The word legend  conjures up images of larger-than-life figures who have performed unbelievable feats over the years. In the realm of martial arts, certain names immediately come to mind: Miyamoto Musashi, Mas Oyama, Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris. To that list, I would add two-time Black Belt Hall of Fame inductee Fumio Demura. The legend himself, Fumio Demura Demura's accomplishments are numerous: he holds a 9th-degree black belt in Shito-Ryu Karate, he founded the Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Genbu-Kai International organization, and he was an accomplished tournament fighter in his day. He’s still regarded as a master of Okinawan weaponry, and his career has spanned acting, writing, and teaching. Perhaps most important of all, Demura is a teacher, with tens of thousands of followers around the world. He is the kind of black belt that other black belts look up to, which is why many high-profile martial artists have sought him out for instruction. These include Dolph Lundgren, Billy Blanks, Steven Seagal, and Richard Norton, as well as the aforementioned Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. The martial way is a path that Demura began walking as a youth. Now, at age 78, he continues down that path, still preaching and teaching to help others do the same. Land of the Rising Sun Fumio Demura was born on September 15, 1938, in Yokohama, Japan. With the world at war and an economic depression sweeping across his nation, hardship was a frequent visitor at the Demura household. At times, he says, his family found it impossible to afford basic necessities like shoes. With typical stoicism, he simply says he went through "many sad things." Around that time, Demura recalls having a neighbor named Asano, who was a Kendo teacher. The martial art fascinated the young boy, and he longed to take lessons. Sadly, his family lacked the funds to buy the necessary equipment. In the spirit of improvisation, the young Demura carved a tree branch into a makeshift shinai so he could practice. It was a lesson he would remember. Later, Demura was introduced to a famous Shito-Ryu Karate practitioner named Ryusho Sakagami. It was under Sakagami, the third Master of the Itosu-Kai organization, that Demura's martial arts career began to truly blossom. Sakagami took the promising youth under his wing, unknowingly launching Demura on what would become the adventure of a lifetime. Journey to America By the early 1960s, Demura was gaining fame as a karate practitioner. He had reached the rank of first-degree black belt in 1956, and by 1961, he had won his first major tournament, the Old Japan Karate Championship. In addition, he had begun studying kobudo, or traditional Okinawan weaponry, under Taira Shinken. Then, the Americans entered the picture. Don F. Draeger, a martial arts practitioner and world-traveling scholar, became acquainted with Demura through the Japanese martial arts grapevine. Soon after, Draeger introduced Demura to Dan Ivan, who operated a handful of karate schools in Southern California. After getting a chance to see Demura in action, Ivan knew he had to find a way to get him to the United States. The process happened in fits and starts. Demura arrived in the States in 1963, but it wasn’t a permanent relocation. His first engagement was for a one-year teaching spot, after which his visa ran out, and he was forced to return to Japan. Almost immediately, Demura longed to go back. "This was a mistake," he said to himself on arriving back in his home country. "I should have stayed in the United States." Japan was too small, too confined for the karateka. In America, he felt he had more room to move and space to grow the martial arts. Demura found his way back to the United States in 1965 and settled in California, where he opened a dojo. He quickly built a reputation for riveting demonstrations that showcased consummate skill, speed, accuracy, and technique. These performances garnered him the attention of newcomers, which was badly needed. This attention was crucial given the national mood. For most Americans, World War II was still fresh in their memory. As he was still adjusting to what was, to him, a foreign culture—his command of English was a work in progress—Demura was viewed with suspicion by many Americans. He often encountered prejudice in the community he was trying so hard to become a part of. Despite these setbacks, his successes far outnumbered the challenges, and