Like religions, the sharpest minds in the martial arts often emerge in the harshest environments. Witness the chronicles of the samurai, who waged war for centuries in the rugged mountains of Japan, where bitter cold and scorching heat are the norm. Recall the stories of Korea’s ancient Hwa Rang warriors, who persevered in battle with human enemies as well as with winter winds raging south from Siberia. Look up historical accounts of Mongol fighters, who… well, who lived in Mongolia. Halfway around the globe exists another kind of harshness called Arizona. In much of the state, moisture is minimal, vegetation is scarce and the sun is unrelenting — Phoenix, where I just spent three days, recorded a high of 124 degrees in 1995. In contrast, at the campground where I am right now, located some 5,000 feet above sea level, it was a nippy 31 degrees when I got up this morning, and I’m freezing my butt off as I key this into my laptop. Yes, I’m next to a fire of crackling juniper, and yes, I may have had a sip of sake to take the chill off — thank God there’s no wind chill — but I must seem crazy to be composing an article outside in these conditions. I’m not crazy, though. I’m just overflowing with enthusiasm after training with Black Belt Hall of Famer Dana Abbott to better understand the way he teaches swordsmanship in the 21st century. As a nod to history, I will delineate the world according to Abbott using the same chapter titles chosen by Miyamoto Musashi, perhaps the greatest swordsman ever, for his classic Go Rin No Sho . THE BOOK OF EARTH The interpretation of 21st-century swordsmanship that Abbott conveys to his students starts with stance, the swordsman’s connection to the earth. He tells me to keep my feet under my body and fairly close together with the right one slightly ahead of the left. And that’s about it. My sensei, it seems, is a practical man when it comes to the blade. Things don’t get much more complicated when you move, he says. “Your knee should be over your foot so your foot isn’t hitting heel-first or toes-first. You can hear the difference — in fact, a blind teacher can tell if you’re doing it right because it sounds like an elephant stepping.” The aim is to facilitate explosive forward movement while permitting evasive footwork in any direction. That mobility is crucial for two reasons: You want to land the first strike and, as Mr. Miyagi reminded us, “Best block no be there.” Abbott is a bit more eloquent: “Swordsmanship is like tennis in that you want to win on the serve. You don’t want to volley.” I confess that I’m a tad underwhelmed by the simplicity of this stance and the way I’m told to keep the sword in front of my torso with the tip pointing outward and upward, particularly after watching scores of movies in which samurai, once enraged, would raise their weapons and charge their enemies. Or assume a photogenic posture and then bounce around like a gymnast with a blade. “Theatrics!” Abbott declares. “A lot of what you see in movies is. I’m sure somebody at some time did that, but it’s not how you should learn. I like to look at it this way: The sword is the main object in the fight. The person behind it, no matter what he’s doing, just isn’t that scary. Imagine a 4-foot-8 Japanese guy; he doesn’t look scary. But if he has a sword in front of him and he’s staring at you and not moving, now that’s scary. So if you just assume a steadfast position — for example, chudan no kamae, or center stance — with the sword out in front, you establish your line in the sand. You’re ready for anything.” Ready for anything until Abbott’s next reveal, that is. He draws a steel blade and instructs me to not move a muscle. First, he positions the tip inches from my groin, and I’m fine with it. Next, he places it inches from my gut, and I’m OK with that, too. He cautions me once again to remain stationary right before placing the tip inches from my throat. I can’t help but lean backward. For a second, I wonder why I was less concerned about my groin, but the thought vanishes when Abbott starts talking. “As you just felt, when I held the sword point at any part of your body, it was OK, but when I went toward your throat, you immediately had to move back a few inches because it wasn’t comfortable,” he says. “You want to make sure the other person is never comfortable. That’s what the sword does best.” His point about being uncomfortable is spot on. He calls it “fear of the blade,” and believe me, it is real. “When I teach people the sword, I start with the center stance so they can set up their base,” he explains. “Your base should be protective so the other person doesn’t want to come in. Your opponent can’t throw himself at you because he would throw himself on your sword.” Abbott says the biggest problem with beginners — and some advanced students — is they overthink the next phase of training, which is moving the weapon. “From this position, swinging the sword just means lifting it and then bringing it down on the target. It should be as basic as shooting a rifle, which means pointing it and squeezing the trigger, but people tend to complicate things with off-the-wall stuff that doesn’t make sense. Then they develop bad habits. Before you know it, they’re saying, ‘My sword doesn’t work anymore.’ Yeah, because you’re holding it like a monkey! So what do they do? Swing it harder. When you shoot and miss the target, you won’t improve your aim by gripping the gun tighter. You need to relax. It’s the same with the sword.” Relaxing, it turns out, is key to gripping the katana. Hold it firmly but not too tight, he says. It’s not unlike holding a hammer. Your forearms shouldn’t be perpendicular to the sword handle; they should be at an angle like when you hit with a hammer. The sword, like the hammer, starts high and then swings down. The weight of the sword, like the weight of the hammer, helps you get the job done. “The secret is having a constant angle between your forearms and the sword, not bending your wrists during the swing because that can change the trajectory of the blade,” Abbott explains. “With this cut, most of the motion of the sword comes from your elbows.” A problem crops up when new students try to hold the sword with the same kind of grip they’d use on a baseball bat, one that has their arms coming in from opposite sides. “It looks like they’re trying to eat a taco while looking at it,” Abbott says. “They might see their teacher do it the right way, but holding that baseball bat is in the back of their brain, and it tells them to hold it that way. That’s hard to overcome for many people.” THE BOOK OF WIND Another of Abbott’s intricacies involves, believe it or not, the use of a singing sword. He hands me a particular weapon with a bo-hi, that longitudinal groove on each side of the blade. Contrary to what some would have you believe, it’s not a “blood groove” designed to make your opponent bleed out after a stab. Likewise, it’s not a way to make the blade stronger, which is nonsensical when you consider that a bo-hi is created by removing metal. It’s intended to lighten the weapon for battle. The bo-hi’s main purpose these days is to serve as a metronome, Abbott says. “When you swing the sword correctly, you can hear it sing. That’s the sound of the air flowing over the bo-hi.” After a few demonstrations, he hands the blade to me. Much to my surprise, I immediately coax it to serenade, and it makes me giggle like a school kid. “You can hear when you do the cut correctly,” he says. “Hearing it also gives you a better feel for the rhythm of repetition, which is essential for practice. Repetition is the only way to get good.” Speaking of wind, I ask Abbott what role language played in his 14-year pursuit of sword skills in Japan. “It was important because it determined which masters I had access to,” he says. “When I lived there, I discovered that I couldn’t do any really old styles of swordsmanship because although I speak Japanese, I can’t understand what was written by people 450 years ago or what their thought processes were. It’s like an American trying to understand old English. “So I chose to go through Japan’s Department of Education, and that meant I learned the modern way, or gendai. It’s good to be able to see the differences between old and modern, but what you do should be modern or you won’t get any practice with people who know the same art.” The study of the sword all comes down to practicalities like language and training time, I say to myself. “Of course, if you learn in America, you don’t even need to learn Japanese,” Abbott continues. “What you have to do, though, is find a teacher and a style that work for you. Otherwise, you won’t practice as much as you should. In learning the sword, the lack of persistence is the biggest problem. People start and then find reasons not to practice — ‘I can’t do it anymore because my wife left me and my dog died.’ Or ‘I have a problem with my fingernail and can’t use my right hand.’ “Too many people have excuses. In the old days, you either showed up or you didn’t. And if you didn’t, your teacher would think, ‘He better be dead, or he might find that we don’t need him here anymore.’” THE BOOK OF WATER When previewing the next phase of my training, Abbott is characteristically practical. “I call it cutting water,” his house takes up a position at its edge and swings his katana downward. No matter the angle of the strike, the blade slices into the liquid with a unique sound and hardly a splash. The act gives me the heebie-jeebies because I was raised by a dad who preached never to get fine metal wet. In his case, he was talking about hunting rifles, but the sentiment applies equally to blades, I suppose — until Abbott explains that he’s using a specific old sword for this drill. “I began using this one because the plastic-leather handle wrap doesn’t absorb water like a cotton-wrapped handle would,” he says. “The sword cuts the water well, has a traditional design and just happens to be inexpensive. Some might call it a beater, but it hones your technique to perfection. My teacher would say, ‘That sword was honored above many other swords to cut water and oxidize.’ “When you cut water, it spanks you from day one. It’s so simple and clean. At slow speeds, you want minimal splash and just the right sound. It’s great because of the audio and visual feedback, and you can do it at home — all you need is a trough. Of course, if you live in a cold climate, you won’t be able to train in winter. You don’t want to hit ice.” His mention of the potential for damaging a blade prompts me to ask for advice on preserving the sword I’ve brought to this training session. “Don’t hit hard objects,” he says in his own Capt. Obvious way. “Don’t miss and hit the concrete. Don’t miss and hit your foot. Make sure when you’re test-cutting that if you cut through the mat, you don’t hit a wall. Make sure your sword doesn’t touch anything but its intended target.” Fair enough, I think, then home in on the subject of targets. “In Japan, most people cut bamboo and tatami,” he says. “There’s a bamboo forest in front of everyone’s house. And there are plenty of tatami mats — you normally change them in your home every three to four years and throw the old ones away.” Knowing something about the practice of soaking tatami in water before cutting, I ask why that’s the standard. The difference between cutting wet tatami and dry tatami is the target’s weight, which is directly proportional to inertia, its resistance to acceleration, Abbott replies. “Even a nice sword can have trouble cutting through a dry mat because there’s no weight to resist the motion of the blade. It’s like biting an apple in your hand versus biting an apple that’s hanging from a string. The wet mat is, of course, heavier, which means more inertia and more pushback. “It’s also been said that cutting a dry mat is like hitting a mummy when you want your training to be like hitting a fluid-filled body. If you cut an arm off a mummy, it would probably fly across the room. If you cut an arm off a human, it will fall to the ground — just like a section of wet, rolled-up tatami.” When it comes to cutting bamboo, the key is to harvest it at the right time, he notes. “If you get very young bamboo, it’s easy to cut. But that shouldn’t be for cutting; it should be in your soup! If, on the other hand, you have bamboo that’s a couple of years old and is all brown, you’re more likely to bend the blade if you make a mistake. I don’t recommend this for beginners.” The fact that tatami isn’t free in the West and bamboo doesn’t grow on trees — and could kink your blade — is what drove people here to start cutting water jugs and soda bottles, he says. “Plastic bottles aren’t the best for test-cutting, but people do it. It could damage the blade, but it probably won’t, especially if you clean it to prevent rust.” The discussion prompts Abbott to cite a general rule of the sword: “The blade will say everything you’ve ever done with it. If you do nothing, it will stay beautiful. If you do a lot of test-cutting, you’ll see lots of scratches. Now, if you start hitting swords together, you’ll see dents, chips and abrasions. That’s not a big deal in the present day if you’re using a cheap old sword, but imagine it’s the 1400s and you’re not fast enough in a battle. You block when you should move out of the way, and every time you do, it leaves a mark. Those marks are seen by you and then your children and your grandchildren because the sword is an heirloom that’s passed down. It might take a generation or two for everything to be repaired. That’s why the Japanese say, ‘Whatever you do with the sword will be registered on the sword for a long time.’” Later that day, I gain firsthand knowledge of how a sword can become a register. My first attempt at test-cutting took place 10 years ago, and it was, shall we say, less than stellar. After I explain this to Abbott, he reminds me of what I learned from the water cutting and sword singing. Then I’m ready to give it another go. I swing, and the blade glides right through. My new sensei continues to fine-tune my technique as I slice that tatami like a sausage. But then I get a little too close to the bottom and slam my blade into the wooden peg that supports the tatami roll. The damage isn’t serious, but I get the feeling the mark on my blade will be there for some time. THE BOOK OF FIRE Fire plays an integral role in how a sword is created, of course. “These days, all affordable swords come from forges in China, which is where you’ll get yours unless you’re rich,” Abbott says. “A katana that’s made in Japan might cost $20,000, and the ones that are made here might involve an 18-month wait. If you have either one, then you probably wouldn’t want to use it for everyday drills like cutting water.” But for the purposes of a 21st-century swordsman, those imported blades are perfect, Abbott continues. “I don’t have any that cost that much, and I don’t need any. An expensive sword doesn’t make you a better swordsman. A Marine will hit the target using a $500 handgun while a Harvard boy with a $4,000 gun might miss.” If he did have a $20,000 katana, would he use it? “Sure, I’d test-cut with it. What else are you going to do? Let it sit around and then sell it to somebody else? I would, however, treat it with a lot more respect.” I seize the opportunity to ask an expert why a sword might deserve respect. “Yes, it’s an inanimate object, but in Japan, shinto teaches that spirits are in inanimate objects,” Abbott says. “If you want to be part of the group, you’ve got to believe — or at least speak and act — the same way. Personally, I tend to view my swords as steak knives, as tools for practical application. But in Japan, if someone was to give you a nice sword, you’d want to receive and use that gift the way they’re expecting.” The conversation jumps back to the mundane. “For beginners who are learning how to cut, a wide, heavy blade is good, but you might outgrow it soon,” he says. “People often find that bigger isn’t always better. Think about it this way: If you’re buying your first gun, shouldn’t it be a .22? Yes, you can buy a .45 as your first one, but are you going to practice with it? It’s the same with swords. With a big, heavy blade, you might not use it as much because you’ll get tired, which isn’t optimal because it takes more reps to get proficient with a heavy sword. And if the blade is big, it can be harder to put it back in the scabbard safely. So you end up half-assing it. You sacrifice all the art. You’re just able to pull it out and use it like an executioner.” For those reasons, Abbott often finds himself recommending what he dubs the classic blade. “That’s a thinner one that weighs around 1,000 grams,” he says. “It’s the average sword size that’s been around for 800 to 1,000 years. It’s the most versatile. It will cover the whole spectrum of things you can do. “Do you just want to look at it? Then leave it up on the wall. “Do you want to get good at drawing it? Get an emery cloth and take the edge off, then draw it 10,000 times. When you’re done, take a stone and put the edge back on. By then, you will have been around a sword long enough so you’re not scared of it anymore. “Do you want to test-cut with it? No problem!” Length factors into your purchase only if you plan to do a lot of drawing and are on the shorter side of average, he adds. “A taller person might want a 30-inch blade, while a shorter person might want a 28-inch blade. Either one is going to cost you between $500 and $700, which is what I recommend spending. When you invest that much money, you’ll feel good about the blade, you’ll feel like you’re really getting into swordsmanship and you’ll be able to cut safely. ”And just how should you take care of such a substantial investment? Should you oil it once a week, protect it from fingerprints, control the humidity in the room where it’s stored? “No,” Abbott barks. “You’d do all those things if it was an 800-year-old sword. But your $500 sword is a tool, so do whatever you want. It’s going to be sharp for a long time because you probably won’t be test-cutting that much. You could cut 500 mats with a sword like that, and the blade will be sharper than you need. “If you want to practice drawing, every fifth or 10th draw, oil the blade so it slides smoothly through your hand. That’s four to five drops of oil on a cloth. Use clove oil or 3-in-One machine oil. It’s not only for preservation but also for functionality. You don’t want it to pull on your skin when you practice drawing. The slicker it is, the more times you’ll draw it in training.” THE BOOK OF THE VOID I wonder out loud what it is about swords that makes them seem almost magical and worth dedicating one’s life to even though we don’t carry them and we don’t fight with them. We don’t think the same way about the battle-ax or mace, for instance. “The movies are a big part of it,” Abbott says. “A sword creates a connection to the past. If you have a katana, you might think of yourself as representing the spirit of the samurai. But I think it’s the fear of the blade that makes it seem magical. Remember when I put the tip of that sword near your throat? Similarly, if I take a sword and draw it from the scabbard by pulling it between my fingers and then do the opposite when I put it back in, people will often freak out. Of course, the swordsman doesn’t freak out, but to many people, that’s living on the edge.” His comment rings true, but I think it’s just part of the answer, so I probe for details.