Organized by the Martial Arts History Museum , Dragonfest returns to the Glendale Civic Auditorium  on August 2, 2025 , for its 19th year. What began as a gathering of martial artists has grown into something deeper: a bridge between the traditions of Asia and the practitioners who carry those traditions forward around the world. “This is our chance to open a window into the soul of Asian culture,” says museum founder and president Michael Matsuda . “Dragonfest isn’t just about honoring martial arts legends—it’s about understanding the philosophies and cultural roots that shaped them.” Dragonfest is a charity event , with all proceeds going directly to the Martial Arts History Museum. The funds support ongoing efforts to preserve the stories, artifacts, and traditions of martial arts for future generations. “This is about safeguarding a legacy,” Matsuda says. “One that belongs to all of us.” The event brings together hundreds of martial artists, historians, performers, and fans . Attendees will find more than 100 booths featuring cultural goods, martial arts gear, traditional crafts, and creative expressions like anime and calligraphy. But it’s the sense of community that defines Dragonfest—where young students meet pioneers, and conversations between styles and generations unfold naturally. Throughout the day, Dragonfest will host educational talks and demonstrations  by figures such as Benny “The Jet” Urquidez , Michelle Manu , and Willie Ito , offering personal insights into the evolution of their disciplines. These sessions invite us to look beyond the physical techniques and explore the values, histories, and struggles that shaped modern martial arts. Past guests have included Cynthia Rothrock, JJ Perry and Dr, Robert Goldman Cultural performances— Chinese lion dance, Okinawan music, Hawaiian hula, and more —will add further depth to the experience, reminding us that martial arts traditions exist within a broader cultural and spiritual context. Artist Akusaa Powell  and special guests from across the entertainment and martial arts worlds will join the day’s celebration. And in true Dragonfest fashion, there will be room for cosplay and creativity, too—an expression of martial arts’ influence on today’s wider cultural landscape. Sponsors this year include Dr. Kemi Price , the Musashi Collection , the City of Glendale , Supervisor Kathryn Barger , and Dr. Robert Goldman —individuals and organizations who understand that cultural preservation is a community effort. Dragonfest 2025 Glendale Civic Auditorium Saturday, August 2, 2025 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Proceeds benefit the Martial Arts History Museum More info at Dragonfest.com  or contact mamuseum@gmail.com .

Each week's Black Belt Watchlist is free to watch on Pluto TV! The Black Belt Watchlist proudly recommends a modern martial arts masterpiece: The Raid: Redemption . This isn’t just action—it’s a full-throttle showcase of raw, unrelenting silat, led by the electrifying Iko Uwais . Watch now : https://pluto.tv/us/on-demand/movies/6217c203672996001310421d Rama (Iko Uwais), a rookie member of an elite special forces unit, is told to hold back as his team infiltrates a rundown Jakarta high-rise controlled by ruthless crime lord Tama. But when their cover is blown, Tama unleashes every criminal in the building with one order: take the cops down. Trapped and outnumbered, Rama must rise from rookie to leader—fighting his way floor by floor in a brutal ballet of bone-crunching combat. The Raid: Redemption  raised the bar for martial arts cinema, blending tight choreography, blistering hand-to-hand combat, and relentless tension. For any serious Black Belt fan, this is essential viewing.

The July 1976 cover of Black Belt magazine featured Kenny Knudson , widely known as the "Midwest Karate King." A legendary martial artist from Chicago, Knudson made the bold decision to leave his career as a toolmaker to pursue his passion for martial arts full time. He went on to found Olympic Karate Studios, rapidly expanding to open ten locations throughout the Chicago area. In 1974, he sold the successful chain and pivoted to the hospitality industry, where he established a thriving hotel business. A 5th-degree black belt and beloved figure in the martial arts community, Knudson’s influence extended far beyond the dojo. Tragically, his life was cut short at age 61 in a plane crash. His legacy as both a fighting icon and entrepreneurial force continues to inspire generations. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

