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Empty Your Cup—The First Door to Freedom A Zen master once poured tea into a learned man’s cup until it overflowed. “Stop! No more can go in!” the man cried. “Exactly,” said the master. “If you do not first empty your cup, how can you taste my tea?” Bruce Lee treasured this story because it revealed the first and most important key to personal liberation: emptiness. A martial artist whose mind is filled with rigid habits, opinions, and stylized preferences cannot adapt. He cannot observe clearly. He cannot express honestly. Bruce Lee wrote: “The mind must be emancipated from old habits, prejudices, and restrictive thought.” When Bruce Lee shared these ideas more than half a century ago, they were nothing short of revolutionary. He challenged traditions, broke from conformity, and questioned the very foundations of martial structure and identity. What makes his teaching extraordinary is that his message has proven timeless—as clear, fresh, and necessary today as it was then. In an age of distraction, division, and information overload, Bruce Lee’s quest for freedom is not just historical—it is contemporary and profoundly relevant. To honor him on his 85th birthday is to honor this principle: to empty our cup again and again, creating the space necessary for transformation. This is where freedom begins. This is Bruce Lee’s first gift. The Filters That Blind Us It is common for people to not see reality as it is.They see it through layers of conditioning—filters inherited from teachers, systems, culture, and personal experience. My Taiji teacher once told me: “Most people’s thoughts are someone else’s opinions.Their lives become a mimicry, and their passions a quotation.” When martial artists from different backgrounds watch the same fight, each sees something different—not because the fight changes, but because they do. Bruce Lee warned: “Every attempt to describe the fight is really an intellectual reaction…a partialized idea of the total fight.” This means the moment you cling to a preference or stylistic lens, you stop perceiving what is actually happening. You react to your idea of the fight, not the fight itself.You respond to your conditioning, not the moment. You move from memory, not from presence. The more filters you carry, the less freedom you possess. Seeing clearly is not an act of knowledge—it is an act of removal. Removing the filter. Removing the bias. Removing the self. Only then does freedom emerge. The Danger of Crystallization Bruce Lee warned that when a founder passes away, his living art often becomes fossilized. A spontaneous insight becomes a rigid formula. A personal freedom becomes a fixed curriculum. A breakthrough in expression becomes a shrine of preservation. He wrote: “The professed cure of a classical style is itself a disease.” Why? Because once a method becomes systematized, people begin serving the system instead of their own growth. They cling to patterns, drills, and structures because patterns feel safe. They seek certainty because certainty feels comforting. They defend their style because identity feels secure. But combat—like life—is unpredictable, fluid, and alive.A fixed system cannot keep up with a changing world. Bruce Lee did not intend Jeet Kune Do to become another style. He offered a way out  of style. A way out of rigidity. A way into direct experience. His gift was not a set of techniques—it was the courage to break free from crystallization. A dead pattern cannot liberate a living human being. Freedom must be rediscovered by each generation. The Illusion of More — The Trap of Accumulation We live in a culture obsessed with “more.” More techniques. More certifications. More drills. More systems. More seminars. More lineages. More information. But “more” does not create freedom. Often, it creates heavier chains. Bruce Lee wrote: “Accumulation of fixed knowledge is not the process of JKD…Knowledge in martial art simply means self-knowledge.” True progress is not measured by what you collect—but by what you can let go of. Let go of the need to impress. Let go of the need to belong. Let go of the need to be right. Let go of the fear of looking foolish. Let go of the identity you protect through your style. Liberation comes not through acquiring more techniques, but through releasing more illusions. Because beneath the accumulation lies the real obstacle: fear. Fear of uncertainty. Fear of losing respect. Fear of losing identity. Fear of not being enough. These emotional tensions create hesitation, mental noise, and conflict. They block freedom far more than any technical limitation. Bruce Lee’s gift of freedom begins with dissolving these internal knots. The Space Where Freedom Lives Freedom is not found in technique. It is found in space. The space between thoughts. The space between movements. The space between stimulus and response. When a martial artist releases emotional attachment, his awareness opens.His