“The Japanese spent a long time making the katana perfect,” he says. “For 800 years, they were dedicated to creating a design that feels good and works well. They learned to fold the steel to mix a stiff metal with a pliable metal. Add in a rigid spine, and you get a perfect weapon. You can cut through anything, and the blade won’t break. “And it’s made to be portable. It had to be strong and durable enough to fight lots of people, but it had to be light enough for the samurai to be able to walk anywhere without draining themselves. If they knew they were going into battle, they’d use a spear or a bow and arrow, but when they were walking around, the sword was the best compromise. Through trial and error over the centuries, they definitely figured out their geometry.” But is there more to it? Could there be a fringe benefit of learning the sword in an era when nobody carries one? “For self-defense, it will make you more aggressive in a good way,” Abbott says. “That happens when you spend your time training with aggressive martial artists, and it will make you aggressive no matter what you have — a stick, a sword or a knife. In a fight, you’ll end it fast, and the other person usually isn’t prepared for that. They don’t expect an immediate response.” After a minute of introspection, he continues: “The sword teaches you to drive 12 car lengths ahead. It teaches you to pay attention to your surroundings much more. In the past, you had to do that; otherwise, you might end up on the wrong side of the street facing 10 other guys with swords.” Having gotten confirmation that learning how to wield the katana in 2018 is a worthwhile endeavor, I ask Abbott what being a 21st-century swordsman means to him. “It means polishing all the different sword skills and making them simple so you can be spot on when you need to,” he says, “and that takes a lot of effort and time — which a lot of modern sword practitioners don’t want to invest.” My mind conjures a series of follow-up questions that I begin firing off. What if I come to you claiming to be a swordsman? You ask, “What do you do?” and I say that once a week I slice water bottles in my backyard and try to get better. Am I a swordsman? “No,” Abbott says. “You’re a backyard cutter.” What if I say that I get together with friends and we take out our shinai, put on protective gear and go at it? Am I a swordsman? “No,” he says. “You’re a combatives guy who likes playing with bamboo swords.” What if I say that I go to the dojo, and after class, I take out my bokken and do some kata? Am I a swordsman? “No, you’re a karate guy with a sword doing some kata,” he says. What if I say that I have a valuable sword hanging on the wall and regularly go to sword shows? “You’re a collector.” With that in mind, what makes a person a swordsman in this day and age? “Five years after I arrived in Japan — by then, my Japanese was pretty good — people would ask me what I was doing there,” he explains. “I would say learning kendo. They’d say, ‘Oh, how cute! How nice it is you’re doing one of our arts.’ They’re happy for you but a little sarcastic. They might think of their own kids learning it and would ask, ‘Where do you learn your kendo?’ I would say, ‘I go to Nihon Taiiku Daigaku.’ They would say, ‘Uh? You’re serious! I’m sorry!’ It finally clicks. In Abbott’s world, being a swordsman means training regularly in a legitimate art learned under the guidance of a legitimate instructor — and then, ideally, living your life according to the lessons you absorbed. “That tells people you’re a swordsman. Before that, to those people in Japan, I was just some foreigner playing with a toy. That’s the difference.”

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has released the full promotional film for the Battle of The Giants: Brace for Impact pay-per-view event, created in partnership with award winning studio Duality, which takes place this coming October 19th at the state-of-the-art Mayadeen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Inspired by the epic movie classic, Godzilla vs. King Kong, and filmed entirely on green screen using state-of-the-art technology, the video features larger-than-life versions of the  Battle of The Giants: Brace for Impact  headliners, Heavyweight combat sports star  Francis “The Predator” Ngannou and 2023 PFL Heavyweight World Champion  Renan “Problema” Ferreira  towering over a city, clearing anything in their paths to meet each other. Brace for impact when these two monsters collide! The card will also feature Bellator Women’s Featherweight World Champion  Cris “Cyborg”  taking on two-time PFL World Champion  Larissa Pacheco  in the co-main event, as well as a Lightweight showdown between  AJ “Mercenary” McKee  and  Paul “Big News” Hughes . PFL’s  Battle of the Giants: Brace for Impact  PPV event can be seen live on ESPN+ PPV in the U.S and DAZN worldwide. “Battle of the Giants: Brace for Impact” Main Card | ESPN+ PPV (U.S.) | DAZN (Worldwide) Mayadeen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Saturday, October 19 Main Card: 4:00pm ET / 11:00 pm AST   Heavyweight Main Event:  Francis Ngannou  (17-3) vs.  Renan Ferreira  (13-3, 3 NC)  Women’s Featherweight Co-Main Event:   Cris “Cyborg”  (27-2, 1 NC) vs.  Larissa Pacheco  (23-4) Bellator Middleweight World Title Bout:   Johnny Eblen  (15-0) vs.  Fabian Edwards  (13-3) Featherweight Main Card Bout:  Husein Kadimagomaev  (11-1, 1 NC) vs.  Zafar Mohsen  (13-4) Lightweight Main Card Bout:   AJ McKee  (22-1) vs.  Paul Hughes  (12-1) Early Card: 1:30 pm ET / 8:30 pm AST Bantamweight Early Card Bout:  Raufeon Stots  (20-2) vs.  Marcos Breno  (15-3) Lightweight Early Card Bout:  Makkasharip Zaynukov  (15-4) vs.  Dedrek Sander s (9-4) Featherweight Early Card Bout:   Ibragim Ibragimov  (7-0) vs.  Nacho Campos  (5-0) Middleweight Early Card Bout:  Mostafa Nada  (9-3) vs.  Ahmed Sami  (11-4-0, 1 NC)  Featherweight Early Card Bout:  Youssef Al Housani  (4-1) vs  Taha Bendaoud  (3-0)

The Arnold Sports Festival (ASF), the world’s premier sports and fitness exhibition, will host the 2025 WAKO USA National Championship and Team Trials in a strategic partnership with Kumite Classic February 28th to March 1st, 2025.     ASF is widely known as the largest multi-discipline sporting event in the world attracting over 100,000 attendees to Columbus, Ohio annually. The event, which pays homage to Arnold Schwarzenegger, has transformed from a bodybuilding show in 1989 into the mecca of the fitness industry today.  Kumite Classic, a Pittsburgh-based martial arts promotional company, is poised to present a new generation of martial arts competitions, highlighting USA Kickboxing as the anchor competition at the Ohio Expo Center.  The weekend will include kickboxing, karate, tae kwon do, tang soo do, kung fu and wide variety of combat sports.         Kumite Classic president, Bill Viola Jr., brokered the partnership between USA Kickboxing and the Arnold Sports Festival.  Kumite Classic is notable for hosting the most prominent sport karate-centric expo in North America from 1999-2017.  In 2023 Viola Jr. was appointed Chairman of WAKO USA tatami sports under USA Kickboxing.  Since then, he has been leading a committee to expand infrastructure and strengthen affiliations for the organization.  According to Viola Jr., “Every kid dreams about competing in the Olympics someday.  WAKO gives them hope.”  USA Kickboxing is the only U.S. organization in the sport of kickboxing to have IOC (International Olympic Committee) & AOC (American Olympic Committee) recognition.  Viola Jr. continued, “Our committee is dedicated to giving athletes the very best opportunities to excel.” Along his side is Dawn Roffey, a 1993 WAKO World Champion.  She explained, “We are ready to take our tatami vision to the next level.  Bringing WAKO, Kumite Classic, and Arnold Sports together will give us the exposure to show the world what USA Kickboxing is all about. I’ve competed around the globe, and WAKO USA is the future of sport karate in America. Our 2023 nationals in Florida had some of the most talented juniors I’ve ever seen. I know this year will be better as we build this new bridge with the Arnold Sports Festival.” “The Arnold Classic heavily influenced my life’s path,” said Viola Jr., “Since the late 1990’s I’ve been a competitor, coach, guest, consultant, and promoter at the event.  The foundation for Kumite Classic was built in those early Arnold days.  