Believe it or not, you can access a treasure trove of free classic martial arts films without spending a dime!  Black Belt Magazine's YouTube channel is a goldmine for action movie fans, offering a diverse collection of kung fu flicks, blaxploitation gems, and pulse-pounding 80s action. Ready to dive into a world of high-flying kicks and bone-crunching punches?  Here's a taste of what awaits you: Classic Kung Fu & Action The Screaming Tiger (1972) Witness Jimmy Wang Yu unleash his fury in this classic tale of revenge! When his village is brutally attacked by the Japanese, a skilled martial artist embarks on a bloody quest for vengeance. Expect intense fight choreography and a gripping storyline. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IE819hj6b94 Fighting Ace (1979) John Liu stars in this action-packed story of a young man who conceals his kung fu skills to avenge his parents' murder. Get ready for explosive fight scenes and a plot filled with twists and turns. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Sb9LxHzE7w&t=3s Fight To Win (1987) Cynthia Rothrock showcases her incredible talent in this high-octane film about a group of martial artists battling over ancient Chinese statues. Expect fierce competition, impressive stunts, and Rothrock's signature blend of beauty and badassery. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ti5zB0qN-rM&t=1s L.A. Streetfighters (1985) Phillip Rhee shines in this coming-of-age story about a Korean immigrant who faces challenges when he refuses to join a gang. This film delivers hard-hitting action and a powerful message about staying true to yourself. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktVs0bQXqcs Enter The Game Of Death (1978) Bruce Le takes center stage in this thrilling espionage film set against the backdrop of World War II. Watch as he fights his way through a six-floor tower to retrieve a secret document. This movie is a must-see for fans of classic kung fu cinema. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIFrU1gva64&t=137s Blaxploitation & Urban Action Killpoint (1984) Leo Fong and Richard Roundtree team up in this gritty action thriller about an L.A. cop seeking revenge for his wife's murder. Expect intense shootouts, brutal fight scenes, and a classic blaxploitation vibe. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SyD6B1WPLE&t=2616s Get Christie Love! (1974) Teresa Graves stars as a beautiful undercover policewoman determined to bring down a drug ring. This film is a blaxploitation classic with a strong female lead and plenty of action. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E7wUEra6Cs&t=1s 80s Action Heroes Scorpion (1986) An American spy finds himself protecting an international terrorist in this high-stakes action thriller. Expect explosive action, unexpected twists, and a classic 80s aesthetic. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6MYiOhF-Fo&t=2s Nine Deaths Of The Ninja (1985) Sho Kosugi leads the charge in this action-packed film about anti-terrorist agents rescuing hostages from a ruthless group. Get ready for ninja battles, intense shootouts, and classic 80s action. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1murLB83K0I Death Machines (1976) Three martial artists are transformed into zombie-like assassins in this cult classic. Expect over-the-top action, bizarre plot twists, and a healthy dose of 70s cheese. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgxDbSpBals&t=135s Return Fire: Jungle Wolf 2 (1988) Ron Marchini returns as Steve Parrish in this action-packed sequel. This time, he must rescue his son from a ruthless gang boss. Expect non-stop action, cheesy one-liners, and a healthy dose of 80s nostalgia. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLpSSKw0JYY&t=149s The Black Cobra (1987) Fred Williamson stars in this gritty action film about a cop protecting a photographer from a gang of psychopathic bikers. Expect intense fight scenes, high-speed chases, and Williamson's signature brand of badassery. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwwWVA7W-68&t=10s Martial Arts Mayhem Karate Cop (1991) Ron Marchini stars as the last honest cop in a dystopian future ruled by martial arts gangs. This film is a blend of action and sci-fi, with plenty of martial arts mayhem. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qmjJpoBW_4 Karate Raider (1995) Ron Marchini is back in action as Jake Turner, who must rescue a DEA agent from a drug lord in the Colombian jungle. Expect intense fight scenes, exotic locations, and a classic action hero storyline. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9KXsGO3EvE Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to watch these martial arts movies for free!  Head over to Black Belt Magazine's YouTube channel and get your action fix today! New Movies streamed every weekend!!

