In the vast tapestry of Jiu Jitsu, there's always more to explore. Beyond the fundamental techniques and widely-practiced submissions lies a treasure trove of rare and devastating strikes, once revered by ancient masters.  These techniques, though less common in modern practice, offer a unique edge to those who seek to elevate their Jiu Jitsu game. In this article, we embark on a journey into the realm of these unique strikes, their historical significance, and how they can be seamlessly incorporated into your training. The Historical Significance of Striking in Jiu Jitsu While Jiu Jitsu is predominantly known for its grappling and submission techniques, striking has always been an integral part of the art's rich history. In the early days of Jiu Jitsu, practitioners engaged in rigorous training in both striking and grappling, recognizing the importance of being well-rounded in combat. This holistic approach stemmed from the understanding that real-world confrontations often involved a combination of striking and grappling. Over time, the focus shifted more towards grappling, as practitioners refined their techniques and developed innovative submission holds. However, the legacy of striking remains deeply embedded in the art's DNA. The rare strikes that we explore in this article are a testament to this legacy, offering a glimpse into the combat strategies of ancient Jiu Jitsu masters. The Rare Jiu Jitsu Strikes Tegatana Ate  (Hand-blade Strike): This strike employs the edge of the hand, like a blade, to target vulnerable areas such as the throat, temples, or solar plexus. It demands precision and accuracy but can be devastating when executed correctly. The hand-blade strike is a prime example of how Jiu Jitsu practitioners can utilize their body as a weapon, even in close quarters combat. Hiji Ate  (Elbow Strike): The elbow, with its sharp and bony structure, is a formidable weapon in close-range combat. Elbow strikes can be used to create space, set up submissions, or even finish a fight. They are particularly effective when the opponent is in close proximity, making it difficult for them to evade the strike. Kakato Geri  (Heel Kick): This kick, delivered with the heel, targets the legs, knees, or groin of the opponent. It can be used to disrupt their balance, create openings for takedowns or submissions, or inflict debilitating pain. The heel kick is a versatile strike that can be employed from various positions, including standing, kneeling, or even on the ground. Ushiro Empi  (Back Elbow): This strike is executed with the back of the elbow, typically targeting the face or head. It's a surprise attack that can catch opponents off guard, creating an opportunity to capitalize on their momentary disorientation. The back elbow is a testament to the ingenuity of Jiu Jitsu practitioners, who have developed techniques to strike effectively from virtually any position. Integrating Rare Strikes into Your Training While these strikes may not be as prevalent in modern Jiu Jitsu, they can significantly enhance your skill set and provide a tactical advantage. Here are some practical tips for incorporating them into your training Start Slow and Focus on Technique:  These strikes necessitate precision and accuracy. Avoid rushing into full-power training. Instead, dedicate time to mastering the technique, paying close attention to body mechanics, footwork, and targeting. Train with a Partner:  It's crucial to practice these strikes with a partner who can offer constructive feedback and assist you in refining your technique. Mutual trust and respect are essential for safe and productive training. Use Protective Gear:  When training strikes, prioritize safety by using appropriate protective gear, such as headgear, mouthguards, and gloves. This will minimize the risk of injury and allow you to train with confidence. Be Mindful of the Context:  Striking is not always suitable in every Jiu Jitsu situation. Exercise sound judgment and train responsibly, adhering to the rules and guidelines set by your instructor and training partners.

