Former ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Adriano Moraes has a new motivation to win at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Friday, November 8. When “Mikinho” makes his walk down the aisle inside Lumpinee Stadium to square off with Danny Kingad, he will be doing so as a father. “Our family has grown, thank God. Now we have a little angel named Lila. Fatherhood was something I never imagined for my life, especially because I was very afraid because I was a child who grew up without a father,” Moraes revealed to ONE. “I had a lot of doubts about this issue, but of course, with time, with experience, we mature to the idea. After I got married, my wife and I evolved and decided to be parents. It’s been really good. It was the best thing that ever happened in my life.” Balancing his new life at home with preparing for a showdown of top contenders has proved to be challenging for Moraes. However, he has loved every minute of the journey. “It’s only been three months, but I’m doing my best. It’s been a marathon, but it’s been really nice, and I’m enjoying every moment with them,” the former flyweight champion remarked. “I was already defending the queen, and now I’m defending the little princess of the house.” The match could elevate the winner to a position to challenge for the vacant ONE Flyweight MMA World Title. Moraes is currently ranked as the #1 contender in the division, and Kingad holds the #3 slot. While the match has huge implications within the division following Demetrious Johnson’s retirement, it is just as much a driving force for Moraes to leave a legacy for his daughter to view when she is older. “I am definitely more motivated. I want to set an example. I want to show her that, with a lot of love and dedication, everything we do will work out. I want her to be proud of her father, of everything I have built and will continue to build for our family,” the Brazilian said. “I want her to one day be able to see my story, everything I went through to get here, and for this to serve as inspiration for her so that she can also achieve her dreams.” “Mikinho” is already planning for his daughter’s future, and he envisions sports as a vital piece of her childhood. As an athlete, he knows the values and traits that are instilled through sports will help build her character in addition to the skills she’ll gain. “Lila will definitely practice a lot of sports. I believe that sports are what help to discipline children. Swimming is one of the most complete sports. It helps people to breathe and get in good physical condition,” Moraes said. “And jiu-jitsu, of course. She will have to learn self-defense. I really dream of seeing her in a kimono, going to classes, training with her daddy. And in jiu-jitsu, she will learn about respect, because on the mat, children learn discipline.” As a BJJ black belt, Moraes understands the positives the sport can bring. The American Top Team athlete has shown his elite ground game on the global stage throughout his career. That is why he plans to make Brazilian jiu-jitsu a pillar for his daughter when she’s old enough. “Just as jiu-jitsu changed my life and the lives of many people, many of my friends and acquaintances, I am sure that jiu-jitsu will be an indispensable tool for Lila’s growth,” Moraes commented. “I am sure it will be very good for her, just as it is good for all children. I am sure that jiu-jitsu will help her a lot in life.” ONE 169 airs live and free on Prime Video at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT for all Amazon Prime subscribers in the U.S. and Canada on Friday, November 8.

BRAVE CF 89 took Spanish MMA fans by storm, making history as the first-ever MMA world title fight on Spanish soil. While the highly anticipated main event attracted attention in the lead-up to the event, it was an undercard bout between Anuar Bensayid vs Sino Sabzaliev that stole the show, emerging as a potential "Fight of the Year" contender. Anuar Bensayid, returning to BRAVE Combat Federation after a spectacular first-round stoppage at BRAVE CF 75, entered the cage with something to prove. With a loss and a draw in his last two fights, the pressure was on for him to secure a win and reestablish himself as a force in the organization. On the opposite side, Tajikistani Sambo Champion Sino Sabzaliev stepped into the BRAVE CF cage for the first time, riding high after a first-round finish in his previous bout. His goal was clear: to make a lasting impression on the global MMA scene in his promotional debut. The fight kicked off with Bensayid showcasing his superior striking, while Sabzaliev, as expected, dominated on the ground. But it was in the second round where the action truly ignited, delivering one of the most intense rounds in BRAVE CF history. Both fighters threw caution to the wind, engaging in a relentless back-and-forth, with Sabzaliev proving he could go toe-to-toe with Bensayid’s elite striking despite his grappling pedigree. The crowd roared as neither fighter backed down, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Bensayid's persistent leg kicks began to take their toll on Sabzaliev, and in the third round, Bensayid’s determination paid off, securing a TKO victory and snapping his two-fight winless streak. The fight, initially flying under the radar, became the night’s standout moment, overshadowing the big-name bouts on the card. Although Sabzaliev tasted defeat, he earned the respect of the Spanish crowd with his gritty performance. As for Bensayid, his thrilling victory has fans eagerly waiting to see what's next in his BRAVE CF journey. After such a high-octane bout, the future is bright for both fighters, making them two names to watch in the global MMA scene.

ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon will defend his gold at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug against a familiar foe. On November 8, “The Iron Man” will see Jacob Smith standing across the ring from him in Bangkok, Thailand. The two first met during the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix in 2022, where Rodtang took home a unanimous decision victory. Having already gone three rounds with Smith, Rodtang knows he is in for a tough match at ONE 169. “The best weapon for Jacob is his durability. His durability makes him a hard opponent for everyone,” Rodtang told ONE. “I think my speed will give me an advantage over him. In our first fight, I fought him with my speed and agility.” Although Rodtang expects a stiff challenge, he is not too concerned with what the Brit brings into the battle. “The Iron Man” expects nothing new from Smith once the bell rings. “He’s still the same in terms of his style. It’s like his engine is slow to heat up. He thinks and acts a bit slow,” the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion remarked. Still, Rodtang will look to end the match early. The Thai star hopes to pick up another highlight-reel victory on the global stage and grab a few extra dollars in the process. “I will do my best to knock him out. I wanted to knock him out because I wanted the bonus,” Rodtang stated. “But I can’t underestimate my opponent because Jacob Smith is tough and durable. With his strong physique, I can’t underestimate him.” Leading up to his latest title defense, Rodtang is making sure his weight is on point. The Jitmuangnon Gym star knows he could lose the title on the scale just as easily as he could in the ring. “I will do anything to make sure that I don’t make the same mistake again because if I make another mistake, the belt will slip out of my hands,” Rodtang mentioned. In front of a red-hot Bangkok crowd, Rodtang will hear deafening roars. “The Iron Man” wants to use this platform to keep growing the sport worldwide and deliver another unforgettable performance for the Lumpinee Stadium crowd. “I would like to leave a message for everyone: I will do my best for this fight. I want all the fans in Thailand to come to see this fight at the stadium or watch it on local TV,” the Thai star said. “Everyone, please cheer me on. I want Muay Thai to reach an even greater level around the world. I am one person who will help promote Muay Thai as far as possible.” ONE 169 airs live and free on Prime Video at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT to all Amazon Prime members in the U.S. and Canada on Friday, November 8.