The Las Vegas World Judo Championships Veterans 2024 kicked off with a spirited first day, celebrating the achievements of male judokas across four different age categories: M6 (55-59 years), M7 (60-64 years), M8 (65-69 years), and M9 (70+ years). These athletes, representing 17 countries, came together for a thrilling day centered on performance, respect, and camaraderie. In the M7, M8, and M9 categories, competition rules were adapted to prioritize safety, with shime-waza techniques restricted and shorter match durations. But make no mistake — age hasn’t dulled the drive of these seasoned competitors. Each judoka displayed an undying commitment to victory, all while upholding judo's core values of respect for opponents, referees, and the sport itself. The day was filled with emotional moments, with families cheering on the athletes from the sidelines. "Come on, Daddy!" echoed from the crowd, a testament to the unique family-oriented atmosphere that characterizes veteran judo events. The spirit of judo was further exemplified by competitors who, after their matches, donned coaching jackets to support their teammates — embodying the spirit of mutual prosperity envisioned by judo founder Jigoro Kano. Among the victorious athletes, judokas from countries like Mongolia, Japan, USA, Kazakhstan, and France stood out, reaching the highest step of the podium and earning admiration from all. These veteran champions, many of whom have graced the sport for decades, continue to inspire both on and off the mat. Highlighting the day’s celebration was a tribute by the IJF Veterans Commission to athletes who have won the championships ten times or more. Legends like Sandy North (USA), Hendrik Koppe (Netherlands), and Farhad Rajabli (Azerbaijan) were honored, reminding the world that judo is a lifelong passion and a beacon of resilience. As the championships unfold, the Las Vegas World Judo Championships Veterans 2024 prove that age is no barrier to fierce competition, lifelong friendships, and a legacy that inspires society at large. For more news visit.. https://www.ijf.org/news/show/5578 All Photos via ijf.org

On November 9, 2024, Carlos Prates will step into the Octagon for the most significant fight of his life: a main event showdown with UFC veteran Neil Magny at UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Prates, who debuted with the UFC just nine months ago, has had an incredible journey so far, marked by rapid success and remarkable humility. Now, he faces the ultimate test against Magny, a seasoned fighter with a record-breaking number of fights and wins in the UFC’s welterweight division. From Humble Beginnings to UFC Stardom Prates’ journey to the UFC has been nothing short of a dream. Signed after a spectacular performance on Dana White’s Contender Series  in 2023, where he showcased his striking prowess by knocking out Mitch Ramirez, Prates quickly became a name to watch. UFC CEO Dana White himself compared Prates to a young Anderson Silva, igniting excitement for the rising Brazilian talent. Since then, Prates has delivered on that promise with electrifying knockouts over Trevin Giles, Charles Radtke, and Li Jingliang, each of which earned him Performance of the Night honors and put him on a fast track to this main event clash with Magny. Despite his meteoric rise, Prates remains grounded. “Being in the UFC doesn’t dazzle me,” he shared in a recent interview. “I’m grateful that life took me to the world’s greatest organization, but if that hadn’t happened, I would still be a happy man.” He emphasizes that his earnings and success are more for supporting his loved ones than personal gain, saying, “The money I make is to help everyone who has helped me get to where I am.” The Challenge of a Lifetime: Facing Neil Magny Standing across from him on November 9 will be Neil Magny, one of the most experienced fighters in the UFC. Known for his grappling prowess and resilience, Magny has shared the Octagon with some of the sport’s biggest names, including Demian Maia, Rafael Dos Anjos, Carlos Condit, and Robbie Lawler. Prates recognizes the challenge but remains confident. “I respect him a lot,” he said of Magny. “But when we step inside the Octagon, it’s just business. I see myself finishing him in the third or fourth round.” This fight presents a unique test for Prates, who has predominantly relied on his Muay Thai background to secure early finishes. However, against a grappling-oriented opponent like Magny, Prates anticipates a more strategic battle that will demand patience and endurance over five rounds. “Training for this one has been different,” Prates explained, noting the shift to five-round conditioning. “I’m a jiu-jitsu black belt, but in MMA, I prefer striking because it’s the fastest way to end a fight.” A Family Man at Heart Outside the Octagon, Prates is motivated by his role as a father. His recent fight in Perth for UFC 305 allowed him precious time with his daughter, who lives in Australia. Now, with UFC set to return to Australia in February 2025, Prates hopes to secure another fight Down Under and reconnect with his daughter. “My daughter is there, and I want to fight there again,” he shared. “She took me to see kangaroos, and we had an amazing 10 days together. I want to go back, and now it’s in Sydney, which is exactly where my daughter lives.” Though his focus is firmly on his upcoming fight with Magny, Prates can’t help but look forward to this potential family reunion in Sydney. What’s Next for Prates? With 26 pro fights under his belt and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Prates aims to make a statement in his first UFC main event. Victory over Magny would undoubtedly propel him into the UFC’s official welterweight rankings, a milestone he is eager to achieve as he solidifies his place among the sport’s elite. The fight promises fireworks, with Prates’ explosive striking clashing against Magny’s gritty grappling game. Will Carlos Prates continue his astonishing rise with another highlight-reel finish, or will Neil Magny’s experience prove too much? Tune in to UFC Apex on November 9, 2024, to witness this epic main event showdown live on ESPN+.