For over four decades, the US Capitol Classics  has stood as a pillar of martial arts excellence in the United States. As one of the longest-running events in the NASKA circuit, it has consistently dr awn elite competitors in forms, weapons, and fighting, serving as a proving ground for martial artists aspiring to leave their mark on the national scene. But what truly sets the US Capitol Classics apart is its visionary inclusion of the China Open division —a celebration of Chinese martial arts in both their traditional and modern forms. What began as a mainstream open tournament has evolved into one of the most inclusive and culturally rich martial arts events in the country. A Legacy of Excellence—and a Spotlight on Chinese Martial Arts The roots of the US Capitol Classics stretch deep into the foundation of American martial arts competition. It has hosted many of the sport’s greats and remains the tournament to win for those seeking national recognition. However, from its early years, the event has also distinguished itself with a strong focus on showcasing Chinese martial arts —a commitment that continues to grow each year. “As one of the few Chinese stylists competing in the early days, I saw the need to create a space where these styles could be appreciated and respected,” says the event’s founder. “Over time, that vision expanded into what we now call the China Open.” With categories for traditional Kung Fu, contemporary Wushu, and internal arts such as Tai Chi, Ba Gua Zhang, and Hsing-i —along with full-contact events like Sanda  and Pencak Silat —the China Open division stands alone in its breadth. Today, it remains the only NASKA-sanctioned event to feature such a comprehensive array of Chinese and Asian martial arts. Elevating Underrepresented Styles on a National Stage Chinese martial arts have often remained local to major urban centers like New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle. The China Open  helps bring these arts out of cultural enclaves and onto a global stage. It provides a rare opportunity for practitioners of all Chinese styles—both traditional and modern—to showcase their art in front of a diverse, international audience. Styles such as Tai Chi (including Chen, Yang, Wu, and Sun styles) are featured not just for their health benefits, but also for their deep martial roots. In doing so, the China Open helps shift the narrative and elevate underrepresented disciplines to the prominence they deserve. International Talent: Raising the Bar Thanks to decades of travel and collaboration with top-tier martial arts schools in China, the US Capitol Classics has developed strong international connections. Teams from around the world—especially from China—have accepted invitations to perform and compete, adding a global flavor to the event. Notable among these is the Beijing team led by Coach Wu Bin , who famously trained Jet Li. Their performance at the night finals became an instant highlight. More recently, a team from Hebei, China  brought down the house at the 2024 event and is set to return in 2025—bringing new energy and raising the standard of competition for everyone. Training and Seminars for All Levels More than just a tournament, the US Capitol Classics is a full martial arts experience. Weekend attendees can take advantage of a lineup of seminars led by top athletes  in forms, weapons, and sparring. Open to all skill levels and styles, these sessions are designed to help martial artists sharpen their skills and gain an edge—whether they're competing or just looking to grow. Building Bridges Across Cultures The event’s inclusive structure has helped build lasting connections between martial arts communities from diverse backgrounds. “From the very beginning, we welcomed all styles—Japanese, Korean, Okinawan, and Chinese,” says the founder. “But we also made sure to create specific opportunities where Chinese stylists could shine in divisions tailored to their systems.” That spirit of inclusion is embodied in the China Open—essentially a tournament within a tournament. It’s a celebration of traditional and modern Chinese martial arts, where practitioners can compete, be recognized, and share their heritage with the world. Dedicated Divisions for Traditional and Internal Arts For those who train in traditional Chinese forms, weapons, or internal styles like Tai Chi  and Ba Gua Zhang , the China Open offers specialized divisions  judged by experts who understand their complexity. This structure ensures that these intricate and profound systems are not just included—but truly honored. Planning Your Experience Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned competitor, the US Capitol Classics China Open offers a complete martial arts getaway. Held at the Gaylord National Resort at National Harbor , just minutes from Washington, D.C., it’s easy to turn your trip into a staycation. Explore museums and monuments during the day, then return for high-level competition and the unforgettable night show. Beginner-friendly divisions provide a welcoming entry point for new competitors, while world-class talent keeps seasoned athletes coming back year after year. For tickets, hotel reservations, livestream access, and more information, visit: uscapitolclassics.com