When I met Schwarzenegger in 1998, he inspired me to start my company and emulate his success in Pittsburgh. We connected again last year, and it felt like the right time to return.”    The Kumite Classic name has been synonymous with elite sport karate athletes for over twenty years; pushing the envelope in terms of exposure and opportunities for competitors.  Viola Jr. shared, “My goal is to bring the level of prestige and professionalism that Kumite Classic has been famous for to Columbus.  WAKO is a great representation and platform for this collaboration.”      Troy Speakman is the liaison for combat sports, working with ASF for the past thirty years.  Speakman said, “Bringing an established name like Kumite Classic to the event is a wonderful addition.  I am extremely impressed with the WAKO organization and proud to welcome all the Olympic hopeful athletes.” According to Viola Jr., “When the opportunity presented itself to synergize the Kumite Classic brand with WAKO and Arnold, I knew it could be special. I’ve been semi-retired, so only a mega event like this could pique my interest.  Bringing these groups together for the common goal of recognition for the sport is what it’s all about.  Our superstars like Bailey Murphy, Devon Hopper, Tyson Wray and Ty Saint have been making headlines overseas.  Attending nationals is your chance to be a part of history and join the movers and shakers of our sport.”     Murphy, arguably the best pound-for-pound point fighter in the world right now, has been advocating the WAKO movement as he described, “WAKO Worlds [2023] was my favorite event thus far in my career, and not just because we won the team event in Portugal. It was because I was able to win with some of my best friends.”     That is saying a lot from someone who has won just about every major sport karate tournament on the planet.  Murphy went on to say, “We know there will be plenty more [victories], but there will only be one ‘first time,’ on that type of stage.”  His words resonated with the junior team who rode the momentum and captured a record setting number of medals at the 2024 WAKO Junior World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.  Today WAKO is solidified in 130 affiliated nations and 5 continents, of which 105 are officially recognized by either the National Olympic Committee or relevant National Government Sports Authority.   Viola Jr. said, “The world is watching America, and new sponsors are breaking into market.”  Century Martial Arts has joined the movement as a platinum sponsor of WAKO in 2024 and is currently powering the USA Kickboxing Team.  Century President Michael Dillard shared, “Century is excited and proud to support WAKO USA at the Arnold Sports Festival in 2025.  USA Kickboxing has a strong presence that continues to grow and provides opportunities for its athletes to compete worldwide.  Since the Arnold Sports Festival is a worldwide leader in sports, it’s a natural fit for these organizations to come together.”   WAKO Canada and WAKO USA are in the planning stages of a joint venture called the “Century Cup,” a pair of groundbreaking competitions scheduled for 2025. Century now offers official approved and tagged gear that can be used at every level of WAKO competition.  Century currently sponsors top athletes from WAKO USA, Team Paul Mitchell, and Team Revolution, among others.  Connell Loveless, founder of Team Revolution, is ready for new international opportunities.  He added, “Team Revolution is ready to experience WAKO and everything that the Arnold has to offer.  Having Century onboard will only open more doors and move the sport forward.  I love seeing this event come full circle with so many great martial artists I’ve worked with over the years.”  Team Revolution alum Sen Gao was recently named ambassador for Chinese martial arts.  Gao said, “I always loved the energy of the Kumite Classic, and I want to bring that same power to my hometown of Columbus.”  ASF draws over 15,000 athletes competing in a wide range of competitions, including combat sports.  A confident USA Kickboxing President Rob Zbilski said, “We’re very excited to host our national qualifying event at the Arnold Sports Festival because it’s a golden opportunity to showcase the sport of kickboxing and our athletes alongside so many other prestigious champions. Said Zbilski, “By qualifying at the WAKO USA National Championships, athletes earn spots to compete internationally at the Pan-American Championships, World Games, World Combat Games, and World Championships.” The senior team members will represent the United States at the 2025 World Championships in Abu Dhabi, while junior team members earn a spot to compete in the Pan American Championships.    WAKO International officials stay hopeful for a kickboxing debut at the 2032 Brisbane, Australia Olympic Games. Next month the world will celebrate “International Kickboxing Day” on the 30th of November, commemorating the provisional International Olympic Committee recognition of WAKO. This was a long and hard-fought road that began to gain traction when American athletes began competing abroad.    Viola Jr. explained, “The impact of WAKO in the United States has been a process. Raymond Daniels and the ‘All-Stars’ really paved the way for our tatami champions when they took the initiative to seek out the top competition in the world. Ray became an icon over there.  He won the legendary Irish Open title, an unprecedented ten times (2003-2015), over his career.  No doubt, he is the most decorated sport karate athlete of our generation, and WAKO opened the door to larger opportunities.”  Daniels, a former Kumite Classic Grand Champion, began looking for ways to expand the WAKO footprint in 2016.  The result was the WAKO USA North American Open in collaboration with UFC fight week in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event helped plant a flag for new things to come to the states.  Daniels stated, “To be the best in world, you must compete against the best from all over the world.  WAKO is the only organization that offers that.”  Chris Walker, a member of the All-Stars, currently serves on the tatami committee as head referee.   Walker expressed, “I’ve been on the competitive side of WAKO for many years, and now I sit as someone who can make an impact from the other side.  It’s been a privilege to step into this role and develop the referee core. What sport karate competitors will appreciate is the professionalism and attention to detail WAKO USA brings.  You can witness how the game is changing by checking out our affiliates like USA Sport Karate.” The Florida-based USA Sport Karate organization is one such partnership that is helping to further WAKO growth by co-sanctioning all their tournaments with USA Kickboxing.  Jeromy Roque, President of USA Sport Karate, expounded, “Both WAKO and USA Sport Karate are committed to elevate martial arts competition, increase awareness, and set new benchmarks for professionalism.”  USA Sport Karate is slated to sanction approximately 30 premier events in collaboration with WAKO next year, including the new “State Games” portion of the Kumite Classic at the ASF.  This portion of the weekend will emphasis under belt competition and building future champions. The 2025 nationals in Columbus, Ohio will feature all standard ring and tatami divisions for both youth and adults.    WAKO offers 7 different styles: Point Fighting, light-contact, full-contact, kick-light, low-kick, K1-style, and musical forms.  The ASF event will also offer development level competition for under belts including other disciplines from everything to traditional kata to Chinese martial arts so everyone will have an opportunity to shine under the Kumite Classic umbrella. El Java Abdul-Qadir, head coach of tatami concludes, “I am always scouting for the next international champion. To be a true world champion, you need to bring the right combination of physical skill, mental determination, and strong work ethic to nationals.  If you are talented, confident, coachable, and ready to represent the USA at the highest level, I hope to see you in Columbus.”    Registration for the event will open in October on  www.wakousa.org

