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Michael Warren, Carlos Bunda and Jerry Piddington Pioneer Award Class of 2022 Hall of Fame Class of 2021 Hall of Fame

Nearly 55 years to the day, in December 1970, Black Belt  magazine featured Allen Steen, the Father of Blood-and-Guts Karate. Allen Steen passed on December 30, 2025, at the age of 85. He lived a life defined by passion, honor, and respect. Those who knew him remember not only a master of martial arts, but a giant of a man whose presence, leadership, and legacy will never be forgotten. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

Allen Steen, the Tae Kwon Do Master who pioneered modern karate in America, passed on Dec 30, 2025 at the age of 85. He was a giant among men, loved by many, respected by all. From the pages of the 1970s Black Bet Magazine Tae Kwon Do Master Allen R. Steen was a pioneering American martial artist, visionary teacher, and trailblazing promoter whose influence helped shape the foundation of modern martial arts in the United States. Widely regarded as one of the most influential martial artists of his era, Steen’s legacy endures through his students, his innovations, and the uncompromising spirit he brought to American karate and taekwondo. Steen began his martial arts journey in 1959 under the instruction of Jhoon Rhee, the man revered as the “Father of American Taekwondo.” At a time when Asian martial arts were virtually unknown in mainstream America, Steen embraced the discipline with uncommon dedication. In 1962, he earned his black belt, becoming the first American student of Jhoon Rhee to achieve black belt standing. Of the original 184 students who enrolled under Rhee in 1959, Steen was one of only six to reach that level an achievement that underscored both his talent and perseverance. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and many Martial Arts friends of Grand Master Allen Steen. As the original Karate Pioneer in Texas under Grand Master Jhoon Rhee, GM Steen's legacy will continue to inspire and empower the countless students, Champions, and karate friends he made over the many years. His impact will be remembered for generations to come. RIP. —Jeff Smith (World Kickboxing Champion, Black Belt Hall of Fame) Recognized as a pioneer of American karate and taekwondo, Allen Steen is often celebrated as the “Father of Tae Kwon Do in Texas.” During the 1960s, he played a central role in spreading martial arts throughout the state, establishing schools and cultivating a culture of discipline, respect, and toughness that would define Texas martial arts for generations. Known for his demanding standards, Steen earned the reputation as the “Father of Blood-N-Guts Karate.” This moniker reflected the intense, no-nonsense style of training that flourished in Texas during the 1960s. His methods emphasized toughness, discipline, and mental resilience—principles inspired by the rigorous training regimens of his own master, Jhoon Rhee. While strict, Steen’s approach forged deeply loyal students and produced exceptional martial artists. Steen was also far ahead of his time as a businessman. Long before martial arts schools became widely commercialized, he successfully built and operated large-scale karate programs, proving that martial arts could thrive as both a discipline and a profession. As early as 1970, Black Belt  magazine recognized Steen as a pioneer of “big business karate,” highlighting his innovative approach to school management, instructor development, and student outreach. His success helped legitimize martial arts as a viable career path in the United States. In the 70s he continued to be a force and a spokesperson for the direction of sport Karate. Allen blessed us in countless ways—as an inspirational competitor, a brilliant communicator and teacher, and a highly successful business entrepreneur. He was a fighter in the truest sense of the word: on the mat, in leadership, and in principle. He earned respect the hard way—through unwavering commitment during the most demanding era of American sport karate. His legacy deserves to be remembered with the same strength, integrity, and dignity with which he lived his life. — Mike Stone (International Karate Champion and Black Belt Hall of Fame) Seen here with a legendary crew that includes Pat Burleson, Mike Stone, Jhoon Rhee, Ed Parker, Kang Rhee, Allen Steen Under his instruction, Allen Steen developed some of the most successful karate competitors and instructors of the era. Even before digital media, he introduced the idea of video for practice and mastery, as seen in this 1970 story over 55 years ago, Steen was way ahead of his time. His students carried his teachings across the country, extending his influence far beyond Texas and ensuring that his philosophy lived on through multiple generations. In recognition of his lasting contributions, Steen was inducted into the American Karate Black Belt Association Hall of Fame and later honored with induction into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame in 2007. In 2015, MA Success, a sister publication of Black Belt , featured him on the cover. On the cover of MA Success celebrating 50 years of excellence Allen R. Steen leaves behind an enduring legacy as a martial artist, teacher, entrepreneur, and pioneer. His impact on American martial arts is immeasurable, and his name remains synonymous with toughness, integrity, and the uncompromising pursuit of excellence. When Giants walked the land. Allen Steen Vs. Joe Lewis, Ed Parker referee, circa mid 1960's