perception sharpens. His timing refines. His intuition awakens. Bruce Lee described this inner transformation beautifully: “Behind each physical movement of an accomplished martial artist is this wholeness of being…this all-inclusive attitude.” This “wholeness of being” is the true source of mastery. When the mind is quiet: Time seems to slow Space seems to widen Intentions become visible Rhythms become readable Openings reveal themselves Movement becomes spontaneous and effortless This is the state in which “it” hits all by itself. Not the ego. Not the technique. Not the habit. But the pure expression arising from presence. This is freedom in motion. This is the essence of Jeet Kune Do. This is the gift the Dragon left behind. The Inner Fight Every martial artist understands the outer fight.Few willingly engage in the inner one. The inner fight demands we confront the truth about ourselves: our fears our insecurities our attachments our emotional triggers our conditioned reactions our ego’s need for control our resistance to change Bruce Lee was a warrior of the inner dimension. He trained the self with the same intensity he trained the body. He asked questions others were afraid to ask. He examined his weaknesses without flinching. He challenged his biases relentlessly. He dismantled whatever within him blocked freedom. And he expected us to do the same. Because the individual who conquers himself can adapt to anything. Freedom is an inside job. Bruce Lee’s Gift of Freedom Bruce Lee is not a shadow we stand under. He is a light we stand within. He illuminated a path of self-inquiry. He challenged martial artists to break free from limitation. He invited practitioners to abandon imitation and embrace honest self-expression. His legacy is not just Jeet Kune Do. His legacy is liberation. To honor Bruce Lee on his 85th birthday is to honor his challenge: Empty your cup Question your conditioning See without filters Reject rigidity Let go of accumulation Confront your inner blocks Move from presence, not memory Express yourself—not your style Bruce Lee did not want followers. He wanted free human beings. He once wrote: “Be yourself—not what others want you to be.” This is the heart of his art. This is the heart of his message. This is the heart of his legacy. Bruce Lee’s true gift was not his punch, kick, footwork, or cinematic power.His true gift was freedom —the liberation of the mind, the awakening of self-knowledge, the courage to break patterns, and the encouragement to discover your own expression. This is the gift we carry forward. This is the light he left us. On this anniversary of his birth, may we all step—fully, courageously, honestly—into Bruce Lee’s Gift of Freedom.

In the annals of martial arts history, there exists a technique so formidable, so revered, that it became synonymous with the Blood and Guts era of Karate. Enter the ridge hand – a maneuver so potent that careers were built upon its execution alone. The genesis of the ridge hand phenomenon can be traced back to the original Blood and Guts crew, a league of legendary fighters whose names resound through time. Among them were titans like Mike Stone, Allen Steen, Pat Burleson, Fred Wren, and Jim Harrison. These were men who wielded the ridge hand with unparalleled skill, leaving a trail of awe and devastation in their wake. As the martial arts landscape evolved through the 1970s and 1980s, a new wave of fighters emerged, determined to carve their own legacies from Texas to California, Atlanta to NYC. Among them were luminaries like Steve Fisher, Al Francis, Jimmy "Gato" Tabares, and Raymond McCallum, each carrying the torch of the ridge hand tradition into a new era. For the uninitiated, the ridge hand technique is deceptively simple yet devastatingly effective. By tucking the thumb into the palm and executing a circular motion akin to a hook punch, practitioners unleash a force to be reckoned with.  Thus, the legacy of the ridge hand endures – a timeless testament to the indomitable spirit of martial arts and the enduring legacy of those who mastered its artistry in the Blood and Guts era. Today we pay tribute to this move through the lens of esteemed martial artists who share their stories of its origins, its power, and its legacy. Ridge Hand: Mike Stone The Sport of Karate has one man to acknowledge as the innovator of the ridge hand and it is Mike Stone. But if you ask Mike Stone he will credit the Ridge Hand to his teacher of Shorin Ryu Karate Herbert Peters in Chaffee Ark. In a recent interview with Stone, we got a front-row glimpse of the history of the ridge hand. Stone recalls that his instructor Peters taught the ridge hand as part of the Karate class as a way to defeat larger opponents with an unorthodox move, “sneaky” as Stone would describe it as it would come from angles unlike the linear Karate punches of its time.  