On October 26, 2024, the highly anticipated co-main event of UFC 308: Topuria vs Holloway will finally take place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, where former UFC Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker faces the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev in a five-round battle. After multiple postponements, the long-awaited clash between the two middleweight powerhouses is set to deliver an explosive contest, with fans eager to see if "The Reaper" can halt Chimaev's meteoric rise. Robert Whittaker’s UFC Journey: A Champion's Resilience Robert Whittaker’s UFC career is a testament to persistence, heart, and skill. The former middleweight champion has faced the best in the division, from Yoel Romero to Israel Adesanya, and always steps up when the stakes are highest. Whittaker, who initially started his UFC career as a welterweight, transitioned to middleweight in 2014 and found his true calling, capturing the UFC Middleweight Championship in 2017 after defeating Romero in an epic war. Despite setbacks, including his loss to Adesanya in 2019, Whittaker has continually proven his resilience by defeating top contenders such as Jared Cannonier, Kelvin Gastelum, and most recently Paulo Costa. Whittaker’s most recent victory came earlier this year when he decisively finished Costa. Not one to back down, he was originally scheduled to face Chimaev in June 2024, but when Chimaev pulled out due to illness, Whittaker took on rising star Ikram Aliskerov and won with a devastating sub-two minute knockout. This victory cemented his status as one of the top contenders in the middleweight division and put him right back in the title conversation. The Long-Awaited Showdown: Whittaker vs Chimaev The bout between Whittaker and Chimaev has been building for months, and fans have been eagerly awaiting this matchup. Chimaev, undefeated at 13-0, has rapidly risen through the UFC ranks, known for his relentless pressure, powerful striking, and dominant wrestling. Many see him as the future of the division, but standing in his way is one of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC. For Whittaker, this fight marks a pivotal moment in his career. He is determined to earn another shot at the title, currently held by Dricus Du Plessis, and believes this fight against Chimaev brings him one step closer. “Every win pushes me closer to my goal of getting that belt wrapped around my waist again,” Whittaker said in a recent interview. Strengths and Weaknesses: Breaking Down the Fighters Robert WhittakerStrengths: Versatility:  Whittaker’s ability to blend striking, grappling, and cage control is unmatched. He’s equally comfortable fighting on the feet or engaging in grappling exchanges. Fight IQ:  "The Reaper" has fought elite competition and consistently showcases his ability to adjust mid-fight, taking away his opponent's strengths. Cardio:  Whittaker has been through numerous five-round wars, proving he has the endurance to push the pace for 25 minutes. Experience:  With battles against top-tier fighters like Adesanya, Romero, and Gastelum, Whittaker has the edge in terms of big-fight experience. Weaknesses: Defensive Vulnerabilities:  While his offense is sharp, Whittaker has shown in past fights that he can be caught by counter-strikes, particularly against a powerful striker like Chimaev. Wrestling Defense:  Although a solid grappler, Whittaker has struggled against strong wrestlers in the past, and Chimaev’s relentless takedowns could challenge him. Khamzat ChimaevStrengths: Relentless Wrestling:  Chimaev’s wrestling is his greatest weapon. He applies relentless pressure, shooting for takedowns early and often, and once he secures top position, he dominates his opponents with ground-and-pound. Forward Pressure:  Chimaev’s aggressive fighting style forces his opponents onto the back foot, giving them little room to implement their own strategies. Power:  Chimaev carries devastating power in his strikes, both on the feet and on the ground. His knockout victories have shown he’s just as dangerous with his hands as he is with his wrestling. Confidence:  Undefeated and brimming with confidence, Chimaev’s belief in his abilities could be his biggest asset. He’s convinced that he can break any opponent. Weaknesses: Inexperience in Deep Waters:  Despite his perfect record, Chimaev has yet to face an opponent of Whittaker’s caliber for five rounds. If Whittaker can drag the fight into the later rounds, Chimaev may find himself in uncharted territory. One-Dimensional Offense:  Chimaev relies heavily on his wrestling and pressure. Against a well-rounded fighter like Whittaker, his game plan might become predictable, giving Whittaker the opportunity to exploit openings. Possible Outcomes Whittaker Wins via Decision:  If Whittaker can survive the early onslaught from Chimaev and extend the fight into the later rounds, his experience and cardio could give him the edge. He’ll need to use his movement and striking to outpoint Chimaev over five rounds. Chimaev Wins via Submission or TKO:  Chimaev’s best chance is to impose his wrestling early, take Whittaker down, and either finish him with ground-and-pound or a submission. If Whittaker can’t find an answer to the relentless pressure, Chimaev could finish him in the middle rounds. Wild Card:  Both fighters are known for their unpredictability, and a sudden knockout or submission could happen at any moment. Whittaker’s striking and Chimaev’s power make this fight highly volatile. For Robert Whittaker, UFC 308 is not just another fight; it’s a pivotal moment in his journey back to UFC gold. The bout against Chimaev represents one of the toughest challenges of his career, but Whittaker has proven time and again that he thrives under pressure. As for Chimaev, this fight will show whether he truly belongs at the elite level of the middleweight division. With both fighters eyeing a future title shot, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Don't miss UFC 308: Topuria vs Holloway, live from Abu Dhabi, with prelims kicking off at 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT, and the main card starting at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT on pay-per-view.