he persevered. Chuck Norris and Fumio Demura Call of Hollywood With his growing reputation as a martial arts master, Fumio Demura eventually found his way to Hollywood, courtesy of his friend, a professional wrestler who competed under the name “The Great John L.” Demura landed an audition for 1977’s The Island of Dr. Moreau . Before starting work, he signed an agreement without taking the time to digest the details. It turned out to be a release regarding fights that would involve lions, tigers, and bears. The experience proved to be an interesting one, to say the least. Throughout the seventies, Demura worked with a number of martial artists turned actors, including Bruce Lee, whom he personally trained in the use of nunchaku, and Chuck Norris, who came to him wanting to learn traditional karate to supplement his kicking-based Tang Soo Do skills. “He’s a super good martial artist,” Demura says of Norris. “Not just a fighter — a martial artist. I respect Chuck, and he respects me.” But it was Demura’s association with Pat Morita, as well as stunt coordinator and fight choreographer Pat Johnson, that led to his involvement in what would become one of the most iconic martial arts films of all time. Demura was initially eyed for the role of Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid . As you probably know, Miyagi is the wise old master who takes the awkward Daniel-san under his wing and teaches him martial arts. But there was a problem. “I look through the script, and I see ‘Miyagi, Miyagi, Miyagi,’” Demura says. Realizing he didn’t have the language skills to carry such an important role, he bowed out, and the part went to Morita, who went on to receive an Oscar nomination (Best Supporting Actor) for his efforts. But Demura stayed on as Morita’s stunt double and assisted with the fight choreography. Miyagi’s Mission For Fumio Demura, America really has been the land of opportunity. By all accounts, his life here has been a success. He runs an established dojo and karate organization with students around the world. He’s rubbed shoulders with nearly everyone who’s anyone in the martial arts, and he’s found success in Hollywood. But as has been the case since he was a child, life still throws down the gauntlet and presents him with challenges that need to be overcome. Such was the case in 2011 when he suffered a stroke that put him in the hospital and took away his ability to move his right arm and right leg. Or when he experienced kidney failure in 2015, which required him to undergo daily dialysis. But he met both challenges head-on, as a warrior. Demura has regained much of his lost movement, and his kidney functionality is greatly improved. Despite these health setbacks, Demura devotes considerable time to the martial arts — as he’s always done. Unfortunately, that’s left him with some concerns about the state of karate. “There are not many traditional groups left,” he says. With karate now pushed to become an Olympic sport — which, on August 3, 2016, achieved success — he fears that the art is losing its -do , the focus on being a way of life rather than just a way of fighting. He says karate is about more than being a “mean, strong guy”; it’s about being a better person and a better citizen. Demura also takes issue with the way karate is often viewed as merely an activity for children. Referencing movies and TV shows like Power Rangers  and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles , he says, “The image today is that karate is only for kids. It’s shown as a kids’ game, but it’s not. It’s an adult’s game.” But perhaps more than anything else these days, Demura is focused on the challenge of preserving his legacy. “I don’t want to lose my art,” he says, which is why he’s pouring his energy into propagating the style. Having become, in essence, a Shito-Ryu missionary, he wants to make sure it doesn’t pass away when he does. For that reason, when Demura was approached by his student Kevin Derek about making a documentary a few years ago, he was thrilled. The result was The Real Miyagi , released in 2015. Demura says that he was honored to be part of the production and hopes that, if nothing else, viewers will walk away having learned one crucial life lesson: “If something happens, don’t give up,” he says. “Look at me — I set the example.” He hopes the many ups and downs of his life in the martial arts will provide inspiration for everyone who watches The Real Miyagi  long after he’s gone.

