. It’s dark and dusty with only a couple of neon lights above the ring. One thing you’ll see here that you won’t find in the upscale gyms is a kitchen and a line of tables and chairs. Why? Because 96 Penang follows the traditional Thai practice of accepting promising kids and molding them into Thai boxers, and those kids eat and sleep on the premises. By the time they’re 12 or 13, they’re ready to enter the ring. By the time they’re 18, they’re ready to be full-fledged professionals. Only recently has this gym started accepting foreigners. Several who train here told me they’re totally satisfied with the experience. I also learned that a few farang have opted to immerse themselves in Thai boxing and elected to eat and sleep at the facility with their Thai compatriots. I didn’t get to meet them, however, because when I visited 96 Penang, it was after a weekend of stadium fights and a holiday, which meant most of the fighters were taking some time off. Know What You’ll Spend If this data dump has piqued your interest, you’ll be pleased to learn that Thailand is one of the more affordable vacation destinations in the world. It’s also easy to get around here because so many locals speak English with acceptable fluency. With respect to food and lodging, you’ll be in for a pleasant surprise. Thailand is the world’s capital of “street food.” Just about anywhere you go, you’ll find a kiosk or push cart where you can buy anything from fresh fruit and juice to grilled meat and rice. In the evening, you’ll watch as empty sidewalks turn into open-air restaurants where you can share a table with locals and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. A meal in this kind of rustic setting will cost $2 or $3. At a more traditional restaurant, you’ll spend twice that. Overall, you can eat well on $10 a day. Plenty of cheap hotels exist all over Thailand, although Bangkok tends to be a bit more expensive. Expect to pay between $12 and $20 a night in establishments that range from simple-but-adequate to luxurious. Hostels and dormitories are also available — and cheaper. Perhaps the best approach to finding accommodations is to inquire at the Muay Thai club at which you’ll be training. Note that some gyms offer lodging as well as lessons. In your off time, you’ll probably want to see the sights. The good news is travel in Thailand is not expensive. You can hop on a train, bus, or plane to get from one city to another. Within Bangkok, you’ll enjoy the excellent mass-transit system. The Skytrain from the airport to downtown takes 45 minutes and costs just $3. The three-hour bus ride from Bangkok to Pattaya, a popular tourist destination, is only $8. As far as tuition goes, expect to pay $15 per day for Muay Thai lessons. Commit to a month, and the average rate drops to $250 for two workouts a day six days a week. Check the gym’s website for specific rates and schedules. When you’re ready for a different kind of learning, take in some Muay Thai matches. Contests are held at venues in most cities. If you’re in Bangkok, you can opt for Rajadamnern or Lumpini, the two largest stadiums. They host events several times a week. Pro tip: MX Muay Xtreme is a local TV studio where you can watch top-level bouts every Friday for free. The studio also broadcasts matches daily on television, meaning you can spectate in bars and restaurants for the price of a beer or a meal. Know Yourself So why should you travel to Thailand to train when you can save money and take your regular lessons at your regular dojo? Well, if you compete in full contact, be it kickboxing or MMA, there’s no better place to perfect your strikes. If you train for self-defense, there’s no better place to learn how to generate knockout power. If you have a casual interest in the arts, there’s no better place to expand your horizons while enjoying an exotic vacation. My advice is to jump on the internet and do some research. There’s no need to commit to a training facility before you go. Just collect information on several clubs and then visit them in person. Most offer daily, weekly, and monthly rates, which means you can train for as long or as short a time as you wish. If you’re still having trouble making up your mind, talk to a few foreign fighters who work out at each gym to determine which is the best fit for you. Most experienced farang have trained at several facilities and can offer valuable insights. Whatever your level or goals, training in Thailand is a bucket-list experience. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in an ancient culture while getting to know its ultra-effective martial art.