Although he did not invent the move Stone was the first to initially use it with legendary success. In his early days of competition, Stone would defeat such greats as Pat Burelson using the ridge hand. It is perhaps no coincidence that the ridge would find its way to Texas shortly after Stone's victory, only to become a staple in Texas full contact Karate for over 3 decades.  Today nearly 60 years later Stone still actively teaches at his paradise dojo island in the Philippines, and yes he still practices and teaches the ridge hand, but now as a self-defense technique.   Jeff Smith  According to Jeff Smith, his inspiration to incorporate the ridge hand into his martial arts repertoire traces back to the golden era of Karate, where luminaries like Mike Stone, Fred Wren, and Jim Harrison held sway. Reflecting on those iconic figures, Smith recalls witnessing Fred Wren's unforgettable ridge hand strike that left Chuck Norris with a bloodied nose. "Watching those guys, I realized it was the most devastating move I had ever seen," remarked Smith, acknowledging the profound impact it had on his own approach to combat. Recalling a defining moment in his career, Smith recounted a remarkable knockout during the 1974 PKA World Championships. In his first match against Budimir Vejnovic of Yugoslavia, Smith delivered a precision ridge hand strike that resulted in a knockout within the first minute of the bout.  1974 Champions, where Smith ridge hand would see a world stage.  Left to right Isaiah Duenas, Bill Wallace, Jeff Smith, Joe Lewis. For Smith, the ridge hand wasn't just a defensive maneuver; it was a versatile weapon capable of both offense and defense. Its adaptability at various angles provided him with a range of attack options. "I practiced it extensively from both front and rear positions, dubbing it my 'extended hook.' The ridge hand's unique ability to cut distance and exploit the bend of the elbow made it a formidable tool in my arsenal," explained Smith. Do you still teach the ridge hand? Decades later, Smith continues to pass on the legacy of the ridge hand through his teachings. "We still include the ridge hand in our curriculum, incorporating it into combinations for our students," he affirmed, highlighting its enduring relevance in martial arts instruction. Do you still practice the ridge hand? As for personal practice, Smith remains committed to refining his skills, particularly with the ridge hand's effectiveness in mind. "I incorporate the ridge hand into my training routine, focusing on bag work to enhance its application, especially in the context of MMA where it can hyperextend the elbow," he revealed, underscoring the ongoing evolution and adaptability of this classic martial arts technique. Dan Anderson Dan Anderson, renowned for his dominance on the American Tournament circuit under the moniker "Super Dan," reminisces about his strategic use of the ridge hand in combat. "I relied on the ridge hand defensively against opponents with quicker reflexes," Anderson recalls. "I'd anticipate their backfist reverse punch combination, then execute a backward jump. As they extended, my ridge hand would land squarely on the side of their head." Anderson is in his tournament prime, wearing a signature Baseball Jersey with the Superman logo.  Reflecting on the effectiveness of the ridge hand, Anderson emphasizes its versatility in both sport karate and self-defense scenarios. "When targeting specific areas like the jawline, neck, or temple, accuracy is paramount," he explains. "The ridge hand is glove-safe, reducing the risk of injury compared to an open hand strike. However, there's still a risk of hand injury if not executed with precision." Do you still practice the ridge hand? Regarding his current training regimen, Anderson admits to no longer practicing the ridge hand. "Today, I've shifted my focus to the palm heel or modified hook on the bag," he reveals, highlighting the evolution of his techniques over time. As martial artists adapt and refine their skills, Anderson's journey underscores the importance of versatility and adaptation in the ever-evolving world of combat sports. Keith Vitali  In the dynamic world of 1980s Sport Karate, Keith Vitali emerged as a dominant force on the tournament circuit before transitioning into a successful career as a full-fledged action movie star. Reflecting on his journey, Vitali fondly recalls the impact of the ridge hand technique. "My introduction to the ridge hand came through watching Steve Fisher, who epitomized the technique in my era," Vitali reminisces. "It was a potent knockout move, executed with precision and power. The ridge hand remains a formidable defensive tool, offering a solid counter against offensive strikes." Vitali elaborates on his strategic use of the ridge hand, particularly as a defensive counter against opponents' back-fist strikes. "I would often employ the ridge hand as a defensive counter move, especially in response to an opponent's backlist," he explains. "It served as a reliable defense mechanism, allowing me to effectively neutralize offensive attacks and gain the upper hand in combat." Sport Karate’s dominating ridgehand using fighters of the 80s, left to right  Tony Bell, Mike Genova, Keith Vitali, David Deaton, Larry Kelly.  