Martial arts enthusiasts, get ready to dive into the rich world of combat techniques, inspiring stories, and cutting-edge training insights with Black Belt Magazine's November 2024 issue , available soon with a host of special offers designed for individuals, schools, gyms, and dojos alike. Whether you're an avid reader or a martial arts professional looking to bulk order for your students, Black Belt Magazine  has you covered with exciting deals and massive savings. Special Offers for the November 2024 Issue + More!! Single Copy – $14.99 Grab the latest issue for just $14.99, with FREE Shipping in the USA! Whether you’re in the mood to treat yourself or give the magazine a test run, this is the perfect choice. International shipping is extra. Annual Membership – $49.99 Can’t get enough of Black Belt Magazine? Sign up for an annual membership  and receive 4 issues  a year for only $49.99 . That’s FREE Shipping in the USA  and a whole year’s worth of martial arts mastery delivered straight to your door! International shipping is extra . Special Offer for Schools, Gyms, Dojos, and More – 10 Copies of Black Belt Mag for $99 Running a school or gym? Equip your students or members with knowledge by taking advantage of this limited-time offer: 10 copies  of the November 2024 issue for just $99 . With FREE Shipping in the USA  and international shipping extra , you can ensure your whole team stays informed without breaking the bank. Wholesale Price – 50 Copies for $399 Looking to stock up? Whether for a retail store, a martial arts convention, or an event, you can order 50 copies  of the upcoming issue at a wholesale price of $399 . As always, this deal includes FREE Shipping in the USA . International shipping is extra . Each offer is designed to give martial arts enthusiasts, educators, and businesses the best bang for their buck, but don’t wait—these discounts are available for a limited time. With Black Belt Magazine  back in print, this is the perfect chance to stay up-to-date with the latest in the martial arts world. So, whether you want a single copy for yourself, an annual subscription, or bulk copies for your dojo, these offers are designed with YOU in mind. Order now  and ensure you don't miss the much-anticipated November 2024 issue  of Black Belt Magazine!

pi•e•ty (n) : a belief or point of view that is accepted with unthinking conventional reverence Fighting skill is one of the most unconventional abilities to quantify. There are so many variants, so many metrics, and so many stylistic considerations that determining “what works” is sometimes like U.S. Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart’s comment when he was asked to describe his threshold test for obscenity: “I know it when I see it.” Because of this, there is no room for piety or blind loyalty to any one school of thought, system, martial art — or person or group of practitioners. It gets tiresome when people speak in absolutes and are judgmental while offering their opinions about the validity of techniques or styles. It’s not because they’re necessarily wrong but because they don’t offer contextual balance to their comments. Bear with me. Conventional thinking tells us to keep our hands up in a fight for obvious reasons like maintaining a solid defense and ensuring that our hands are able to return fire, right? Yet world champions Roy Jones Jr. and Floyd Mayweather, as well as other prolific fighters, would hang their hands and employ the “Philly shell” or shoulder-roll defense with complete effectiveness. Watching technically superb fighters like Mikey Garcia or Leo Santa Cruz fight unconventional yet equally “effective” stylized boxers is interesting, to say the least. It will broaden your perspective and help you understand that effectiveness — “what works” — has a lot to do with the personal attributes of who is working it. Few things polarize people as much as opinions about how to defend themselves, how to pursue a combat sport most effectively, and which martial art reigns supreme. If you’re interested in truly bumping up your game, you can’t afford to be pious. You have to admit that no single way, master, sensei, soke, founder, teacher, or instructor is the burning bush. With a few exceptions, there is legitimate content that can be used or valuable observations that can be made by examining any form of fighting. In fact, even negative examples are useful when determining what’s right for you personally. The problem with being pious isn’t necessarily what you know; it’s what being pious prevents you from knowing. The closed-mindedness that keeps you from looking at other ways of accomplishing your goal just might be what’s keeping you from reaching that goal. Many times, it’s either the least experienced who are the most pious (confusing the quest for expertise with being disloyal to their teacher or art) or the most heavily invested (founders of individually developed systems who misinterpret development as an admission of not having gotten it right in the first place). No one can — or should — throw shade on something they don’t really understand or have knowledge of. When you truly consider the breadth of styles and skills available to study, you start to get your head around how silly hard and fast judgments are. In boxing, there is huge disparity between fighters’ styles and how each person applies skills in the ring. Watch a video of “Prince” Naseem Hamed, International Boxing Hall of Fame member and titleholder in several weight classes between 1995 and 2003, and you may think, “How in the hell did he get away with that? No one fights like that!” But he did. And he was obviously effective at it. Roy Jones Jr., an incredible champion across several weight classes and dominant in each, used a style that confused his opponents, relying on his incredible hand speed and eccentric movements. Most people who attempt to emulate his method can’t pull it off and would get destroyed if they tried it, yet there he was, in fight after fight against top opponents, just owning them. The point of this column is to encourage you to avoid the trap of piety and truly be a “student of the craft.” Of course you should throw away the outliers, the obviously ridiculous, and the impractical. You also should avoid the social media absolutes made from afar, often by people who have no personal experience doing what they’re condemning and no experience training with the teacher they’re trashing. Remember, first and foremost, that the more you learn, the less you realize you know. Piety could have prevented many of the most revered martial artists and fighters from ever evolving into the capable, competent experts we recognize them as. The validity of a technique, system, style, or art doesn’t rest on its utility to everyone; instead, it rests on the proven effectiveness demonstrated by those who can. Combatives, by contrast, is generally considered a utility-based collection of techniques that are less reliant on extraordinary attributes. It’s been specifically adapted as an “everyman” approach to fighting. And still, mastering even simplistic techniques can be elusive to some. The bottom line is, there is no panacea, no one-size-fits-all super system. You owe it to yourse lf to have open-mindedness in combat training and experiment. If you’re a teacher, you should encourage your students to do the same. It’s a really big world with a lot of really tough people in it. Just imagine what you can learn if you leave the piety behind.