Almost every day of the week except Sunday, I put on my gi and drive to the dojo, then teach for several hours. I started doing this in 1980, and 38 years later, I find myself repeating the same sequence over and over. Maybe you do likewise, or maybe you’re hoping to embark on your own journey of school ownership. Either way, I’d like to share some of the things that have kept me loving what I do and motivated to continue conveying my art to my students. DERIVE PRIDE from your school name.  You must love it and love saying it so the name elicits a positive reaction from people. I went through a couple of school names before I ended up with Trad Am Karate, which is short for my eclectic system of traditional American karate. The name works well because it reflects our system, it’s easy to say and it has a ring that a community can get to know — which helps get people to train at the school. I didn’t come up with the name overnight; the process entailed writing down a mountain of names and descriptions over the years. I was happy when I made the change. Now if your school name is working as is, that’s great. If not, change it. Warning!  Don’t change your school name too often or in an effort to capitalize on the latest fad. You’ll just seem wishy-washy to the community. Also know that many names have been trademarked. Do some research before you pull the trigger. ESTABLISH A NETWORK for discussing business issues.  The lone wolf doesn’t last many long, cold winters. I meet with a mentor from time to time, as well as a few like-minded people I call regularly. It’s really beneficial to talk to fellow martial artists who can understand the challenges you face, whether they involve teaching, marketing, or social media. Warning!  Avoid being overly critical of your staff or students with your network unless the discussion is a sincere exercise intended to find solutions to particular problems. This includes not bad-mouthing other schools or instructors in your area. A discussion that deteriorates into attacking people who aren’t there will leave you feeling worse and undermine the positive motivation you’re seeking. JOIN AN ORGANIZATION that provides the professional guidance you may need.  There’s no limit to the help you can receive — on curriculum development, school operation, and even rank certifications. Three prominent groups are the American Independent Karate Instructors Association, the Martial Arts Industry Association, and the Independent Karate Schools of America. (Full disclosure: I’m affiliated with IKSA.) You can find others by searching the web. Warning!  Steer clear of groups that require you to make too many changes — such as alterations to your art. Also, avoid those that are operated by people who seek to strip your freedom or independence. FREQUENTLY ATTEND seminars or conventions.  They can motivate you and offer new knowledge and ideas. Case in point: When I attended the 2016 Martial Arts SuperShow, I liked a suggestion from the keynote speaker that pertained to building a “photo op” area in your dojo, one that includes your logo in the background. The speaker then said that whenever you host an event, encourage students to take photos there with their parents/spouses/siblings. When those photos get posted on social media, it’s great exposure for your business. As beneficial as that proved, it was just a fraction of the wisdom I encountered at the SuperShow. There are many other conventions, training camps, and seminars that take place across the country, and most of them will leave you better prepared for running a successful martial arts school. Warning!  Avoid events that make overreaching promises or that guarantee a rank advancement just for paying a fee. ALLOW PEOPLE TO PAY their enrollment fees directly to you.  Let it be a way for them to say you’re an awesome teacher — after all, you’re helping them make their lives better. If asked, be positive about the fees you charge and don’t hesitate to mention that their financial support helps keep your school thriving and vibrant. Warning!  When operating expenses rise, sometimes you have no choice but to raise prices. Don’t feel guilty. The last thing your students want is for you to close down because you can’t pay the bills. And don’t worry about what others in your area are charging. Charge what you need to charge to pay the bills. DEVELOP A POSITIVE MINDSET and start today.  Begin by using positive self-talk. Never say, “I have to teach class now.” Instead, say, “I get to teach class now.” With difficult students, don’t say, “I dread today’s kids class because of so-and-so!” Instead, say, “I can’t wait for the kids class because so-and-so is going to help me become a better instructor.” Another case in point: My wife, who teaches more than I do, used to come home after our community karate classes and say, “Tommy and Timmy (not their real names) were behaving so awfully I don’t want to go there anymore.” I told her, “One day, they’re going to be running the dojo.” Ten years later, my wife said to me, “You were right — Tommy and Timmy were running the dojo today.” It was so rewarding to watch those kids mature and become model students. Positive self-talk also includes telling yourself — and truly believing — that you’ll always get new signups. If you’re positive, you’ll attract positive. If you’re negative, you’ll attract negative, and that can drag you down. Warning!  