Do you still practice the ridgehand? Today I still practice the move when I work out, as it is still an effective weapon. Ishmael Robles  Hailing from Texas, full-contact legend and World Champion Ishmael Robles struck fear into the hearts of his opponents with his devastating hands and feet. When asked about his experience with the ridge hand, Robles shares a tale that epitomizes its power and effectiveness. "In my college days, I competed in bare-knuckle tournaments where the ridge hand was a staple technique," Robles recounts. "Its impact was truly devastating, delivering unparalleled power and precision." While the reverse punch was a cornerstone of his sport karate arsenal, Robles found versatility in the ridge hand, seamlessly transitioning between sport and full-contact styles. "I relied heavily on the reverse punch in sport karate, but I also incorporated the hook for variation," he explains. "The ridge hand, executed like a hook, emerged as a potent weapon in both disciplines, unleashing its most dangerous potential." Do you still teach - Yes. Do you still practice the ridge hand: Yes but I use an elbow bend strike not a straight arm move.  Mike Genova   In the South East Karate scene of the 1980s, Mike Genova and his South Carolina martial arts style reigned supreme, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament circuit alongside teammates Keith Vitali and Bobby Tucker. Reflecting on the influential figures who shaped his approach to combat, Genova recalls observing the mastery of the ridge hand technique by Robert Harris, Al Francis, and Larry Kelly. "I first took notice of Robert Harris executing the ridge hand against Eddie 'Flash' Newman at the Top Ten Nationals," Genova reminisces. "It was a seamless transition, demonstrating remarkable effectiveness in combat. Later, I drew inspiration from the success of Al Francis and Larry Kelly, who also showcased exceptional skill with the ridge hand." For Genova, the ridge hand became an integral part of his fighting strategy, often employed as a follow-up to the back fist. "I utilized the back fist as a setup, with the ridge hand swiftly following from the lead front hand," he explains. "Additionally, I found the ridge hand to be a valuable defensive tool in my arsenal." Do you still teach the ridgehand: When asked about his approach to teaching the ridge hand in his martial arts school, Genova affirms its continued inclusion in their curriculum. "We still incorporate the ridge hand into our training, focusing primarily on its application in sport karate," he confirms, highlighting its relevance within the competitive arena. Richard Plowden Richard Plowden, a distinguished inductee of the Black Belt Hall of Fame, boasts an impressive resume as both a World Champion and coach of world champions. Reflecting on his martial arts journey, Plowden recalls the pivotal influence of observing Steve Fisher's performances on the circuit. "During my time on the circuit, I had the privilege of witnessing Steve Fisher compete," Plowden reminisces. "His techniques left a lasting impression on me, particularly his mastery of a certain defensive move." Steve Fisher circa 1978 using the ridge hand technique in pursuit of victory against Ray McCallum Plowden notes that Fisher's protégé, Freddy Letuli, later adopted this move as his signature technique. "Under Steve's mentorship, Freddy honed the move to perfection," Plowden explains, highlighting the evolution of the technique within the martial arts community. Describing the move as a defensive maneuver executed with the front hand, Plowden emphasizes its effectiveness in combat situations. However, he acknowledges that the use of gloves in modern competition limits the flexibility required to execute the technique with precision. "In today's fast-paced, speed-oriented game, the circular motion of the move and its fade-away technique pose challenges for elite athletes," Plowden observes, explaining why the ridge hand has fallen out of favor among contemporary practitioners. Do you still teach the move?  