Search Results

Two PFL World Title Fights headline a stacked card in Dubai Sports Council-backed event featuring elite global talent across 13 bouts The Professional Fighters League (PFL) today announced the full fight card for PFL Road to Dubai , set to take place in coordination with the Dubai Sports Council and live from Coca-Cola Arena on Saturday, February 7, 2026, marking the third blockbuster PFL event in Dubai. The event will be headlined by PFL Lightweight World Champion Usman Nurmagomedov  (20-0-0, 1 NC), who returns to Dubai to defend his title against 2025 PFL Lightweight World Tournament Champion Alfie Davis  (20-5-1). In the co-main event, the last man to hold the Bellator Welterweight title Ramazan Kuramagomedov  (13-0) faces 2024 PFL Welterweight World Tournament Champion Shamil Musaev (20-0-1) in a five-round bout for the PFL Welterweight World Championship, completing a championship double-header at the top of the card. The highly anticipated card will be the latest as part of a cooperation agreement between the Dubai Sports Council, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and PFL, further underlining the city’s reputation as a host destination for world-class sporting events, and a hub for MMA. PFL Road to Dubai  will be available in the U.S. on the ESPN App for fans with access to the ESPN Unlimited plan. The preliminary card begins at 9 a.m. ET (6 p.m. local time in Dubai), followed by the main card at 12 p.m. ET (9 p.m. local time in Dubai). In addition to the championship bouts, the main card features three compelling matchups, including the return of former PFL Featherweight World Tournament Champion Jesus Pinedo (25-7-1), who faces unbeaten rising contender Salamat Isbulaev (9-0). Welterweight contenders collide as Magomed Umalatov (18-1) meets France’s Abdoul Abdouraguimov (19-1), while Heavyweight action sees Pouya Rahmani (5-0) square off against American standout Karl Williams  (10-4). The preliminary card delivers further international intrigue, as undefeated Amru Magomedov  (9-0) takes on Kolton Englund  (15-4), and France’s Amin Ayoub  (24-6-1) battles Makkasharip Zaynukov  (18-4). Bantamweights Taylor Lapilus  (23-4) and  Kasum Kasumov  (16-2) collide at 135-pounds, alongside a Featherweight contest pitting Renat Khavalov  (10-0) against Edgars Skrivers (17-4).  In Women’s Flyweight action,  Denise Kielholtz  (8-5) faces Brazil’s Antonia Silvaneide (9-4), while Light Heavyweight bouts see  Luke Trainer  (9-1) meet Australia’s Rob Wilkinson  (19-4), and undefeated  Khabib Nabiev (11-0) take on Ahmed Sami (12-4). Opening the night, middleweights  Haider Khan  (10-1) and Jhony Gregory  (8-5) set the tone for an action-packed evening in Dubai.   Completed PFL Road To Dubai Main Card: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, UAE Saturday February 7 - 12 p.m. ET ESPN App (U.S.) | Starzplay (MENA) PFL Lightweight World Title Main Event:  C- Usman Nurmagomedov  (20-0-0, 1 NC) vs. Alfie Davis  (20-5-1) PFL Welterweight World Title Main Co-Main Event: Ramazan Kuramagomedov  (13-0) vs. Shamil Musaev  (20-0-1) Featherweight Main Card Bout: Jesus Pinedo  (25-7-1) vs. Salamat Isbulaev  (9-0) Welterweight Main Card Bout:   Magomed Umalatov  (18-1) vs. Abdoul Abdouraguimov (19-1) Heavyweight Main Card Bout:   Pouya Rahmani  (5-0) vs. Karl Williams  (10-4) PFL Road To Dubai  Preliminary Card: Saturday February 7 - 9 a.m. ET ESPN App (U.S.) | Starzplay (MENA) Lightweight Bout: Amru Magomedov  (9-0) vs. Kolton Englund (15-4) Bantamweight Bout:   Taylor Lapilus  (23-4) vs. Kasum Kasumov  (16-2) Featherweight Bout:   Renat Khavalov  (10-0) vs. Edgars Skrivers  (17-4) Lightweight Bout: Amin Ayoub  (24-6-1) vs. Makkasharip Zaynukov  (18-4) Women’s Flyweight Bout:   Denise Kielholtz  (8-5) vs. Antonia Silvaneide  (9-4) Light Heavyweight Bout:   Luke Trainer  (9-1) vs. Rob Wilkinson  (19-4) Light Heavyweight Bout:   Khabib Nabiev  (11-0) vs.  Ahmed Sami (12-4) Middleweight Bout:   Haider Khan  (10-1) vs. Jhony Gregory (8-5)

For Isi Fitikefu, the moment he learned he hadn't been selected for the Toyota Cup felt like the end of the world, the death of a dream he'd been chasing since childhood, and the crushing realization that the future he'd imagined playing in Australia's National Rugby League would never materialize.  The Tongan-Australian hopeful was lost, directionless, and unsure what came next when the only path he had ever envisioned suddenly disappeared. But today, the 33-year-old stands as one of ONE Championship's most promising welterweights, preparing to face undefeated American star Chase Mann at ONE Fight Night 39 in U.S. primetime from Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium on Friday, January 23. The journey from rugby heartbreak to MMA success proves that sometimes life's greatest disappointments are simply redirections toward your true purpose. The devastation was immediate and overwhelming. In Australia, rugby league isn't just a sport. It's a cultural institution. For Fitikefu, growing up in that environment, there had never been a Plan B. "After I got cut from getting selected for the Toyota Cup, I just didn't know what to do. Instead of me going trialing for other clubs, I just thought that was it for me," Fitikefu recalled, his words capturing the paralysis that comes when your entire identity is built around a dream that suddenly vanishes. The rejection wasn't just about losing an opportunity. Instead, it felt like he was losing a big piece of himself. Everything he'd worked for, every sacrifice made, and every hour spent training and competing seemed suddenly meaningless.  The future he'd imagined disappeared in an instant, replaced by confusion and the crushing weight of failure. "When you're growing up as a kid, all you think about is being a rugby league player because that's all you're around. Then when you get told that you didn't get selected this year, it's like a punch in the face," he shared, the boxing metaphor unintentionally foreshadowing the path that would eventually save him. For many athletes, this moment becomes the beginning of a downward spiral. Fitikefu's story took a different turn. Though he couldn't see it at the time, that crushing rejection was actually the beginning of something better – a journey toward a sport where his attributes would find their perfect home. The transition to martial arts and eventually MMA wasn't immediate or obvious. It required time to process the disappointment, courage to try something new, and the humility to start over as a beginner in an entirely different sport. But once Fitikefu discovered martial arts, something clicked. Training at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Smeaton Grange in Sydney, the former rugby player began transforming into a complete martial artist. The physicality he'd developed in rugby translated well to MMA, but what he discovered went far deeper than athletic performance. "I think I needed to take this path. I'm happy where I am now, mentally and physically. It's not just being an elite athlete, but I feel like martial arts has changed my mind, my mentality, and my perspective on life. Like, learning to back yourself and not quit," Fitikefu reflected, revealing the personal growth that makes his story about more than just changing sports. Fitikefu’s story resonates far beyond martial arts because it speaks to anyone who has faced rejection, failure, or the death of a long-held dream.