Don’t spend too much time thinking about circumstances you can’t control. If a new school opens across the street, there’s nothing you can do about it. You can, however, control your attitude. When a new tang soo do school opened near my school, I used it as inspiration to create new window posters and spruce up the lobby. It also motivated me to be a better teacher. It’s all about the silver lining. SPREAD A POSITIVE ATTITUDE to those around you.  One way is to make an effort to be in a good mood and say things out loud that are positive. Also, avoid complaining about personal problems or life in general when your students or their parents are around. Once, I was talking about this very subject on the phone with Dr. Jerry Beasley of AIKIA. He advised me to reply to how-are-you-doing questions with “I’m happy, healthy and terrific.” I’ve been doing that for years — no matter how I feel — because it makes me feel good and never brings others down. ORGANIZE SPECIAL EVENTS at your school to spice up the routine.  For instance, hold day camps during spring break or summer vacation. Conduct training seminars and workshops. Find a guest instructor who will be a good fit with your art. Conduct an occasional tournament at your school and keep it fun and friendly. Warning!  Limit the number of events you have throughout the year, or you’ll wear out and de-motivate your staff. If an event won’t benefit you or your school, don’t hold it. I decided to stop doing day camps because they were harming a few student-instructor relationships, and the breakdown found its way into regular classes. On the other hand, a friend of mine named John Lipari runs day camps at his schools in New York and California, and he’s been doing them with no issues for more than 25 years. FINALLY, ADD SOMETHING to your own training plan.  A handful of my senior students and I started doing the traditional Japanese art of kenjutsu a couple of years ago. We found that adding to our skill set was motivational, and it has spilled over to our students — including those who will need to wait for some time before they’re invited to join us.

Mike Tyson is famous for saying, “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” Think what you want about the former heavyweight boxing champ, but there’s deep wisdom in his words. That wisdom happens to be the reason martial arts instructors so often remind their students about the necessity of having a backup plan. The logic applies whether you’re engaging in a friendly sparring session in the dojo or fighting full contact in the ring. Or battling for your life on the street. Suffice it to say that you should strive to have a Plan B for many, if not all, of your go-to techniques. In other words, you should have a concrete idea of what you’ll do if you take your best shot and for some reason it misses the mark. Ideally, you also will have practiced doing those Plan B moves in a relevant context. Ricardo Liborio has a sixth-degree black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, as well as a black belt in judo. The co-founder and former coach of American Top Team, as well as founder of Brazilian Top Team, he’s a big believer in backup plans in your BJJ strategy. He teaches his advanced students about the importance of this, and he recently collaborated with Black Belt to produce this piece to spread the word. Being a grappler at heart, Liborio, 50, shows in the accompanying photos examples of how he might react if a choke attempt goes south. However, the principles he demonstrates and the words he speaks apply to all martial arts techniques. Conceptualization Think of a physical encounter in which you pit your skills against those of another person as a chess match, Liborio says. Sure, you can play moment by moment, evaluating the board afresh after every move your adversary makes. But that’s for beginners. Advanced competitors use strategy. “You have to think a couple of moves ahead of your opponent,” Liborio says. “That’s how you account for the unexpected and gain the advantage. The best way to guarantee your victory is to make sure you have options and be ready to use them.” Makes perfect sense. But if you’re new to your art — say, you’re a white belt who’s still fine-tuning his or her basic techniques — is that a viable path to follow in the dojo? “In general, white belts aren’t skilled enough to think that way yet,” Liborio says. “If they barely know the techniques, it would be asking too much of them to plan two or three moves ahead. It takes an experienced martial artist to keep their cool and see positions and opportunities when they come. They have to know the basic skills by heart and be able to use them without too much thought.” Another complication arises from the effects that stress has on the human body, Liborio says. “Stress can blur your ‘vision’ of whether a technique will function in a given situation. The more stress you feel, the worse it is. You have to maintain a certain cool to see an opening for a backup move, and that happens only with experience, with training and drilling, with time spent imagining which situations could happen if you try a specific technique and then getting on the mat to find out if you were right.” The challenge is similar — and perhaps worse — in self-defense, he says. “Very few people who haven’t trained extensively in martial arts would be able to do this on the street. For the untrained or those who have just trained a little, self-defense is never as straightforward as they imagine because the techniques they end up trying don’t always work. And that brings