What Every Modern Martial Artist Needs to Know About the Ancient Indian Fighting System WHAT IT IS Kalari Payattu is one of the oldest fighting arts in the world. The name comes from two words: kalari , which means “gymnasium,” and payattu , which means “exercise” in Malayalam, the language of the Kerala state in India. It’s believed that karate and kung fu took inspiration from Kalari Payattu (also spelled kalaripayit ) in their formative years. WHEN IT WAS CREATED The origin of the kalari — and hence the fighting style — can be traced back to the 12th century, when a breakdown of the Kerala state occurred. That led to the emergence of small kingdoms, many of which were unable to pay for their own armies. In response, chieftains would maintain kalari in a bid to keep their citizens ready to wage war. Good physical training and discipline were cultivated in case of attack. BECOMING A MARTIAL ART Kalari Payattu evolved into a system that was eventually taught to people from all castes and religions, which resulted in Hindus, Muslims, and Christians practicing alongside one another. It grew to include techniques for fending off attacks by both armed and unarmed enemies. Kalari Payattu masters, or gurukkal , were selected for their character and discipline. Reflecting the way such traits were emphasized, obedience to one’s master was deemed crucial, and students were required to obtain their master’s permission before using weapons. MAIN VARIATIONS Kalari Payattu can be divided into northern and southern styles. The northern version focuses on body-control exercises, while the southern version emphasizes empty-hand fighting. Usage of sticks and other weapons, as well as the ways of healing, can be found in both styles. Interestingly, the healing portion of the curriculum encompasses treatment for most of the injuries one might sustain in Kalari Payattu training and fighting. AYURVEDIC CONNECTION The Western Ghats region of India is known for its therapeutic herbs, many of which are used to make medicines to treat Kalari Payattu injuries, as well as to enhance massage designed to care for bones, muscles, nerves, and vital points. When Kalari Payattu practitioners receive massages, they take full advantage of the experience to see how each muscle and nerve responds to pressure from the fingers and feet. BREATHING AND SEEING Because oxygen intake is crucial when exerting oneself in Kalari Payattu, a treatment known as nasyam  is often administered to promote clear nasal passages. It entails dripping a concoction of herbal juices and medicated oils into the nose. Because vision is also essential, a treatment called tharpanam  is used to strengthen the nerves of the eye and prevent swelling and itching. TRAINING FACILITIES Kalari are categorized according to floor size. The standard lengths are 52 feet, 42 feet, 32 feet, 18 feet, and 12 feet. The width is normally half the length. A facility’s height may vary from 12 to 30 feet. In the past, kalari structures were covered with coconut leaves, but nowadays tiles and concrete are used. One factor that hasn’t changed: the door always faces east. GATEKEEPER The Kalari Payattu master is the person entrusted with opening and locking that east-facing door. It’s a serious matter because the facility is considered sacred — much like a Hindu temple. But unlike a temple, a kalari houses no idols. INSIDE THE KALARI A poothara  is located at the southwest corner of the facility. A semicircular mound, it has seven layers that symbolize the seven mothers who take care of everyone, including fighters. Flowers are placed on it, and a lamp is lit at dawn. Before a fight, practitioners seek blessings from Bhadrakali, the goddess of war and weapons. Located next to the poothara is a guruthara , a raised platform that symbolizes the gurus and elders of the lineage. The Kalari Payattu master stands in front of the guruthara when he gives commands to his students. PRE-TRAINING RITUALS Fighters apply oil to their bodies before they begin a session. They don a katcha , a cloth that measures 15 to 18 feet long and 9 inches wide. It’s wrapped around the waist, hips, and abdomen in a manner that covers and protects the body while preserving freedom of movement. The upper body is left bare. CURRICULUM PROGRESSION Training begins with body-control exercises; they form the foundation needed to learn all other skills because they foster flexibility, agility, swiftness, and coordination. At the next stage, students practice with sticks and canes. The long stick is called the kettukari  and its shorter sibling the kuruvadi . Once they’ve been mastered, students proceed to the third level: swords, shields, knives, daggers, tridents, and spears. Truly learning any one of them is an arduous test of both body and mind. ARSENAL OF WEAPONS At that third level, the first weapon taught is the dagger, followed by the sword. Around the same time in the student’s development, the shield is introduced. Later on, he may learn the otta , an S-shaped staff with a wooden knob at one end. When used, vital points on the opponent’s body are targeted — which can be devastating if actually struck. Or the student may opt for the urumi , a 5- to 6-foot-long flexible sword designed to keep an enemy at bay. Unlike most swords, the urumi can be folded and worn as a belt. It’s also found favor with women who like to curl it in their long hair or keep it in their bag for use in an emergency. MORE TOOLS OF WAR The gada  is India’s mace. Made of a type of wood that’s heavy and resists splitting, it requires great strength to maneuver. Despite its seemingly harmless appearance, it’s a deadly weapon — as well as a great tool for building the body. “EMPTY” HANDS In Kalari Payattu, as in other arts, techniques include locks, strikes, and grappling moves. More uncommon is its use of cloth as a weapon. A simple length of fabric in an otherwise empty hand can enable a student to entangle an adversary and, once he’s restrained, bind his hands together. LOWER BODY Leg exercise is regarded as indispensable because a strong support system is needed for the body to maintain balance, stay mobile, and execute various offensive and defensive moves such as kicking and jumping. The Kalari Payattu leg regimen includes movements that keep the limbs straight, work them at a multitude of angles, and swing them through the air in a variety of directions. ANIMAL INFLUENCE The eight animal postures are prized for their ability to teach students how to swiftly turn and twist their bodies. They were incorporated into the art after masters observed the movements of the elephant, lion, horse, pig, snake, cat, rooster, and fish. These postures can activate muscles and nerves that are necessary during execution of the art — and they help keep the practitioner attuned to nature. LEAPS OF FAITH Kalari Payattu jumps recruit the whole body for maximum performance and are done in a series for maximum effect, which includes building balance and explosiveness. Not surprisingly, Kalari Payattu has been described as yoga in motion . BENEFITS OF TRAINING The Indian art does not propagate violence. Instead, it serves as a way to improve one’s self-confidence, which grows naturally from the ability to fend off an attack. It is for this reason, as well as the fitness benefit that accompanies training, that the ancient martial art of Kalari Payattu has remained relevant in modern times. Photography by Khursheed Dinshaw