Editor's Note: Did you miss the Spring 2025 issue of Black Belt ? Here's a look at one of the stories that ran in the special issue. Even better, you can check out the WHOLE issue with Black Belt Plus ! Since 1979, Burton Richardson has been on an unstoppable martial arts journey. He began training at the original Kali Academy, home to greats such as Sifu Richard Bustillo and Guro Dan Inosanto, then traveled the world to learn from the best. In Manila, he studied under Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo. In Brazil, he trained with top BJJ practitioners like the Machado Brothers and Carlson Gracie. He’s even trained with Zulu warriors in South Africa and earned a black belt in krav maga. His broad experience makes him a sought-after instructor for civilians and law enforcement alike. A prolific writer, he’s authored five books, spent 11 years as a columnist for Inside Kung Fu , and been honored as Black Belt Magazine’s  Self-Defense Instructor of the Year. Now based in Hawaii, Burton continues to share his knowledge worldwide, always learning, always evolving. Introduction & Background How did you first get started in martial arts, and what inspired you to pursue this path? As a young kid, I loved Kato in the Green Hornet TV series. I didn’t know until many years later that Kato was played by Bruce Lee. But his dynamic fight scenes were my first exposure to any sort of martial arts. I guess that is how I first caught the bug.  When I was nine years old, I endured a very horrible experience. I was abducted by a large adult male, and it was a truly horrific event. Being so utterly helpless while someone much bigger and stronger was constantly threatening to kill me ingrained a very deep desire to learn how to defend myself from evil. It took many years, but as I was allowed to, I started training. By a stroke of luck, that training was at Guro Dan Inosanto and Sifu Richard Bustillo’s original academy in Torrance, California, which was a mile and a half from our house in Carson.  For the last thirty years, my main goal as a teacher has been to make others formidable so that they will never be at the mercy of a merciless attacker. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your journey as a martial artist and instructor? After finishing my studies at USC (I majored in biological sciences and completed a 4-year writing and literature honors program), I dedicated myself to training. At that time I had two major obstacles: poverty and health issues. I lived in a tiny camper trailer in a parking lot of a dog and cat hospital near downtown LA for five years so I could train constantly. I lived there without having to pay rent in an exchange for watching over the facility at night. I made enough money doing odd jobs to pay for my training, food, and transportation. It was not easy living in an area where drive-by shootings literally happened across the street and where I sometimes found bullets in the parking lot next to my beater vehicle. Add to that severe recurring digestive problems (which was later diagnosed as ulcerative colitis) and you can imagine that I went through some very difficult times. Not to mention dealing with bouts of profound depression. But the incredible privilege of getting to train with Guro Dan Inosanto in all 18 of his weekly classes got me through those tough times. His positive energy and generosity rubbed off on me so that I could find joy and gratitude, even in my dire living conditions. Your approach emphasizes adaptability and real-world effectiveness. How have you personally evolved as a martial artist over the years? In the early years, I just trained and learned everything I could. I did not make any discernment between what was the entertainment art and the combative martial art. When I started competing, I quickly discovered that there was a big difference between training to impress an audience and training to dominate an opponent who is doing everything he can to dominate you. After a few terrible performances, I started remembering all those times that Guro Dan mentioned the differences between the stage art and the combative art. Because I was getting fight experience, I finally understood that wisdom. I made a decision to focus entirely on the combative art since my main goal in martial arts was ignited by the terrible incident I endured as a nine-year-old. So I pushed the cool “art” portion aside and focused on the “martial”. This is when I went deep into Brazilian jiu-jitsu and no-holds-barred fighting, which was to later be called MMA. The key to functionality is to safely train with a fully resisting opponent. This is not just all out brawling. I think many martial artists avoid sparring because they don’t understand the difference between sparring and fighting. Fighting is doing your best to injure your opponent while sparring is trying your best to “score” on your partner without inflicting any damage at all. We spar in an intelligent manner so that people progress without fear of serious injury, including brain trauma. I employ the principle of progressive resistance so we take a person along slowly with light resistance and only add more resistance when they are comfortable and able to handle it. Over time, I know that these students really have a fighting chance against a street attacker. These experiences all led me to my motto, "pressure test everything!" To be clear, I do enjoy and teach aspects of the arts that are for mind, body, and spirit. These movement arts are very good for total health, which means they are functional in that very important realm! Workshops & Training Approach You’ve spent years sharing your knowledge worldwide. What originally motivated you to teach through books, camps, and courses? My main motivation is to help others enjoy all the benefits that I have received from the martial arts. My quality of life is very high because I love exploring and constantly improving in the various aspects of the arts. This is so gratifying and fulfilling on a day-to-day basis that I want others to be able to feel what I feel.  I’ve had the privilege of training with so many amazing instructors that I have garnered a wide knowledge base that I am constantly expanding. Probably due to the fact that it tends to take me a long time to learn things, I happen to have a knack for teaching and explaining techniques and principles that make it easy for others to learn and progress faster. I’m glad that learning doesn’t come easy for me. This detriment forced me to analyze everything in minute detail so I could understand it. That helps me to pass it along. So it’s the love of the art and the love of watching others progress that makes me happy. As my wife Sarah once noted, “You love transformation. You love to see that transformation in your students and in yourself. That’s why you love teaching so much.”  What do you find most rewarding about teaching martial artists of different backgrounds and experience levels? It is very gratifying to see people become better versions of themselves through training. It’s also fun to coach competitors and see them flourish, whether that be at a local grappling tournament or at a huge professional event like the UFC, ADCC, or ONE Championship. But the most rewarding by far is seeing someone come in to train who is so timid that he she can barely speak to you, but after months of training they gain the confidence to let their true personality shine. That is what I love most. Through the martial arts, we’ve been able to bring out the best in human beings who can then help and inspire others. Your training emphasizes pressure testing and live resistance. How do you structure your programs to ensure students develop both technical skill and functional application? First, you have to make sure the environment is such that the students want to continue training for a long time. So we keep classes, fun and safe while adding that authentic resistance. We constantly work on being precise with our technique, then subject it to pressure testing.  This ensures that each student can better understand how to apply the technique under pressure instead of merely memorizing the moves. That makes their techniques sharper.  I am often asked how long I wait before having a beginner start sparring. They are usually very surprised when I say that brand new students spar their first day. Images of brutal beat downs come to mind, but that is fighting, not sparring. Brand new students who have never trained martial arts at all play the open hand game the first class. This is where we just try to touch the top of our partners head with an open hand so that the new student immediately gets to feel the context of the environment we are working in. I often start having them only use the lead hand to keep it simple. No choreography at all, but just safely playing the game. And it always brings out smiles and laughter in the new students because they get to play. Over time, students who are ready add more tools and eventually move to sparring with helmets and gloves. We use a sparring helmet with a face cage on the front so they don’t have to worry about black eyes and bloody noses. We still regulate the amount of force that they can use as we don’t want heavy blows to the head. Resistance training isn’t all sparring though. For example, we may start in a clinch position, and the directive is for one person to maintain the clinch while the other person tries to get away and make distance. So this isn’t sparring as in a back-and-forth game, but there is a lot of resistance and functional learning that goes on. We use this for weapons defense as well. My favorite saying is “Knowledge is not power. The ability to apply your knowledge, under pressure, is true power.” These games take knowledge and develop it into the ability to apply the knowledge, in other words, skill.  What key skills or techniques do you focus on during your workshops, and how do you tailor them for different levels of experience? Workshops are different than teaching in class. I don’t expect anyone to spar in a workshop or seminar. In a workshop, my goal is to increase each student’s understanding of functional training methodology along with giving them important but often overlooked details of the application of techniques. What I actually teach depends on what the seminar host has requested. I teach general seminars where I go over aspects of many of my programs, and I teach workshops that go very deep into one specific area. These workshops can be as varied as exploring combative street scenarios, silat dance, functional knife defense, or set ups and finishing the north south choke. Like in our classes, the workshops are taught in a fun and open environment. I always encourage questions of any sort and we have a great time diving deep into whatever subject matter we are exploring. Industry Insights & Practical Application Martial arts is constantly evolving. Are there any emerging training trends or techniques that you’re particularly excited about? I’m happy to see that more people are finally recognizing the difference between effective sport training and functional self-defense training. I’m just sorry it took a significant increase in violence for this to become apparent. As functional as combat sports are, each approach evolves for efficiency within their particular rule set. Combatants do not need to account for attacks that are outside of that rule set. But the rule of the street is that there are no rules. We must account for everything, including knives, pistols, clubs, multiple attackers, eye and groin attacks, etc. Most self-defense arts deal with these aspects, but self-defense arts often avoid the all important element of authentic pressure testing, meaning really allowing your partner to totally resist in an un-choreographed manner. But if you take the training methods of combat sports and safely include the street elements, then you are really preparing yourself for functional self-defense. That is what all my For The Street and Battlefield Kali programs emphasize.  