us back to the importance of having a backup plan.” Implementation The best way for anyone below the rank of black belt to overcome the aforementioned obstacles is to train with a clear focus on the fundamental techniques of his or her art, Liborio says. “That means repeating the basic moves that are known to happen a lot in the type of fights you’re preparing for. Those moves have to be in your muscle memory. That’s your No. 1 priority.” After that, start adding a second movement and then a third movement that you might be able to transition to should that initial go-to technique fail, he says. “Practice them in the dojo, paying attention to your actions and your opponent’s reactions. Your goal is to learn how to read the other person, read his movements, read his emotions. “This is how you build up a few ‘choreographies’ in your brain and begin putting them in your muscle memory, too. It’s also how you build the knowledge and skills you need to make them happen and, more importantly, to function the same way in unfamiliar situations. It gives you the ability to pick and choose what you do in a fight. “Here, I have to add that you can have all the skills in the world, but if you’re not physically fit, you’re going to struggle with making this work. That’s especially true when you’re facing someone who’s stronger and/or younger and your first technique doesn’t work. In those cases, you have to win by knowledge and by instinct — but you can’t do that if you’re out of gas.” Escalation To improve your acumen in combat, you’ll eventually want to use trickery. “At higher levels in the martial arts, you need to play games with your opponent to set things up,” Liborio says. “Maybe you need to attack an arm to get his neck. Maybe you attack his neck to get an arm. Maybe you attack both at the same time — whatever chance you have, take it. “But to be successful at that, it all has to be structured in your mind. That means you must be prepared. You need to have a good comprehension of the moves and positions so you know which techniques can work together. And for that, you need to do what your instructor or coach says.” To illustrate his point, Liborio cites one of the martial arts–related pitfalls of training in the information age: “We live in a time when people can get as much knowledge as they want for free. You can go to YouTube and learn how to do a flying armbar before you can even do an armbar. But you’re not going to understand the concepts behind the technique. “There’s a reason for the progression that martial arts instructors use. I see this sometimes when I teach guys who are at the highest levels. They don’t think they have time to learn the concepts, but that’s the wrong approach. The coach has to take the time to make sure they understand the concepts. It’s important for them to go deep inside how everything works.” Example: If you go for a triangle choke and your opponent blocks the attempt, it’s your deep knowledge of the concepts behind the technique that will tell you how easy it might be to transition to an armbar from that position. “There are so many setups like that you have to think about to get ready for fighting,” Liborio says. “You have to fundamentally know the transitions between the technique that fails and what you can do as a follow-up, and you have to know how to make that transition as fast as possible.” Mitigation Equally important in any give-and-take encounter is damage control, Liborio says. “You need to know how to react if your first technique does not work and you’re unable to make a second technique work for whatever reason. The worst thing that can happen is you lose position. Much better is getting into a neutral position.” If possible, avoid giving up on a technique unless you have an advantage over your opponent with respect to position, he says. “When you know you have an advantage, don’t spend too much time trying to make a technique work. Instead, let it go and immediately go to your backup plan.” The take-away here is that with proper training and experience, you will have options if your primary move fails, Liborio says. “There’s always something you can do to win. If you’ve already seen the opening, do it. If it requires a setup, you’ll have to do that. Not as good is a situation in which you have to discover what your best option is. If necessary, you go back to a neutral position. That’s how your mind should work. “Carlson Gracie used to tell us, ‘You don’t give up position unless you know exactly where you’re going.’ When you need a second technique in a fight, you have to know where you’re going, and you have to have a sense of urgency.” PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORY SORENSEN