ONE Championship is set to electrify Lumpinee Stadium again on Friday, September 20, with ONE Friday Fights 80, featuring 12 thrilling martial arts bouts that promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats. The main event pits Rak Erawan  against Yodnumchai Fairtex  in a high-stakes showdown where both fighters are on the cusp of earning a coveted main roster contract. Rak, a familiar face in the ONE Friday Fights series with six appearances, is eager to reclaim his former glory by halting the unbeaten run of 20-year-old Yodnumchai, who boasts an impressive 4-0 record. In the co-main event, Chartpayak Saksatoon  and Petnamngam PK Saenchai  will square off in a 127-pound catchweight bout. Chartpayak is aiming to maintain his undefeated status with another knockout, but the seasoned Petnamngam plans to spoil his party and move closer to title contention. The action doesn’t stop there! Nongam Fairtex  faces 18-year-old phenom Chabakaew Sor KanJanchai  in a 110-pound Muay Thai clash. Nongam, with five wins under her belt, looks to extend her success, while the rising star Chabakaew is ready to make a statement. For MMA enthusiasts, David Cooke  and Avazbek Kholmirzaev  are determined to keep their undefeated streaks alive against debuting challengers. Cooke, fresh off his debut victory, will battle Jang Seon Gyu  in a lightweight contest. Meanwhile, Kholmirzaev aims for a fourth consecutive win as he meets Bektur Zhenishbek Uulu  in a 130-pound catchweight fight. All this action and more awaits on Friday, September 20, starting at 8:30 a.m. ET / 5:30 a.m. PT. The best part? You can watch it all for free on ONE’s official YouTube channel. Full ONE Friday Fights 80 Card Rak Erawan vs. Yodnumchai Fairtex Petnamngam PK Saenchai vs. Chartpayak Saksatoon Yoddoi Kaewsamrit vs. Teeyai Wankhongohm MBK Lamnamkhong BS Muaythai vs. Anurak Wankhongohm MBK Petninmungkorn DrRatNamkangIceland vs. Komkrit J Power Roof Phuket Nongam Fairtex vs. Chabakaew Sor KanJanchai Kongklai Sor Sommai vs. Deniz Demirkapu Thway Thit Win Hlaing vs. Mavlonbek Kakhkhorov Avazbek Kholmirzaev vs. Bektur Zhenishbek Uulu Emily Chong vs. Kokoz David Cooke vs. Jang Seon Gyu Shoya Ishiguro vs. Hiryu Niwa

At ONE 168: Denver, John Lineker made a splash in his Muay Thai debut for ONE Championship. “Hands of Stone” lived up to his name with a second-round knockout over Asa Ten Pow. The former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion was pleased that his performance went according to plan. “I think I did very well, especially considering that my specialty is boxing. I managed to do everything I had planned, and I was very happy with the result,” Lineker told ONE. “I had a great performance, I managed to be very aggressive, as I am in all my fights.” Lineker’s strategy is always the same, no matter the sport. He is known for his aggressive style with crushing hooks and relentless power. That simple strategy has made him a star and will continue no matter in MMA or Muay Thai. “We never know if we’re going to win by knockout or on points, but I always go for the knockout. And this fight was no different. I went in looking for the knockout the whole time and I got it once again,” the Brazilian stated. “In all my fights, the fans can always expect a knockout because that’s what I do. I don’t leave the result in the hands of the judges.” Although Lineker defeated a fantastic striker in his Muay Thai debut, there are no plans to transition full-time and chase the gold in the bantamweight division. “Hands of Stone” still wants to reclaim MMA gold, but he is more than willing to stay active by taking other exciting matchups that fans can relish. “My focus is MMA. I don’t plan on switching to Muay Thai [permanently], but I want to do other Muay Thai fights, just to stay active. I can even fight in submission grappling or do some super-fight with special rules,” Lineker said. “In MMA, my focus is to fight for the title again, regardless of who holds the belt. It’s currently with Fabrício Andrade, so my focus is to fight him for the title.” When eyeing potential meetings in Muay Thai, Lineker clearly wants to compete against the sport’s top stars. Still, one ironclad name is at the top of the list. “In Muay Thai, a fight against Rodtang [Jitmuangnon] would be interesting, and I think the fans would really enjoy watching it. I think it would be insane,” Lineker admitted. “A fight against Superlek [Kiatmoo9] or [Jonathan] Haggerty would definitely be crazy! It would be a war, I have no doubt about that. But the Muay Thai fight I have in mind would be against Rodtang. Because of the height and physical structure, this fight would be a great match. It would be a great show for the fans!” Relive Lineker’s KO at ONE 168: Denver and all the other incredible action on-demand with Prime Video.