Let’s not just memorize the techniques and get reps in; let’s practice applying the techniques against a fully resisting partner in a safe environment. Just as training very well for a combat sport does not guarantee a victory in the cage or on the mat, this kind of self-defense training does not guarantee success against a real life attack. But it will make the defender formidable and give him or her a fighting chance. For martial artists who want to focus on real-world effectiveness, what’s the most important element they should prioritize in their training? For real world effectiveness, I would emphasize two elements. First, you must train against an uncooperative, resisting partner. That’s the only way you will be truly prepared to deal with a violent, 100% resisting attacker. The second element for real world effectiveness is to train with weapons in the mix all the time. When we do kickboxing, clinch, or ground, our students store safe training weapons in their waistbands so that they can pull them out at any moment. You see, we don’t want to recognize that a weapon is in someone’s hand. That is too late. We want to account for the weapon ahead of time in order to position ourselves in a way to stifle the draw or at least recognize when a draw is about to happen.  A quick example: using a Thai boxing neck clinch on someone and throwing knees can be very effective. But I won’t be able to see their hands, meaning I won’t know if the adversary pulls a knife out of his pocket. That could have deadly consequences. Therefore, we prioritize a double biceps tie where we have control over both arms so that we can see and feel if the person puts his hand towards his waist in an attempt to draw a weapon. That way we can try to stifle the draw or at least transition to control that arm before the weapon comes out. Everyone knows that a weapon can come out in a street assault. But knowing is not enough. We must train to expect and account for weapons while under the pressure of a sudden attack. Including inert weapons in a training environment is essential to ensure that each individual is trained to assume there is a weapon coming. With the continued rise of social media and online training, do you see the landscape of martial arts education changing in any ways over the coming years? Yes. I see a day where self-defense classes will use video evidence to show how actual attacks look and examine what may have gone wrong and what things worked well under real life conditions. I’ve been showing real world fight videos at my seminars and classes for well over 20 years. And the students always appreciate that honest perspective. If you don’t know what a real situation looks like, you will not be able to prepare well for it. Most people have gotten their ideas of fighting from films or combat sports. The real thing is much uglier and more violent. I hope that showing footage of actual encounters will be a big change that more and more people will adopt. Burton with BJJ legend Marcelo Garcia in 2006 Training & Personal Growth How do you keep your training fresh and continue to challenge yourself? Simple! Through sparring! To me, sparring is always fun and the moments unique. Having many sparring partners means that new situations and approaches will come up often. This is such a great way to learn and stay sharp. It also keeps you humble because you are constantly reminded that you are not infallible. So if your ego is in check, you can just keep sparring safely in the kickboxing range, in the clinch, on the ground, and with a variety of weapons to keep you sharp. I also enjoy the creativity of solo training, be it moving weapons in the air or doing empty hand spontaneous flows like silat dance. It is a joy to get into the flow state.  Being a student is another way to keep things fresh. Learning someone else’s perspective on moves that you may already “know” is motivating. For example, I have the good fortune of getting to train with my longtime friend Marcelo Garcia‘s school here in Hawaii. I learn important details every single class from him and have a great time doing it. I also take online lessons from high level instructors in various arts. It is such a joy to continue the learning process.   Personally, I think if you get bored doing martial arts, then your horizons are far too narrow. Go train in an art you are unfamiliar with. There is so much to learn! Can you walk us through a typical week of training for you? How do you balance striking, grappling, weapons, and conditioning? I train jiu-jitsu at Marcelo Garcia‘s school here in Hawaii 2 to 3 times a week. I often spar or train with my private students several times per week and I do solo training nearly every day.  I like to walk down to the beach and move the double sticks in the morning. It’s a great way to get the body active. When I train solo at home, I will usually hit equipment with the weapons, do rounds of boxing, kickboxing, self-defense scenarios, and clinching on the BOB dummy. I will spend some time on the wing chun dummy, and also practice movement and particular submissions on a grappling dummy. I pick specific things to work on at home which keeps it very interesting. I’m not just doing the moves to get in reps. I prefer to do fewer repetitions and concentrate on making the techniques more efficient than ever.  Looking Forward Are there any upcoming workshops, events, or projects that martial artists should look out for? I will be going back to SHBJJ Hong Kong to teach later in the year and I am teaching a silat camp in Rhode Island at Gillett’s Mixed Martial Arts gym the last weekend of July. I will teach seminars in Italy in October for my long-time student and friend, (and JKD Unlimited Senior Full Instructor) Augusto Baracco. I am looking at hosting a JKD unlimited camp here in Hawaii at the end of the year. Please check our website and your social media for announcements. What’s the vision for your work in martial arts? Are there any particular goals you’re striving toward in the coming years? My main personal goal is to continue to improve in all areas of combat. That means that I remain a student which in turn means that I can much better relate to my own students.  A big goal of mine is to propagate the Zulu martial arts in the west. I have made four trips to South Africa to train, starting in 1994. The stick fighting, spear and shield fighting, and axe combat are very interesting and incredibly effective. The cultural aspect is fascinating and I think so many people will enjoy training and teaching these arts once I help to make it more available. Every time I’ve taught some aspects of Zulu stick fighting in seminars, I have gotten a great response from the students. I plan to create a network of instructors so that these arts can be appreciated beyond South Africa. My other goal is to educate many more people on the realities of street self-defense. That way, they  will truly understand how important it is to avoid situations. They will also be better equipped to deal with a physical confrontation if necessary. I’d like to finish by giving my sincere thanks to all of my instructors, especially Guro Dan Inosanto. What a role model he is! I also give great thanks to my amazing wife, Sarah, and to my daughter Talina for being great supporters, training partners, and inspiring me to be my best. And a special thanks to all my students across the globe who inspire me by their examples of constant improvement and their passion for martial arts training. Come to Hawaii and train!

Editor's Note: Did you miss the Spring 2025 issue of Black Belt ? Here's a look at one of the stories that ran in the special issue. Even better, you can check out the WHOLE issue with Black Belt Plus ! Honoring Bruce Lee’s Legacy Bruce Lee remains one of the most influential figures in martial arts history. His genius, charisma, and philosophy changed the way we think about combat and personal development. But Bruce wasn’t just a martial artist—he was a pioneer. He challenged convention, questioned assumptions, and emphasized growth and adaptability. Yet, the JKD community often struggles under the weight of his legacy. Some focus on preserving his exact techniques, while others emphasize evolving the art. This has led to divisions, but it’s important to remember that Bruce Lee’s vision was never about rigid boundaries. He taught us to adapt, to remain fluid, and to find our own path. To truly honor his memory, we must step out of his shadow—not by forgetting him, but by living his philosophy of honest self-expression. What do you see as the biggest challenge currently facing the JKD community? One of the biggest challenges facing the JKD community today is fragmentation. Different camps have formed—some dedicated to preserving Bruce Lee’s exact techniques, while others push for continuous evolution. However, the real challenge isn’t the diversity of perspectives—it’s the lack of unity, collaboration, and shared purpose. Instead of debating who is right, we should be asking: How do we keep JKD alive, relevant, and evolving while honoring its foundation? Another major challenge is stagnation. JKD is not a historical artifact, it is a living, breathing process of self-discovery. I do not believe that Bruce Lee wanted his teachings to become rigid—JKD is about adaptability, effectiveness, and honest self-expression. To keep the art vibrant, we must break free from both dogma and reckless accumulation, returning to the essence of refinement and growth. Perhaps the greatest challenge we face is negativity. There is too much complaining, criticizing, and condemning. Too often, the focus is on proving who is right instead of approaching the journey with wonder and excitement. JKD is about the process —the path of continuous improvement. Regardless of lineage or beliefs, we all share a responsibility to develop ourselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. The art is about transformation, mastery, and self-discovery. At its core, JKD is a philosophy and a vehicle for self-development, yet much of the discourse today is consumed by arguments over legitimacy and lineage. It’s time to shift our focus. Instead of bickering, we must unite under the principles that Bruce Lee set forth: exploration, personal expression, and the relentless pursuit of mastery. The future of JKD depends not on division but on our ability to elevate one another by sharing thoughts and ideas and carry the art forward as a living tradition. Bruce Lee emphasized adaptability and self-expression. How can today’s practitioners balance staying true to his philosophy while also evolving the art? To honor Bruce Lee, we must embody his philosophy  rather than merely repeat his techniques. Practitioners must focus on principles over forms —adapting to real-world situations, embracing pressure testing, and eliminating unnecessary movements. The balance lies in recognizing that JKD was never meant to be static; Bruce Lee urged us to be like water, to flow, and to find our own way . The key is to understand that Bruce Lee’s philosophy is not about collecting techniques or blindly following a set system—it is about developing the ability to think, feel, and act freely in the moment. However, the real question is not so much about evolving the art, but about the principles and processes that lead to our own evolution. Evolution is of the self, not the art.  JKD is not the end goal—it is the vehicle practitioners use to transform. It is not about changing JKD itself, but about how we engage with it to cultivate our own mastery. To balance tradition with evolution, practitioners should: Master the Foundation  – Before you evolve, you must have a deep understanding of JKD’s core principles— footwork, timing, distance, angles, and body mechanics.  