In the world of combat sports, the emphasis is often on hard training, endurance, and mental toughness. However, a critical yet frequently underestimated element is recovery. For combat athletes, recovery is not just about rest; it’s an essential process that allows the body to repair, build strength, and ultimately improve performance. Failing to prfioritize recovery can lead to injuries, burnout, and a decline in competitive edge. Why Recovery is Essential for Combat Athletes Prevents Injuries and Supports Longevity Recovery helps prevent overuse injuries, which are common in combat sports due to repetitive and intense movements. By giving the muscles, joints, and ligaments time to heal, athletes are less likely to suffer from injuries that could sideline them. Regular recovery practices like stretching, foam rolling, and rest days improve flexibility and muscle resilience, contributing to a longer, more successful career. Enhances Muscle Growth and Repair During training, muscles undergo microscopic damage, which is essential for growth but also requires proper recovery. When athletes allow adequate recovery time, the body can repair and strengthen these muscle fibers, leading to improved performance and greater muscle mass. Recovery also promotes the release of growth hormone, which is crucial for building lean muscle and reducing fat—a combination that boosts power and endurance in combat sports. Boosts Mental Sharpness and Resilience Combat sports demand high levels of mental focus and discipline. Recovery plays a vital role in cognitive performance, helping athletes maintain mental clarity, emotional stability, and resilience. Activities like meditation, visualization, and mental relaxation are key aspects of recovery, aiding athletes in staying composed under pressure and focused during competitions. Balances Hormones and Reduces Fatigue High-intensity training can lead to hormonal imbalances, causing fatigue, irritability, and even reduced immune function. Recovery helps stabilize stress hormones like cortisol and promotes the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, which reduce stress and enhance mood. Combat athletes who prioritise recovery experience more balanced energy levels, improved sleep, and reduced symptoms of burnout. Types of Recovery: Finding the Right Balance Active Recovery Light exercises, such as jogging, yoga, or swimming, improve blood circulation and help reduce lactic acid buildup, accelerating muscle recovery. Active recovery is particularly beneficial after high-intensity workouts, as it allows athletes to stay active without the strain of rigorous training. Sleep: The Ultimate Recovery Tool Sleep is essential for physical and mental restoration. During deep sleep, the body repairs muscle tissue, strengthens the immune system, and processes information. Combat athletes who consistently get 7-9 hours of quality sleep have sharper reflexes, better decision-making skills, and stronger immune systems, all of which contribute to superior performance. Hydration and Nutrition for Recovery Replenishing nutrients and fluids post-training is essential for recovery. Proper hydration helps prevent muscle cramps, and nutrient-dense meals with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats support muscle repair and energy restoration. Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, help reduce inflammation, while protein helps rebuild muscle tissue. Massage and Foam Rolling Massage therapy and foam rolling help release muscle tension, improve blood flow, and speed up recovery. Regular sessions can reduce muscle soreness and improve flexibility, which is essential for the fluid, agile movements needed in combat sports. Foam rolling between training sessions helps athletes avoid stiffness and maintain flexibility, making every workout more productive. Cold Therapy and Heat Therapy Ice baths, cold showers, and cryotherapy are popular for reducing inflammation and alleviating muscle soreness. Conversely, heat therapy helps relax muscles, reduce stiffness, and increase circulation. Alternating between cold and heat therapy can improve circulation and accelerate recovery, helping combat athletes feel more energised. Long-Term Benefits of Prioritising Recovery Increased Endurance and Stamina By balancing training intensity with recovery, athletes can build stamina and improve endurance without overloading their bodies. This combination allows fighters to perform at a high level