Despite its decline in popularity, Plowden affirms that he continues to incorporate the ridge hand into his practice. However, he admits that he no longer teaches the technique, recognizing its diminishing relevance in modern martial arts. Do you still practice the move? "Yes, I still practice the ridge hand," Plowden confirms, underscoring the importance of maintaining proficiency in fundamental techniques even as martial arts evolve. Linda Denley   Renowned as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in Sport Karate, the legendary Denley was celebrated for her mastery of the ridge hand, despite her personal preference for sidekicks. Reflecting on her iconic move, Denley admits, "It wasn't my favorite, but it's what many remember me for." "My journey with the ridge hand began in my Tang Soo Do training," Denley recounts. "One unforgettable moment was during a match against Mary Owens at Roy Kurban's tournament. I delivered a lead ridge hand followed by a reverse rear, resulting in a knockout. Another memorable instance was when I hit Danielle Dixon so hard, I tore my rotator cuff." Denley's success with the ridge hand stemmed from its reliability, with a remarkable success rate. "I maintained the technique's power and focused on speed, making it incredibly effective," she explains. Adding to her legacy, Denley shares notable facts about her relationship with the ridge hand. "I taught Jimmy 'Gato' Tabares the tornado ridge hand technique," she reveals. "We even adapted it for body strikes, with consistent success." Do you still teach and practice the ridge hand:  Denley responds with a resolute nod. "Yes, I still use it," she affirms. "People underestimate its power, but it never fails to deliver." With a glint of determination in her eyes, Denley's commitment to her signature move continues to inspire awe in the martial arts world. KC Jones In the vibrant California tournament scene of the 1970s, KC Jones carved out his place among the elite, securing victories in prestigious competitions like the Internationals. Reflecting on his journey through the martial arts landscape, Jones fondly recalls the pivotal role of a particular technique—the ridge hand. "I vividly remember watching Mike Stone's fights in the 1960s," Jones reminisces. "He was a striking figure in his white gi, with afro-style hair and an unorthodox style. His intense demeanor and intimidating presence left an impression on me. It was during one of his fights that I witnessed the effectiveness of the ridge hand, although, at the time, I couldn't quite grasp its mechanics." Jones's journey to mastering the ridge hand began in the mid-1970s while training under the tutelage of Joe Lewis in Hollywood. "I started practicing the ridge hand on a punching bag," Jones recalls. "Its simplicity, speed, and deceptive nature appealed to me—it was like a martial arts hook, easily executed due to the loose structure of the hand. The ridge hand became a cornerstone of Jones's fighting arsenal, and he observed its widespread use among his peers, notably Cliff Stewart. "Cliff utilized the ridge hand extensively," Jones notes, highlighting its versatility and practicality in combat scenarios. “Evolution has transformed the martial arts landscape, but the fundamentals remain essential," Jones emphasizes. "I still practice the ridge hand regularly, believing that mastering the basics is key to advancing in the art." I still use it and practice with the handset. If you can't do the basics you can't do the advanced. Team Steve Fisher 1980 IKC Champions. Left to right Irv Hoffman, KC Jones, Mike Stone, Steve Fisher, Dwain Dakari bottom center    Al Francis  Renowned as one of the most formidable tournament fighters hailing from the heart of Texas, Al Francis emerged onto the combat sports scene during the gritty bare-knuckle era that laid the foundation for modern sport fighting. In an exclusive interview, Francis delved into the origins of his unparalleled skill set, shedding light on the pivotal role of a rare technique that became his signature move. "I first honed my craft under Sensei Mikami in New Orleans, studying Shotokan," Francis recalled. "Later, I refined it through Taekwondo. The technique proved exceptionally potent due to my small stature combined with formidable power—it packed a punch." During the 1970s, Francis found himself thrust into the bare-knuckle arena in Texas, where weight divisions were limited to lightweight and heavyweight. Weighing in at a mere 135 pounds, he relied on the sheer force of his signature move to hold his own, a tactic that would later define his fighting style. Vintage 70s Texas tournament era, left to right Ray McCallum, Phil Wilemon, Archie Cole, Al Francis "In the '80s, I faced off against Freddy Letuli, and that move—my ridge hand—literally folded him," Francis recounted. "It was a display of sheer power." Notably, Letuli would go on to adopt the ridge hand as a hallmark of his own sport karate career, a testament to its effectiveness. "As the '80s progressed, I incorporated the ridge hand into my fighting strategy even more," Francis continued. "Given my stature, I often found myself pitted against taller opponents who favored kicking techniques. I combined the ridge hand with takedowns and sweeps, making it a formidable tool in my arsenal. The element of surprise, coupled with the precision of my technique, often caught opponents off guard." Francis's legacy in the martial arts world endured for decades, his mastery of the ridge hand leaving an indelible mark on the sport and inspiring generations of fighters to come. Do you still teach it today:  Still teach it today to my students, I teach for both sport and defense.