Black Belt Hall of Fame 2024 Kicks Off in Hollywood The Black Belt Hall of Fame 2024 Ceremony, hosted by  Black Belt Magazine , made its grand debut at the Avalon in Hollywood on Oct 10th, 2024. This premier event was inspired by publisher George Chung’s vision to elevate the martial arts industry, celebrating the greatest martial artists worldwide. “Black Belt Magazine takes martial arts to the next level with the exquisite Black Belt Hall of Fame.”  - Cynthia Rothrock  Among the distinguished honorees were legends such as Mike Stone, Pam Grier, Hatsuo Royama, Phillip Rhee, Ernie Reyes Jr., Mark Dacascos, Scott Coker, Curtis Wong, James Lew, Simon Rhee, Jeff Imada, John Sepulveda, and the Machado Brothers (Carlos, Roger, Rigan, Jean Jacques, and John).  Special recognition in the Pioneer Award category went to Michael Warren, Carlos Bunda, and Jerry Piddington. Paris 2024 Olympic gold medalist Amit Elor was named “Competitor of the Year.” "This event re-sets the bar at a whole new level!" - Michael Jai White "There were stars everywhere you turned and everyone was so happy to see each other." "An incredible award ceremony that was by far and wide the most professional high-class event in Martial Arts I have ever attended.!" - Kathy Long "Thank you to Black Belt Magazine for orchestrating an event that was majestic and unforgettable" - John Sepulveda "The Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame Awards, completed in under fifty minutes, should serve as the new standard for organizing any awards ceremony. This approach represents the future of martial arts events globally." - Mike Stone “What an incredible night! It felt like being at the Oscars, but for martial arts legends.” - Arnold Chon  The evening began with the announcement of Black Belt Magazine’s return to print, unveiling a new cover featuring Dolph Lundgren, who was in attendance.  “Dolph represents our intention as true martial artists who have inspired millions through their work,” Chung said. “We are committed to bringing excellence to our martial arts community through the magazine and this awards show, reaching audiences who recognize the dedication of martial artists.” The event featured an impressive lineup of presenters, including Michael Jai White, Cynthia Rothrock, Kathy Long, Graciela Casillas, Dennis Brown, Mike Chat, Tom Callahan, and host Harinder Singh.  "Every ego checked at the door, the night filled with respect and humility" The presenters operated with martial arts precision, completing the awards presentation in just 49 minutes. Each segment included a video biography and award presentation, but no speeches—an intentional choice by Chung to maintain a streamlined experience appreciated by both the audience and inductees. Event Breakdown Event : Black Belt Hall of Fame Dress Code : Business to Casual to Formal Event Particulars : Premiere celebration honoring martial arts legends Attendees : Martial arts icons, industry professionals, and enthusiasts

In modern culture, the ninja are often portrayed as cold-blooded assassins, men and occasionally women garbed in black and armed with samurai swords and throwing stars, agents who appear out of nowhere in the shadows of the night to dispatch their victims without mercy. They’re said to possess magical powers, including invisibility and the ability to walk on water. They’re depicted as the owners of physical skills that could give Olympic athletes a run for their money. Once in a while, you even hear a fantastical statement like, “Only a ninja can kill another ninja.” That kind of hype might be fine for entertaining kids who were raised on comic books, video games and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles flicks. But adults tend to prefer a dose of historical accuracy in their movies and books. Most Americans got their first glimpse of ninjutsu in 1967 thanks to the James Bond movie You Only Live Twice . By the 1980s, the Western world found itself in a ninja craze, and that’s what prompted me to start consuming every ninja book, article and documentary I could find. I learned that the ninja’s reputation had been exaggerated by the media. Sure, it’s more exciting to portray them as sword-slinging, roof-hopping executioners with mystical powers, but that’s not realistic. To help others expand their awareness of the facts surrounding these men in black, I present the results of my research on the truth about ninja. Where does our historical information on the ninja originate? Much of it comes from Bansenshukai , a collection of information accumulated by the clans in the Iga and Koga regions of Japan. It was compiled by Fujibayashi Sabuji in 1676 to preserve the know-how that had been developed during the near-constant conflict that raged from the beginning of the Onin War until the end of the Siege of Osaka almost 150 years later. In addition, there is Shoninki  from 1681. Together, these texts are the most important sources of information about this shadowy profession. Slightly less authoritative is Ninpiden  (aka Shinobi Hiden ), a manual from 1655 whose name translates as Legends of Ninja Secrets. Some attribute it to Hattori Kiyonobu, while others link it to Hattori Hanzo. In either case, it was passed down within the Hattori family and wasn’t shared with outsiders. When did the ninja exist? They lived primarily during the unrest of the Sengoku period (15th century to 17th century). That’s when spies and mercenaries became active in Iga and Koga, and it’s from the clans of these areas that we get much of our knowledge of the ninja [ Ancient Warfare: Shinobi Ninjas and Kung Fu Shaolin Monks ]. Following the unification of Japan under the Tokugawa shogunate (17th century), the ninja faded into obscurity [ Martial Arts of the World: An Encyclopedia , by Thomas A. Green]. Were the ninja really assassins? Espionage was their chief role. They spent more time spying than killing. While they were trained in covert operations, propaganda, spy craft, infiltration and the use of explosives, they acted as assassins only when other means failed. As such, ninja manuals rarely cover the subject [ The Lost Samurai School: Secrets of Mubyoshi Ryu , by Antony Cummins]. How did they operate? The ninja were not necessarily independent or self-serving. They often hired themselves out to a particular daimyo, or feudal lord, as mercenaries. Unlike the way they’re portrayed in movies, the ninja sought to avoid battlefield engagements, especially when facing a numerically superior enemy. That’s why their strategies focus on cloak-and-dagger methods and hit-and-run tactics. Were they always called “ninja”? The word “ninja” didn’t appear until the 1800s, long after the real ninja had disappeared. Before that, the word shinobi was used. Meaning “to sneak,” it described covert agents and mercenaries in feudal Japan. Shinobi appears in writing as far back as the eighth century. In official historical documents, shinobi is almost always used, while