for extended periods, enhancing their ability to endure long matches without losing strength or focus. Faster Adaptation and Skill Progression Regular recovery enhances the body's ability to adapt to increased training loads and absorb new skills. As the body heals and builds strength, athletes experience improved agility, flexibility, and strength, allowing them to master techniques faster and compete more effectively. Sustained Motivation and Focus Athletes who integrate recovery into their routine experience reduced mental and physical burnout, enabling them to train consistently and with greater intensity. Consistent recovery fosters a healthy balance between pushing limits and staying energised, which keeps athletes motivated and invested in their growth over time. Practical Tips for Building a Recovery Routine Plan Rest Days : Schedule at least one rest day per week, focusing on activities like stretching, light walks, or gentle yoga. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene : Set a consistent sleep schedule, minimize screen time before bed, and create a relaxing pre-sleep routine. Incorporate Stretching : Spend 10–15 minutes after training sessions stretching to improve flexibility and release tension in key muscle groups. Listen to Your Body : Pay attention to signs of fatigue or soreness. If you’re feeling overly drained, scale back training intensity and focus on rest. Recovery as the Key to Competitive Success For combat athletes, recovery is more than a break—it’s a fundamental part of their training strategy. By embracing a structured recovery plan, fighters can achieve optimal physical and mental performance, stay injury-free, and maintain long-term success. Recovery isn’t a luxury; it’s the secret weapon that allows athletes to train harder, fight smarter, and become the best versions of themselves in the ring and beyond.

The cover of the Spring 1977 issue of Fighting Stars  showcased the legendary Bruce Lee, poised for action. Known for his lightning-fast strikes and innovative approach to training, Bruce Lee truly made a significant impact on the world. With Lee's artistry establishing him as a legendary figure both on and off the screen, it's no wonder his presence can still be felt decades after his passing. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

The UFC flyweight division heats up this Saturday as former champion Brandon Moreno takes on rising star Amir Albazi in a high-stakes showdown at UFC Edmonton. Scheduled for November 2, 2024, at Rogers Place, the event promises intense action as both fighters vie to cement their standings in one of the UFC’s most competitive divisions. Here’s a breakdown of the main event - Brandon Moreno vs. Amir Albazi, the journey leading up to it, and what fans can expect when these two electrifying flyweights collide. The Build-Up: How We Got Here Brandon Moreno, known for his relentless pace and dynamic skill set, reigned as the UFC Flyweight Champion before his rivalry with Deiveson Figueiredo took him on a roller-coaster journey of title defenses and rematches. Moreno has showcased resilience, bouncing back from his ups and downs with an impressive record, making him one of the division's most respected fighters. After losing the title, he’s been on a mission to climb his way back to the top, securing wins over top contenders and proving his mettle once again. On the other hand, Amir Albazi has been steadily rising, making waves with his powerful grappling and calculated striking. Undefeated in his last five outings, Albazi has earned his spot in the upper ranks of the division with strategic wins and a rapidly growing fanbase. Known for his ability to adapt and neutralize opponents’ strengths, Albazi’s journey from a prospect to a main event fighter speaks volumes about his skill and dedication. This main event was set in motion after Moreno’s decisive win over Kai Kara-France, while Albazi’s recent victory over top contender Alex Perez solidified his position as a worthy challenger. With both fighters riding high on recent wins, the stage is set for a showdown that could determine the next in line for a title shot. The Fighters’ Backgrounds: Strengths and Skills Brandon Moreno  is a well-rounded fighter with a knack for adapting in the cage. His striking is precise, and his grappling is slick, often luring opponents into submission attempts from positions they thought were safe. Moreno’s experience as a former champion gives him an