Russia’s Vadim Nemkov leaves Lyon with the PFL Heavyweight World Championship over his shoulder as he submitted Brazil’s Renan Ferreira in round one. Cris Cyborg adds another title to her legacy as she wins the PFL Women’s Featherweight World Championship after submitting Sara Collins in round three. PFL Lyon saw the next generation of European MMA stars rise, alongside two new PFL Europe Champions, Aleksandr Chizov and Baris Adiguzel. PFL Lyon  has officially come to an end at the LDLC Arena after an evening of elite MMA, and four brand-new Champions leaving France with a title wrapped around their waist.  The Main Event saw Russia’s Vadim Nemkov  (20-2) close out his 2025 as the inaugural PFL Heavyweight World Champion, as he submitted the dangerous towering Brazilian, Renan “Problema” Ferreira (13-5) with an arm triangle choke in the first round. He now sits atop of the division, and will welcome all challengers in 2026. In the Co-Main Event, the legend of  Cris Cyborg  (29-2, 1 NC) continues to grow as she adds yet another World Title to her collection. The Brazilian defeated Sara Collins  (6-1) via rear naked choke in the third round to take home the PFL Women’s Featherweight World Championship, and has stated she’s after one more fight in MMA to close out a legendary career.   The hype of Belgian superstar Patrick “The Belgian Bomber” Habirora  (8-0) reached new heights in the LDLC Arena, as his perfect record remains intact after defeating his most experienced and dangerous opponent to date, Kevin “Air” Jousset  (10-5). Habirora knocked out Jousset in the first round, which caused the LDLC Arena to erupt with excitement. He remains one of the hottest prospects to come out of Europe in recent years.  Taylor “Double Impact” Lapilus  (23-4) once again showed the world why he is one of the most elite Bantamweights on the planet, as he scored a unanimous decision win over England’s Liam “Nightmare” Gittins  (13-5). The Frenchman proved once again his athleticism is world-class, and is a major contender in a stacked 135 lbs division at PFL. Aleksandr “Pretty Boy” Chizov  (13-3) wins the 2025 PFL Europe Lightweight Tournament Championship after showcasing heart, grit, and high-level skills throughout the year. At PFL Lyon , Chizov defeated Connor Hughes  (12-3) via third round KO (0:50), and leaves France with a brand new title over his shoulder. And the fourth title of the evening was taken by Baris “The Sniper” Adiguzel (10-1) as the Frenchman defeated the experienced Dean Garnett (14-4-1). Showcasing his signature aggression, Adiguzel was able to secure a first round TKO, and finishes the year with the 2025 PFL Europe Bantamweight Tournament Championship in his hands.   Full PFL Lyon Results: Vadim Nemkov defeats Renan Ferreira by 1 st round submission (arm triangle choke, 4:00)  Cris Cyborg defeats Sara Collins by 3 rd round submission (rear-naked choke, 2:55) Patrick “The Belgian Bomber” Habirora defeats Kevin Jousset by 1 st round KO (2:42)  Taylor “Double Impact” Lapilus defeats Liam Gittins by unanimous decision (30-27x2, 29-28) Baris “The Sniper” Adiguzel defeats Dean Garnett by 1 st round TKO (ref stoppage, 0:44) Boris “Modern Gladiator” Atangana defeats Guilherme Soares by 2 nd round submission (rear-naked choke, 2:35) Alex “Pretty Boy” Chizov defeats Connor Hughes by 3 rd round KO (0:50) Gustavo Oliveira defeats Movsar Ibragimov by 2 nd round KO (0:34)  Sabrina de Sousa defeats Paulina Wisniewska by split decision (29-28x2, 28-29) Rayan “Splinter” Balbali defeats Levi Batchelor by split decision (30-27, 29-28, 28-29)

In Yala province, 500 miles south of Bangkok, lies a village that’s renowned for preserving the ancient art of kris making. The kris (also spelled keris  or krit ) is a distinctively shaped dagger that’s both a weapon and a spiritual object with numerous myths and superstitions attached to it. The origins of the kris aren’t clear, but we do know that the modern version of the weapon has existed since the mid-14th century. It likely originated in East Java, where it was derived from an older style of blade, possibly one of Hindu origin. The kris eventually spread from Java to other parts of the Indonesian archipelago and then to the Southeast Asian regions now known as Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines, Thailand and Singapore. Martial Arts Mecca Thailand has fostered the development of an array of arts, but unfortunately it’s only the indigenous ones that attract attention from scholars. For example, the region boasts many forms of silat — which the Thais call sila  — that grew from the martial traditions of Malaysia and Indonesia, but few foreigners have heard of them. One needs to travel all the way to the southernmost tip of Thailand to find the cradle of the kris. Yala and its neighboring provinces have long held a Muslim majority, with close to 70 percent of the population being Malay-speaking Muslims and the remainder Thai and Thai-Chinese Buddhists. In the past decade, this region has lived under a blanket of fear because of an anti-government insurgency that’s claimed the lives of more than 4,000 people of both religions. As of yet, no military official or insurgent leader has tried to prevent the people of Yala from making kris knives even though production is technically illegal. Perhaps it’s because the code of conduct adhered to by the craftsmen keeps the blades from falling into the hands of those who would use them for illicit purposes. The tradition of kris making was nearly lost for a generation when World War II saw Thailand’s military field marshal ban it outright. His goal was to impose Thai culture on the region, and his “solution” involved prohibiting residents from wearing Malay sarongs, speaking the local language and fabricating kris. The citizens of Yala were upset because they regarded the kris as part of their culture. Their love of the blade stemmed from their first exposure to it some 300 years ago when the then-governor invited a renowned Indonesian bladesmith named Toe Panaesarah to craft a special kris for his village.  