ninja is not. Did the ninja wear masks? No references to ninja wearing masks have been found. However, they often resorted to covering their faces with their long sleeves when the enemy was near, and when working in groups, they sometimes wore white headbands so they could see each other in the moonlight [Cummins]. In early Japan, ordinary men and women would wear head scarves on colder days. This could have been the origin of what’s become a Hollywood cliché. Did the ninja wear black? It’s been argued that ninja wore blue, not black. This stems from the book called Shoninki . It states that a ninja should wear blue to blend in with crowds because blue clothing was popular in Japan. Often, a ninja simply would disguise himself as a civilian [Cummins]. Historian Stephen R. Turnbull suggests that the stereotypical image of the ninja dressed in black comes from kabuki theater. In kabuki, the kuroko, or stage hands, rearrange scenery, move props and assist in costume changes while wearing black from head to toe to convey the notion that they’re invisible and not part of the performance. He says this convention was adopted by kabuki actors who were portraying ninja, and it stuck. Did the ninja carry samurai swords? It was illegal for anyone to own or carry a samurai sword unless that person was a samurai. Furthermore, samurai swords weren’t available to the public [ Tiger Scroll of the Koga Ninja ]. If a ninja was in possession of a stolen samurai sword, it would be the equivalent of impersonating a police officer in modern times, and the ninja could be sentenced to death [ Ninja Attack! True Tales of Assassins, Samurai and Outlaws , by Hiroko Yoda]. Then what type of sword did the ninja use? Many of the swords they used were crafted in mountain villages and, therefore, were crude in comparison to what the samurai used. Some say the blades carried by the ninja were called shinobigatana. They were shorter than a katana so they could be carried across the back — with the hilt projecting above the right shoulder. That kept them accessible while facilitating the scaling of walls and the climbing of trees [ Tiger Scroll ]. The subject, however, is often debated. Before the 20th century, there’s no evidence for the existence of a katana-like short sword that was used by the ninja. Skeptics believe that the designs of modern ninja swords are actually based on the wakizashi or chokuto, the shorter companion swords of the samurai [ Ninja: The True Story of Japan’s Secret Warrior Cult , by Stephen R. Turnbull]. Was the sword the primary weapon of the ninja? If the goal was to blend in, using or adapting agricultural implements as weapons would have been far more practical. Because the ninja often dressed in disguise — for example, as farmers — carrying a sword would have attracted attention. A more viable option would have been to carry a kusarigama, or a sickle with a weighted chain attached. The weight could be swung to injure, and the sickle could kill at close range. Further, it quickly could have been disassembled into harmless-looking farmer’s tools. Did the ninja use the nunchaku? The nunchaku was never known as a battlefield weapon because it was ineffective against long arms such as the sword and spear. Also, being of Okinawan origin, it’s unlikely the ninja used it. Did they use throwing stars? The sharp-pointed throwing star was a secret weapon in many samurai schools, but such devices did not become linked to the ninja until the 20th century thanks to comic books and anime. Furthermore, in all the shinobi documents left behind, only one “ninja throwing star” is mentioned, and even then it’s in reference to shinobi working in peacetime to apprehend criminals [Cummins]. However, that hasn’t stopped filmmakers from having their ninja hurl stars — with deadly results. In reality, unless a star struck a vital spot or was coated with poison, it would not have killed. The weapon’s principal use was to distract, slow and injure the enemy. What weapons did the ninja use? Devices they relied on for infiltration and espionage are abundant, and many are on display in Japanese museums [ Iga Ryu Ninja Museum ]. Examples include gardening tools, sickles, chisels, hammers and drills that, if the ninja was captured, could be claimed were tools and not weapons. Less-inconspicuous examples include knives, saws, grappling hooks, collapsible ladders, blowguns, poison darts, spiked climbing gear for the hands and feet, fire-making tools and eggshells that could be filled with blinding powder. Hollow bamboo walking canes were popular and ideal for concealing blades, chains and powders. Despite the large array of accessories that were available, the Bansenshukai  scroll warns against being overburdened with equipment: “A successful ninja is one who uses but one tool for multiple tasks.” Did the ninja also use explosives? Arson was the primary form of sabotage practiced by the ninja when targeting castles and camps. Introduced from China, explosives were known in Japan by the time of the Mongol invasions in the 13th century. Designs for hand-held explosives, fragmentation devices and soft-cased bombs that released poison gas appear in ninja manuals. How well they worked and how widely they were used are not known. What about smoke bombs? In films, ninja are often shown escaping pursuers by creating a thick cloud of smoke and then miraculously vanishing. The notion of the ninja using a smoke bomb is exciting but misleading. Ancient manuals don’t contain directions for making smoke bombs, but they do contain recipes for fire-based tools such as waterproof torches, flaming arrows, explosives and poison gas [Cummins]. Did they use firearms? Guns were introduced in Japan in 1543. The ninja likely would have used anything that gave them an advantage, including firearms. Primitive matchlock- and flintlock-style muzzleloaders are known to have been available during the ninja/samurai period. How secretive were the ninja? It’s hard to say. Much more was written about samurai history than ninja history. Because anyone caught spying for an enemy could face death, it’s understandable that the ninja would have been cautious about logging activities or keeping diaries. Furthermore, training secretly in forests and on mountains meant there were few firsthand witnesses [ Tiger Scroll ]. Did the ninja use disguises? The ancient Buke Myomokusho  states, “Shinobi-monomi (ninja) were people used in secret ways, and their duties were to go into the mountains and disguise themselves as firewood gatherers to discover and acquire the news about an enemy’s territory. They were particularly expert at traveling in disguise.” As espionage agents, they would use disguises and aliases to blend in. They might take on the role of a farmer, a poet, a carpenter, a beggar, a priest, a musician, a fortune teller, a monk or even a ronin. Did female ninja exist? There are no historical records of female ninja, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t