In 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry sailed into Edo harbor (now Tokyo) with four steam-powered warships. The United States was on a mission to open Japan to the outside world, and the arrival of this fleet caused chaos to erupt. It continued until the following year when Perry returned, and a reluctant compromise was reached between East and West. Perry's steamships offered indisputable proof of how far the rest of the world had progressed while Japan had hibernated under two and a half centuries of Tokugawa control. It became apparent that the island nation could no longer live in relative isolation as it had since the 1600s. The resulting Treaty of Kanagawa forced open the door to Japan while closing the doors to the Tokugawa. The rejection of feudalism gained momentum in 1865, and a faction of forward-thinking Japanese sought to restore the Emperor as the supreme ruler. In 1868, the young Emperor Meiji found himself back in power, facing the arduous task of helping his country catch up with the world. Emerging from its futile cocoon, Japan began to metamorphose into a modern nation. However, this transformation did not happen smoothly. The old ways had to be discarded, and new Western methods adopted. Before, the Shogun reigned supreme, and his daimyo controlled the fiefdoms, with samurai maintaining order among merchants and shop owners. Now, the samurai class would be abolished; no longer could they carry two swords or wear a topknot in public. The last Shogun stepped down, and those changes precipitated regional wars across Japan. The movie The Last Samurai  is a good depiction of this era of turmoil. No Need for Martial Arts? Despite the difficulties, Emperor Meiji stayed the course and continued to introduce ideas from the West to infuse new life into ancient Japan. To bolster his reign, he conscripted the first modern national army. To more efficiently mobilize troops, as well as to improve commerce and build infrastructure, he had the first national railroad system constructed. To promote the advantages of these new ways, he encouraged newspapers to publish. Another of his priorities was improving public education to ensure future generations of knowledgeable citizens. Up to this point, only the wealthy could afford an education in the classics; now, everyone would be able to obtain at least a high school diploma. During this upheaval, martial arts were being tossed aside. The rationale was that who needed knives, lances, sickles, arrows, and swords when rifles, grenades, and bombs could ruin the enemy’s day on the battlefield? Many arts were regarded as having outlived their usefulness. Kenjutsu, jujutsu, bojutsu, and other systems, while not outlawed, waned in popularity. Ultimately, however, the martial arts that were to be discarded came to be regarded as integral parts of the new education system—thanks to the efforts of one man. He was trained in the Chinese classics, as well as in a Western education. He studied philosophy, political science, and English before graduating from what would become Tokyo University. Outside college, he took up jujitsu to compensate for his small frame, quick temper, and larger adversaries. After graduation, he accepted teaching positions, first at Gakushuin University and then at a school for the children of the upper class. Later, he became president of a teacher's college. As his career progressed, he continued to practice jiu-jitsu. He polished his skills to such a degree that he was recruited to demonstrate for U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant and other dignitaries. Perhaps just as important as his ability in jujitsu was his proficiency in English, which paid off when, because of his political context in Japanese society and growing connections with the Western world, he was invited to social functions where ideas were discussed by exponents from around the globe. He would later use those ideas to reshape Japanese society. The man in question, of course, is Jigoro Kano —philosopher, statesman, educator, innovator, Judo founder, and the man who saved the martial arts of Japan from extinction. This was possible because Kano understood that the arts represent more than just means of overcoming an adversary; they are ways to foster better human beings. Value of Games One of the reasons the martial arts enjoy their current position in society is that Kano's command of English enabled him to glean important concepts from Great Britain and the United States. In fact, he used those concepts to mold Japan's physical education model. A crucial part of this effort was acknowledging the role that games play in society. In Great Britain, it was long known that games helped prepare a country for conflict, and a bit of tweaking for added safety could physically train participants for the defense of the state. This line of thinking dates back to the Middle Ages, when knights engaged in sword contests and jousting. In more recent times, the Duke of Wellington is remembered for saying, “The Battle of Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton." What are some of the qualities you can find on the playing field or, in our case, in the dojo? The cultivation of the drive to prevail over an adversary or situation. The development of the capacity to strategize to enhance performance. The knowledge that the body can be trained to meet practically any demand. No one in Japan understood this better than Kano. It's what prompted him to state, “The body is the instrument for the purpose of life, without which we have nothing." Adaptations for Modern Society Kano believed that the inherent positive qualities of Japanese martial arts should be preserved in the new education system. However, to do so, he had to make the martial arts palatable to the government and the public. First, he had to make practice safe; then, he had to demonstrate those positive qualities. With his beloved sport of Judo, Kano excluded dangerous techniques such as leg locks and strikes that could permanently damage participants who lacked control. In this way, he was formulating the rules of conduct for sports—badly needed because the concept of organized sports was mostly foreign to Japan. It was certainly foreign to jujitsu, in which a match was expected