Before I get to the meat of today’s thought exercise for real-world fights, you’ll need to take a few inventories. For the first inventory, list at least a dozen “designated weapons,” or devices that are carried and used primarily for self-protection. I'll get you started:  firearm, folding knife, fixed-blade knife, Taser, pepper spray, tactical flashlight  — feel free to continue the list. Next, assume a complete absence of designated weapons and look to your environment for “improvised weapons.”  Your top-12 list might include: a ballpoint pen (for piercing or thrusting) a coffee mug (for throwing, slap-launching or smashing) a bedside electric clock (for smashing, throwing, cord whipping or cord garroting) a soft drink in a plastic bottle (for throwing, slap-launching, or shaking and spraying) a coffee table (for toppling or kick-shoving) a salt shaker (for throwing, slap-launching or smashing) You can finish it up. Before moving to the next list, I have a quote from Marcus Aurelius' Meditations : “In the application of your principles, you must be like the pancratiast, not like the gladiator, for the gladiator lets fall the sword which he uses and is killed, but the other always has his hand and needs to do nothing else than use it.” You probably see where I'm going. I doubt any of you walk around with the entire list of designated weapons, but more than a few probably carry at least one of those items. If you find yourself without them, you can resort to one of the improvised weapons you've trained your mind to locate in your environment. Now, let’s proceed according to Aurelius’ advice about empty-hand functionality.  To that end, build a “dirty dozen” list of body weapons . Mine would start with: the fist (for striking) the hand (for grasping, tearing or ripping) the elbow (for smashing) the knee (for thrusting) the head (for head-butting) the shoulder (for shoulder-butting) Take a moment to flesh out the list with your own selections. Now, for the crux of today’s lesson: If you buy into the wisdom of Aurelius, you shouldn’t follow a strategy that has you relying solely on designated weapons or improvised weapons. You should spend time developing your ability to use body weapons . Because you’re a martial artist, that’s definitely not a problem. However, what happens if your body weapons are operating at less than 100-percent efficiency? In other words... Can you box with one eye out of the game?  Perhaps you should give it a shot while wearing an eye patch. Can you function with blurred vision?  Try sparring while wearing an old, scratched-up pair of safety goggles. Can you grapple competently while blindfolded?  Tie one on and hit the mats. Can you maneuver and fight when you're forced to function on different levels?  Gear up and throw a few offensive and defensive techniques at a training partner while you're both on a flight of stairs. Can you fight while being exposed to extreme temperatures?  Try immersing yourself in 40-degree water and then engaging in combat drills. (How well did that go when I did it? About as well as you'd expect, but the information gleaned about what I can and cannot rely on in such situations was invaluable.) It’s unwise to rely too heavily on a designated weapon without giving thought to what will happen if it fails or if you find yourself without it. It’s nearly as shortsighted to train with only one or two classes of improvised weapons. For unless you recognize the potential of other classes, you probably won't be able to use one under duress. Example:  I have several friends who are skilled at stick combatives but who can “see” only stick-like objects when they search for improvised weapons during scenario drills. That puts them at a disadvantage when those options are removed because, in essence, they've rendered themselves blind to additional opportunities. But why stop there? Why not maximize your preparation  by incorporating some of the extreme situations mentioned above, so you can learn how to fight using body weapons that are impaired by less-than-perfect conditions? Assuming that you'll function at the best of your ability at what could be the worst time of your life is a potentially fatal mistake.

The July 1977 issue of Karate Illustrated  spotlighted Jun Chong, the acclaimed Tae Kwon Do master and one of Hollywood’s most in-demand martial arts trainers. A Korean-born grandmaster, Chong became known for his dynamic teaching style and for seamlessly blending traditional martial arts with the world of entertainment. He trained a roster of stars that reads like a who’s who of martial arts cinema—including brothers Simon and Phillip Rhee (the minds behind the iconic Best of the Best  series), as well as Flash Gordon  star Sam J. Jones. His influence extended to actors like Lorenzo Lamas, Eric Roberts, and Thomas Ian Griffith, all of whom benefited from his disciplined, cinematic approach. Jun Chong’s legacy lives on through his Los Angeles-based school, where the next generation continues to learn from his enduring vision. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

It all starts with this iconic photo—a single moment frozen in time, capturing six black belts who helped shape the very foundation of modern martial arts. From the early days of American Championship Karate to the global impact of Enter the Dragon , from reinventing Hollywood action and ninja films to grounding The Karate Kid  in authenticity, and launching the era of televised professional combat sports—nearly every corner of the martial arts world owes something to these six trailblazers. Who are they.....the answer is below! Photo credit Joe Corley Left to right: Bob Wall  – Known for his roles in Enter the Dragon  and Return of the Dragon , Bob was one of Bruce Lee’s most iconic on-screen opponents. Mike Stone  – The first International Karate Champion and a visionary who helped launch the ninja movie craze of the 1980s. Tadashi Yamashita  – The legendary master who brought dynamic showmanship to martial arts through what we now know as the “demo.” Pat Johnson  – Appearing in Enter the Dragon  and The Karate Kid , Pat was the brilliant choreographer who brought authentic martial arts to Hollywood action cinema. Joe Corley  – The driving force behind the Professional Karate Association (PKA), Joe helped lay the foundation for American professional combat sports. Chuck Norris  – Champion, movie star, humanitarian—and the only man who can say: “Once a king cobra bit me. After six days of agonizing pain... the cobra died.”