perform certain tasks for the ninja clans. Movies like to depict them as maidens who spied on employers or assassins who worked as seducers, but all that’s conjecture. Did the ninja start training when they were young? According to Turnbull, the ninja were trained from childhood, as were the samurai. Outside the expected martial disciplines, they studied survival and scouting techniques, as well as the use of poisons and explosives. Physical training played an essential role in their lives, especially running, climbing, and stealth methods of walking and swimming. So were they world-class athletes? They probably weren’t the Olympic-caliber acrobats we see in movies, but out of necessity, they would have to be adept at climbing, long-distance hiking and running, scaling castle walls with a rope and grappling hook, and so on. What about the mystical and magical feats we see in films? Incredible feats like walking on water, moving through walls, changing shape and disappearing into thin air are just legends. “I personally don’t think they had any… particular mystic powers,” Turnbull said. “It was one of the myths that they encouraged to make people more frightened of them.” Today, we would call similar actions psychological warfare. Could an outsider join a ninja clan? Like the samurai, the ninja were born into their profession, and traditions were passed down within the family. Outsiders were not trusted. Therefore, one had to be born into a ninja family. The only exception was an orphaned infant being adopted into a ninja family. What happened when a ninja was caught in the act? Ninja were sometimes boiled in oil to send a warning to others. Such barbarous treatment made it a common practice for them to kill themselves when capture was imminent by taking poisons or using their own blades. There are stories of ninja disfiguring their own faces so they wouldn’t be recognized when captured [ Ninjutsu: The Art of Invisibility (Facts, Legends, and Techniques) , by Donn F. Draeger]. Did the ninja really use secret hand gestures? Called kuji, these exist but had no documented connection to the ninja. The practice most likely originated in India before moving to China and eventually Japan [Cummins]. The gestures purportedly sharpened the mind, reduced stress, warded off evil, bolstered courage and improved endurance in certain situations. Were the ninja exceptional martial artists? Because their primary function was espionage, hand-to-hand combat would have been a secondary skill. If they did have to fight, the skills they used likely would have come from jujitsu, which included lethal blows as well as brutal joint locks. Some historians contend that the ninja's fighting skills came from aikijujutsu [ Classical Fighting Arts of Japan: A Complete Guide to Koryu Jujutsu , by Serge Mol]. Taijutsu is the term commonly associated with the ninja arts today, but it's essentially a blanket name for any combat system that relies on empty-hand techniques [ Taijutsu: Ninja Art of Unarmed Combat , by Charles Daniel]. Was a goal of a ninja to earn a black belt? There was no belt-ranking system in ninjutsu. Instead, the goals were to master the skills they would need to accomplish their tasks and to survive. Do modern ninja schools teach authentic ninja techniques? Modern schools claiming to teach ninjutsu arose during the ninja craze of the 1970s. Most teach martial arts skills and close-quarters-combat techniques in a dojo setting rather than espionage tactics in the outdoors. According to noted author and martial arts instructor Stephen K. Hayes, "Finding a master of the dark art of ninjutsu in modern westernized Japan seems as unlikely as finding an active practitioner of the magic of Merlin in contemporary industrialized England." Can a person become a ninja today? To learn what the historical ninja learned, a person would be better off joining the military or the CIA. That's because so much of what they had to learn lay outside the martial arts. When it comes to the ninja, will the public ever prefer fact over fiction? Because of our fascination with these men in black and their incredible feats, the ninja phenomenon has spiraled into a multimillion-dollar business that spans films, books, equipment and instruction. That's one of the reasons so many kids go trick-or-treating while clad in ninja garb, complete with fake swords and nunchaku. Why should we spoil their fun and tell them the truth?

Tom stepped in front of Jim and challenged him to a fistfight. In response, Jim did a kiai and stepped back into a stance. Tom lunged forward and went to work. Afterward, Jim realized that stepping backward and assuming a stance isn’t always effective in a self-defense situation. That was confusing because he’d always been taught to respond that way by an instructor who advocated a traditional one-size-fits-all approach to self-defense. Now, Jim was forced to realize that wrestlers, boxers, and mixed martial artists — not to mention street brawlers — are among those who prefer to skip tradition and just fight. In this article, I will identify six self-defense moves — including the one that worked against Jim — that are often taught in traditional schools but that are likely to get you hurt in a real altercation. I also will describe six alternatives that are much more effective. Preamble Before discussing the six moves you should never use, I must explain, for the sake of all the new martial artists reading this, that avoiding the fight is usually the best course of action. The following are four actions you can take to more easily avoid conflict: Use controlled breathing when tensions begin to rise. This will enable you to think more clearly and, it is hoped, de-escalate. I recommend the 4x4 breathing method, also called “square breathing.” Inhale through your mouth for four seconds, hold your breath for four seconds, exhale through your mouth for four seconds and hold onto that emptiness (no breathing) for four seconds. Repeat the sequence for maximum mental clarity. Avoid places where troublemakers go. If you know where thugs and miscreants hang out, don’t go there. Obviously, you should stay away from dark alleys, unlit parking lots, and other isolated places. Also avoid the “10 to 4 window.” It’s so named because most crimes are committed between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. Don’t look an aggressor in the eyes. Some people will interpret it as a challenge if you look them in the eyes longer than it takes to make a quick glance. They’ll bellow, “What are you looking at?!” It’s much better to direct your eyes at the other person’s neck. That way, you’ll still be able to see what his hands are doing and you can see beyond him, which will help you identify any additional threats as well as potential escape paths. Distract him so he forgets about fighting you. Experts recommend three ways to do this while you scan for the nearest exit: Try to make him