These are essential skills for a simple, direct, and efficient fighter that can adapt in any range of combat. Without this, you are simply adding more techniques without depth. Pressure Test Everything  – Experiment in sparring and real-world application. JKD is only alive when it is tested against resistance. Relax under pressure and relate appropriately to what is actually happening. Refine, Don’t Accumulate  – Don’t chase endless techniques—focus on sharpening the ones that work best for you. JKD is about removing limitations, not adding complexity. Become simple, direct, and efficient. Hack away at the inessentials. Think Beyond Fighting  – Bruce Lee’s philosophy applies to all aspects of life. True self-expression isn’t just about martial arts—it’s about mastering yourself. By staying grounded in JKD’s core principles while continuously refining what works, we keep the art alive and evolving as I believe Bruce Lee intended. The art itself does not need to evolve as much as we do. JKD has often been divided between those who seek to preserve Bruce Lee’s exact techniques and those who believe in constant evolution. How can these differing perspectives find common ground? The common ground is Bruce Lee’s process —not just his techniques, and not just innovation for the sake of innovation. The truth is, both perspectives are necessary. Those who preserve Bruce Lee’s original techniques provide a foundation for understanding how he moved, thought, and trained in that time period. Those who push for evolution ensure that JKD remains relevant in a changing world. One cannot exist without the other. We find common ground by focusing on principles over techniques  and effectiveness over preferences.  If you can make a technique from Bruce Lee’s era work, keep it. If something new enhances effectiveness, test it. The true spirit of JKD is being able to adapt and evolve while staying rooted in what works. The key is mutual respect. We are all part of the same tree—the branches may grow in different directions, but the root remains the same. How can beginners or those from other disciplines effectively transition into studying JKD? Since JKD was designed as a system for advanced martial artists —those who already had a foundation and were looking to transcend stylized limitations and personal belief systems, newcomers should first build strong foundations in timing, footwork, distance, and perception . A structured Foundations Course  that teaches JKD’s principles before techniques  can help beginners develop the right mindset . By gradually integrating sparring, pressure testing, and eliminating excess movements , new students can transition effectively without being overwhelmed. For beginners or martial artists from other systems, the best approach is to build a sound base in striking and grappling foundations.  Edged and Blunt weapons foundations greatly will enhance attribute development and speed up the growth process. Results Oriented Objective: Focus   on improvement, adaption, and self-expression. Start with the Principles:  Learn economy of motion, non-telegraphic striking, interception, deception, distance management, and the ability to change with the changes. Develop Strong Foundations:  Focus on body mechanics, footwork, timing, and build sound striking and grappling fundamentals.  Try not to focus on memorizing complex combinations. Train the Mindset:  JKD isn’t just about fighting—it’s about learning how to analyze, adapt, and improve.  It is about exploration and discovering your limitations and stylized ways of doing things. Experience Sparring Early:  JKD is built on application. Testing techniques under pressure accelerates the learning process.  Develop an ability to be relaxed and ready to relate appropriately to what is actually happening under pressure. Both beginners and advanced martial artists should view JKD as a path to mastery,  rather than just another set of techniques to learn.  With the first and second generations of JKD practitioners aging, what steps should be taken to ensure that Bruce Lee’s teachings and philosophy remain accessible to future generations? JKD must be preserved and passed on in a way that keeps its essence  intact while making it accessible for the modern world. To ensure its survival, we must: Philosophy First Approach:  The Spirit of Jeet Kune Do is that it is the Art of Philosophy in Action.  The self-development and life transforming benefits of self-discovery and honest self-expression are the key to spreading the art to martial artists and non-martial artists alike. Document the Knowledge:  Create comprehensive, well-organized resources that capture both the evolutionary process, philosophy and practical applications of JKD. Modernize the Teaching Methods:  Use digital platforms, video analysis, and online training to supplement in-person instruction. Encourage Open Idea Exchanges:  Foster a collaborative community between different branches of JKD and other Martial Arts to come together and share ideas and principles. Become the Best Practitioners Possible:  The best way to keep JKD alive is for practitioners to embody its philosophy and demonstrate its effectiveness by showcasing their own personal transformations.  Be the physical, mental, and spiritual change we wish to see in the world. JKD’s future depends on leaders who are willing to teach, innovate, and inspire the next generation. What advice do you have for practitioners looking to integrate these elements into their training regimen? Start with Light Contact: Don’t jump into full-contact sparring right away—start slow and build awareness.  Train with those who you trust and can keep you safe. Use Progressive Resistance: Train techniques against increasing levels of resistance to ensure they work in real scenarios.  This requires intelligent role playing and a growth mindset. Focus on Timing, Not Just Technique: Learn how to apply techniques in the right moment, not just in drills.  Develop the ability to relate instead of hitting or not being hit. Test Against Different Opponents: Experiment with different styles, this will expose gaps in your game and force adaptation. Keep an Experimental Mindset: The goal is to learn, not just to win. Treat sparring as a lab for refining your skills.  It is a sandbox for you to play in and truly discover who you are. Sparring and pressure testing are where JKD comes alive. Without them, it’s just theory. What role do you think modern technology—such as online training, virtual coaching, or AI—can play in the future of JKD education? Technology is a tool, not a replacement for real training. That said, it can be a powerful supplement to JKD education: Online Training Platforms:  Can provide structured learning for students worldwide.  Platforms like Zoom allow for a feedback loop.  Feedback is essential. AI and Motion Analysis:  Can break down technique, footwork, and reaction speed for deeper insights.  Use AI to speed up research and analysis. Virtual Coaching:  Can allow top instructors to reach students globally and offer progressive training methods, and feedback.  It is the progressions, regressions, enhancements, and distinctions that speed up the learning curve. Community Building:  Digital spaces can foster discussions, research, and collaboration.  Everyone is looking to belong to something.  A positive place where people can feel safe to experiment and express themselves is essential. The key is using technology to enhance training  rather than relying on it as a substitute.  The ultimate technology is a great teacher who you trust.  Nothing, absolutely nothing, beats in person hands on training.  What practical steps can be taken to foster collaboration among different JKD schools and philosophies? It begins with humility.  Humility fosters openness, which leads to discovery, growth, learning, and ultimately creation. Create Open Training Events:  Gather JKD practitioners from different backgrounds to exchange ideas. Encourage Cross-Training:  Learning from each other strengthens the whole community. Focus on Common Ground:  Instead of arguing over differences, unite around JKD’s core philosophy. Develop a Shared Mission:  JKD’s survival depends on collaboration—not competition. The goal is to keep JKD alive, not to prove who is "right." The Vision for JKD in the Next 10–20 Years What is your vision for JKD in the next 10-20 years, and what do you hope to see from the next generation of practitioners? My vision for Jeet Kune Do (JKD) in the next 10–20 years is about an internal transformation—both in the art and in the individuals practicing it. JKD is not static. It was never meant to be a fixed system or a museum piece. Bruce Lee’s vision was about continual evolution, and that evolution is not just about technique—it’s about the individual.  Man, the living being the creating individual is far more important than any set style or system.  The future of JKD lies in the third and fourth generations of practitioners who must take responsibility for carrying the art forward. These future generations need to deeply understand both the original method and the concepts method, but most importantly, they must be philosophy-driven . At the core of JKD is the philosophy of the Tao—the philosophy of change, transformation, and honest self-expression. JKD is a process of self-liberation, removing limitations, and flowing with what is necessary in the moment. The Path to Mastery For JKD to thrive, practitioners must be committed to personal mastery. This means: Physical Mastery  – Building strong, conditioned, and functional bodies that can adapt to any combat scenario. JKD practitioners should be athletes—people who have pushed their physical limits, sharpened their techniques, and refined their movements. Tactical Mastery  – Developing an understanding of all ranges of combat. A JKD fighter should be too good a boxer for a wrestler, too good a wrestler for a kicker, and too good a kicker for a boxer. They must embody adaptability and fluidity, making it impossible to classify their style. Perceptive Mastery  – The ability to relate appropriately to an opponent in real-time. This means developing a heightened sense of awareness so that you can follow , join , and ultimately intercept  your opponent. True mastery is not just about reacting but about perceiving intent before it manifests, adapting seamlessly, and making the opponent move into their own defeat. JKD is not about imposing force but about merging with the opponent’s movement, blending with their rhythm, and breaking them at the perfect moment. Philosophical Mastery  – Truly living the principles of JKD. This means breaking free from attachment—not clinging to a method, a teacher, or a preference out of fear. It requires humility, an openness to growth, and a commitment to self-exploration.   The Expansion of JKD The next generation of JKD must go beyond just teaching within martial arts circles. The transformational philosophy of JKD needs to reach a broader audience—both martial artists and non-martial artists alike. We must take the philosophy of JKD to the world as a way of being, a way of thinking, and a way of life. To ensure JKD remains relevant and effective, we must maintain three core elements: Sport  – Pressure testing through sparring and combat sport methods to refine skills under stress. Reality  – Staying focused on practical, functional, and effective techniques that work in real-world scenarios. Tradition  – Honoring the roots, the philosophy, and the way of life passed down through generations. The Future of the JKD Community I see a JKD community  that is unified, innovative, and committed to mastery.  A community where: ✔️ JKD is practiced as a living martial art, not a frozen system. ✔️ The next generation is empowered to think, feel, and move freely. ✔️ We return JKD to its rightful place among the world’s elite martial arts. Jeet Kune Do is not just alive—it is thriving.  Now it’s up to us to prove it.