In those days, it was customary for high-ranked officials to wear an ornate kris at ceremonies and functions — as a symbol of power. They would often offer a kris as a token of friendship when a dignitary would visit and when an ordinary citizen did a good deed for the community. Once that special kris was received by the governor, it grew in reputation and was eventually dubbed the Kris Panaesarah. Its maker went on to teach the locals how to fashion different styles of the weapon. What made his method stand out was his mastery of pattern welding, known as pamor .  Considered the genesis of the blade’s spirit, pattern welding entails combining various metals in layers, then applying heat to bond them and using acid to highlight the boundaries between the layers. The master’s knowledge of pattern welding and blade craftsmanship was so extensive it was recorded in The Panaesarah Book of the Kris . Thai Transformation One hundred years later, the heads of the Thai village organized a competition designed to find the finest kris in the southern provinces. Among the tests the candidates were subjected to was shattering a thick earthenware jar filled with water. Only the knives of Bun Dai Sara’s clan passed the test, earning the family the respect and admiration of the entire region. Sara’s popularity and stature in the community rose as a result, and the governor of the province selected him to craft his personal kris. The master also was tasked with training a new generation of artisans who could not only make the weapons but also wield them in combat. A modern descendant of this lineage is Teeparee Atabu. This former farmer began studying the art of the kris under Tuan Bukut Long Saree and remained with him until he died in 2004. While Atabu maintains a deep respect for tradition and follows the rules of conduct to which his ancestors adhered, he embraces a more open attitude designed to ensure this martial treasure will survive. That’s why he agreed to share with me — and, indirectly, with Black Belt  readers — the details of his art. When Atabu is about to create a kris, he first must pick the appropriate time to begin. This is because the kris and each component that goes into it are imbued with symbolism. The next step is to determine the desired blade shape, either straight or curved. The straight blade is the older design and the more common one, while the curved blade is more iconic. Mythologically speaking, the straight blade symbolizes a serpent in meditation and the wavy blade a serpent in motion, Atabu explained. The other components of the kris are the hilt and sheath. The most important hilt to originate from the Yala region is the tajong . Regarded as one of the most powerful versions, it’s often seen on warrior weapons. The tajong evolved from an early Shiva-influenced design to one that resembles a bird (said to be the kingfisher), betraying its Hindu and Majapahit influences.  The goal of the craftsman, Atabu said, is to ensure that the hilt is beautiful as well as functional — which is why the carved head must fit snugly in the palm of the hand much like the grip of a pistol. In the Bun Dai Sara lineage, the sheath of the kris is large and sturdy. That’s because the fighting system includes techniques for simultaneously using both sheath and blade in battle. The sheath has a long, rounded body and is often covered with silver or gold. It can have a sapay , a “sheath wing” crosspiece with upward-curving ends. On average, it takes a month to craft a kris, Atabu said. Two weeks are devoted to the hilt, one week to the sheath and one week to the blade. Fighting Functionality The term “kris” is believed to come from an old Javanese word that means “to stab” or “to pierce.” That etymology reveals much about the way the kris is used in combat — primarily as a close-range thrusting weapon.  The sinuous nature of the blade enables it to do maximum damage to soft tissue while permitting the user to easily remove it from an enemy’s body. The techniques for doing this are practiced with a live blade because it’s believed this teaches not only proper mechanics but also respect for the weapon. Atabu guides his students through a carefully constructed course of study that lasts two years. They begin with isolated footwork patterns and the ram kris , the dances that hold the key to unlocking the complicated patterns of movement and strategy. This enables them to assimilate not only the techniques of the kris but also the intricacies of the culture. In the past, the ram kris  was performed at important social gatherings. The display of the practitioners’ skill at dance, as well as their ability with the blade, served to entertain and attract new students. In modern times, the ram kris  is viewed mostly as a component of the martial art — although it still can be seen at special community events. That exposure helps ensure that the kris will remain an important part of life in Thailand’s Yala province, providing residents with an invaluable link to their past. The fact that the knife lineage and the art that accompanies it have taken hold in neighboring Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla provinces serves as reassurance to the martial arts world that this treasure won’t be lost any time soon. Photography by Vincent Giordano