edge in high-pressure situations, making him a formidable opponent for any flyweight. Known for his tenacity and cardio, Moreno rarely tires, which could give him the upper hand in a five-round battle. Amir Albazi , meanwhile, brings a grappling-heavy approach and a laser focus in the cage. He’s known for his smooth transitions on the ground and has a habit of taking control from the get-go, dictating the pace with effective takedowns and relentless pressure. Albazi’s striking has improved considerably, allowing him to stand toe-to-toe with strikers and find openings to transition into his grappling game. His adaptability and mental toughness will be essential in facing a seasoned opponent like Moreno. What to Expect on Fight Night Fans can anticipate a technical clash between Moreno’s precision striking and Albazi’s aggressive grappling. Moreno’s experience and well-rounded skill set may give him an edge in prolonged exchanges, but Albazi’s grappling could become a serious threat if he manages to take the fight to the ground. The five-round main event format will test both fighters' endurance, adding another layer of excitement. Keys to Victory : Moreno : For Moreno, keeping the fight on the feet and using his striking to wear down Albazi will be crucial. His ability to stuff takedowns and create openings with combinations could frustrate Albazi and lead him to make mistakes. Albazi : Albazi will look to close the distance early and test Moreno’s takedown defense. His control on the mat could be a game-changer if he manages to trap Moreno in uncomfortable positions and keep him guessing. Prediction: Will Experience or Rising Momentum Prevail? This is a fight that has all the makings of a classic – the seasoned former champion versus the hungry up-and-comer. Moreno’s experience in title fights may give him the composure to handle Albazi’s relentless pressure, but Albazi’s determination and recent form make him a live underdog. Expect a competitive battle where both fighters leave everything in the Octagon. Will Moreno’s experience and tenacity prove too much, or will Albazi’s grappling prowess and drive for the title push him to a career-defining win? Tune in this Saturday to witness the answer as two flyweight titans clash in Edmonton’s Rogers Place for what promises to be an unforgettable main event.

Get ready for an action-packed night as UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Albazi comes to Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, on November 2, 2024 ! Fans worldwide can catch the showdown live on ESPN+, with a headlining Flyweight title clash between Brandon Moreno  and Amir Albazi  that promises high-octane action. From the thrilling female Flyweight co-main event featuring Rose Namajunas  and rising star Erin Blanchfield  to a series of heavyweight battles on the main card, this fight night is stacked with dynamic matchups and explosive bouts. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of each fight! Main Event: Flyweight Bout – Brandon Moreno vs. Amir Albazi The main event sees Brandon Moreno , former Flyweight champion and fan favorite, take on Amir Albazi , an emerging contender known for his grappling finesse. Moreno’s striking and Albazi’s grappling set up a classic clash of styles. Can Moreno reclaim his throne, or will Albazi’s ground game secure his spot among the Flyweight elite? Co-Main Event: Flyweight Female Bout – Rose Namajunas vs. Erin Blanchfield Former Strawweight queen Rose Namajunas  steps up to face Erin Blanchfield  in the Flyweight division. Namajunas brings her elite striking and championship experience against Blanchfield’s relentless pace and ground control. This bout will either showcase Namajunas’s adaptability or solidify Blanchfield’s claim to the Flyweight elite. Main Card Heavyweight: Derrick Lewis vs. Jhonata Diniz Heavyweight knockout artist Derrick Lewis  meets Jhonata Diniz  in a fight that likely won’t go the distance. Known for his one-punch power, Lewis will look to test Diniz’s durability in the Octagon. Diniz, however, is no stranger to striking and could make his mark in this all-action battle. Heavyweight: Caio Machado vs. Brendson Ribeiro Two rising Heavyweight prospects clash as Caio Machado  faces Brendson Ribeiro . Both fighters bring power and grit, making this a battle of who can impose their will first. Machado’s crisp striking may counter Ribeiro’s aggressive approach, promising fans a heated exchange. Middleweight: Marc-André