On October 10th, 2024, martial arts legend Ernie Reyes Jr. will be inducted into the esteemed Black Belt Hall of Fame , receiving our Martial Arts Entertainment Award. To celebrate this achievement, we’re revisiting the 1991 interview with Ernie Reyes Jr. featured in Black Belt Magazine, where he discussed his early journey in martial arts and his role in films such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze . Join us for an exciting look back at a pivotal moment in martial arts entertainment history!! From his very first side kick at age five, Ernie Reyes Jr. was destined to be somebody special. This was no ordinary martial artist. He was a black belt by age nine and was winning forms grand championships against adults. He traveled across the United States, wowing audiences with his tremendous agility while endearing them to him with his captivating smile. By the age of 12, Reyes Jr. had retired from martial arts competition and began pursuing another dream: film stardom. First came a small role in the Motown production The Last Dragon, followed by a larger part in Red Sonja. Then there was a year-and-a-half run on television as a co-star in Sidekicks, followed by his stunt work as a double for the ninja turtle Donatello in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Now, in his biggest role to date, Reyes Jr. appears as Keno, the pizza delivery boy in the hit film Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze. Suddenly, "Little Ernie" is not so little anymore—at least, not as far as his acting career is concerned. Although just 19, he is well along the road to stardom. But his goals go well beyond acting success. The former darling of the West Coast Demonstration Team also has designs on directing, writing, and producing films. Sad, but true: Ernie Reyes Jr. has grown up. In the following interview, he discusses his roles in both Ninja Turtles films, as well as his other Hollywood triumphs, and also takes a stroll back down martial arts memory lane—which, for Reyes Jr., wasn't all that long ago. —Ed. BLACK BELT: How did you come to be a stunt double in the first Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film? ERNIE REYES JR.:  Well, Golden Harvest Studios found four people in Hong Kong to use for all the fight scenes for the turtles. What happened was one of the guys wasn't able to make it for some reason, and they were in a panic to find somebody quickly who was very good in martial arts and who was about my size. So Pat Johnson, the film's fight choreographer, called me one morning and said, "Do you want to do Ninja Turtles?" I went, "Right." I didn't know if he was joking or what. The ninja turtles weren't really that big at that point. It was like, "What are ninja turtles?" But he explained the part to me, and after talking it over with a few people, I decided to go for it. BB: Was it difficult to perform fight scenes in the heavy ninja turtle outfit? REYES:  The weather in North Carolina, where they filmed the movie, was extremely hot. It was the middle of summer. So the weather was like 100 degrees, plus the costume. My temperature was up above 100 degrees. The costume was so bulky that your flexibility was limited. It's like you're immobile. It was hard to do the things that we had choreographed in the beginning once we got the suits on. It was like, "OK, let's start over." When you got in the costume, you wanted to get out right away. It wasn't like you wanted to hang out and tell jokes while you were in the costume. You did your stuff and you were done. BB: Were you surprised at the incredible success of the first Turtles film? REYES:  I knew it had a built-in audience because of the success of the cartoons and the comic books, so I knew that there was no way it could fail because it already had millions of kids who were ninja turtle fans. But I didn't realize it would do that well. BB: How did you get the role of Keno, the pizza delivery boy, in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze? REYES:  The producers really liked what I had done in the first film, so they wrote in the character Keno for me. I didn't audition or anything. BB: Does Keno do more than just deliver pizza to the turtles? REYES:  Yeah, I become their friend and I go on their adventures with them. BB: Do you do any fight scenes as Keno? REYES:  Yeah, I have a couple of fight scenes. BB: Some people have complained about the violence portrayed in the first Ninja Turtles film. Do you feel it was particularly violent? REYES:  No, I don't think of it as a violent film. That wasn't the main emphasis of the film. As people who have taken martial arts know, the martial arts aren't just kicking and punching. And the turtles weren't just going out there beating people up. It was always a last resort or a self-defense situation. It's a cartoon; it's nothing to be taken too seriously. I think it's dumb to emphasize that violence was the main thing. What about all the other things? You know, Splinter the rat talking to them about fighting, being together as a group, and all of those good things. People are just trying to pick on the film and find something wrong. BB: Did New Line Cinema take this public outcry about violence into account in filming the sequel? REYES:  Yeah, they have, actually. They're downplaying the violence and emphasizing more of a comedic way of fighting, and a lot of funny lines. BB: What is the plot of the sequel? REYES:  Basically, the turtles are searching for their origin. BB: Because you started training at such a young age, there were people who felt you would burn out on the martial arts by now. Yet you have continued to train on a regular basis and are as involved in martial arts as you have ever been. How have you avoided burnout? REYES:  Because there were so many different things. The first four or five years, I was excited about training, period. Then I moved on to competition, and that was another four or five years. And then the demonstrations. And now the acting. So there's been a lot of things for me to go to, where I'm not just stagnant. There's been a lot of places for me to use my martial arts. So there's no way in the world I could burn out in the near future. BB: Has success changed you at all? Are you a different person since you appeared in The Last Dragon, Red Sonja, Sidekicks, and the Ninja Turtles films? REYES:  No. I got the opportunity to do a television show, and now I'm appearing in a couple of new movies, but nothing's changed as far as my personality goes. It may be a new lifestyle, but as far as personality, not at all. BB: Has your father, Ernie Reyes Sr., played a big role in your success? REYES:  My father has choreographed all of my fight scenes except for those in the Turtles films. So whenever I work, he's choreographing my fight scenes, helping me look good. Plus, he's taught me how to use the martial arts in my normal, day-to-day life. BB: You two seem pretty inseparable. REYES:  Yeah, we are, actually. We talk all the time. Although I live in Los Angeles and he's in San Jose, we're still pretty close. BB: Because your parents were divorced, many people think you grew up without a mother figure, but that's not exactly true, is it? REYES:  Some people said it was a single-parent family, but I don't really believe that because I have a mom and I see her all the time. Maybe I haven't lived with her a lot, but she's played an important part in my life. BB: What other projects do you have in the works? REYES:  Well, I did a movie for the Disney Channel, which started in February. It’s called Secret Bodyguard . BB: Is it a martial arts-related film? REYES:  Right. There's a lot of other things on the back burner. I never like to talk about anything that I don't know I'm shooting for real, because you don’t know what's going to happen. There's been so many times when we've been so close on something and it fell through. The movie business takes time. You never know what's going to happen. BB: Sidekicks was your television debut. How long did the show run? REYES:  About a year and a half. It was a fun show. It was a great experience for me because I hadn't acted that much. It was a great learning experience. I got to act and I got a good feel of what the business was like. It's a lot of work. BB: Are you worried about being typecast as strictly a martial arts performer/actor? REYES:  No, I plan to do movies using my martial arts for a pretty long while because it’s a special ability that I’ve been gifted with. But I’m also planning on doing movies where I’m not using my martial arts. But I’m not planning on getting away from them any time soon. BB: Do you credit your martial arts skills for opening the door to Hollywood? REYES:  Oh yeah, the martial arts started it all, by me traveling and doing the demonstrations and so forth. BB: You seemed to really enjoy your days as a competitor and a member of the West Coast Demonstration Team. REYES:  I had a great time doing all those shows, traveling every weekend to tournaments, competing, doing demonstrations, the crowd response. It was a good time. BB: Did you realize the tremendous impact you had on crowds at the tournaments you performed at? REYES:  I realized the people were really enjoying the shows. But now I comprehend that I was kind of setting the standard for all the young kids out there nowadays, as far as being a role model. I think that’s a problem with society. They tell you from a young age that you can’t do this because you're only six years old. But hey, even at a young age, six years old, eight years old, ten years old, we can do everything that the adults can do, and maybe better. BB: How old were you when you retired from martial arts competition? REYES:  I retired at the ripe old age of 12. BB: That’s when many martial artists are just beginning to compete. REYES:  Yeah. BB: You took gymnastics and incorporated it into your martial arts training, did you not? REYES:  Yeah, I used to compete in gymnastics for a couple of years. It was great. I incorporated a lot of the stuff into martial arts, and now I use it in the movies. BB: What are your goals? REYES:  My goals are to continue acting, but it’s only one facet of business. I want to be able to make movies, be able to write, produce, and direct. And I plan on hopefully doing it in the near future. I don’t want to be 30 years old and finally be getting my chance, even though it may seem young in the entertainment business. I want to be able to do it, like, this year.