We're celebrating the legacy of Joe Lewis , one of the most influential fighters of the full-contact era, with a throwback to his cover appearance on the December 1976 issue of Karate Illustrated. A former U.S. Marine, Lewis rose to prominence as a Professional Karate Association World Heavyweight Champion , helping define what modern full-contact karate would become. Known for his precision, conditioning, and no-nonsense approach to combat, he set a new standard for effectiveness in the ring. Featured on the cover of Karate Illustrated After retiring from competition, Lewis became a highly respected coach and martial arts thinker, influencing fighters like Chuck Norris  and authoring books that shaped generations of practitioners. Joe Lewis passed away in 2012, but his legacy as a champion and innovator in karate lives on. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

ONE Championship (ONE), the world's largest martial arts organization, today announced its first wave of 2026 events with plans to host over 70 live shows in the new year.  The confirmed lineup features two ONE Championship numbered events, the first quarter of ONE Friday Fights shows in Asia primetime, and the complete ONE Fight Night schedule in U.S. primetime.  More events will be announced in the near future. Full fight cards and ticket information for all shows will be released closer to each event date.  Upcoming ONE Championship Numbered Events Apr 3 – ONE 174 Apr 29 – ONE 175 in Tokyo, Japan (Ariake Arena) Note: Location for ONE 174 and start times for both numbered events will be unveiled in the near future.  2026 Schedule for ONE Fight Night on Prime Video Jan 23 at 9 p.m. ET (Jan 24 at 9 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 39 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Feb 13 at 9 p.m. ET (Feb 14 at 9 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 40 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Mar 13 at 9 p.m. ET (Mar 14 at 8 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 41 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Apr 10 at 9 p.m. ET (Apr 11 at 8 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 42 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  May 15 at 9 p.m. ET (May 16 at 8 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 43 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium) Jun 26 – ONE: Denver in Colorado, USA (Ball Arena)*  Jul 10 at 9 p.m. ET (Jul 11 at 8 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 44 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Aug 7 at 9 p.m. ET (Aug 8 at 8 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 45 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Sep 4 at 9 p.m. ET (Sep 5 at 8 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 46 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Oct 2 at 9 p.m. ET (Oct 3 at 8 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 47 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Nov 6 at 9 p.m. ET (Nov 7 at 9 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 48 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Dec 11 at 9 p.m. ET (Dec 12 at 9 a.m. ICT) – ONE Fight Night 49 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  *Start time will be announced closer to the event. 2026 First Quarter Schedule for ONE Friday Fights Jan 16 at 7:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 138 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Jan 23 at 7:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 139 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Jan 30 at 7:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 140 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Feb 6 at 7:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 141 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Feb 13 at 7:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 142 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Feb 20 at 7:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 143 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Feb 27 at 7:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 144 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Mar 6 at 7:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 145 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Mar 13 at 8:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 146 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Mar 20 at 8:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 147 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)  Mar 27 at 8:30 a.m. ET (7:30 p.m. ICT) – ONE Friday Fights 148 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)

What is honey for the fitness enthusiast can be poison for the martial artist. That’s because a well-conditioned, well-built martial artist can be well-prepared for the wrong fight. Not only might you be training to develop the wrong energy, but you also might be developing your muscles in a way that limits the range of motion you need to perform your techniques. In short, you might be making yourself fit for the wrong fight. That can render your moves slow, poorly timed and insufficiently powered for competition or self-defense — even though people who are involved in sports might consider you fit. This article will explain what you need to know to build “tactical fitness” by posing three questions, highlighting some relevant research, and demonstrating two self-defense sequences and exercises that were designed to augment them.  