Barriault vs. Dustin Stoltzfus In the Middleweight division, Canada’s own Marc-André Barriault  takes on Dustin Stoltzfus . Known for his durability, Barriault will look to leverage home advantage and his heavy hands. Stoltzfus aims to counter with his grappling skills, setting up a test of endurance and tactics. Welterweight: Mike Malott vs. Trevin Giles Canadian Welterweight Mike Malott  battles Trevin Giles  in a fight that mixes speed with power. Malott’s explosive style and knockout potential will clash with Giles’s composure and technique, promising an exciting matchup that could go either way. Preliminary Card Bantamweight: Aiemann Zahabi vs. Pedro Munhoz Aiemann Zahabi  looks to make his mark in front of a Canadian crowd against Pedro Munhoz , an experienced Bantamweight striker. Zahabi’s balanced skill set faces the challenge of Munhoz’s power, making this an intriguing bout for fans. Flyweight Female: Ariane Lipski vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius Brazilian striker Ariane Lipski  squares off with Canada’s Jasmine Jasudavicius . Lipski’s aggressive stand-up game will meet Jasudavicius’s grappling-heavy approach, adding another layer to this international rivalry. Featherweight: Charles Jourdain vs. Victor Henry Canada’s Charles Jourdain  meets Victor Henry  in a high-energy Featherweight bout. Both fighters bring a go-forward style, promising a crowd-pleasing battle where neither will hold back. Heavyweight: Alexandr Romanov vs. Rodrigo Nascimento Alexandr Romanov  returns to the Octagon against Rodrigo Nascimento  in a clash of Heavyweight powerhouses. With Romanov’s wrestling and Nascimento’s striking, this fight could end in a flash. Bantamweight: Serhiy Sidey vs. Garrett Armfield Canadian Serhiy Sidey  goes up against Garrett Armfield  in a promising Bantamweight matchup. Sidey’s aggressive grappling style faces Armfield’s counterattacking striking game, creating an exciting dynamic for fans. Bantamweight: Chad Anheliger vs. Cody Gibson Chad Anheliger  faces Cody Gibson  in a bout expected to be fast-paced and high-pressure. Anheliger’s determination to break into the upper ranks may clash with Gibson’s unyielding fighting style, making this a battle to watch. Flyweight Female: Jamey-Lyn Horth vs. Ivana Petrović Canada’s Jamey-Lyn Horth  meets Ivana Petrović  in an exciting Flyweight Female bout. Both women bring a relentless pace and will look to gain momentum in a crowded division. Featherweight: Jack Shore vs. Youssef Zalal Jack Shore  faces Youssef Zalal  in a Featherweight bout that promises a blend of tactical prowess and fast exchanges. Both fighters are known for their technical skill, and this matchup is likely to be a fan favorite. This card promises explosive action across all divisions. With Moreno and Albazi  headlining, every bout on this card brings intrigue, national pride, and knockout power! Be sure to tune in for what’s shaping up to be one of the most thrilling fight nights of the year.

ONE Championship  has inked two standout submission aces for its global talent roster. The promotion announced that 19-year-old sensation Cole Abate and two-time IBJJF World Champion Dante Leon will come to the global stage to display their incredible ground games in the near future. Leon captured gold at the IBJJF No-Gi World Championships in 2019 and 2022. In 2023, he continued his impressive run with a dual-gold showing at the IBJJF Pan-American Championships. After winning the 155-pound medal, Leon defeated Devhonte Johnson in the finals of the super-heavyweight division. The Canadian has shown his skills against many of the best and will not try to make his mark on the global stage to show the world what skills he has on the mat. Abate already has a solid resume for himself as a teenager. At 16, Abate won gold at the ADCC North American Trials to earn his way to the ADCC World Championships. The Art of Jiu-Jitsu star was awarded his black belt last summer. The American is prepared to take his new status into ONE and achieve new heights against the stacked roster of competitors. The Texan has wins over Geo Martinez, Estevan Martinez, and many more. As he continues to improve and mature, Abate could be the future of the sport. However, every grappler will look to stymie the teen and ensure the future is not the present. Debuts for the two newest additions have yet to be revealed. When their first appearances arrive, it will be a guaranteed must-watch for any martial arts fan.