to continue until one person was put down. Kano was also instrumental in developing the Judo gi. Before he came along, ordinary Japanese kimonos were worn, but they tore regularly. The Judo gi most likely was born out of Kano’s preference for randori over kata and the need to deal with the stresses clothing endured. Knowing that tougher material must exist, he turned to the thick woven happi coats that Japanese firemen wore. With the adoption of the Judo gi, there emerged a sense of uniformity and military order, both of which were accepted by the modernizing nation. Traditionally in Japan, happi coats were worn loose. Kano set out to change that, too. Before the introduction of the belts he envisioned, the Japanese martial arts used the menkyosho system—written letters of recognition indicating students had reached a certain level of expertise. The documents were signed and dated by the instructor. The problem was that teachers rarely offered these letters to their students, and there were no other incentives or markers distinguishing beginners from experts. Kano divided practitioners into two levels: beginners with a white belt and advanced practitioners with a black belt. Later, he established five dan levels for black belts and divided the beginner stage into six levels called kyu, half of which were associated with a brown belt. More Than Physical Practitioners of other arts know Kano because of those belts; practitioners of Judo know him because of his maxims. Three of the most popular are jiko no kansei (self-perfection), jita kyoe (mutual welfare and benefit), and seiryoku zenryo (maximum efficiency with minimum effort). These qualities fostered through Judo training are not only essential to the sport but also transferable to daily life, helping to make society a better place. Moreover, the maxims emphasize the new purpose and goals of what was once traditional jujitsu. Self-perfection : In Judo, this is evident whenever you try to improve a technique. You quickly learn that there are degrees of self-perfection, which are different for everyone and even for the same person at different times. Throwing a cooperating opponent is quite different from throwing a resisting opponent, and both are different from throwing a world-class athlete in the Olympics. When done to its highest form, each can be labeled as perfection; they differ because of circumstances. The important thing is to strive to attain that perfection at whatever level you aspire to reach. Mutual welfare and benefit : You cannot learn Judo without a partner, whether the partner is cooperative or not. There is mutual welfare even when the opponent is competing against you. If you lose, there is benefit from experiencing the mistake. This parallels life, where none of us is alone; we must interact with other people all the time. Maximum efficiency with minimum effort : This can be found in almost every Judo throw. Even against an unwilling opponent, you might find yourself saying, “That seemed like I used no effort at all.” This happens when all your body parts are in alignment at the right time while your opponent's body parts are not. To understand the deeper meaning of these maxims requires effort, practice, willpower, discipline, and help from others. The important thing is that they demonstrate principles that apply to life and not just to Judo. As such, they help build better citizens and a better society—which was precisely what Kano envisioned. Spread Around the World Although we are fortunate to have been born in an age of sporting events and martial arts, this was not always the case. It wasn't until the mid to late 1800s that many of the sports we love—including baseball, football, softball, basketball, and volleyball—were created. This was also the age of physical education in America, a time when movers and shakers at universities began to convey the importance of physical culture. In Japan, Kano not only encouraged the incorporation of Judo, Kendo, and other martial arts into the Japanese education system but also argued for the adoption of Western sports as a means of inculcating positive qualities. His efforts earned him the title of “father of modern sports” in Japan. He later became the first Asian representative to the International Olympic Committee. We owe a debt of gratitude to Kano for saving Japan's martial arts legacy by transforming the bujutsu (martial arts) into the budo (martial ways), thus sparing all the ancient fighting systems from the Meiji chopping block. As with modern sports, the budo survived because they reinforced the positive aspects of physical activities—qualities that translate into improved lives and improved societies, rather than merely what's needed to prevail in battle. The martial ways serve as a microcosm in which we learn and train to be better people than we would have been had we not taken the martial path. Positive qualities are developed more efficiently because there's a lower risk to the ego when mistakes are made in a game, as opposed to when mistakes are made in real life. In the hearts of many, this is reflected in the bowing we do in Judo. Bowing is about demonstrating respect. It's done customarily in Japan when meeting or greeting others, but also as a show of appreciation. For students of the budo, it's an acknowledgment of the gratitude they feel toward their instructor, their dojo, and sometimes even the founder of their art—a man without whose contributions the martial ways likely would not exist.