This approach comes from a program I developed to train special-operations personnel and law-enforcement officers, as well as ordinary martial artists who are interested in enhancing their self-defense readiness. Crucial Questions Have you trained the right energy system for the fight you’re expecting? Your metabolic preparation determines whether your training is getting y ou ready for physical exertion that mimics the tempo of a fight. A fight is not a marathon; it’s more like a sprint that may or may not be followed by some jogging and then another sprint — or three. Many videos of street assaults show incidents in which untrained attackers knock out trained martial artists even though the attackers are using poor technique. This is possible because although they’re exerting themselves, the attackers retain enough energy to deliver that “lucky shot” at just the right time. That luck actually comes from having developed good timing and energy conservation through repetitive encounters with victims — for them, it’s like training. – Running out of energy in a fight is one of the dangers you face when you elect not to engage in drills that force impact, leaving your opponent virtually unscathed. Often the reason is the martial artist failed to develop their structural platform through proper exercise. – Being unable to generate power and transfer it to the target while moving — or from a position you momentarily find yourself in between maneuvers — is one of the dangers of focusing only on kata practice. Forms alone won’t foster the development of the awareness and mobility you need for self-defense in a dynamic environment. Have you trained to recover from stress and reacquire your skills during a fight? Your biochemical preparation determines whether you can rapidly regain your wherewithal in order to physically respond in a violent encounter. This can be challenging because of the extreme levels of stress that violence or the threat of violence can bring. How fast you chemically recover determines whether you experience courage or cowardice. To paraphrase Vince Lombardi, excessive stress makes cowards of us all. This is usually what happens when a martial artist who’s experienced only at sparring in the dojo or competing in tournaments gets caught in an ambush and is unable to recover — even when it’s only a training simulation. – Being unable to regroup and counterattack is one of the dangers of practicing only in preplanned conditions. It’s far more beneficial to subject yourself to the unknown — to surprise situations that require you to endure sudden stress, recover quickly and regain your mental composure so you can continue the fight. Proper Drilling You can reduce the chance that you’ll be affected by the aforementioned dangers by running through properly designed self-defense drills on a regular basis, but that will take you only so far. You also should address the issue by engaging in the right kinds of physical conditioning. Exercise science teaches a principle called SAID, which stands for “specific adaptation to imposed demands.” It holds that how well you perform is directly proportional to how well you’ve prepared. (In reality, it’s more accurate to say the worst you’ve prepared is the best you can hope to perform, but that’s a subject for another article.) When creating an exercise routine, it pays to keep in mind the advice of experts. In Specificity of Training: Metabolic and Circulatory Responses , which E. Fox, D. McKenzie and K. Cohen wrote for Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise , the authors claim that performance is specific to the movements you do in training and the tempo and pace with which you do them. Ellen Kreighbaum and Katharine M. Barthels wrote in Biomechanics: A Qualitative Approach for Studying Human Movement  that training specifically for the pattern, joint position, speed and type of contraction produces improvement only for those movements. Specific training yields the greatest improvements. What this means is the transfer of an exercise to a skill — in this case, a martial arts technique — will happen only if the exercise and the skill are very similar. Semyon M. Slobounov noted in Injuries in Athletics: Causes and Consequences  that as the degree of similarity between exercise and the skill decreases, the benefits decrease and eventually even conflict. Put another way, your exercise choices can hurt your performance of a martial arts technique. It’s important that your joint position, speed and type of contraction be trained — without  mimicking the martial arts technique too closely. Mel C. Siff, Ph.D., affirms this in Supertraining  when he writes that if you simulate a skill under resistance, you’ll slow the speed and decrease the power of the skill when you’re calling on it for real. A potentially more damaging fitness practice is the “extreme workout.” Exercise physiologists define this as a routine that leads to a heart rate greater than the maximum you should push your heart to in training. (It’s usually calculated by subtracting your age from 220.) When your heart exceeds its max, two negatives happen: You don’t adapt to the exercise because your body is no longer reacting physiologically; it’s reacting chemically. You lose access to the skills you’ve trained so hard to develop. In case you’re wondering why that’s something to be avoided at all costs — and this will benefit all who engage in cross-training for enhanced martial arts performance — consider the following: At 65 percent  of your heart-rate max, you begin to lose fine-motor skills and hand-eye coordination. At 85 percent , you begin to lose complex-motor skills, which can sabotage the remainder of your martial arts techniques. At 100 percent and higher , you lose gross-motor skills, such as the ability to walk and stand. A host of phenomena are associated with insufficiently prepared people who find themselves in an ambush: tunnel vision, auditory exclusion, short-term memory loss, fumbling, stuttering, shaking, freezing, feinting, spontaneous bowel and bladder elimination, and so on. (These data come from research conducted on law-enforcement personnel who were in life-or-death situations, as described in Sharpening the Warrior’s Edge: The Psychology & Science of Training  by Bruce K. Siddle.) The Solution No matter which martial art you practice, by now you likely agree that you can benefit from enhanced tactical fitness. The next step is creating a program that meshes with your art. Start by analyzing the fighting techniques you use most in the dojo, then find or create drills and exercises that enhance those movements. Make sure your solutions simulate the necessary range of motion and take place in positions that mimic the self-defense scenarios for which you’re training. To get on the right path, refer to the two gun-defense sequences shown here and the exercises designed to enhance the fitness needed to perform the key movements more efficiently. By following this lead, you’ll be able to do the same for your go-to self-defense techniques.