At ONE 169, on Friday, November 8, Anatoly Malykhin will defend the ONE Heavyweight MMA World Championship against "Reug Reug" Oumar Kane. While "Sladkiy" always envisioned his name on the marquee, those around him throughout his youth did not foresee the greatness he saw in himself. "I have an interesting story. At school, I wasn't very good at academics but always loved sports. I used to escape classes to do physical training and spent much time there," Malykhin stated to ONE. My math teacher always brought me to the board and asked, 'What's going on with you, Anatoly?' I said, 'I really mean it: I will become a World Champion. This is my dream, and I can tell you for sure I will.'" "And she always laughed, saying, 'Calm down, what World Championship are you talking about?'" To say that Malykhin proved those who doubted wrong would be an understatement. The Russian powerhouse stormed through ONE Championship with fierce results to claim the ONE Middleweight, Light Heavyweight, and Heavyweight World Titles. Ahead of his main event matchup against Kane, Malykhin has been able to bask in the results to date that have seen him achieve his dreams. "It has always been my dream. I always wanted to be an athlete and reach high results, become a World Champion, and my dream has come true. Despite everything that happened in my life, I have made it and realized my childhood dream," the Russian remarked. Malykhin's biggest supporter is the only one who championed him along his journey to the top — his wife, Anita. "A lot of people on my way, when I said I was going to be a World Champion, practically all of them laughed in my face. 'Anatoly, what are you talking about, you and the World Championship? We are from Kemerovo, a small city. Calm down,'" Malykhin said. "There was only one person I met on my way… only Anita said, 'You are going to do it.'" Looking back on his pathway to becoming a superstar, "Sladkiy" has a new perspective that he hopes he can pass along to those chasing their own dreams. It is the simple message of never giving up. "It was my childhood dream to become a World Champion, and I managed to become a triple World Champion, so I'm going to cherish my childhood dream," Malykhin replied. "I just wanted people to realize: If you believe in something strongly and you are ready to sacrifice a lot, then you will succeed. I wish that people on this planet would never give up." "Regardless of how hard it is, always keep moving, and I think when you find your way, you will come across the right people on your way." As the sport's first-ever three-division World Champion, Malykhin has already carved out a spot for himself in the history books. However, he hopes his legacy extends beyond the ring and connects with future generations. Malykhin wants to be an inspiration to all those who have been told they are not good enough. "I wish to leave a legacy not in the form of my belts or triple championships, but the path I have walked in this life, so that people can see that anything is possible. An ordinary guy can… just can," the three-division mentioned," Malykhin said. "If God gave you opportunities that other people don't have, you need to share these opportunities with the rest of the world, to bring good and good deeds." ONE 169 airs live on Friday, November 8, on Prime Video to all Amazon Prime subscribers based in the U.S. and Canada at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The UFC is set to close out its 2024 season with an electrifying welterweight showdown as undefeated Ian Machado Garry takes on the knockout artist Joaquin Buckley on December 14 in Tampa. This high-stakes clash between two surging contenders could determine the next top contender in the welterweight division, setting the stage for an intense 2025 title race. With a perfect 15-0 professional record, Ian Machado Garry has dominated the welterweight scene since joining the UFC in November 2021. Known as “The Future,” the 26-year-old Irish sensation has delivered impressive performances, including knockout victories over Jordan Williams, Song Kenan, and Daniel Rodriguez, as well as decision wins against elite fighters like Neil Magny, Geoff Neal, and Michael “Venom” Page. Machado Garry’s consistent success has secured his spot among the welterweight elite, and he’s repeatedly voiced his desire for a top-five matchup—most notably with former interim champ Colby Covington. While that fight never materialized, Garry aims to close out 2024 with his sixth win in two years, strengthening his case for a title shot in the coming year. Meanwhile, Joaquin Buckley, known as “New Mansa,” has been on a meteoric rise in the welterweight division since transitioning from middleweight. Bursting into the spotlight with his viral knockout of Impa Kasanganay in 2020, Buckley initially built a 5-4 record in the middleweight ranks, collecting four performance bonuses along the way. After back-to-back losses at the close of 2022, he opted to drop to 170 pounds, where he has since delivered five consecutive victories. Buckley’s recent knockout of Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson at UFC 307 has propelled him up the rankings and into the spotlight, making him one of the most feared welterweights outside the top five. As the year’s final UFC main event, this fight promises fireworks in Tampa and carries title implications for both fighters. While the division’s immediate future hinges on whether champion Belal Muhammad can defend his title against undefeated challenger Shavkat Rakhmonov, a decisive win for either Machado Garry or Buckley could put them in prime position for a title shot in 2025. Stay tuned to www.blackbeltmag.com  for the latest UFC news and updates as this thrilling matchup approaches.