Editor's Note: Did you miss the Spring 2025 issue of Black Belt ? Here's a look at one of the stories that ran in the special issue. Even better, you can check out the WHOLE issue with Black Belt Plus ! Have you ever watched a movie or TV show and thought, I could do that ? For many martial artists, the dream is to take years of dedication and skill and turn it into a career on the big screen. Justin Ortiz and Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz did just that. After earning NASKA world champion titles, they traveled the globe as two of the most sought-after instructors in the industry and then immersed themselves in the world of Hollywood, learning firsthand what it takes to succeed in action filmmaking.  Now, they’re sharing that knowledge—helping martial artists of all skill levels turn their passion into opportunity. From bright-eyed beginners throwing their first punch to seasoned competitors shaking up the industry, Justin Ortiz and Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz stand as both mentors and trailblazers, showing the world that martial arts isn’t just a discipline—it’s a gateway to limitless possibilities. The Beginning: A Leap of Faith Justin Ortiz’s martial arts career took off in his early twenties when he realized his passion extended beyond just competing. A pivotal moment came when a life coach, Christina Cooper Foster , recognized his potential and helped him reshape his mindset. Growing up, Ortiz had never considered the vast opportunities available beyond traditional martial arts instruction. Through her guidance, he learned that success was a matter of choice and strategy. Jewlianna Ramos-Ortiz, an accomplished martial artist specializing in forms and weapons, shared a similar drive to push beyond traditional competition. With an extensive background in performance-based martial arts and an unyielding drive in life, she understood the power of combining technique with storytelling, a perspective that would later shape their joint ventures. Building a Brand: Martial Smart and Expanding Influence Their passion for expanded reach led to the creation of Martial Smart, a joint venture born from their unique teaching approach—breaking techniques down to their scientific, historical, and psychological components. The name was inspired by the philosophy of "training smarter," a principle Ortiz’s father instilled in him from a young age. Through Martial Smart, the two combined their expertise to create a dynamic, comprehensive learning experience. Their seminars gained popularity, and soon, they were involved in developing curriculums for martial arts franchises like Premier Martial Arts. This expanded their influence from sport karate to broader martial arts business ventures. Bridging Martial Arts and Film: Action and Stunts Recognizing a gap in the industry, Justin and Jewelianna saw an opportunity to connect martial artists with the film world. With their extensive martial arts backgrounds and growing connections on major film sets—including Marvel productions—they launched ACTION! , a program within Martial Smart designed to help martial artists transition into stunt work. Rather than just position themselves as Hollywood stunt experts, the dynamic pair focus on helping other martial artists leverage their existing skills—such as break falls, acrobatics, and fight choreography—into the world of film. The program quickly evolved, offering training in wire work, parkour, camera awareness, and even audition preparation, giving martial artists a structured pathway into the stunt industry. A Smarter Way to Train At the core of their shared philosophy is the belief that success comes from training smarter, not just harder. Their approach integrates elements of human psychology, physics, and research to optimize performance. Whether coaching a competitor, designing a curriculum, or mentoring an aspiring stunt performer, they focus on maximizing each individual’s strengths in the most efficient way possible. Their journey—from young athletes questioning their next step to globally recognized instructors and industry innovators—is a story of success. They’re living proof that with the right mindset, strategy, and adaptability, martial artists can build lasting careers both in and beyond the dojo. The Martial Arts Origin Story Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz: I started when I was 3 years old. My parents were my instructors. All my uncles had karate schools. I came up in the Jhoon Rhee taekwondo system. And so we had kind of that open flare which took you in a lot of directions.  Now, when I was five years old and got into kindergarten, there was that kindergarten peer pressure where all the kids were like, "Ew, karate's for boys. You can't do karate. You have to do dance and gymnastics and cheerleading and all this other stuff."  And so I did. I stopped doing karate and I started to do all these other things and I was good at them.  Why? Because I had the body awareness that the martial arts had started teaching me already, but I didn't love it. I wasn't passionate about it. When I was eight years old, my dad said that he was going to open up another karate school and [asked] if I wanted to go train with him at my uncle's. Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz and Justin Ortiz stand with martial arts legend Chuck Norris And I remember just jumping for joy and being like, "Yes, yes, yes." And so we went that Saturday morning to class and it was history. I remember that day so vividly. I can remember what it smells like, what it felt like, and getting my first stripe again, starting over and knowing that this was my passion and that I wanted to do it for the rest of my life. And so, fast forward, like there were some life things that happened.  I was in a really bad car accident when I was 14 or 15. I got a severe back injury from it and I was told that I was never going to walk again, that I was going to need back surgery, yada yada yada. We ended up not going through with the surgery because we found out that we could PT our way around it. And so that made me super hyperfocused on competing. Now I was not just competing for the sake of competing, but I had been revitalized with this passion and purpose of “I'm going to prove them all wrong and do this for me!”   And so that's when I started to really, really go and defend my world titles with fervor. And here we are. Justin Ortiz:  I started similarly, when I was three years old.  As soon as I was walking, I started kicking.  My first ever lesson was when I hit three years old, my dad gave me a white uniform. He took my leg. He put it on top of a couch. He said, "Hold it there. You stay there until I get back." And I don't know where he went, but he was out  of that room.  I just remember, being three years old, that couch felt like the Eiffel Tower to me. And I was just holding it up. I was almost about to cry and then all of a sudden, I hear “don't cry,” and I was like “I won’t!” As soon as he gets back, he takes my other leg. He puts it back. He's like “hold it there,” and he leaves again. [Laughs] [Martial arts] has been in our family. All of my siblings were martial artists as well. My father was a really good fighter. He didn't really have the opportunity to take it as far as I did, and that was because, growing up, we were poor and, living in the projects in Boston. Martial arts was a way to get out, you know. A way to explore the world and see different things that I normally can't see. Being in the streets and, at the same time, getting me away from all of the violence or things that can possibly be in that type of environment. Competition was huge because it opened a lot of doors for me. I got to travel the world. I got to see many things that I thought would never be possible. And there were a lot of times where, of course, I wanted to quit because it was really hard and growing up poor, we didn't have the funds. I had to raise a lot of funds on my own. I did the pancake drives.I was selling candy. That was the only thing that I learned from the streets, how to sell. You know what I'm saying? [laugh] But I was selling the candy and selling anything I can to buy my ticket to my way over to these places and compete. Then when I was like 15, I started being recognized and I won my first world championship at the US Open, ISKA World title, won it in forms, fighting, and continuous fighting.  From there, it just kept going and people started recognizing me and I started getting sponsorships and getting on sponsored teams. One sponsorship led to another. I thank God every day for those sponsorships because without them I wouldn't be able to continue my martial arts career because, again, I didn't have the means to do so. One thing led to another and then led me to Team Paul Mitchell. Being on Team Paul Mitchell was a dream come true and opened many many doors from there and many opportunities to do different avenues with my martial arts which then led to us doing stunts and acting which also led me to meeting this woman here [gestures to Jewelianna]. We met at the competition. We met at the Diamond Nationals. We were both competing. Everything in my life has been surrounded and engulfed around martial arts and dedicated around martial arts. So martial arts definitely changed my life. Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz:  It gave us everything.

Shot in 1987 by photographer Doug Churchill , this cover featured Tadashi Yamashita  at a moment when his influence was especially felt across the American karate landscape. By then, Yamashita wasn’t just known by name—he was known by reputation. Students talked about the intensity of his training, the precision of his movement, and the seriousness with which he approached every aspect of martial arts practice. As a direct student of Gōgen Yamaguchi, Yamashita carried his teacher’s philosophy with him when he came to the United States in the 1960s and ’70s. He challenged American practitioners to look beyond trophies and tournaments and reconnect with the deeper mechanics of the art—how the body moves, how weapons integrate with empty-hand technique, and why discipline matters when no one is watching.

1. Champion Who Defined the Standard Before Hollywood, Chuck Norris was a dominant full-contact karate competitor whose undefeated run set the bar for discipline, professionalism, and what it truly means to be a champion. 2. Founder of a Martial Arts System with Global Reach As the creator of Chun Kuk Do, Norris built more than a style — he built a philosophy. Today, thousands of practitioners worldwide carry forward his emphasis on balance, character, and lifelong growth. 3. Teacher and Career Builder for Martial Artists Norris created leaders, not just fighters. Through mentorship and opportunity, he launched the careers of martial artists who became instructors, stunt professionals, and choreographers — extending his influence far beyond the dojo. 4. The Quiet Architect Behind Iconic Martial Arts Films Through students like Pat Johnson, Norris helped shape how martial arts were portrayed on screen, influencing classics such as The Karate Kid  and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles . His impact is embedded in Hollywood’s DNA. Pat Johnson as the referee in The Karate Kid (1984) 5. From Karate Films to Legitimate Action Star Norris proved martial artists could headline major films, evolving from genre karate cinema into a full-fledged action star who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Stallone and Schwarzenegger. 6. Television Icon Who Brought Martial Arts Home With Walker, Texas Ranger , Norris reached millions weekly, presenting martial arts as a code of honor — restraint, justice, and discipline — not just combat. 7. Influencer Who Expanded the Martial Arts Conversation Long before cross-training was mainstream, Norris helped introduce American audiences to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through his support of the Machado Brothers, reshaping how martial artists trained. 8. Exercise Guru and Model for Aging with Power Through fitness advocacy and products like the Total Gym, Norris demonstrated that strength, agility, and mobility are lifelong pursuits — redefining what aging looks like in martial arts. 9. A Cultural Myth Bigger Than the Man At some point, Chuck Norris became legend. The jokes, tall tales, and “Chuck Norris facts” turned him into a global symbol of unstoppable toughness — a rare crossover from reality into folklore. 10. A Living Bridge Between Tradition and Modern Combat From traditional karate to full-contact fighting, film, television, fitness, and grappling, Chuck Norris represents continuity — evolving with the times while preserving martial arts values.