Just in time to honor Bruce Lee on what would have been his 85th birthday, we are proud to announce a new era for Black Belt Magazine - The Next Generation . Over the past two years, we’ve been listening, learning, and evolving. One message came through loud and clear: our readers demand authenticity  in martial arts. Whether on-screen or in the dojo, the standard must be world-class to be truly “Black Belt.” That’s why we are excited to unveil our new website and introduce a dynamic, expanded digital multiverse of inspiration, knowledge, and community. To ensure everyone can experience the dedication and passion that went into this transformation, we are offering two weeks of full access absolutely free —just sign up to get started. Past members will simply need to update their passwords. We’re also extending a limited-time offer of 50% off an annual membership , making Black Belt more accessible and affordable to martial artists around the world. And to show our appreciation for our loyal subscribers, all current paid members will receive a complimentary one-year extension  to their existing subscription—no matter when you joined, even if you only have a few weeks remaining. We are deeply passionate about martial arts, and we hope you’ll continue your journey with Black Belt Magazine. Here’s what’s new: A fully upgraded website  that’s easier to read, navigate, and explore—featuring hundreds of hours of free video content. Digital e-reader editions  of the magazine, offering faster access and optimized reading on web, tablet, or mobile devices. More than 1,000 hours of instructional content  from some of the world’s greatest martial arts masters. Be sure to follow us on Facebook , Instagram , and YouTube , and subscribe to our newsletters for future updates and announcements. Sincerely, George Chung Publisher and CEO, Black Belt Magazine

Just in time to honor Bruce Lee on what would have been his 85th birthday, we are proud to announce a new era for Black Belt Magazine — The Digital Universe . Over the past two years, we’ve been listening, learning, and evolving. One message came through loud and clear: our readers demand authenticity  in martial arts. Whether on-screen or in the dojo, the standard must be world-class to be truly “Black Belt.” That’s why we are excited to unveil our new website and introduce a dynamic, expanded digital multiverse of inspiration, knowledge, and community. To ensure everyone can experience the dedication and passion that went into this transformation, we are offering two weeks of full access absolutely free —just sign up to get started. Past members will simply need to update their passwords. We’re also extending a limited-time offer of 50% off an annual membership , making Black Belt more accessible and affordable to martial artists around the world. And to show our appreciation for our loyal subscribers, all current paid members will receive a complimentary one-year extension  to their existing subscription—no matter when you joined, even if you only have a few weeks remaining. We are deeply passionate about martial arts, and we hope you’ll continue your journey with Black Belt Magazine. Here’s what’s new: A fully upgraded website  that’s easier to read, navigate, and explore—featuring hundreds of hours of free video content. Digital e-reader editions  of the magazine, offering faster access and optimized reading on web, tablet, or mobile devices. More than 1,000 hours of instructional content  from some of the world’s greatest martial arts masters. Be sure to follow us on Facebook , Instagram , and YouTube , and subscribe to our newsletters for future updates and announcements. Sincerely, George Chung Publisher and CEO, Black Belt Magazine

The February 1973 cover of Black Belt magazine spotlighted martial artist Darnell Garcia . A Chuck Norris student who earned his black belt in 1972, Garcia stunned the martial arts world by defeating the legendary Joe Lewis and claiming the Grand Championship at Ed Parker’s 1972 International Karate Championships. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

Do you have a martial arts-related product or service that you want to share with the world? Black Belt Magazine is the world's leading magazine of martial arts, with a rich history dating back to 1968. Numerous martial arts legends have been covered in our print magazine, and our online media services are the industry's premier resource for historical articles, featured pieces, and breaking news. Our audience consists of hundreds of thousands of martial artists from all over the world, with a diverse set of interests ranging from traditional arts, to action films, and everything in between! Advertising with Black Belt can give your brand more credibility and introduce your product or service to a group of consumers who are passionate about the martial arts. Black Belt Magazine Information: info@blackbeltmag.com

2025 PFL WORLD TOURNAMENT 3: FIRST ROUND - APRIL 18, 2025   Impa Kasanganay, Fabian Edwards, Brent Primus and others speak to the media ahead of the PFL World Tournament 3: First Round event in Orlando, FL on April 18 at Universal Studios Florida