"One of the major speed bumps is the need to do something... the more you seek, the less you find." – Alan Baker In this episode, Harinder Singh Sabharwal is joined by the incredible Sifu Alan Baker. Baker is a professional martial artist, author, and tactical trainer with a deep commitment to the art, the lifestyle, and the warrior mindset. He's a rare example of a complete martial artist, blending knowledge across styles— His expertise spans Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wing Chun, Jeet Kune Do, Kali, Keysi Fighting Method and more, making him a dynamic instructor with an emphasis on both the art and science of combat. As the founder of the Atlanta Martial Arts Center , Baker has built a reputation for bridging traditional martial arts, self-defense, and tactical training. In addition to running his academy, Baker is the creator of the Civilian Tactical (SeaTac) Program , designed to bring practical self- defense and personal protection training to civilians. His unique approach has been sought out by law enforcement agencies, military groups, and protection specialists. Baker is not only a martial artist but a lifelong student and advocate of the warrior mindset, integrating practices like Qigong and breath control into his teachings to help individuals develop balance, resilience, and focus. This episode is packed with wisdom, so whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or just beginning your path, get ready to be inspired. Click the link below to listen now on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3t227s4 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3KvsIDy Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3Kxcg5D Main Directory: https://theblackbeltpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

The UFC is returning to Edmonton for the first time since 2019, featuring two exciting flyweight contenders' matchups. Former UFC flyweight champion and the No. 2 ranked Brandon Moreno will face off against No. 3 ranked Amir Albazi in a crucial bout. Additionally, the No. 3 ranked flyweight contender Erin Blanchfield will take on No. 5 Rose Namajunas in the first women's non-title, five-round co-main event in UFC history. Here are the Weigh-In Results | UFC Edmonton. UFC FIGHT NIGHT: MORENO vs ALBAZI is set to happen on Saturday, Nov. 2 at Rogers Place, with the main card starting at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT on ESPN+. The preliminaries will be streamed on ESPN+ at 5 pm ET/2 pm PT. In Canada, the event will be broadcasted on Sportsnet and TVA Sports. The main event and co-main event are scheduled for five rounds, while all other fights are set for three rounds. MAIN CARD Main Event - Flyweight Bout: Brandon Moreno (125.5) vs Amir Albazi (125.5) Co-Main Event - Women’s Flyweight Bout: Erin Blanchfield (125.5) vs Rose Namajunas (125) Light Heavyweight Bout: Caio Machado (205) vs Brendson Ribeiro (205) Middleweight Bout: Marc-Andre Barriault (185) vs Dustin Stoltzfus (185.5) Welterweight Bout: Mike Malott (170.5) vs Trevin Giles (170)    PRELIMS Bantamweight Bout: Aiemann Zahabi (135.5) vs Pedro Munhoz (135)  Women’s Flyweight Bout: Ariane Da Silva (125) vs Jasmine Jasudavicius (125)    Bantamweight Bout: Charles Jourdain (135) vs Victor Henry (135)  Featherweight Bout: Jack Shore (145.5) vs Youssef Zalal (145)  Heavyweight Bout: Alexandr Romanov (261) vs Rodrigo Nascimento (264)  Bantamweight Bout: Serhiy Sidey (135) vs Garrett Armfield (135) Bantamweight Bout: Chad Anheliger (135) vs Cody Gibson (135.5)    Women’s Flyweight Bout: Jamey-Lyn Horth (126) vs Ivana Petrovic (125)