Kelly McCann, author of Combatives for Street Survival , offers invaluable insight into an essential component of self-defense. Here are a few of his top tips! BUILD AND CRASH THE GAP. Continuously build gaps — space or distance — between you and your attacker to increase the power of your elbows and knees. To build the gap, get control of him and then shove him away. If you can’t push him away, push yourself away. Then violently jerk him back into your strikes. If you can’t, yank yourself back into him, leading with a knee or elbow strike. If you don’t create gaps, your strikes end up just pushing against your attacker rather than impacting on him. THINK CAR CRASH. The worst type of car accident is a head-on collision. That’s because the aggregate speed is determined by adding the speed of both vehicles. You may be wondering, “Yeah, but wouldn’t we both get hurt equally?” No, because you’re colliding your knee or elbow with his unprotected face, ribs, groin or thoracic cavity. USE FULL BODYWEIGHT. Striking is partly the application of physics. In the simplest terms, more mass moving at a higher velocity over a longer distance creates a greater impact. To take advantage of this formula, maximize each variable in it. ENGAGE MORE MASS. Always strike with your whole body and not just a limb. Exploding off your rear foot in the direction of your strike is called "vaulting". It’s far more powerful than standing in place and striking with only your arm. It doesn’t matter what hits your attacker – a knee, an elbow, a fist or an open hand — as long as it conforms to the principle of choosing the correct personal weapon. Violence of action and putting your bodyweight behind each strike are critical to generating power. CREATE MORE VELOCITY. Vaulting amplifies the speed with which your body crashes into an attacker. Seeing you literally explode off your back foot and then experiencing you plowing into him can inspire fear in an attacker. Don’t step forward, pulling your weight behind you. Instead, explode off your rear foot to propel yourself into the strike. Attack with your whole body. STAY LOOSE. Consciously avoid tightening up. Breathe. Be a little sloppy. Fighting isn’t demonstrating a form for points. When you stiffen up your hand, speed is detrimentally affected, and so are your reactions. Visualizing all this helps lower your anxiety level. DEVELOP YOUR FOOTWORK AND TIMING. Ensure your bodyweight drops into your strike as it makes contact, which should occur when your lead foot lands. With some practice, this will become second nature. LOAD AND UNLOAD VIOLENTLY. In addition to the aforementioned formula, know that involving your hips and shoulders when you strike improves the result of your action. Maximize the kinetic-energy transfer into what you strike using rotational torque. Generate torque by twisting and then untwisting your hips and shoulders. VISUALIZE EVERY STRIKE PASSING THROUGH THE ATTACKER. No matter what technique you throw, visualize it exiting the other side of your attacker like a bullet. If you don’t, you’ll unnecessarily limit the depth of the strike, resulting in a surface impact rather than penetration. STRIKE REPETITIVELY. Called “cycling,” this refers to quickly executing the same technique two or three times. If you stagger your attacker with a right hammerfist, immediately chamber your left hand (your “off hand”) and smash it into his face. Retract your off hand and smash his face with another hammerfist, and so on. Cycling works well with hammerfists, slashing elbows and knees. VISUALIZE. Imagine your striking hand and your off hand as pistons attached to a crankshaft (your shoulders). As one piston reaches top dead center, the other reaches its lowest point. As the first starts to descend, the other ascends with equal force. No matter what, while one hand cycles, your off hand should be doing something. BE FEROCIOUS AND INTENSE. Cycling strikes is all about ferocity and intensity. If you’re moving as fast and efficiently —as you should be when throwing slashing elbows— stay married to your attacker’s chest, keeping him within range even as he falls away. You’ll have plenty of time to land one or two more strikes before he hits the deck.