In 1983, Black Belt Magazine  captured a pivotal moment in martial arts history. Its cover featured a young Stephen K. Hayes  alongside Ninja Grandmaster Masaaki Hatsumi , marking Hatsumi’s first visit to the United States. At the time, Hatsumi was 52 years old and already the inheritor of several classical Japanese martial traditions, including Togakure-ryū Ninjutsu . His journey to America was more than a seminar tour—it was the formal introduction of authentic ninjutsu to the Western world. Until then, ninja knowledge outside Japan had been fragmented, mythologized, or entirely fictional. Hatsumi’s arrival represented legitimacy, lineage, and living tradition. Black Belt Magazine  recognized the importance of the moment and documented it in detail, effectively memorializing the entrance of a classical Japanese master into a new cultural landscape. The coverage served as both historical record and cultural bridge, bringing readers face-to-face with a martial art that had long existed in the shadows. What made this moment especially significant was its timing. Just as Hatsumi stepped onto American soil, popular culture was exploding with ninja imagery. Former karate champion and media-savvy martial artist Mike Stone  had helped usher in a new wave of action cinema centered on the mysterious ninja. These films—stylized, dramatic, and highly accessible—rapidly gained worldwide popularity and ignited what would soon be known as the Ninja Craze  of the 1980s. Mike Stone Karate Champion turned media icon introducing the world to Ninja Movies, such as American Ninja 2.  Photo credit: Cannon Releasing Corporation Audiences were suddenly fascinated by black-clad warriors, secret techniques, and ancient Japanese combat arts. Into this climate of curiosity and excitement came Masaaki Hatsumi—not as a Hollywood creation, but as the real thing. The contrast between cinematic fantasy and authentic tradition could not have been more striking, nor more powerful. The convergence of media-driven fascination and genuine martial transmission created a rare historical alignment. While ninja films captured the imagination of the masses, Hatsumi and his students—most notably Stephen K. Hayes—provided substance, depth, and reality. This intersection ensured that ninjutsu in the West would be more than a passing fad; it would become a serious martial discipline with lasting influence. In retrospect, Hatsumi’s first trip to America in 1983 stands as a defining moment—when myth met mastery, and perfect timing allowed an ancient art to step out of the shadows and into history. Find the entire story and digital magazine in the e-magazine section.

Put on a Sammo Hung fight today and something clicks almost immediately. The movement feels grounded. The timing feels honest. And even decades later, nothing looks like it’s trying too hard to impress you. Sammo Hung didn’t build his action around trends or tricks. He built it around how bodies actually move—and how fights actually unfold. You can see it clearly in Warriors Two . The choreography doesn’t rush. Stances settle with strikes landing. Entries are earned. Techniques don’t vanish into fast cuts—they play out long enough for you to understand why they worked. It’s the kind of clarity that feels familiar to anyone who’s spent time drilling fundamentals instead of chasing flash. Then there’s weight. Real weight. In The Pedicab Driver , bodies hit the ground with consequence. Throws look exhausting. Falls change the pace of the fight. No one bounces back instantly, because Hung's fights understood something many action films forget: damage accumulates. Fatigue matters. That respect for gravity is what keeps these scenes from aging. Nothing floats. Nothing resets magically. Every movement costs something. Hung also knew that speed isn’t what wins exchanges—timing is. In Enter the Fat Dragon , his character isn’t overwhelming opponents with endless combinations. He’s beating them to moments. Stepping into openings. Letting attacks miss by inches, then answering decisively. It feels closer to sparring than spectacle, which is exactly why it still reads as real. Even when comedy enters the picture, the skill never disappears. Wheels on Meals is often remembered for its humor, but the fights land because the movement underneath is airtight. The jokes don’t replace technique—they ride on top of it. Hung could make you laugh without ever asking you to suspend disbelief. Underneath all of it is a deep traditional foundation, filtered through experience. Peking Opera training, classical kung fu, hard conditioning—then stripped down and adapted for chaos. Forms become fragments. Structure stays, ornamentation goes. What’s left is movement that holds up under pressure. That’s why Sammo Hung’s fights still work. Not because they’re flashy, or clever, or iconic—though they’re all of those things—but because they’re a showcase of actual skill. And no matter how much action cinema changes, that doesn't age out.

Editor's Note: Did you miss the Spring 2025 issue of Black Belt ? Here's a look at one of the cover stories that ran in the special issue. Even better, you can check out the WHOLE issue with Black Belt Plus ! With this story, we honor not just a martial artist or movie star, but a man whose life touched the hearts of generations. Richard Norton was a legend, one whose journey we were all fortunate enough to witness. Long before Russell Crowe or Hugh Jackman ever dreamed of Hollywood, Richard was carving a path from Croydon, Australia, with nothing more than determination, humility, and an unwavering love for the martial arts. This isn’t just a tribute; It’s a celebration of a life lived with quiet strength, fierce discipline, and a spirit that never stopped giving. It’s a journey that crosses continents, disciplines, film sets, and friendships—and ultimately results in a lasting legacy. We don’t begin this story with an ending, but with a reflection on a man whose impact stretched far beyond the screen or the ring. Richard was a mentor, a friend, a husband—and a beacon of what it means to live with honor. In a final act of grace, Richard stepped aside from his own Black Belt Hall of Fame induction in 2024 so that he could present to the Machado family instead. That was Richard: always lifting others up, even at his own expense. As you read this, I invite you to remember not just the fights, the films, or the accolades—but the man himself. Because Richard Norton was more than the sum of his accomplishments. Norton in his last feature, Black Creek From Croydon to the Dojo Born in Croydon, Richard began his martial arts journey with judo and Goju karate under the guidance of the revered Tino Ceberano—a direct student of Gogen Yamaguchi, one of the founding figures of modern karate. This marked the beginning of Richard's lifelong commitment to martial arts, something he would later describe simply as: “Everything good that's happened in my life has been through martial arts.” - Richard Norton Norton with instructors Tino Ceberano and Bob Jones A New Path: Zen Do Kai Richard found mentorship in Bob Jones, and their journey began in 1965 at Tino Cebrano’s dojo, where a 15-year-old “skinny beanstork” Richard trained alongside 25-year-old Bob. Inspired by Bob’s dedication and work in security, Richard eventually joined him on the doors. As Bob branched out to develop a martial art tailored for Australians, Richard followed loyally, diving deep into the craft—studying from books, falling in love with the Sai, Sword, and Bo. In 1970, Soke Bob Jones invited a young Richard Norton to help co-create Zen Do Kai—a groundbreaking martial art blending traditional Goju with real-world application, designed for bouncers and security professionals. As Chief Instructor and Bob’s right-hand man, Richard helped shape Australia’s first eclectic martial arts system, grounded in both tradition and street-smart realism. By 1972, Richard had earned his 2nd Degree black belt. As Zen Do Kai exploded across Australia, their reputation soared after serving as bodyguards on the Rolling Stones' tour, launching high-profile security work for stars like ABBA, Bowie, and Joe Cocker. In time, Bob brought Chuck Norris to Australia—who recognized Richard’s screen presence and urged him to reach out if ever in the U.S. The Early Years with Bob Jones circa 1975 Bodyguard to Rock Royalty Norton’s martial discipline opened unexpected doors. He found himself working backstage during the Rolling Stones’ Australian tour , training with Mick Jagger at 4 AM after concerts. It was his first taste of global celebrity—but far from the last. Soon, his clientele glittered with music royalty: ABBA, Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie, James Taylor —and most impactfully, Linda Ronstadt , who brought him to California as her personal bodyguard. Norton with members of Fleetwood Mac, 1977 (courtesy of Richard Norton) From Muscle to Movies California opened a new chapter. Norton reunited with Chuck Norris , and the two became instant friends and collaborators. Norris cast Norton as Kyo in The Octagon  (1980)—his first Hollywood role, and the beginning of a lifelong bond. In a 1994 interview, Richard reflected:  “Chuck is the greatest. When we met in Australia, we hit it off immediately. The thing everyone finds with Chuck is he’s so approachable, so open, and so ego-less.” Chuck later said:  “Richard, you made me not only a better martial artist but a better person… Your legacy will live on for generations to come.” Norris and Norton in the Octagon  Norton’s transition from stunt performer and security expert to action star began with a breakout role in Force: Five (1981), directed by Enter the Dragon’s Robert Clouse. Cast alongside martial arts legends Joe Lewis and Benny "The Jet" Urquidez, Norton stood out with his screen presence and authentic combat skills. His real-life experience in high-stakes security and martial arts gave his performance a grounded intensity that set him apart from other up-and-coming action stars of the time. The film was a pivotal moment, showcasing that Norton wasn’t just stunt talent—he had the charisma, discipline, and presence of a leading man. From that point on, Norton steadily built a name for himself in the world of action cinema. Throughout the 1980s and ‘90s, he headlined a string of martial arts and action films, often playing both heroes and memorable villains. More than just physical ability, Norton brought a quiet authority and professionalism to his roles that made him a favorite among directors and co-stars alike.  