The sickening sound of a bone breaking was the first indication her elbow had snapped. “It was just an armbar,” she said. “I thought I could get out of it.” Didn’t it hurt? “Not really,” she said, flashing a big Hilary Swank smile. “I’m double-jointed, so I don’t have the same pain-receptor feedback as most people. But then it popped, and I said, ‘Oops!’” It was just another day at the office, it would seem. In this case, however, the office was a sweat-soaked gym, and the laborer was the first Air Force female to become certified as a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program instructor. Meet Staff Sgt. Jessica Field. Out of the Box “I had dabbled in martial arts for years,” Field said. “In college, I practiced aikido and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, but I was looking for something practical.” Note Field’s use of the word practical.  Because she was an Air Force intelligence analyst facing imminent deployment on a top-secret mission in the Third World, she had big-time safety concerns. “I wanted to learn a martial art that could get me out of a jam, if needed, and my friends recommended the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program,” she said. Unlike the Marines, which dumped its LINE system in 2002 and replaced it with MCMAP, and the Army, which launched its Modern Army Combatives Program in 2007, the Air Force didn’t have a widely available self-defense program in 2010, when Field was searching for instruction. That forced her to look elsewhere, but she concluded that the other fighting systems to which she had access lacked the practicality she needed. “I explored other options but liked MCMAP the best,” she said. “It has more of a range tailored to outside-the-box situations.” MCMAP specializes in outside-the-box thinking — which is evidenced, in part, by its emphasis on using weapons of opportunity. “It’s driven by the philosophy of ‘one mind, any weapon,’” said Black Belt Hall of Famer Leon D. Wright, a certified MCMAP subject-matter expert and the former head instructor at the MCMAP (Far East) School. That philosophy appealed to Field’s practical side. Gunnery Sgt. Wilson Dunn, a MCMAP black belt, described it in a similarly practical way: “You search your surroundings for anything you can use as a weapon against the enemy. [For example], I could use this computer monitor to bludgeon you.” His statement was blunt, but it revealed an essential component of MCMAP — it teaches students how to apply violence to achieve an objective in a clinical way, “detaching emotions like fear, hesitation — things that get Marines killed,” Dunn added. Field summed it up: “I liked the realism.” And Into the Fire In MCMAP, instructors have Marines sparring from day one, referring to this approach as “indoctrination to violence.” The goal is to enable fighting men and women to come out on top in a one-on-one — or one-on-two — battle for life, Dunn said. Field admitted that MCMAP training pushed her out of her comfort zone again and again. As intimidating as that might sound, she insisted the program is safe and the instructors are encouraging and patient with new practitioners. They welcome students from all military branches who are brave enough to hit the mats, she said. As for her broken elbow — “That’s not uncommon,” Dunn said, “because these are combatives, and there are risks involved” — Field admitted it was her fault for not tapping. Although the injury occurred in January 2015, her limb has healed completely and shows no indications of having been damaged. Examining the arm, all anyone can see now is a honed musculature, a visual testament to Field’s conditioning. “I weighed 175 pounds before I joined the Air Force,” Field said. “That’s why I’m so committed to fitness.” MCMAP was the driving force behind her transformation, and it continues to be a pillar of her healthy lifestyle. In addition to her martial arts training, the plucky NCO lifts weights, does calisthenics and runs with her husband, a former Marine who also trained in MCMAP. But — “We don’t spar,” Field said. “For the sake of our marriage.” Present From the Past MCMAP sprouted from roots that date back to the earliest days of the Corps, when Marines in boarding parties had to rely on hand-to-hand fighting techniques. The ensuing decades saw the system evolve considerably with help from numerous martial arts experts. The modern incarnation of the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program also incorporates techniques designed to injure or incapacitate, not just to kill. That’s a fairly recent response to calls for the U.S. military to use nonlethal force in certain situations. Case in point: Marines often find themselves involved in police actions, crowd and riot control, and other situations that require them to interact with civilian aggressors. Obviously, such assignments demand versatility with respect to technique, as well as practitioners who can make decisions on the fly. The decision-making ability comes from the training, while the techniques come from a variety of martial arts, including those from the East (aikido, karate and so on) and those from the West (boxing). Field is a fan of that diversity. She believes that everyone who studies self-defense should know how to throw a jab, but she said her favorite part of the combative arts is ground fighting. “I like jiu-jitsu,” she said. “I’m small, and it helps me fight bigger, stronger guys.” Bolstered by her training, the staff sergeant seems much taller than her 5 feet 4 inches. “That’s the confidence you get from MCMAP,” she said. “It carries over into every part of your life. You carry yourself differently when you walk into a room.” Rank and File Like most modern fighting systems, the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program uses belts to denote rank. Specifically, it features the Marine-friendly colors tan, gray, green, brown and black, Dunn said. Field holds a green belt with an instructor tab, which she earned during a grueling course held at the Martial Arts Center of Excellence in Quantico, Virginia. For reference, green belt is the level expected of Marine Corps infantry troops. She said she hopes to test for her brown belt by the end of 2015 and has petitioned the Air Force to allow her to wear her rank with her camouflage uniform like the Marines do. One of the goals of Field’s training is to convey to others the notion that combat skills learned from MCMAP can benefit any service member who’s interested in self-development. “I’d like to spread expertise and get other instructors certified — to get it to the Air Force or anyone interested,” she said. Because she earned her instructor tab, she’s certified to teach the art to members of all the armed services, so she’s in a prime position to preach the gospel of MCMAP. Popular Opinion What do Marines think about the first female airman to become certified to teach their art? “It’s impressive,” Dunn said. “It’s