The UFC is no stranger to showcasing elite talent, but every year a fresh wave of fighters makes their way to the Octagon, hoping to leave their mark. In 2024, these standout athletes not only impressed fans but cemented their names as future stars. Whether through highlight-reel knockouts, dominant decisions, or unexpected upsets, these fighters proved they belong on the biggest stage. Here’s a closer look at 10 UFC newcomers who proved their worth in 2024. 1. Carlos Prates - The Knockout Machine Carlos Prates came into the UFC already seasoned, but what he achieved in 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. Making his debut in February, Prates delivered a Performance of the Night  knockout against Trevin Giles. He didn’t stop there, racking up two more first-round finishes against Charles Radtke and Li Jingliang , showcasing devastating striking power. His year culminated in a brutal KO win over Neil Magny , earning him another bonus and a spot in the welterweight Top 15. With four finishes and four bonuses in one year, Prates is the undisputed Newcomer of the Year . 2. Kayla Harrison - The Olympic Champion Arrives Two-time Olympic gold medalist and PFL standout Kayla Harrison entered the UFC with monumental expectations, and she lived up to every bit of the hype. Harrison made her debut at the historic UFC 300  in April, where she dominated former champion Holly Holm  with a second-round finish. She continued her rise by defeating Ketlen Vieira  in October, positioning herself as a major title contender in the bantamweight division. With her elite grappling and relentless pace, Harrison is already on track for a title shot in 2025. 3. Jean Silva - The Power-Packed Finisher Jean Silva wasted no time making his presence known in the featherweight division. The Dana White’s Contender Series  alum kicked off the year with a first-round TKO of Westin Wilson . His biggest moment came at UFC 303, where he handed Charles Jourdain  the first knockout loss of his career. Silva ended the year with a Fight of the Night  victory over Drew Dober, showcasing his talent, power, and undeniable charisma. Silva is a name to watch in 2025. 4. Mauricio Ruffy - The Rising Brazilian Prospect Mauricio Ruffy, part of the famed Fighting Nerds squad , shocked the MMA world when he stopped Jamie Mullarkey  in less than a round during his UFC debut in May. While his November fight against James Llontop went to the scorecards, Ruffy demonstrated impressive composure and versatility. With his powerful striking and ever-improving ground game, Ruffy has all the tools to climb the lightweight ranks next year. 5. Felipe Lima - The Bantamweight Surprise Felipe Lima made headlines when he stepped in on short notice to fight Muhammad Naimov  in June. Despite moving up a weight class, Lima delivered a third-round submission, earning immediate praise from fans and analysts. In his second outing at featherweight, Lima dominated Miles Johns  to secure a unanimous decision win. Known for his slick submissions and aggressive style, Lima’s stock has soared, making him a rising force in the bantamweight division. 6. Zhang Mingyang - First-Round Finisher China’s Zhang Mingyang entered the UFC with an unbeaten streak of first-round finishes , and he continued the trend in 2024. Mingyang needed less than two minutes to dispatch Brendson Ribeiro  in his February debut. In November, he faced Ozzy Diaz  and delivered yet another first-round KO, lifting his professional record to 18 wins—all first-round finishes. Zhang’s devastating power and precision make him a true threat in the light heavyweight division. 7. Oban Elliott - The Welsh Warrior Welsh welterweight Oban Elliott has emerged as one of the most promising prospects in the division. Known for his gritty determination, Elliott earned a hard-fought decision win over Preston Parsons  before delivering a stunning knockout against Bassil Hafez . Elliott’s well-rounded skills and natural charisma have made him an instant fan favorite, and his momentum heading into 2025 is undeniable. 8. Vinicius Oliveira - The Bantamweight Powerhouse Vinicius Oliveira, a Dana White’s Contender Series graduate, lived up to his reputation as a dangerous striker. In March, Oliveira earned a double bonus for his jaw-dropping knockout of Benardo Sopaj . He followed that performance with a win over UFC veteran Ricky Simon  in June. Oliveira’s dynamic striking and relentless pace have already put him on the cusp of the bantamweight Top 15. 9. Lone’er Kavanagh - The Flyweight Phenom British flyweight Lone’er Kavanagh  turned heads with his spectacular first-round knockout of An Tuan Ho  on Dana White’s Contender Series. In his UFC debut, Kavanagh showcased his durability and well-rounded game by outpointing Jose Ochoa  over three rounds. Perfect at 8-0, Kavanagh’s blend of speed and power makes him a must-watch in the ever-competitive flyweight division. 10. Michael “Venom” Page - MVP Makes His Mark Already a star outside the UFC, Michael “Venom” Page  finally made his highly-anticipated debut in 2024. Known for his flashy and unorthodox striking, MVP defeated Kevin Holland  in his debut, showcasing why he’s one of the most exciting fighters at 170 pounds. Though he dropped a close decision to rising contender Ian Machado Garry , MVP proved that his skill set can hang with the best in the UFC’s stacked welterweight division.