UFC 306 was one for the books, as the promotion celebrated Mexican Independence Day with a spectacular night of fights, marking the first-ever event at the iconic Las Vegas Sphere. While the results had fans on the edge of their seats, the atmosphere, performances, and record-breaking numbers told a story of their own. Here’s a breakdown of the bonuses, attendance, and key moments that made Noche UFC unforgettable. Fight Night Bonuses: Who Took Home the Extra $50,000? The UFC handed out its signature $50,000 bonuses to four standout performers of the night. Here's a breakdown of those well-deserved rewards: Fight of the Night: Daniel Zellhuber vs. Esteban Ribovics A main card clash that had fans on their feet! Zellhuber and Ribovics delivered a breathtaking back-and-forth war that was nothing short of a high-octane thriller. Both fighters brought their A-game, exchanging fierce blows and keeping the pressure on from the first round until the final bell. Ribovics, who secured the win, gained massive respect for his resilience and skill, while Zellhuber’s diverse striking made it a fight to remember. For this incredible display, they both pocketed $50,000 each for Fight of the Night. Performance of the Night: Ignacio Bahamondes \Ignacio Bahamondes didn't just get a win; he made a statement. Facing Manuel Torres, Bahamondes expertly used his opponent’s aggression against him, delivering a masterclass in counter-striking. He dropped Torres twice, finishing the bout with a brutal ground-and-pound after the second knockdown. This marked his second consecutive first-round stoppage win, showcasing his rapid rise in the UFC. The $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus was well earned. Performance of the Night: Ketlen Souza Ketlen Souza made her presence felt in the strawweight division with a powerful finish. During a heated exchange of strikes with Yazmin Jauregui, Souza connected with a devastating left hook that dropped her opponent. Not wasting a second, she followed up with a slick submission, taking Jauregui’s back and locking in a choke for the win. Souza’s dominant performance solidified her position as a threat in the division and earned her the second $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus. Attendance & Gate Sales: Record-Breaking Numbers at the Las Vegas Sphere UFC 306 saw an impressive turnout, with 16,024 fans packing the Las Vegas Sphere  for this historic event. The venue, chosen for its state-of-the-art design and immersive experience, hosted its first-ever sporting event, making the night all the more special. The excitement surrounding the card and the significance of Noche UFC contributed to a sold-out show  with gate sales hitting a record-breaking $22 million USD . The event drew in fans from around the world, but especially from the Mexican and Latin American communities, thanks to the heavy focus on Mexican athletes competing in the octagon. Mexican Pride and UFC History The night wasn’t just about the fights – it was a celebration of Mexican culture and athleticism. With eight Mexican fighters competing, UFC 306 was a showcase of pride for both the athletes and fans alike. For many, this event marked a turning point in the UFC’s global appeal, solidifying its connection with the Latin American fanbase. The excitement in the air was palpable, and the electric crowd at the Las Vegas Sphere made it clear that UFC 306 wasn’t just another fight night – it was a historic moment for both the promotion and its fans. Fan Reactions: A Night to Remember Fans couldn’t stop raving about the atmosphere at the Las Vegas Sphere. From the innovative venue design to the thrilling in-octagon action, UFC 306 offered an experience like no other. Social media was flooded with reactions, with fans praising the fighters, the venue, and the overall event. Many UFC enthusiasts noted how the night represented a perfect blend of top-tier competition and cultural celebration, making it a unique spectacle in the world of combat sports. UFC 306 was a moment in UFC history that left fans, fighters, and the entire sport of MMA buzzing with excitement. From the spectacular performances that earned fighters an extra $50,000, to the record-breaking attendance and gate sales, the Noche UFC event at the Las Vegas Sphere is one that will be remembered for years to come. With its celebration of Mexican heritage, high-octane bouts, and iconic venue, UFC 306 proved once again that the UFC knows how to put on an unforgettable show.