Black Belt Magazine, the premier martial arts media outlet globally, is pleased to announce the recognition of the Class of 2024 for the Black Belt Hall of Fame! Since its establishment in 1968, the Hall of Fame has been acknowledging exceptional individuals who have made notable contributions to the martial arts community. Esteemed past inductees include legendary figures like Bruce Lee (Class of 1972), Bill Wallace (Class of 1973), Chuck Norris (Class of 1975), and Cynthia Rothrock (Class of 1983, who was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022). The induction ceremony for this year is set to take place on October 10, 2024, at the historic Avalon Theater in Hollywood, California. The event will include inspiring speeches from esteemed former Hall of Fame members, further enhancing the event's prestige. Come join us in celebrating Amit Elor, recognized as the Black Belt Hall of Fame 2024 Athlete of the Year! Amit Elor The Young Champion Amit Elor's induction into the Black Belt Hall of Fame highlights her remarkable achievements in wrestling and martial arts. At just 20, she became the youngest U.S. wrestler to win an Olympic gold medal and is a two-time world champion. Her journey began in Walnut Creek, California, where she discovered her passion for wrestling at age four, quickly gaining recognition for her athleticism and mental toughness. Elor made history by winning the 2022 World Wrestling Championships in the 72 kg weight class. She later excelled in the 68 kg category at the Olympics in Paris, dominating the competition with seemingly invincible skills. Beyond her athletic prowess, Elor embodies discipline and resilience, overcoming personal challenges, including family loss. Her story inspires aspiring athletes, making her a champion and role model. As she looks ahead to the 2028 Olympics in California, Elor’s induction honors her legacy and influence, showcasing how dedication and resilience lead to extraordinary success in martial arts. Want to know the full list of this year’s Black Belt Hall of Fame inductees? Check out our official announcement !

Juliana Peña is no stranger to adversity. From winning The Ultimate Fighter  Season 18 to becoming a UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion, Peña’s journey has been anything but conventional. Now, Juliana Peña known as "The Venezuelan Vixen" is set to make her long-awaited return at UFC 307, taking on Raquel Pennington in the co-main event for a chance to reclaim the title she once held. After more than two years out of the Octagon, the question on everyone’s mind is: Will Peña remind the world why she was once the queen of the Bantamweight division? A Fighter’s Journey: Juliana Peña Juliana Peña’s career has been defined by grit and determination. Her impressive resume includes victories over some of the top names in women’s MMA, including Amanda Nunes, Cat Zingano, Jessica Eye, and Sara McMann. But Peña's fighting spirit goes beyond the Octagon. As a mother to six-year-old Isabella, she balances life as a parent with the relentless demands of being a top-tier athlete. “I feel like I have to climb back up and claw my way back up just to remind everybody, hello, I'm still here,” Peña said in a recent interview, acknowledging her two-year hiatus. “But sometimes I just wish I wouldn't have to remind them.” Despite her time away from competition, Peña remains as determined as ever to prove her worth. She knows that the fans haven’t forgotten about her, and neither has the UFC, which has slotted her into the co-main event slot of one of the biggest cards of the year. However, stepping back into the Octagon after such a long layoff raises the inevitable question of ring rust. The Ring Rust Debate: Will Time Away Impact Peña? Peña has been sidelined since losing her bantamweight crown to Amanda Nunes in July 2022. Many fans and analysts are speculating whether the long break will affect her performance against Raquel Pennington. However, Peña is confident that her time away from the sport won’t be a factor. “I don't ever look at it like, ‘Oh my gosh, I haven't competed in two years. What am I going to do?’” Peña said. “When I get there, I'll do what I know how to do instinctually, and everything will be fine. I’m not going to think too much about it or broadcast it. At the end of the day, I know I can fight, and when that cage door closes, I’m going to give them hell or die trying.” This isn’t the first time Peña has had to come back after an extended absence. Whether it was due to injuries or pregnancy, she’s always returned to top form, and her mindset ahead of UFC 307 reflects her readiness to do it again. A Tale of Two Warriors: Peña vs. Pennington Peña’s opponent, Raquel Pennington, is riding a wave of momentum, entering this fight as the favorite. "Rocky" Pennington has worked tirelessly to reach the top of the division, and her victory over Mayra Bueno Silva earlier this year secured her spot in this championship bout. But despite Pennington’s impressive run, Peña is no stranger to being the underdog, a role she has thrived in throughout her career. “I’ve always been the underdog,” Peña said. “When that cage door closes, I am willing to die to get my hand raised. And I don't think that Raquel has as much of that desire that I have, as much of that hunger and that want, and that competitiveness.” Peña’s mindset is focused on reclaiming what she believes is rightfully hers—the UFC Bantamweight Championship. Her victory over Amanda Nunes in December 2021, where she shocked the world by defeating the greatest female fighter in MMA history, solidified her place as one of the sport’s most dangerous competitors. While Pennington’s ascent has been nothing short of impressive, Peña’s ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are highest could be the X-factor in this fight. The Weight of the Belt: What’s at Stake? For both fighters, this bout represents more than just a title shot—it’s a chance to solidify their legacy in the sport. Peña is hungry to prove that her first win over Nunes wasn’t a fluke, while Pennington is determined to show that she’s finally reached the top of the mountain after years of hard work. However, Peña questions whether Pennington has the fire to carry the belt and represent the UFC at the highest level. “If she had that desire to represent the UFC and be the UFC champion, you would hear from her more,” Peña remarked. “And I think that’s because it’s my role, and it’s time for me to go back into my rightful spot.” Despite not officially holding the belt, Peña believes she’s still the true champion in her mind. “I might not have that official title, but for me, I am the champion, and I feel that way,” Peña declared. Will Peña Reclaim Her Throne? As UFC 307 draws near, the anticipation for the co-main event continues to build. Peña has faced setbacks before, and she’s always returned stronger. But this fight represents something more personal for her—a chance to reclaim her legacy and prove that she’s still one of the best fighters in the world. Raquel Pennington, meanwhile, will be looking to shut down Peña’s comeback story and cement her own legacy. It’s a classic showdown of skill, will, and heart, with the UFC Bantamweight title on the line. Fans around the world will be watching closely to see if Juliana Peña can remind them why she was, and perhaps still is, a champion.