laugh, try to pit him against the person he’s with (assuming there is one), and pretend you’re ill. The last one might entail sneezing a few times while covering your nose. If you act as though you’re catching something, he might move back a little — which can give you an opportunity to get out of there. In situations in which you don’t see a way out, you might have to defend yourself. With that in mind, here are the six self-defense moves you don’t want to use. Actions to Avoid No. 1: Assuming a Conventional Stance In many martial arts schools, you learn to defend yourself by first stepping back into a stance, often a low one, that positions your hands up and your fists clenched. This is claimed to be better for self-defense because you are ready and you’re a little farther from the attacker, which affords you more time to react. On the surface, it would seem to make sense. However, reflexively stepping back into a stance is not recommended for four reasons: You don’t know who’s behind you. The guy in front might have a buddy there, and if you step back without looking, he could be moving right into his range. Stepping back will prolong the fight. That means increasing the chance you’ll be injured. How so? Among other things, it can allow more time for the bad guy’s friends to show up and outnumber you. You’ll still be in the center of his target zone. This benefits the aggressor because even though he’s probably suffering from stress-induced tunnel vision, his crosshairs will still be on you. He’ll see your movement and think you’re retreating. In all likelihood, he’ll take advantage of what he sees as an opening and move quickly toward you. (On the battlefield, when soldiers see the enemy retreat, they usually attack with overwhelming strength.) Instead of stepping back into a stance, quickly look to your sides to find the best escape route, then step toward that side. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart to allow for quicker motion. The attacker will have to adjust to your new position. If he does so just by turning his head, take another step. Keep sidestepping while you search for a way out. Actions to Avoid No. 2: Blocking an Attack Simply put, blocking wastes time. Don’t rely on it to save your skin; a block will merely postpone the attack. Even worse, it will put the other guy in charge, and chances are he’ll immediately make another aggressive move. And there’s the possibility that if your foe is faster than you, one of his shots might get through before you can effect your block. Instead of blocking, step off to one side as mentioned above. From that position, you won’t have to block a punch or kick because you won’t be where he was aiming. Just stay alert as you step to the side. If you see one of his friends looking like he’s about to attack, you’ll need to address that. If the friend doesn’t look like he’s going to intervene, just get away — while looking around for anyone who might try to stop you. Actions to Avoid No. 3: Using a Palm Strike on Any Body Part Other Than the Head If you use your palm to hit an opponent from the neck down, all you’ll probably do is hurt your wrist and/or fingers. That often happens because he’s leaning toward you as he advances, which means your fingers make contact before your palm. The contact can bend your digits backward with significant force. Avoid this injury by reserving your palm strikes for his chin. Raise your hand straight up from underneath. That will keep your fingers out of the way. As you’re executing the blow, focus your attention on the upper part of his chest. Then, if he changes levels down, you can just hit where you were looking, and his chin will drop to meet your palm. If he hasn’t changed levels when he comes into range, simply adjust your aim a little higher. Actions to Avoid No. 4: Winding Up Before You Punch Pulling your arm back — aka “winding up” — can certainly add power to your punch. Unfortunately, it also telegraphs your technique, and an experienced fighter will detect that. Once he does, he may have time to move out of the way or even hit you first. Instead of winding up, keep your hands together in front of your chest. This will position them close to his face. (The face is a fine target if you prefer to punch from this position; just avoid impacts with his nose and mouth because of the dangers associated with bloodborne pathogens.) The defensive orientation I just described may seem passive, but it can give you the element of surprise in a self-defense situation. Bonus: If you decide to hit from this position, stomp your foot a fraction of a second before you make contact with his face. The action will tilt your body toward him, thereby shifting your body weight forward and increasing the force behind the blow. Actions to Avoid No. 5: Trying to Drive a Knee Into His Groin This move is often recommended in self-defense classes — but seldom by anyone who’s tried it for real. That’s because a knee to the groin can result in two problems. First, because you must stand on one leg while you do it, you can be knocked down more easily. Second, if your opponent is taller than you, landing a groin shot is likely to make him pitch forward, which can slam his forehead into your face. If you nevertheless decide that a knee to the groin is your best option in a certain situation, make sure you’re very close to the aggressor, then tilt your head to one side so that when his skull is careening in your direction, your face won’t be there. Actions to Avoid No. 6: Kicking Above Knee Level Kicking high in self-defense is risky for several reasons. First, as with the knee thrust to the groin, standing on one leg puts your balance in jeopardy, which is why the time you’re in that position should be minimized. Second, kicking high often requires you to raise your knee beforehand and possibly lean slightly to the opposite side, and that can alert him that a kick is coming. Third, kicking high involves more travel time for your foot, which gives him more opportunity to sidestep, grab your leg, and throw you to the ground. It’s much safer to keep your kicks low — around shin level, if possible. Shoot out your low kick like you would crack a whip: Snap it out and snap it back. Envision your foot penetrating 2 inches into the target. To practice this, kick a hanging curtain that’s positioned well away from walls and other hard objects. Use this quick-out-quick-back motion for kicks to the front, as well as to the side, making sure all of them rise no higher than the knee. Concentrate on not lifting your knee before shooting out your foot. This will render your kicks more difficult to defend against. Taking the time to unlearn the six traditional moves described above and then replacing them with the recommended alternatives will carry you a long way toward self-defense proficiency. Any one of them can be the difference between winning and losing, between walking away from a fight and being carried away.