A question that invariably comes up in combatives training is, “How hard should I bang?” My honest answer is, “As hard as you can stand,” followed by, “but use some common sense.” When you and a partner are impact training on each other, how hard you strike depends on the technique, the scenario, the sequence, the weapon, whether you’re wearing protective equipment, and, most important, you and your partner’s appetites for intensity. In all cases, you need to really think about how to blast safely. The good news is that following a few precautions and adhering to some simple guidance will keep your training as safe as combatives training can be. For example, if you’re working on drills for unarmed defenses against edged weapons, the attacker should wear protective equipment specific to those drills, but he also should slash and thrust at you with full power and speed. Only by training at this level of speed, power, and intensity will you develop a true appreciation for what it takes — for real — to defend against an attacker who’s slashing and stabbing at you on the street. The same is true for pistol defense. Although some pistol-disarming techniques look like they work, they often fail to ensure the most important thing: that you move yourself off the line of fire first. The bad guy may squeeze one off because of poor weapons handling, because of sympathetic muscle tightening that accompanies a startle, or because of the other variables present in the situation. You’ve got to be sure you don’t catch it in your face, chest, or abdomen. You’re very likely to be shot if you use a technique developed by people who aren’t experienced with firearms and have no firsthand experience with close-range firearm attacks. SIDE NOTE: Training as hard as you’re able is the acid test that’s lacking in a lot of disarms people believe are streetworthy. I’ve seen hundreds of techniques for disarming over the years. Some look great until you attempt them under more realistic conditions. That’s when they fall apart. For example, you may learn pretty quickly that you’re likely to break your fingers if you try to catch your training partner’s knife-hand wrist or that you just can’t catch it. Back on point, using as much force as I’m suggesting gets a bit complicated when you’re working sequences with two or three individual techniques linked together. Here’s why: Different types of strikes are going to hit different anatomical points on your partner’s body. This means that during one sequence, you may have to regulate your force several different ways yet still maintain overall ferocity and intensity. For example, let’s say the sequence you’re working on is a right-leg shin kick, followed by a right slashing elbow and finished with an ankle stomp. Suit your partner up in a baseball catcher’s shinguard to absorb the impact of your kick and maybe a cervical collar to protect his neck (if he doesn’t have a solid guard position). Make sure he keeps his leg slightly bent so the force of the kick doesn’t hyperextend his knee. When you’re ready to cook off, blast the shin kick, then fire your elbow as you target the base of his skull. However, as it lands, pull significant power — but not speed — from the strike because the base of his skull is very vulnerable. Crank off your full-power ankle stomp and land it to the side — near but not on — his ankle. As training starts to intensify, you and your partner will get really amped. The action will get more dynamic and harder to control, and the potential for injury will increase significantly. Be careful. You can’t afford to accidentally plant a full-power strike on anyone you don’t intend to hurt badly. Big-boy rules apply when you train aggressively in combatives. It’s important for everyone to understand the very real risk of serious injury — not just split lips and bloody noses — and for everyone to work together to create the safest, most realistic, and most hardcore training experience. Whoever is playing the attacker in the drill should be animated, forcing the partner to develop his skill in perceiving threats and exploiting opportunities as quickly as they occur. At the same time, whoever’s playing the victim has to execute his techniques hard enough to actually take control of the attacker. “Hard enough” results in the attacker becoming less animated in the drill because the confrontational dynamic has been reversed, just like it would on the street. FINAL ANALYSIS: Your goal is to replicate what actually happens on the street in the same amount of time and with the same intensity — but without the same consequences. If you’ve never trained this way, it’s difficult at first. But in my opinion, the closer your training is to full speed, full power, and full intensity, the sooner you’ll develop truly useful combatives skills. Photos by: Rick Hustead