Raquel Pennington’s journey to UFC 307 has been anything but ordinary. It’s been a long, winding road full of triumphs and setbacks, leading to this weekend’s epic clash against Julianna Peña for the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship. On October 5, 2024, at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, these two warriors will finally meet in the Octagon after more than a decade of anticipation. The Origins of a Rivalry: TUF Season 18 Pennington and Peña first crossed paths during The Ultimate Fighter  (TUF) Season 18. Coached by MMA icons Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate, the season was historic as the first to feature female athletes. Both Pennington and Peña were placed on Team Tate, sharing not only a team but also a room, which sparked early tensions between the two. Despite those tensions, both fighters had standout moments on the show — Peña submitted Shayna Baszler, while Pennington earned Fight of the Season  for her gritty win over Jessamyn Duke. At the time, many believed they would meet in the finale, but fate had other plans. Pennington was sidelined with injuries, and Peña went on to win the season. Pennington has carried the weight of that unfinished business ever since. "This is a fight that wasn’t just an eight-week camp for me — this is a fight that has been on my mind for 11 years," Pennington said, reflecting on the long history between them. A Collision Course Years in the Making The fact that these two haven’t faced each other in the Octagon until now is nothing short of surprising. Their UFC careers have spanned 11 years, but their paths never quite aligned. In 2016, both seemed destined for a showdown, with Peña defeating Cat Zingano at UFC 200 and Pennington scoring a decisive win over Miesha Tate at UFC 205. But life had different plans — injuries, title runs, and personal milestones kept them apart until now. For Pennington, this fight isn’t just about the belt; it’s about finally settling the score. “I always asked, and she was either injured or didn’t want to fight me. I was always like, ‘Make her sign on the damn line! I want this fight!’” Pennington exclaimed, voicing the frustrations of a decade-long wait. The Championship Legacy While Peña will enter UFC 307 as the former bantamweight champion, Pennington is no stranger to title contention. She fought Amanda Nunes for the belt at UFC 224, but that night ended in disappointment. However, since that loss, Pennington has gone on a five-fight winning streak, culminating in her victory over Mayra Bueno Silva to claim the bantamweight title earlier this year. Pennington’s rise to champion hasn’t been an easy one. “I have always worked from the bottom up and always been the underdog,” she said. “I’m a Colorado girl, and I love the mountains, but I genuinely use that as an example all the time because I’ve climbed a lot of mountains.” Now, standing at the top of the division, Pennington is ready to defend her title against the woman she’s waited 11 years to fight. A Champion’s Mindset As she prepares to face Peña at UFC 307, Pennington remains grounded yet eager for the challenge. "It’s just exciting for it to actually happen, but I’m also the type of person where this is just competition," Pennington said, brushing off any need for pre-fight trash talk. “At the end of the day, she can run her mouth, but I’m gonna get my hand raised.” Pennington’s journey to the top has been filled with both physical and emotional battles, but her resolve has never wavered. "I am genuinely, genuinely proud of myself," she said, reflecting on her career. "When you get into fighting, the ultimate goal is to get into the UFC and stay in the UFC. I’ve been in the UFC now for 11 years; that’s not something easy to do." UFC 307: The Final Showdown As fight night approaches, Pennington’s excitement is palpable. After 11 years of waiting, she’s more than ready to step into the Octagon with Peña. “Oh my God! Oh man! I am so excited!” she exclaimed, laughing about how even the sight of her opponent motivates her to push through training. This Saturday night at UFC 307, Raquel Pennington and Julianna Peña will finally face off, with the women’s bantamweight title on the line. It’s a fight years in the making, and both athletes are more than prepared to leave it all in the cage. Don’t miss UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree Jr., live from Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, on October 5, 2024. Prelims start at 8pm ET/5pm PT, with the main card airing live on PPV at 10pm ET/7pm PT. This is the culmination of a decade-long rivalry — and Pennington is ready to defend her legacy.

When an emotional Jose Aldo broke down backstage at the 2023 UFC Hall of Fame ceremony, wiping tears from his eyes before walking onto the stage to his signature walkout track, “Run This Town,” it felt like a final goodbye. The inaugural UFC Featherweight Champion and Bantamweight contender Jose Aldo seemed ready to close the chapter on his legendary fighting career and move on, until now at UFC 307. So, it was a complete shock when "The King of Rio" announced his return to the Octagon, stepping back into action earlier this year at UFC 301 after a 19-month hiatus. Facing Jonathan Martinez in front of his hometown crowd, Aldo defied expectations and delivered a dominant performance, proving he still had plenty left in the tank. Crown on his head, the iconic Brazilian walked to the cage with confidence, wiping the floor with Martinez in a vintage showing that brought back memories of his prime. “I think we did really good at UFC Rio,” Aldo told UFC correspondent Evelyn Rodrigues as he geared up for yet another clash. “Everyone thought it was going to be a farewell fight, but we put on a great and agile performance. Everyone got scared that I was leaving again, but I’m coming back, man!” Now, Jose Aldo returns to the Octagon once more at UFC 307, facing Mario Bautista in what is set to be an explosive matchup on Saturday night at Salt Lake City’s Delta Center. For Aldo, this isn’t just about competing for the sake of competition—he’s back with a purpose. He wants the UFC Bantamweight title, and he’s willing to fight his way through any obstacle to get there. “I came back to be a champion,” Aldo boldly stated, reigniting the passion that had seemingly faded after his retirement. “The flame is burning bright again.” While his win over Martinez was impressive, Aldo knows he has a long road ahead. Bautista, a rising star on an extended winning streak, presents a fresh challenge. But Aldo remains unfazed, studying his opponent with the same meticulous approach that has made him one of the most successful fighters in UFC history. “It’s the same for every opponent,” Aldo explained. “I study every detail, no matter who it is. Whether it’s Mario or a No. 1 contender, we train hard to deliver a great fight.” Should Aldo dispatch Bautista on Saturday, the veteran fighter has his sights set on one thing: UFC gold. His ultimate goal is to challenge Merab Dvalishvili, the man who last defeated him, for the Bantamweight title. “There is no other way,” Aldo said with determination. “For the next fight, we’re aiming for the No. 1 spot, the title.” The King of Rio is back, and he’s looking to run this town once more—don’t be surprised if he ascends to the throne again. Will Jose Aldo’s incredible comeback continue? Watch UFC 307 to find out if the Brazilian legend can claim his rightful place at the top of the division!