The October 2007 issue of Black Belt Magazine featured martial arts pioneer S. Henry Cho , powerfully showcasing the skills which he used to help Korean martial arts make their mark on the world. Renowned for his role as the promoter of the All American Open and for founding the first permanent commercial taekwondo school in the U.S., Cho was honored as Man of the Year in the Black Belt Hall of Fame in 1971. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

The countdown is on for one of the most anticipated matchups in recent UFC history as former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker and rising star Khamzat Chimaev are set to collide in the co-main event of UFC 308: Topuria vs. Holloway, this Saturday, October 26, 2024, in Abu Dhabi. After a long-awaited showdown that was originally scheduled for June but postponed due to Chimaev's illness, the pair will now battle it out in a five-round middleweight contest that could potentially lead the winner to a title shot. Robert Whittaker: A Former Champion Eyeing Another Shot at Gold Since making his UFC debut, Robert Whittaker has cemented himself as one of the toughest contenders in the 185-pound division. With an impressive record of 17-5 in the UFC, the Australian fighter has gone toe-to-toe with some of the best, including Israel Adesanya, Darren Till, and Paulo Costa. Whittaker, a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, is on a two-fight win streak, having bounced back from a tough loss to middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis in July. In his most recent performance, Whittaker stepped in on short notice at UFC 298 to face Ikram Aliskerov and delivered a stunning knockout victory in less than two minutes. Now, with 11 knockouts and five submission wins to his name, Whittaker is ready to take on Chimaev and prove once again why he belongs at the top of the middleweight division. Khamzat Chimaev: The Undefeated Phenom Khamzat Chimaev has taken the UFC by storm since his debut in 2020, making waves with his relentless style and incredible finishing ability. With 11 of his 13 wins coming via finish, Chimaev has quickly become one of the most dangerous fighters in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. Known for his grappling and powerful striking, "Borz" has defeated notable names like Kevin Holland and Li Jingliang, and he has gone the distance only twice, with decisions over Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman. However, Chimaev's UFC career has been marred by inconsistency due to health issues. After fighting four times in 2020, he has struggled to stay active, competing just once in 2023. Despite this, the 30-year-old fighter remains a serious contender, and a victory over Whittaker would undoubtedly put him on the fast track to a title shot. How the Fight Could Play Out This middleweight clash is scheduled for five rounds, but many fans and analysts alike believe it may not go the distance. If the fight enters the championship rounds, it will be a true test of Chimaev’s endurance, as he has yet to fight beyond three rounds in the UFC. On the other hand, Whittaker is no stranger to long battles, with an average fight time of 13:33 compared to Chimaev's 6:27. When it comes to striking, Chimaev holds the edge in accuracy, landing 58.8% of his strikes, compared to Whittaker's 43%. Chimaev also lands more strikes per minute at 5.72, while Whittaker averages 4.58. The grappling aspect of this fight will be equally intriguing, with both fighters boasting strong takedown defense—Chimaev at 100% and Whittaker at 82.9%. However, Chimaev is more likely to initiate the takedowns, averaging 3.99 per 15 minutes. What’s at Stake? With Dricus Du Plessis sitting atop the middleweight division as the champion, this fight carries enormous implications for both Whittaker and Chimaev. A win here could catapult either fighter to a title shot in 2024, making this a pivotal matchup in the division. Don’t miss a moment of UFC 308: Topuria vs. Holloway, live from Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on October 26, 2024. The preliminary card kicks off at 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT, while the main card, including this explosive co-main event, starts at 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT.

Khamzat Chimaev has been one of the UFC’s most electrifying and enigmatic fighters, with his meteoric rise capturing the attention of the entire MMA world. But after a considerable absence from the Octagon, the undefeated Swedish-Chechen star is finally making his long-awaited return at UFC 308 on Saturday, October 26, 2024, in Abu Dhabi. Chimaev is set to face former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker in the co-main event of the night—a matchup that promises fireworks and carries significant implications for the division. The Disappearance of Khamzat Chimaev Chimaev last fought on October 21, 2023, against Paulo Costa at UFC 294, a fight that added yet another win to his undefeated record. However, after this victory, Chimaev seemingly disappeared from the MMA scene. This unexpected absence sparked widespread speculation about his future. Some fans and analysts pointed to injuries, while others wondered if he had taken a break to focus on his personal life and training. Though the exact reasons for Chimaev’s hiatus remain unclear, it’s evident that the fighter has been biding his time, waiting for the perfect opportunity to make his return. Now, with a formidable opponent like Robert Whittaker standing in his way, Chimaev’s re-emergence is set to shake up the middleweight division once again. The Build-Up to UFC 308: Chimaev vs. Whittaker Robert Whittaker, a seasoned veteran and former middleweight kingpin, presents a new level of challenge for Chimaev. Known for his technical striking, relentless pace, and world-class takedown defense, Whittaker is one of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC. He has proven time and again that he can handle the pressure of high-stakes fights, as seen in his battles against Israel Adesanya, Yoel Romero, and Jared Cannonier. Chimaev, on the other hand, boasts an incredible grappling pedigree combined with devastating knockout power. He has finished all of his opponents inside the UFC, making him a dangerous contender at both welterweight and middleweight. While he’s yet to face someone as experienced and durable as Whittaker, many fans are eager to see if Chimaev’s relentless style can break down the former champion. Chimaev's Tactical Approach: What to Expect This fight will mark a defining moment for Chimaev’s career. Despite being away from the Octagon, he remains a strong contender in the middleweight division, and a win over Whittaker could propel him straight into title contention. Here are key areas to watch for in this fight: Chimaev’s Pressure : Known for his aggressive grappling and cage control, Chimaev will likely try to pressure Whittaker early, using his wrestling to get the fight to the ground where he excels. However, Whittaker’s elite takedown defense and striking might force Chimaev to mix in his striking to create openings. Whittaker’s Counter Game : Whittaker will want to stay on the outside, using his footwork to evade Chimaev’s pressure. His ability to blend striking combinations with defense will be crucial in keeping Chimaev at bay. The Cardio Factor : Both fighters are known for their endurance, but Whittaker has proven his ability to go the distance in five-round wars. If Chimaev cannot secure a finish early, it’ll be interesting to see how his cardio holds up in the later rounds. X-Factor : Chimaev’s layoff could either work in his favor, allowing him to come back more refreshed, or it could hinder his rhythm and timing in a fight against a seasoned opponent like Whittaker. Stakes at UFC 308 For Whittaker, this fight is a chance to cement his legacy and put himself back into the title conversation after falling short against Adesanya in their rematch. A win against Chimaev would solidify his status as one of the top contenders. For Chimaev, this is the ultimate test of his skills against a former champion. A victory would propel him directly into title contention and silence any doubts that may have surfaced during his time away from the sport. This Saturday, all eyes will be on Khamzat Chimaev. Will he rise to the occasion, or will Robert Whittaker spoil his comeback party in Abu Dhabi? Tune in to UFC 308 to find out!