Kickboxing, a dynamic martial art, combines the power and precision of traditional boxing with the ferocity of martial arts kicks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced fighter, mastering the key punches and kicks is essential for success in the ring or for self-defense. In this article, we’ll explore 10 Essential Punches and Kicks in Kickboxing every kickboxer should know, breaking down each technique and giving real-world examples from competitive bouts. 1. Jab The jab is a quick, straight punch thrown with the lead hand. It’s primarily used for setting up other strikes or gauging distance. A well-placed jab can disrupt your opponent's rhythm and create openings for more powerful strikes. Example in action:  One of the most famous uses of the jab was by Muhammad Ali  during his boxing career, but in kickboxing, Buakaw Banchamek  has used it effectively to control range and disrupt his opponents’ attacks. 2. Cross (Straight Right/Left) The cross is a powerful straight punch delivered with the rear hand, typically aimed at the head or body. It's often thrown immediately after a jab, forming the classic "one-two" combination. Example in action:  Kickboxing legend Giorgio Petrosyan  is known for his sharp, accurate crosses that leave opponents stunned and open for follow-up strikes. 3. Hook The hook is a circular punch that comes around the opponent's guard, aimed at the side of the head or body. Delivered with either the lead or rear hand, a hook can generate tremendous power due to its wide arc. Example in action:  In his fight against Nieky Holzken , Cedric Doumbe  used a devastating lead hook to drop his opponent, showcasing the power and precision of this punch. 4. Uppercut The uppercut is a vertical punch delivered from underneath the opponent's guard. It’s particularly effective at close range, often targeting the chin or solar plexus. Example in action:   Rico Verhoeven  used a textbook uppercut against Badr Hari  in their legendary bout, catching him when he ducked down during exchanges. 5. Overhand The overhand punch is a looping strike thrown over the top of the opponent's guard, usually with the rear hand. It’s often used to catch an opponent who is ducking or slipping straight punches. Example in action:   Andy Souwer  has effectively used the overhand to surprise opponents, particularly in his bouts in K-1 MAX. 6. Front Kick (Teep) The front kick, or teep in Muay Thai, is a push kick aimed at the opponent’s midsection or face. It’s great for keeping distance or interrupting an opponent's forward movement. Example in action:   Samart Payakaroon , the Muay Thai legend, is known for his impeccable use of the teep to control distance and keep opponents at bay in his kickboxing bouts. 7. Roundhouse Kick The roundhouse kick is a staple in kickboxing, delivered by swinging the leg in a circular motion toward the opponent's legs, body, or head. It's one of the most powerful kicks in the sport. Example in action:   Mirko Cro Cop  is famous for his devastating head-level roundhouse kicks, often knocking out his opponents with the signature "left high kick." 8. Low Kick The low kick targets the opponent's thigh, aiming to weaken their legs and reduce mobility. Repeated low kicks can break down an opponent’s stance and make them more vulnerable. Example in action:   Ernesto Hoost , one of the greatest kickboxers of all time, frequently utilized low kicks to wear down his opponents, especially in his K-1 Grand Prix victories. 9. Side Kick The side kick is delivered by thrusting the leg outward from a sideways stance, aiming at the body or legs of the opponent. It generates significant power and is great for keeping opponents at a distance. Example in action:   Jean-Claude Van Damme  popularized the side kick in movies, but fighters like Raymond Daniels  have used it with devastating effect in actual kickboxing competition, knocking opponents off balance. 10. Spinning Back Kick The spinning back kick is a powerful kick delivered by turning your body 180 degrees and thrusting your rear leg backward into the opponent. It’s an unpredictable strike with tremendous power. Example in action:   Andy Hug , a Swiss kickboxing icon, famously used spinning back kicks in K-1 to knock out his opponents, including a memorable knockout of Mirko Cro Cop . Mastering these 10 punches and kicks will transform your kickboxing game, whether you’re training for self-defense or looking to step into the ring. Each strike has its place in a well-rounded kickboxer's arsenal, and learning when and how to use them is the key to success. Just as these legends have shown, the right technique, delivered at the right moment, can turn the tide of any fight. Stay dedicated, keep practicing, and soon you'll be executing these moves with precision and power!