The July 7, 2015, edition of The Washington Post  described an incident in which a man on a moving train allegedly punched a passenger until he fell, then stabbed him repeatedly in the torso and arms until he died. As the crime unfolded, other passengers in the coach watched; not one intervened. The tendency to not get involved, dubbed the “bystander effect,” is becoming the norm these days, particularly in big cities where a sense of community doesn’t exist. Rather than helping the person in distress, people simply ignore the assault — or start recording it. In rural settings, there still exists enough of a community feel to make people rush to help neighbors in need, especially among the older generation. But in metropolitan areas, you encounter more and more stories like the one above from Washington, D.C. It seems everyone is waiting for someone else — be it the government, police or anyone with authority — to help first. Sadly, that seldom happens. The good news is, it’s not always like that. We can find many cases in which all that was required was for someone — anyone — to start helping. That usually opens the floodgates and other citizens jump in. Recall the actions of Jeremy Glick, Todd Beamer and the other brave passengers who chose to take on the terrorists who hijacked Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. It’s an easy-enough concept: Create or find a leader and someone’s bound to follow. Once that happens, more people will feel comfortable following because they perceive a lower risk of being singled out and harmed. In that tragic D.C. stabbing, a single leader could have started a movement on the train. That’s not to say anyone is to blame — there’s no shame in not getting involved. It’s scary, it’s bloody, it’s violent. It takes a special kind of psychotic to stab another human being in anger and hatred. It’s a personal, tactile, messy affair. Jumping into the middle of it is daunting. Afterward, many who witnessed the carnage said the same thing: “I was waiting for someone else to step in, then I would’ve helped. There wasn’t anything I could have done on my own.” And they’re probably right. Taking down a violent person who’s wielding a knife and has no regard for human life is a difficult task. In no way does that mean it’s hopeless, however. By definition, martial artists train to prepare for all kinds of physical conflict. There are numerous steps you can take now to ready yourself for a situation in which you might have to neutralize a knife attack aimed at a third party. Taking Action First, understand there’s power in numbers. If you’re trying to take down an active stabber on your own, you’ll need skill, strength, speed, explosiveness, a combat mindset and possibly a bit of luck. Your chances dramatically improve if you have allies. Your chances improve exponentially if the person (or people) on your side has trained with you and together you have a plan. But let’s assume you’re on your own when you decide to intervene. Don’t think of disarming the attacker in the traditional sense. In other words, forget trying to take away his knife. Your primary goals should be to stop the next stab from occurring, to control the assailant sufficiently to stop subsequent stabs to you or the victim (even if only momentarily), and to disable or disarm him so he no longer poses a threat. At that point, he’ll be taken into custody by law enforcement, or you and the victim will escape. It’s worth noting that all three goals can be accomplished on first contact — if you can make the attacker suddenly unconscious or otherwise unable to function. Chances are the solution will not be flashy, cool or elegant, and that’s fine. You need to focus on easy-to-execute techniques that will have an immediate effect. Attempt more difficult options only if no simple alternative presents itself. Case Study No. 2 In Rotterdam, Netherlands, a man was videotaped while stabbing his 22-year-old ex from a mounted position on a sidewalk. This is relevant because during the commission of the crime, he was oblivious to three men who were attempting to stop him. At first, one man tried to push the attacker off the victim using his briefcase. Then two men tried to push him away with halfhearted kicks. Eventually — but after many more stabs — the three joined forces and pulled him off by grabbing the hood of his sweater. Where did they fail? They tried to use the tools they had in a less-than-optimal manner. The man with the briefcase could have swung it like a club, aiming a corner at the attacker’s head. It would have been much easier for the man to do that under stress if he’d practiced it in a dojo. A similar shortcoming probably afflicted the men who attempted to kick. It’s unlikely they’d practiced round kicks that sent their shins into an opponent’s head while the opponent was mounted on another person, but if they had, they might have been able to dislodge the man with the knife a lot sooner. Either action could have worked in this scenario. The odds of success would have been even better because the knifer was oblivious to their presence at first. Lesson Learned Case study No. 2 teaches that you should devote some of your training time to the use of everyday objects as weapons. Note that you must practice employing them offensively, as opposed to defensively like a shield. Your mission is to disrupt the attacker’s command-and-control system. If you've attended a firearms course, you know that there are three proven ways to stop an attacker immediately: shut down the brain, disable the nervous system by severing the spine and break down the body’s structure severely enough to make movement impossible. Assuming you don't have a firearm, the first option offers the greatest odds of success. Strikes to the body are easier to land, but they're less likely to effect the instant stoppage you need to end the attack. Returning to goal No. 1 mentioned earlier — stopping the next stab — it follows that No. 1 on your how-to-immediately-stop-a-deadly-attack list should be attacking the head. Accept that and train with that end in mind. Use improvised weapons to target the head of an opponent or, better yet, a training dummy. Practice approaching at angles that keep you out of his field of vision whenever possible. Generally, that means coming in between 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock. Focus on attacking the knifer from his