Why now and why the return? The decision to return to print for Black Belt Magazine was made after careful consideration and consultation with prominent martial artists and industry leaders from both the business world and the martial arts world. As someone who has always focused on moving forward, I questioned how to revitalize a medium that some view as outdated. The answer became clear: by creating content that is important, evergreen and perpetually relevant. Our overarching goal is to expand the publication's reach in the digital realm. However, we also heard the desire for a tangible physical copy—something readers can collect, feel, and own. This sentiment reflects a wish to possess a piece of history rather than just a fleeting digital memory. We are committed to honoring this feedback as we continue to build and enhance our legacy. To achieve this, our focus will remain steadfast on covering the biggest stars, influencers, and legends in martial arts. This was why we loved Black Belt, as it introduced us to masters and stars beyond our dojo. We aim to provide our readers with access to these icons, sharing their ideas and lives while inspiring a new generation of martial artists to take pride in the legacy they are a part of. Our coverage will stand on four pillars: Entertainment Sport Training Master Profiles Entertainment will spotlight the vibrant world of martial arts in film and television. We’ll feature legacy stars and legends like Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. Alongside contemporary superstars such as Jackie Chan, Jet Li, Jean Claude Van Damme, Cynthia Rothrock, Michael Jai White, Scott Adkins and Donnie Yen. We'll also celebrate emerging talents like Iko Uwais and the recent resurgence of Ke Huy Quan, as well as visionary directors and stunt coordinators like David Leitch, J.J. Perry, and Jon Valera. Sport coverage will provide up-to-the-minute coverage of MMA and traditional martial arts, from the UFC to the IJF. Black Belt will be ringside, delivering unbiased coverage of fights and fighters, including current stars like Islam Makhachev, Kayla Harrison, and Valentina Shevchenko and GOATS like Randy Couture and Chuck Liddell. We’ll also pay tribute to the legends of the sport, such as Mike Stone, Bill Wallace, Jeff Smith, Benny Urquidez and Ron Van Clief. Training will encompass a wide range of styles, emphasizing a return to Budo—the traditional principles of martial arts that stress respect, discipline, and the often-overlooked art of self-defense. Our focus will include traditional arts from Brazil, China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, and Thailand, addressing self-defense techniques and mind-body training for optimal performance. We’ll also feature insights from modern combative experts like Jared Wihongi, Graciela Casillas, Tim Kennedy, Olivier Gruner, and Kelly McCann. Finally, if training is the heart of the magazine, then Master Profiles will be its soul. We’ll showcase both legendary figures and rising stars in our industry, from Mas Oyama and Ed Parker to contemporary masters like Burt Richardson, Apolo Ladra, Harinder Singh and David Kovar—those leading the charge in dojos and communities worldwide. "We are thrilled to expand the magazine into new media frontiers and hope our journey continues to motivate and inspire you on your martial arts path. My promise is straightforward: to showcase the best in the field while honoring the greatest decision we've ever made—to learn the martial arts."