BRAVE Combat Federation will be crowning a new Light Heavyweight champion at BRAVE CF 88 in Slovenia as European MMA superstar Erko Jun takes on German knockout artist Alexander Wesner in the main event of the evening. While this would be the fifth Light Heavyweight title fight in the history of BRAVE Combat Federation, it would be safe to say that the upcoming showdown between Erko and Wesner will be the biggest fight to date in the division. So far, two fighters have held the Light Heavyweight title in the organization. Klidson Abreu became the inaugural champion at BRAVE CF 8 when he outclassed Timo Feucht and later, Mohammad Fakhreddine became the champion when he defeated Mohamed Said Maalem at BRAVE CF 57. While Said Maalem did hold the title for a brief amount of time after BRAVE CF 52, he had to relinquish the title after his title-winning fight was overturned to a no-contest upon review due to illegal strikes. Now, the title is vacant and Erko and Wesner will be looking to etch their name into the history books as the third Light Heavyweight champion in BRAVE Combat Federation. Erko Jun, one of Europe’s biggest MMA stars, enters the fight with a five-fight winning streak and two consecutive first-round knockouts in BRAVE CF. This will be his third straight main event in the organization, and in his last fight, he knocked out former title challenger Said Maalem, securing his title shot. Wesner, meanwhile, is a formidable opponent. Younger and faster than Erko, Wesner is also on a five-fight winning streak, with four finishes among his last five victories, including a stoppage of 50-fight Spanish veteran Guilherme Cadena. As a Middleweight champion outside BRAVE CF, Wesner has proven his championship capabilities and is regarded as one of the top fighters in Germany. When Erko Jun and Alexander Wesner clash for the Light Heavyweight title at BRAVE CF 88, it will not only be the biggest fight in the division's history but also one of the most anticipated bouts of the year in European MMA. BRAVE CF 88 marks the organization's return to Slovenia after BRAVE CF 81 and is the eighth event of the year. In addition to the Light Heavyweight title fight, the card also features the inaugural BRAVE CF Heavyweight title fight, with Pavel Dailidko taking on Azamat Nuftillaev in the co-main event.

The MMA world has seen many fighters transition from wrestling, but few are as exciting as undefeated Bahraini star Rasul Magomedov, who will make his return at BRAVE CF 87 in the Netherlands on September 22.  Regarded as one of the best wrestlers to enter MMA, Magomedov is a generational talent who made his name in the under 97kg wrestling category before switching to MMA.  He is one of the few wrestlers to have defeated Kyle Snyder, a two-time Olympic medallist, and multiple-time World Championship medallist. While athletes like Snyder, Akhmed Tazhudinov, and Abdulrashid Sadulaev chose to stay in wrestling, Magomedov took a different path, transitioning into MMA, where he is quickly becoming a superstar. And his transition to MMA came in the same year he added a Combat Sambo world title to his list of accolades. His first taste of success in MMA came in the amateur circuit, where he remained undefeated. Magomedov won every major medal, becoming the World, European, and Asian champion in IMMAF, and led Team Bahrain to win the MMA Super Cup Gold medal. He finished his amateur career as the top-ranked Heavyweight and moved into the professional ranks with BRAVE Combat Federation, benefiting from the IMMAF-BRAVE CF amateur pathway. As previously stated, Rasul is a Combat Sambo World Champion and has been unstoppable in professional MMA as well, finishing all four of his opponents in the first round, underlining his dominance.  Now, he is preparing to continue his rise towards a potential World title fight in BRAVE CF as he returns to action in the Netherlands. This fight is important for Magomedov, as BRAVE CF is also set to crown new champions in both the Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight divisions at BRAVE CF 88 in Slovenia the following week. Fans in the Netherlands, known for their love for kickboxing, will witness world class grappling as Magomedov faces BJJ black belt Pablo Benaion, who has over two decades of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This fight also adds another chapter to the long-standing rivalry between wrestling and BJJ. BRAVE CF 87 will take place on September 22 in Alkmaar, Netherlands, in association with ECE MMA. It is BRAVE CF’s second event in the Netherlands, following the success of BRAVE CF 83. The event will be headlined by a Lightweight title fight between Abdisalam Kubanychbek and Raul Tutarauli.