He was a profound warrior, a beautiful soul, and will be deeply missed….Benny the Jet Urquidez Norton and Benny Urquidez during a final visit in Woodland Hills. Photo courtesy of Team Karate Centers Woodland Hills A Life of Learning Fame never dulled Norton’s hunger to learn. He trained in Brazilian jiu-jitsu  under the Machado brothers , Ukidokan  with Benny “The Jet” Urquidez , kickboxing  with Pete Cunningham , and weapons arts under Tadashi Yamashita , Fumio Demura , and Bill "Superfoot" Wallace . “Many of the friends I’ve made through training have turned out to be some of the most influential people in my life,” Norton once said. “They’re just like family.” In fact, it was Norton who introduced the Machado brothers to Chuck Norris—a meeting that helped bring Brazilian jiu-jitsu to the U.S. mainstream. Norton with the Machado brothers  “He was the man who introduced our family to Chuck Norris and that was a game changer. From that moment we remained friends, true martial artist.” - Rigan Machado  Hong Kong Stardom While Hollywood gave Richard Norton his start, it was Hong Kong that transformed him into a martial arts cinema icon. Directors like Sammo Hung and Jackie Chan quickly recognized Norton’s unique screen presence—he had the poise, power, and precision that made him the ultimate on-screen villain. In Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Stars  (1985), Norton brought a sharp intensity to his role, and in Millionaires’ Express  (1986), he cemented his status as a fan-favorite baddie, blending physical dominance with a touch of swagger that made audiences love to hate him. His collaborations with Hong Kong’s action elite continued through the late '80s and '90s. Norton appeared in Eastern Condors  (1987), showcasing his agility and tactical finesse in Sammo Hung’s gritty war-time action epic. In City Hunter  (1993), he faced off against Jackie Chan in a hilariously stylized Street Fighter parody that highlighted both actors' agility and comic timing. Jackie famously referred to Richard as “the maestro of martial arts movies,” while Richard affectionately called Jackie “a genius and a gentleman.” One of Norton’s most memorable roles came in Mr. Nice Guy  (1997), where he played an eccentric and unpredictable gangster—encouraged by Hung to push the limits of the character’s madness. These films didn’t just expand Norton’s international fame; they solidified him as a vital bridge between East and West in the golden era of martial arts cinema. “Richard could do it all, comedy, drama but his fighting was something he could do like no other. He was fast and his timing was perfect, that rhythm means everything. We will miss him.” - Jackie Chan  The Leading Man Richard Norton’s evolution from on-screen villain to leading man wasn’t a sudden pivot—it was a natural progression born of presence, skill, and depth. Even in modest productions like Not Another Mistake (1988) and Sword of Bushido (1989), Norton refused to coast on martial arts alone. He brought emotional complexity to roles that could’ve easily been one-note. His characters didn’t just fight—they wrestled with loyalty, honor, and inner demons. That authenticity, paired with his athleticism, elevated every project he touched. This era marked a pivotal shift: Norton was no longer just the imposing opponent or sidekick—he was the main attraction. Producers noticed his growing fan base and the credibility he brought to action roles, especially in a time when physical realism and screen charisma were everything. Films like Equalizer 2000 (1987), directed by cult favorite Cirio H. Santiago and shot in the Philippines, captured Norton in full command—leading ragtag resistance fighters through post-apocalyptic chaos with a quiet intensity. These roles cemented his reputation as more than just a fighter; he was a thinking man’s action hero, capable of holding the screen with presence and purpose. As the late '80s rolled into the '90s, Norton’s ascent as a leading man became unstoppable. He brought gravitas to the genre during a time when sincerity in action films was rare, proving that heart, not just muscle, makes a true star. Equalizer 2000  (1987) shot in the Philippines by legendary director Cirio Santiago The On-Screen Partnership of Legends If Jackie Chan was Richard Norton's Hong Kong brother, then Cynthia Rothrock was undoubtedly his cinematic soulmate. Together, they formed one of the most iconic duos in martial arts film history. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable—rooted in mutual respect, impeccable timing, and a shared love for precision and power. Films like China O’Brien  (1990), Rage and Honor  (1992), and Lady Dragon  (1990) weren’t just action-packed—they were showcases of trust and synchronicity. Norton and Rothrock matched each other beat for beat, kick for kick, delivering complex fight scenes with the fluidity and grace of a dance. Dubbed the “Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers of martial arts movies,” Norton and Rothrock didn’t just perform action—they elevated it. Their characters often fought side by side or squared off against each other, blurring traditional gender roles and setting a new standard for what on-screen fight partnerships could look like.  Beyond the punches and spin kicks was a palpable bond that made their collaborations feel authentic and dynamic. Off-screen, they developed a deep friendship that further enriched their work. Together, they helped shape the landscape of '90s martial arts cinema, inspiring a generation of fans and proving that true screen magic comes from connection, not just choreography. Rothrock and Norton in 2024 at the Black Belt Hall of Fame   “Richard and I captured magic on screen from day one. From Millionaires’ Express in 1986 to Black Creek in 2024, our friendship lasted over 40 years.” - Cynthia Rothrock  Rothrock and Norton first on-screen appearance together  Behind the Camera As his career evolved, Richard Norton made a seamless and respected transition from in-front-of-camera action star to behind-the-scenes powerhouse. Drawing from decades of hands-on martial arts experience and cinematic combat, Norton became a sought-after fight choreographer and action coordinator. His work on films like New Adventures of Robin Hood, Dream Warriors and Amazons and Gladiators  showed that he wasn’t just performing the action—he was designing it. His sequences were marked by clarity, realism, and impact. More than just choreography, Norton brought a teacher’s heart to his work. He trained and mentored a new generation of Hollywood stars, including Ben Affleck, Margot Robbie, Scarlett Johansson, and Liam Neeson—preparing them for roles that demanded authenticity and intensity. Whether shaping a gritty brawl or refining a complex weapon sequence, Norton’s input made scenes more believable, more visceral, and more emotionally grounded. His approach was always character-first, ensuring that action served the story—not the other way around. In doing so, he quietly influenced the tone and quality of modern action cinema, proving that his artistry extended well beyond his own performances.  Richard Norton training with Scarlett Johansson. Photo courtesy of Richard Norton The Final Film Black Creek  marked a powerful full-circle moment in Richard Norton’s storied career. Reuniting with longtime friend and collaborator Cynthia Rothrock, the film served as his final starring role—a fitting farewell that honored both his legacy and the enduring bond between two of martial arts cinema’s most beloved figures. Set against a gritty Western backdrop, Black Creek  blended old-school action with emotional depth, giving Richard a role that showcased not only his still-formidable physical presence but also his gravitas as a seasoned actor. As two warriors confronting their pasts and battling for justice, Norton and Rothrock brought a maturity and authenticity to the screen that only decades of shared experience could deliver. For fans, Black Creek  was more than just a film—it was a tribute. A celebration of two legends who helped shape an entire genre, coming together one last time to remind the world what made them so magnetic in the first place.  On the set of Black Creek, Norton's final starring role, along with Cynthia Rothrock, Keith Cooke, Don “The Dragon” Wilson and R. Marcus Taylor An Unselfish Final Act In 2024, Richard was selected to present to the   Machado family  for their induction into the Black Belt Hall of Fame. He was also on the shortlist for induction himself. Tragically, Richard passed before he could receive the honor himself. But no award could ever encapsulate the life he lived—or the hearts he touched. “I met Richard in 1987, and from day one, he was a class act. Over the next 38 years, he remained humble, genuine, and always made time for his friends. He never stopped giving back to the martial arts community, especially through teaching. In 2024, Richard was being considered for induction into the Hall of Fame the same year as Machado brothers, who he introduced to Chuck Norris and the world.  When given the choice to either accept the honor himself or present the award to the Machados, he graciously stepped aside, saying, ‘This moment belongs to them.’ That was classic Richard—always putting others first.” - George Chung  James Lew, George Chung, Richard Norton, Simon Rhee, Phillip Rhee, and Fariborz Azhakh during Norton's last visit to the USA. Photo courtesy of Team Karate Centers Woodland Hills The Final Days In his final days, Richard spent hours in thoughtful interviews with producer and publisher Graham Slater and martial arts legend Mike Stone, sharing insights into the spiritual dimensions of martial arts—offering wisdom not just about fighting, but about life. He was impossible to define in simple terms: complex, multi-dimensional, and deeply respected in every arena he entered. What stood out most was his attention to detail, his relentless pursuit of excellence, and his uncanny ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. He wore many titles—actor, choreographer, teacher, friend—but carried them all with grace. We miss you, Richard. Thank you for everything. —Graham Slater, Australia The final interview with Richard Norton in Australia, Graham Slater and Mike Stone More Than a Master Richard Norton was more than a master of martial arts—he was an artist, a mentor, and above all, a kind and gracious human being. At the heart of his life stood his unwavering partnership with his beloved wife, Judy. Their bond was one of quiet strength and enduring love, built not just on shared experiences, but on mutual respect and support. Judy was his anchor through the highs and lows of a remarkable life, accompanying him around the world, from red carpets to remote training grounds, always by his side—not just as a partner, but as his greatest ally and friend. Richard didn’t live for the spotlight. He lived with intention, humility, and purpose. Whether he was choreographing a complex fight scene, offering a word of encouragement to a student, or simply sharing a quiet moment with Judy, he gave his full attention. His presence was calm but commanding, always grounded in sincerity. Together, he and Judy created a life rich in love, laughter, and legacy—one that inspired those around them to seek not only success, but balance, connection, and authenticity. In everything he did, Richard brought heart. And in Judy, he found his home. His proudest role wasn’t on screen, but in life—as a devoted husband to Judy, his true off-screen love story. Life Well Lived Respected and Loved by All In the end, Richard Norton’s life was not only defined by the power of his punches, the precision of his kicks, or the depth of his filmography—it was defined by the lives he touched, the people he lifted, and the respect he earned around the world. From the dojos of Australia to the soundstages of Hollywood and the action sets of Hong Kong, Richard left behind more than a body of work—he left a legacy of excellence, humility, and heart. And perhaps no words capture that better than those from his dear friend and longtime brother-in-arms, Chuck Norris:   “I long for more time together… but I take comfort in the fact that we will meet again. Rest well, Richard. Your fists made history—but your heart made you immortal.”  – Chuck Norris Richard Norton was a warrior, a teacher, a pioneer, and a gentleman.   Though we say goodbye to his physical presence, his spirit lives on in every life he touched—and every story still to be told. Norris and Norton, a friendship for life

Editor's Note: Did you miss the Spring 2025 issue of Black Belt ? Here's a glimpse at one of the stories that ran in the special issue. Even better, you can check out the WHOLE issue with Black Belt Plus ! On the top of the proverbial mountain sits the master. As one reaches the heights of their fighting career, they find that the highest levels aren’t just about skill–it’s about grit, discipline, and an unshakable mindset. These qualities are exactly what have guided Anvar Boynazarov’s path from the training grounds of Tiger Muay Thai in Thailand to the bright lights of international competition. Boynazarov’s journey started in Uzbekistan, where martial arts weren’t just a sport but a way of life. From the moment he stepped onto the mats, he was hooked, drawn to the precision, power, and artistry of combat sports. Over the years, that passion has only grown bigger, brighter, and more magnetic – drawing in coaches and mentors who would further help refine his abilities. Talent alone doesn’t create champions. He sharpened his mindset and skills under some of the best coaches in the game, including Arnold Chon—the Hollywood stunt mastermind who has trained world champions and crafted action sequences for some of the biggest blockbusters. With Chon in his corner, he evolved into a fighter who blends the raw power of Muay Thai with the fluid movement of modern kickboxing. Every strike is calculated, every fight a step toward something greater. Now, competing on some of the biggest stages in combat sports, he’s proving he belongs among the elite. We sat down with him to talk about his rise to world-class competitor, the battles—both inside and outside the ring—that shaped him, and what’s next as he continues to chase greatness. Early Life & Beginnings Can you tell us about your early life in Uzbekistan? What first inspired you to get into combat sports? Growing up in Uzbekistan, I was immersed in a culture rich with martial traditions. From a young age, I was captivated by the discipline and artistry of combat sports, which inspired me to pursue a career in this field. What was your first experience with Muay Thai and kickboxing like? Did you have any mentors who influenced your journey? My initial encounter with Muay Thai and kickboxing was transformative. Training at renowned gyms like Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket, Thailand, I had the privilege of learning from esteemed trainers who honed my skills and guided my development. Were there any challenges or obstacles you faced in your early training days? How did you overcome them? Embarking on this journey, I faced numerous challenges, including adapting to rigorous training regimens and overcoming cultural barriers. Through unwavering determination and the support of my mentors, I persevered and transformed these obstacles into opportunities for growth. Rise to Champion Status What was the defining moment when you realized you could compete at an elite level? A pivotal moment was my victory at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, a revered venue in the world of Muay Thai. Defeating a formidable opponent there solidified my belief in my ability to compete among the elite. You’ve fought and defeated some of the best in the world—what was your most memorable victory and why? One of my most memorable victories was winning the EM Legend 65kg 4-man tournament. Securing two impressive wins in a single night showcased my endurance and skill, marking a significant milestone in my career. How would you describe your fighting style? Have you evolved your approach over the years? My fighting style is a dynamic blend of traditional Muay Thai techniques and modern kickboxing elements. Over the years, I’ve continually refined my approach, integrating new strategies and adapting to the evolving landscape of combat sports. Competing in promotions like Glory and Legacy Fighting Alliance requires a high level of discipline. What does a typical training camp look like for you? Preparation for such high-caliber promotions involves intensive training camps. A typical camp includes rigorous strength and conditioning sessions, technical drills, sparring, and strategic planning, all tailored to ensure peak performance on fight night. Mindset & Philosophy How do you mentally prepare for a fight? Do you have any rituals or routines before stepping into the ring? Mental preparation is crucial. I engage in visualization techniques, meditate to maintain focus, and adhere to pre-fight rituals that center my mind and align my energy before entering the ring. Combat sports require resilience—how do you handle setbacks or losses, and what motivates you to keep pushing forward? Setbacks are part of the journey. I view them as learning experiences, analyzing each to identify areas for improvement. My passion for the sport and the desire to honor those who support me fuel my determination to persevere. What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned through fighting, both in and out of the ring? The most profound lesson is the importance of discipline and humility. These principles not only define success in the ring but also guide personal growth and interactions beyond it. Future Aspirations & Legacy You’ve already built an impressive career—what’s next for you? Do you have any specific goals or championships you’re chasing? Looking ahead, I aim to secure a championship title in a premier global promotion, further establishing my legacy in the sport. Are there any fighters you’d love to compete against in the future? I welcome the opportunity to test my skills against top-tier athletes across various organizations, as each bout offers a chance to elevate my craft and entertain fans worldwide. Beyond fighting, do you have any plans to coach, open a gym, or contribute to the sport in other ways? Beyond my competitive career, I aspire to mentor the next generation of fighters, potentially establishing a training facility that fosters talent and promotes the values integral to martial arts. How do you want to be remembered in the world of combat sports? I hope to be remembered as a dedicated and resilient athlete who not only achieved personal success but also inspired others and contributed positively to the growth and integrity of combat sports. ARNOLD CHON – HOLLYWOOD’S FIGHT MASTER Arnold Chon isn’t just Anvar’s trainer—he’s the force behind some of the most intense fight sequences in Hollywood. As a veteran stunt coordinator, performer, and martial arts expert, Chon has worked with elite fighters and A-list actors alike. Whether on-screen or helping those in the ring, Arnold Chon is a true master of the fight game. Martial Arts Mastery – With roots in the Jhoon Rhee Institute, Chon dominated the tournament scene, becoming a NASKA champion and Junior Olympic taekwondo gold medalist. Stunt & Fight Choreography  – Chon has designed and performed action sequences for blockbuster films and hit TV shows, such as Pirate of the Caribbean, the Rush Hour franchise, and multiple Marvel projects. Trainer to Champions  – Beyond Hollywood, he has sharpened the skills of world-class fighters like UFC Welterweight champion Tyrone Woodley, preparing them for their fights by helping unleash incredible speed.

The December 1974 cover featured Dean Stockwell  in one of the earliest film productions to showcase Filipino martial arts. In the action film The Pacific Connection , Stockwell—later best known for his role in the ’90s hit Quantum Leap —trained with the film’s technical advisor, Remy Presas , the founder of Modern Arnis . Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com