good to see airmen appreciate the value of training. I commend anybody who does that. We all take the same oath to preserve and protect the Constitution.” Wright said he admires Field’s accomplishments, which offer tangible proof of the validity of MCMAP. “It works for all who decide to be part of it,” he added. “Going through the training process is the same for everyone — there’s no special treatment. The training has been proven for both men and women in combat, not only physically but also mentally.” Marine 2nd Lt. Aleksandra Sawyer, who owns a MCMAP gray belt, said she thinks Field is awesome. The two recently rolled at Fort Meade, Maryland, where they took turns submitting each other. Field found herself tapping when her elbow clicked painfully during a submission attempt from the Marine, and Sawyer had to fight off several chokes initiated by Field. The Marine fought valiantly against one such choke but finally tapped as her face turned purple. Both Field and Dunn said the pain they experience in the gym — including those occasions when an old injury gets tweaked and the blood supply to the brain gets momentarily halted — is worth it. The reason is simple: That kind of “hard Corps” training ultimately increases the odds that they’ll survive on the battlefield. Photography by Richard D. Lewis

More than half a century after his passing, Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969) —revered worldwide as O-Sensei —continues to shape the lives of millions of martial artists across the globe . As the visionary founder of Aikido , Ueshiba forged a martial discipline unlike any other: one built not on domination, but on harmony, balance, redirection, and spiritual development . At a time when modern society grapples daily with conflict—both physical and psychological—Ueshiba’s teachings have only grown more relevant , not less. His philosophy offers practitioners a way to resolve confrontation without aggression , to cultivate strength without brutality, and to find power through calm presence. A Martial Art Built for a Modern World Aikido does not rely on brute force. Instead, it teaches practitioners to: Blend with an opponent’s energy Redirect aggression without meeting it head-on Maintain balance—physically, mentally, and emotionally Resolve conflict rather than escalate it In an era defined by stress, violence, and division, these principles resonate deeply. Today, Aikido is practiced in: Military and law enforcement training Corporate leadership and stress management programs Youth development and character-building systems Traditional dojos across more than 140 countries What Ueshiba created was not just a fighting method—it was a blueprint for conflict resolution through awareness and control . From the Dojo to Hollywood Aikido’s influence extends far beyond the mat and into popular culture. Among the many high-profile figures inspired by Ueshiba’s art is Steven Seagal , whose early films brought Aikido’s flowing throws, joint locks, and circular movement to global audiences. Through cinema, millions were introduced to the effectiveness—and elegance—of Ueshiba’s system. Legendary fighters from other disciplines, including Mike Stone , have also acknowledged the initial Aikido principles in his early career. Black Belt Magazine 1988 The Black Belt Connection From its earliest days, Black Belt  Magazine has been a global ambassador of martial arts education. Its founder, Mitoshi Uyehara , trained extensively in Japan and was deeply influenced by the postwar Japanese martial arts movement that Ueshiba helped define. Through Black Belt’s pages, films, and instructional materials, Aikido and Ueshiba’s philosophy reached generations of Western practitioners. Through coverage, historical documentation, and technical instruction, Black Belt helped ensure that Ueshiba’s teachings were not confined to Japan—but became a living, evolving global tradition . Why Ueshiba’s Teachings Matter More Today In a world saturated with competition, confrontation, and online conflict, Aikido offers something rare: Strength without cruelty Victory without domination Defense without hatred Ueshiba believed the true purpose of martial arts was not destruction—but the reconciliation of the world . Today, his art is practiced by: Children learning confidence Adults seeking balance and wellness Professionals managing stress and leadership Martial artists searching for deeper meaning beyond competition Each generation that steps onto the mat keeps that vision alive. An Eternal Legacy in Motion Morihei Ueshiba did not just leave behind a martial art—he left behind a living philosophy , carried forward by millions of practitioners in dojos, film, education, and personal transformation worldwide. More than ever, his message speaks clearly across time: True victory is victory over oneself. And that is why, in today’s uncertain world, Morihei Ueshiba is not just remembered—he is needed.

By Richard Bustillo | Photography by Robert Reiff I received my first exposure to the four gates of wing chun kung fu while studying jeet kune do under Bruce Lee and Dan Inosanto in the late 1960s. They taught me that the gates represent a method for defending against circular strikes such as the hook punch. There are four gates because of where such strikes can originate: the high-right quadrant, the high-left quadrant, the low-right quadrant and the low-left quadrant. Wing chun also includes straight punches and defenses against them, but those techniques aren’t part of the four-gates method. After having trained extensively in boxing and devoted much of my life to Lee’s jeet kune do, I opted to add a fifth gate. It applies to defense against a straight rear-hand punch and a straight lead-hand jab. When studied together, these five defensive methods, which I call the five gates of jeet kune do , constitute an essential component of self-defense. Bruce Lee taught us the importance of being simple, direct and practical in our martial arts training and fighting, and that concept also applies to the five gates. Just because they’re defensive in nature, they should not be considered passive. In fact, nothing in the five-gates method should be viewed as passive blocking. A superior defense consists of a block effected with one hand (or foot) executed simultaneously with a strike from the other hand (or foot). In my comments, I’m not trying to teach a comprehensive lesson on the five gates of jeet kune do or to convey a complete picture. Rather, my intention is to show a few examples of what I’ve found to be effective — to indicate what’s possible when you use this fighting method. The combinations I demonstrate should take a fraction of a second to do, with the exact duration depending on the movements themselves. It’s up to you to grasp the full scope of the techniques, to choose what to take and, if appropriate, what to adapt. The one central principle you should always apply is physical efficiency of speed and power .