In the fast-paced world of mixed martial arts, many fighters are focused on skyrocketing their way to UFC championship belt. However, No. 14-ranked UFC strawweight Iasmin Lucindo has chosen a different approach at UFC 307. Despite being one of the youngest female fighters on the UFC roster, Lucindo carries a unique blend of maturity and wisdom that sets her apart. At just 22 years old, she’s not rushing to the top but steadily building her skillset and reputation. As Lucindo gears up for her biggest fight to date against No. 6 Marina Rodriguez at UFC 307 in Salt Lake City, her mindset is clear: "I don't want instant gratification. I want to gain experience first, and then I'll compete for the championship belt," she shared in an interview with UFC Brazil. This grounded approach contrasts sharply with the fast-lane mentality often associated with younger fighters. Learning to Slow Down in a Fast-Paced World Lucindo is acutely aware of how easy it can be to rush through life, especially in a generation that seeks instant results. “I’ve wasted so much time rushing through life, even though I’m young,” she said, reflecting on her journey. Her newfound perspective has allowed her to appreciate the grind and challenges that come with fighting at the highest level. By focusing on the long-term, Lucindo is taking the time to build experience, and the results are starting to show. Her rise in the UFC strawweight division has been meteoric but measured. Fresh off a victory against UFC veteran Karolina Kowalkiewicz at UFC 301, Lucindo has shown that she’s more than capable of handling the pressure. "Before the fight against Karolina, I thought, 'Oh boy, I'm about to face a prominent fighter who has competed for the championship belt.’ But I trusted my team and our game plan, and we completely blocked Karolina's strategies." That victory, which felt like a steep hill to climb, only added to Lucindo’s confidence as she now faces the dangerous Marina Rodriguez. A Striking Showdown Awaits at UFC 307 Lucindo’s path to the top has seen her evolve with every fight. Following a submission win over Polyana Viana and a decision victory over Brogan Walker, she’s riding a wave of momentum. However, standing across from her in the Octagon this Saturday will be one of the division's most dangerous fighters: Marina Rodriguez. A veteran of the sport, Rodriguez has victories over elite fighters like Mackenzie Dern, Amanda Ribas, Yan Xiaonan, and Michelle Waterson-Gomez, proving her credentials as a top contender. Lucindo is fully aware of the challenge that lies ahead, and she embraces it. “I've watched many of Marina’s fights. She's an elite striker, one of the best in the UFC. I feel honored to share the Octagon with her,” Lucindo admitted. Both fighters are known for their striking prowess, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying clash in the Octagon. With both fighters hailing from Brazil, Lucindo is eager to put on a show. "We’re both strikers," she says with a smile. "When two strikers meet, we feel over the moon because we know we’ll have three intense rounds. I’m sure we’ll put on a great show." The Road to UFC Glory: Lucindo’s Journey of Patience Despite the opportunity to leap into the Top Five of the strawweight division with a win over Rodriguez, Lucindo remains focused on the present. “Honestly, I'm in no rush at all,” she explains when asked about a potential title shot. “People often ask me, 'Do you want to fight for the championship belt?' But I’m not in a hurry for that. God places the opportunities in my path, and I accept them.” For Lucindo, the goal is not just about the UFC strawweight belt, but about growing as a fighter with every challenge she faces. “Focusing too much on the future causes great anxiety, especially for me,” she adds. “Right now, I’m focusing on Marina.” Her calm, collected approach doesn’t mean she lacks ambition. Lucindo knows that with her skill set, experience will come fast, and so will the opportunities. A win over Marina Rodriguez would not only move her closer to a title shot but would solidify her status as one of the brightest young stars in the UFC. The Showdown: What’s at Stake for Lucindo? As the youngest fighter in the UFC strawweight division, Iasmin Lucindo has already shown she’s a force to be reckoned with. This Saturday at UFC 307, she steps into the Octagon to face Marina Rodriguez, a top contender known for her elite striking skills. For Lucindo, this fight isn’t just a battle for rankings—it’s an opportunity to showcase her growth, her patience, and her potential to become a UFC champion in the future. While she remains focused on the moment, Lucindo’s path is clear. A victory on Saturday will not only vault her into the Top Five but also serve as a statement to the entire UFC roster that the young Brazilian phenom is here to stay. Don't miss UFC 307: Pereira vs. Rountree Jr., live from Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, on October 5, 2024. The prelims start at 8pm ET/5pm PT, with the main card live on PPV at 10pm ET/7pm PT. In a sport that often demands quick results, Lucindo is teaching the world the power of patience. And with her biggest fight to date just days away, she’s ready to continue her steady march toward the belt.

Cage Warriors have today confirmed a second world title fight for their upcoming return to Newcastle's Vertu Motors Arena at Cage Warriors 181 Reigning CW flyweight champion Shaj Haque is set to defend his title for the second time, facing off against the dangerous French knockout artist Nicolas Leblond. Haque (16-5) claimed the 125lbs title in spectacular fashion, delivering Knockout of the Year at the 2022 New Year's Eve event. His last title defence came in July of last year, where he headed to enemy territory in Rome and defeated local favourite Michele Martignoni. Leblond (11-4) enters this fight on a five-fight win streak, with four finishes, including a 2023 knockout-of-the-year contender against Michelangelo Lupoli and a thrilling comeback KO of Scott Malone in Glasgow earlier this year. The two were originally set to clash at Cage Warriors 174 London earlier this year, but the champion was forced to withdraw due to injury. "Shaj Haque made history as the first Bangladeshi world champion," said CW President Graham Boylan. "But he's now facing his toughest challenge yet against Nicolas Leblond." "We’re bringing multiple world title fights to Newcastle, all featuring local talent in what promises to be a spectacular finale for our 2024 European events!" November 23rd will also see Harry Hardwick defend his featherweight title against rising contender Keweny Lopes, along with a lightweight contenders clash between James Power and Dumitru Girlean. Cage Warriors 181 will air live on  UFC Fight Pass  and international broadcast partners.

The cover of the June 2007 issue of Black Belt Magazine showcased the legendary B.J. Penn securing a tight hold on his training partner, embodying the precision and control that defined his fighting style. This mastery led to his appearance as a coach for Season 5 of The Ultimate Fighter in its release that same year. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

At BRAVE CF 88, held in Slovenia on September 28, two fighters solidified their place in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) history: Erko Jun and Pavel Dailidko. Their triumphs in the Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight divisions, respectively, not only earned them championship gold but also catapulted them into the elite of BRAVE Combat Federation. Erko Jun: The Rise of a Light Heavyweight King Erko Jun’s path to the BRAVE CF Light Heavyweight Championship is nothing short of inspiring. Originally from Bosnia, Jun first gained attention for his impressive physique and background in fitness. However, it was his transition to MMA that truly showcased his combat skills. Erko’s explosive athleticism and heavy hands quickly made him a fan favorite, and his determination to evolve as a fighter was evident from the start. The journey to the top started at BRAVE CF 70 in Slovenia. Erko Jun headlined the fight card in what was his BRAVE CF debut and impressed everyone when he stopped Marko Drmonjic in the first-round to kickstart his rise to the top. At BRAVE CF 81, Erko Jun secured a vicious knockout fighting Mohamed Said Maalem in the main event. Known for his intense training regime and passion for improving his overall game, Jun developed a more well-rounded approach, mixing striking with grappling, which proved crucial in his rise through the Light Heavyweight ranks. His most recent performances showcased a newfound maturity in the cage, combining patience with devastating power, leading him to earn the Light Heavyweight title at BRAVE CF 88 against Alexander Wesner. In the title fight, Jun displayed resilience and skill, defeating his opponent in a dominant fashion, solidifying his place as a top fighter in the division. Pavel Dailidko: The Heavyweight Powerhouse In the Heavyweight division, Pavel Dailidko’s ascent to the BRAVE CF title is a testament to his raw power and technical prowess. Hailing from Lithuania, Dailidko built a reputation as a fearsome striker, utilizing his immense strength and sharp boxing skills to decimate opponents. Early in his career, he made a name for himself with brutal knockouts, and it wasn't long before BRAVE CF took notice of his talent. Dailidko’s road to championship gold wasn’t without challenges, but his persistence and work ethic were evident in every performance. His ability to weather storms in the cage, combined with his knockout power, made him a constant threat in the Heavyweight division. Pavel, faced off Slovenia’s Luka Podkrajsek at BRAVE CF 70 in what was his second fight in the organization. The Lithuanian entered the fight on the back of his debut loss in BRAVE Combat Federation against Shamil Gaziev and was looking for a breakthrough performance. He got just that when he stopped Luka Podkrajsek in the first-round. This marked the start of Pavel’s rise in the BRAVE CF Heavyweight division after which he secured three more knockout wins before BRAVE CF 88. At BRAVE CF 88, he demonstrated his dominance by capturing the Heavyweight Championship with a resounding victory, firmly establishing himself as the new face of the division. What’s Next for Jun and Dailidko? For both champions, the future holds incredible possibilities. With BRAVE Combat Federation expanding its influence globally, Erko Jun and Pavel Dailidko are now among the most recognized fighters in the organization. Their titles not only cement their legacies but also place them as key figures in the future of BRAVE CF. Erko Jun may look to defend his title against rising Light Heavyweight contenders, with speculation swirling around potential matchups. Fans are eager to see whether he will evolve further or if challengers will expose any weaknesses in his game. Meanwhile, Pavel Dailidko’s reign as the Heavyweight champion opens up opportunities to face some of the most dangerous fighters in the division. Their stories of hard work, persistence, and undeniable skill have captivated fans worldwide, and now, as titleholders, they face the challenge of defending their belts and solidifying their legacies.