In a sport often dominated by men, She Fights  is flipping the script—creating a space where females in martial arts don’t just survive, they thrive. The UK-based initiative is more than just a seminar. It’s a movement. Launched by performance nutritionist and lifelong martial artist Lindsey Rhatigan aka The Female Fight Nutritionist , She Fights was born from a deep-rooted desire to provide women in combat sports with more than just technique—it offers education, empowerment, and community. "Through my work with female fighters and my own years on the mat, I’ve seen the power of women supporting women in combat sports—especially in spaces where they’re underrepresented. I wanted to create something that recognizes not just our strength, but our unique physiological needs, too." With over 200 fights to her name across kickboxing, boxing, MMA, and BJJ—not to mention a 3rd-degree black belt in kickboxing and a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu—Lindsay The Female Fight Nutritionist brings an unmatched depth of experience. But her real edge lies in her mission: to teach women how to fuel their bodies, train smart, and combat the toxic weight-cut culture that plagues female fighters at every level. Powerhouse Instructors Breaking Barriers This isn’t your average seminar. She Fights  has curated a lineup of world-class instructors who embody both excellence and advocacy. Ffion Davies – The Grappling Phenom Welsh-born Ffion Davies is a force in the grappling world, and her list of accolades is nothing short of historic. The first British/Welsh black belt to win IBJJF world titles in both gi and no-gi, Ffion is also the 2023 No-Gi World Champion in both her weight class and the absolute division. “Ffion is an encyclopedia of knowledge. I trained with her in Dublin and knew she had to be a part of this. She’s a role model not just for her titles, but for her fight for equality in BJJ.” Davies will lead a no-gi grappling session and stay for a Q&A panel—giving attendees a rare chance to learn from and interact with one of the sport's true pioneers. Hannah Brady – The Muay Thai Queen Current WBC World Muay Thai Champion Hannah Brady is living proof that it’s never too late to start. Having taken up Muay Thai in her mid-twenties, she climbed the ranks through sheer grit to claim her spot at the top. Known for her dynamic style and knockout power, Hannah brings more than technical knowledge—she brings fire. “Hannah’s journey is proof of what’s possible when women believe in their power. Her passion for teaching is unmatched.” Brady will lead a striking workshop and join the closing panel to share her insights on fighting, mindset, and making it to the world stage. A Full-Spectrum Experience for Every Woman Targeting both for the first time and seasoned competitor, She Fights intentionally designed this seminar to be inclusive. "Our instructors will adapt techniques to suit all levels, and when it comes to nutrition, even the pros are still learning. If we can get to newer athletes before they fall into dangerous habits, that’s a huge win.” Attendees will walk away with: World-class grappling and striking instruction A tailored understanding of performance nutrition for women Practical strategies for managing training around the menstrual cycle A supportive community of like-minded women Perhaps most importantly, participants will connect over the shared experience  of being a woman in martial arts—a bond that transcends belts and disciplines. The Bigger Picture: Building a Movement The long-term vision for She Fights? Nothing short of revolutionary. “I want this to be Comic-Con for female martial artists. Imagine these events happening around the world—one day even stateside. Women coming together to learn, laugh, and lift each other up. That’s the dream.” Every She Fights seminar ends with a panel discussion featuring instructors and guest athletes—a chance to ask real questions about training, competition, mindset, and what it means to be a woman in combat sports. Join the Fight She Fights is more than a seminar. It's a revolution. Whether you're looking to sharpen your technique, rethink your nutrition, or simply find your tribe—this is where you start. Event : She Fights – London 202 Location : London, UK More Info & Tickets : She Fights Eventbrite Step on the mat. Learn from the best. Join the movement. She Fights. So can you.