2024 Black Belt Hall of Fame Inductee Mike Stone graced the cover of the December 1980 issue of Fighting Stars. With the rise of martial arts cinema, Stone became a key figure in shaping the Ninja genre with his innovative choreography and deep martial arts knowledge. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

Bellator Champions Series London saw Sara Collins leave OVO Wembley Arena as the new no.1 contender in the Women’s Featherweight division as she defeated Leah McCourt with devastating strikes on the feet, ultimately finishing the fight with a rear-naked choke in the first round to become the new no.1 contender in the Women’s Featherweight division. In the co-main event, London’s own Simeon Powell sent the crowd wild as he had his hand raised in victory after defeating Rafael Xavier in a Light Heavyweight bout by split decision. “Smooth” fought back through adversity after being downed by his opponent, with both athletes landing significant blows in a back-and-forth fight that had fans on the edge of their seats. In another massive Light Heavyweight bout, Luke Trainer put on a huge performance to put his name on the map in the division as he beat Laurynas Urbonavicius by first round rear-naked choke. “The Gent” proceeded to take the microphone and call his shot against Bellator Light Heavyweight World Champion, Corey Anderson, and said he’d defeat fellow 205 lbs athlete Karl Moore if necessary on the way to a title.  The main card was opened by a British domestic showcase, as Marc Diakiese won his Bellator debut by unanimous decision against Tim Wilde, with both athletes throwing their renowned array of strikes in a bid to gain momentum in the Lightweight division. Bellator Champions Series London Main Card Results: Sara Collins  (6-0) defeated  Leah McCourt  (8-4) via 1st round rear-naked choke (2:25)  Simeon Powell  (10-1) defeated  Rafael Xavier  (13-8) via split decision (29-28x2, 28-9) Luke Trainer  (9-1) defeated  Laurynas Urbonavicius  (14-2) via 1st round rear-naked choke (4:15) Marc Diakiese  (18-7) defeated  Tim Wilde  (17-6-1) via unanimous decision (29-28x3) Preliminary Card Results Archie Colgan  (11-0) defeated  Manoel Sousa  (11-1) by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28x2) Mike Shipman  (17-4) defeated   Eslam Abdul Baset  (16-3-0, 1 NC) by 2nd round KO (2:32) Joseph Luciano  (10-2) defeated  Steven Hill  (7-2) by a 2nd round Anaconda Choke (1:22) Ciaran Clarke  (10-0) defeated  Toumas Grönvall  (12-8-1) by unanimous decision (30-26, 30-27x2)  Darragh Kelly  (7-0) defeated  Dymtrii Hrytsenko  (9-1) by unanimous decision (30-26x3)

In today’s world of mixed martial arts (MMA) and combat sports, modern techniques often dominate the spotlight. Yet, ancient martial arts, practiced for centuries, hold a treasure trove of forgotten skills, combat philosophies, and self-defense strategies. Many of these historical methods are overshadowed by trends in modern combat but could offer unique advantages in both competition and real-world scenarios. This article explores some of the most fascinating, yet forgotten, ancient martial arts techniques, revealing how their rediscovery could enhance modern-day fighters' versatility and effectiveness. From the stealthy warriors of ninjutsu to the mystic traditions of kalaripayattu, let’s take a journey back in time to unlock hidden secrets of combat. The Forgotten Legacy of Ancient Martial Arts 1. Kalaripayattu: The Mother of All Martial Arts Originating from South India, Kalaripayattu  is considered one of the oldest martial arts systems in the world, dating back more than 3,000 years. Known for its graceful movements, Kalaripayattu combines strikes, kicks, grappling, and weaponry. The agility and flexibility training, along with breathing exercises, make practitioners highly adaptive. Lost Techniques : Weaponry skills with urumi (flexible sword) and concealed strikes. Modern Use : Enhances flexibility, rapid strikes, and unconventional weapons training, perfect for close combat situations. 2. Pankration: The Ancient Greek MMA Dating back to 648 BCE, Pankration  was a no-holds-barred form of combat that combined elements of boxing and wrestling. Fighters used a variety of striking, grappling, and joint-lock techniques to subdue opponents, making it one of the earliest precursors to MMA. Lost Techniques : Brutal submissions and ground control techniques, including joint manipulation. Modern Use : These grappling methods can be reincorporated into BJJ or MMA for more dynamic ground fighting. 