non-knife side. This will keep you away from the blade, thus reducing the likelihood of getting cut when you kick him in the head. It also will reduce the chance that his attacking limb will get in the way when you strike or kick. Try to limit your attack vectors to ones that would snap the attacker’s head back or move his weight backward or away from the victim at an angle greater than 90 degrees. Your goal is to stop the very next stab, which means you don't want to help him move his weight forward onto the victim. This approach works whether the attacker is standing or mounted on his victim, although it’s much easier to do on the ground because of the distances, heights and angles. Forget about firing a round kick at the head of a standing attacker. You might get only one shot at this; don’t waste it on a high round kick in which too much force is lost to height and in which you’re forced to get close. That will elevate the possibility of your kicking leg getting tangled up on the way to his head. Remember, too, that a standing attacker stabbing a victim is unlikely to be stationary unless he’s backed up against a wall. The victim is probably fighting to get away or stop the stabbing arm, and the attacker is probably holding onto the victim. That’s the worst-case scenario, but it’s how you must train. So, knowing that you need to take action and, because you’re unarmed, must go hands-on, what can you do to achieve your goal of stopping an active stabbing? More important than technique is principle. The dynamics of the attack can vary greatly, so it’s tough to dictate techniques. The principles you use, however, will always be the same. Move to Survive Assume a standing attacker is stabbing another standing person. Your first goal is to stop the very next stab. One way to do that is to wrap the arm that’s doing the stabbing with an overhook from behind. The assailant’s hand is moving the fastest and with the least amount of predictability, and his shoulder/upper arm is moving the least with relative predictability. Therefore, you shouldn’t aim for the hand or wrist; simply make a huge overhook around his biceps with your same-side arm. Next, slide your arm down to his elbow and create maximum backward pressure on his shoulder, effectively stopping any forward movement of the arm. That will stop the next stab momentarily. Of course, simply trapping that arm isn’t enough, especially if the attacker is bigger or stronger, so you have to wrap the arm and simultaneously disrupt the assailant’s balance, focus and ability to rotate his torso toward you to relieve the pressure on his arm. Since you know that “where the head goes, the body follows,” you should deliver a simultaneous palm strike or cross-face to the jaw, forcing his head to rotate away from you and further stretching that shoulder. At this point, you can use your chest against his shoulder blade as a fulcrum. Imagine breaking him in half or splitting a wishbone. With the immediate stabbing danger eliminated for a moment and some control of the head and arm achieved, you need to follow up. This could come in many forms, depending on how you train. A leg-sweep takedown from behind is an option, as is coming off the cross-face into a figure-4 arm control of the knife hand and following up with knees and strikes. Another option is to slide down the arm with both hands and effect a standard wrist-lock disarm, known as a “cavalier” in krav maga. Whatever you go with, make it decisive, explosive and damaging. You cannot let up, or you'll find yourself fending off a very aggressive attacker with a knife. The principles used in this course of action match your goals: stop the immediate stab (wrap the arm), control the limb and/or the attacker (violent cross-face with back pressure on the arm) and disable/disarm (follow up with takedowns or counterstrikes). Going Down You can apply these same principles to a mounted attacker, as well. One minor change in technique, but not principle, would be to wrap the head from the opposite side using a hook with your hand on the chin instead of the cross-face. Now you have more leverage for the neck torque than you did with the cross-face because you can pull with both arms. Just yank back on the stabbing arm with your strong-side arm, rotating the head away in the opposite direction. This time, use your hips as the fulcrum against his shoulder blade. Because separating the attacker from the victim is more difficult on the ground and you can’t expect the victim to naturally create distance from this position like he or she would do while standing, you need to move the attacker. Remember: Where the head goes, the body follows. You’re going to continue to “unscrew” his head from his body by pulling around on his chin, eventually rotating him off the victim and to the ground by pivoting on your outside foot and turning your inside foot about 90 degrees — think “basketball pivot.” After rotating the attacker off and down, your options are more limited than when standing, considering that you don’t want to end up rolling around with a guy who has a knife. Aim for a stomp or a knee to the head while sliding down the arm to catch the wrist holding the knife. If a wrist lock presents itself, break it. If not, continue with power strikes as long as you have some control of the knife hand and you’re not going to be pulled down. High Risk The recommendations in this article are high risk, but if you ever find yourself in a situation where you simply must do something, they should give you a starting point. More important, if other people are around, your leadership ideally will inspire a follower, and then another, to create a movement of good citizens doing good things for someone in need.

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