“Don’t take the fight where you’re best. Take it where the gap in skill is the greatest.” —Karel “Silver Fox” Pravec Harinder Singh's guest on episode nine is one of the most respected figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—A pioneer of BJJ in the United States, Silver Fox has been training with Renzo Gracie since the early 1990s and has spent decades refining a unique and deeply insightful approach to martial arts, training, and life. From his foundational Taekwondo beginnings to his immersive time training in the famed “Blue Basement,” Silver Fox brings unmatched experience and clarity on what it means to be a lifelong martial artist. Known for his calm demeanor, razor-sharp technical insights, and a fluid, pressure-responsive style, Silver Fox is the embodiment of efficiency over force. He is the founder of Silver Fox BJJ Academy in New Jersey, author of the book Fluid BJJ: Scrawny “Middle Aged” Guy’s Guide to Getting Submissions , and the creator of a global online presence that includes his Silver Fox BJJ YouTube channel and app . What sets him apart is not just his technical ability, but his deep understanding of how people learn, how the body and mind integrate under pressure, and how to evolve your game without destroying your body. In this conversation, we go beyond technique—we enter the realm of mindset, mastery, energy efficiency, longevity, mentorship, and lifestyle. If you're a martial artist of any kind—whether you train BJJ or not—this episode is a masterclass in learning how to train smart, think clearly, and lead with wisdom. You’ll hear battle-tested wisdom, practical advice, and timeless perspective on how to train smart, evolve continuously, and uplift others along the way. Click the link below to listen now on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3t227s4 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3KvsIDy Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3Kxcg5D Main Directory: https://theblackbeltpodcast.buzzsprout.com/

The 2005 cover of Black Belt magazine featured Jim Arvanitis , widely recognized for reviving the ancient Greek combat art of pankration. By blending its traditional techniques with modern training methods, Arvanitis helped transform pankration into what many consider the first true mixed martial art of the modern era—preceding the mainstream rise of MMA. i His pioneering work bridged the gap between ancient martial traditions and contemporary combat sports. Arvanitis continues to be active today as both a writer and teacher, dedicated to preserving and evolving the art of pankration. 8 Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

The Hong Kong museum dedicated to martial arts legend Bruce Lee has closed its doors, citing financial difficulties — bringing an emotional end to a long-running tribute that drew fans from around the world. Bruce Lee came into worldwide prominence in the late 1960s with the network TV show Green Hornet, Black Belt Magazine was first to publicize the rising star in 1967. Not to be confused with the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, which remains open to the public and continues to celebrate Bruce Lee's legacy with vibrant displays. The club began as a fan archive in 2000 by the Bruce Lee Club — a group founded by Lee’s family and closest fans housed over 2,000 artifacts, including rare film stills, vintage magazines, and sculptures of the late star. It reopened in a new location in 2019 after a lengthy hiatus. Its mission, rooted in Lee’s own philosophy, was to share his life, teachings, and spirit with future generations. For many international visitors, it became a pilgrimage site. However, in a recent Facebook post, the club announced that rising expenses had forced them to “rethink how to most effectively utilize our resources to sustain the flame of Bruce Lee’s spirit.” A hoped-for financial recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic failed to materialize. “Reality fell short,” the statement read. It remains uncertain whether the museum will reopen. Although born in San Francisco, Bruce Lee spent much of his childhood in Hong Kong, where he studied Wing Chun and launched his martial arts film career. It was here, near Lantau Island, that Enter the Dragon  — his most iconic film — was shot. In a 2009 conversation with Lee’s widow, Linda, recalled, “Bruce always considered himself a martial artist first and an actor second.” More than just a screen icon, Lee created a philosophy and fighting system, jeet kune do, which continues to influence martial artists around the world today. His cultural impact has endured far beyond cinema. During Hong Kong’s 2019 pro-democracy protests, demonstrators invoked his famous line — “Be water, my friend” — drawn from the 1971 TV series Longstreet , as a metaphor for flexibility and resilience. The museum’s final day on Tuesday drew crowds of devoted fans. Among them, many expressed sadness not only at the museum’s closure but at what they see as a gradual erasure of Lee’s legacy in his hometown. As one fan put it, “It’s getting harder and harder to find places that connect Bruce Lee to the soul of Hong Kong.”' Where Bruce Lee’s Spirit Lives On Though the Hong Kong museum has closed, Lee’s martial arts legacy continues to be celebrated elsewhere: The Martial Arts History Museum  in Glendale, California Hong Kong Heritage Museum Wing Luke Museum  in Seattle, which hosted the exhibit Be Water, My Friend Chinese Historical Society of America  in San Francisco, which features a Bruce Lee exhibit

The master of martial arts demos himself—Tadashi Yamashita—graced the cover of Karate Illustrated in 1978. Already an international star at the time, Yamashita would go on to achieve worldwide fame for his legendary blindfolded nunchaku demonstration, shattering apples with blinding speed and pinpoint accuracy. Renowned for blending power, precision, and showmanship, Yamashita remains a fan favorite to this day, still traveling the globe to perform and inspire new generations of martial artists! Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com