3. Ninjutsu: The Art of Stealth and Deception The ninja  were Japan’s covert warriors, specializing in espionage, guerrilla tactics, and stealth. While often romanticized, Ninjutsu focused heavily on unconventional warfare, surprise attacks, and psychological manipulation. Lost Techniques : Stealth techniques, distraction methods, and the use of small concealed weapons. Modern Use : Some principles of Ninjutsu, such as evasion and misdirection, can be adapted into self-defense strategies and modern military tactics. 4. Bokator: Cambodia’s Ancient Combat Art Bokator  is an ancient Cambodian martial art dating back more than 1,000 years. Known for its comprehensive use of weapons, joint locks, and animal-based movements, it was designed to disable opponents with minimal effort. Lost Techniques : Movements mimicking animal attacks, incorporating strikes from unusual angles. Modern Use : The animal-based movement patterns can improve agility and unpredictability, making it hard for opponents to anticipate attacks. 5. Taekkyeon: Korea’s Ancient Dance of Combat Before the emergence of Taekwondo, Taekkyeon  was Korea’s traditional martial art, blending fluid, dance-like movements with powerful kicks. It involves using both hands and feet in circular movements to evade attacks and strike opponents. Lost Techniques : Evading strikes with circular footwork and seamlessly transitioning from defense to attack. Modern Use : This style can be blended with kickboxing or other striking disciplines to improve defensive strategies. Why Modern Fighters Should Rediscover Ancient Techniques Many ancient martial arts focused not just on physical combat but also on mental discipline, philosophy, and survival. Rediscovering these forgotten techniques could provide modern fighters with a new edge: Unconventional Approaches : Ancient martial arts often utilized strategies that are unconventional by today’s standards. This unpredictability can give fighters an advantage in combat, making it difficult for opponents to anticipate their moves. Holistic Development : Ancient martial arts placed a strong emphasis on mental and spiritual growth. Practices such as meditation, breath control, and energy manipulation (e.g., Qi Gong from Chinese martial arts) can enhance focus, stamina, and recovery in modern athletes. Real-World Self-Defense : While modern combat sports focus on competition, many ancient techniques were designed for real-world survival. From dealing with multiple attackers to using environmental weapons, these arts provide practical self-defense skills that are invaluable in non-sport situations. Modern martial arts, while effective, can benefit greatly from the rediscovery of ancient techniques. The lost arts discussed above are just a few examples of how the past can offer innovative solutions to contemporary combat. By studying ancient martial arts forms, today’s fighters can expand their skill sets, gain a mental edge, and become more versatile in their approach to both sport and self-defense.

Today, September 15th, at 8:37 AM Eastern Time, the Black Belt Mag YouTube Channel brings you a nostalgic martial arts experience with the premiere of Karate Cop (1991). A must-watch for martial arts fans and lovers of retro action films, this thrilling gem stars the legendary Ron Marchini and the talented Carrie Chambers. Karate Cop  plunges viewers into a dystopian future where terroristic martial arts gangs reign supreme, battling in gladiatorial arenas to enforce their dominance. At the center of the chaos is John Travis, played by Marchini, the last honest cop in a lawless world. With only his martial arts skills and a fierce determination to bring justice to a crumbling society, Travis must face off against ruthless enemies in high-octane, hand-to-hand combat. The film’s blend of martial arts mastery and gritty dystopian atmosphere makes it a perfect fit for both classic movie lovers and martial arts enthusiasts alike. Ron Marchini’s John Travis character, known for his hard-hitting fighting style, perfectly captures the spirit of 90’s martial arts action films, where honor and fists rule the day. Carrie Chambers provides a strong supporting performance that balances the intense action with dramatic moments. This is an exclusive chance to relive the explosive action of Karate Cop , or experience it for the first time! Make sure to set your reminders for 8:37 AM Eastern Time to catch the full film, available for free on the Black Belt Magazine YouTube channel.