Attack is imminent, you're ready with a stick strategy – and then life gets in the way! As a practitioner of arnis—or any other stick-based martial art—you devote a ton of time to training, especially to fine-tuning your offense. It's totally understandable because, after all, who doesn't want to be the first to land a clean, precise stick strike in a self-defense encounter that could turn deadly at any moment? But what happens when your opponent does something that takes you by surprise? What if he shoots in for a takedown before you have a chance to strike? What if he grabs your stick before you can even start swinging it? Or worse, what if you drop your weapon? What happens when the attacker deploys his own weapon and brings it into the conflict before you can start using yours? Worst of all, what happens when any of these scenarios play out in a real-world altercation, where rules and restraint are not part of the picture? Outside the Box In Filipino martial arts, we often practice box drills with sticks. A box drill is a series of repeated, choreographed strikes, locks, and counters. While box drills are good for developing technique—and should be practiced regularly to build muscle memory—they can degenerate into never-ending cycles of moves that are repeated ad nauseam, because there’s no definitive finish. As such, they don’t represent the optimal way to prepare for a real fight. As you know, real fights are chaotic and messy, which means they need to be ended quickly. They often involve eye gouges, "dirty boxing," knives, and other unexpected elements. If you’re a striker, you might feel comfortable on your feet with your opponent at a distance. But what happens when he unexpectedly rushes towards you with a punch aimed at your face? If you're a grappler, you might feel comfortable being taken to the ground, but what happens when your attacker pulls out a pocket knife and starts slashing? Only by training differently—outside the box—can you fine-tune your physical and mental skills for all the alternatives. The drills you engage in should contain ballistic “what-ifs” that teach you how to deal with the unexpected. Only by doing that can you learn how to respond with purpose, which is very different from simply reacting without a plan. Plan of Action Presented here are four real-world scenarios in which something unexpected occurs. That “X factor” crops up in a way that prevents you from executing the technique you had planned. Although the scenarios feature a stick as the defender’s weapon, these same techniques could apply to other implements—such as a police-style baton, a gun, a pocket knife, or even a flashlight or an umbrella. And by using the same concepts (with slight modification to the technique), the lessons can be adapted to empty-hand combat. In fact, to maximize your versatility, it's crucial to practice with a variety of weapons. If your primary concern is self-defense but your time is limited, focus on using items you normally carry. A shiny katana might look impressive in a demo, but you're unlikely to have one at your disposal when you're walking down the street. Scenario 1: Attacker Attempts a Takedown The Scenario : A potential assailant confronts you. He’s sufficiently threatening to make you deploy a weapon—in this case, a stick. Before you have a chance to raise it to strike, the man dives in for a takedown. The Solution : Immediately counter with a popping downward strike, a move that looks like a block but isn’t. Because you're holding the ends of the stick, use the shaft to hit the attacker’s outstretched arms. It’s a non-traditional technique in the eyes of FMA stylists, but it can cause enough discomfort to take him down. Follow up with the same strike delivered to the base of the attacker's skull. That will surely put him down. Once he’s on the ground, you know you've avoided the grappling encounter, and that means you have a moment to analyze the situation while maintaining a safe distance. If the assailant is not yet out of commission, you can initiate a finishing blow. The Side Note : Takedowns can be fast. Your choice of targets—whether the aggressor’s arms or skull—depends on his relative positioning at the moment of truth. The technique will be effective in either case. If necessary, the popping strike can be used as you sprawl on top of an opponent who’s being pushed down, in which case the strike benefits from the downward force of your body weight. Scenario 2: Attacker Grabs Your Weapon The Scenario : Watching a video of public unrest around the world, there's a good chance you'll see a situation in which a police baton is grabbed by an aggressive suspect before the officer can use it. The bad guy then unleashes a series of punches designed to incapacitate the cop. Such a strategy can also be used against you in self-defense situations. The Solution : Once the opponent grabs your stick and starts throwing punches, use the stick as a defensive barrier rather than immediately struggling to regain control. Grab the other end of the weapon with your empty hand and use it as a shield against his punches. If he’s persistent and throws a kick, you can block it, too, using the shaft of the stick. If the aggressor is still holding the stick after you repeatedly maneuver it to block his blows, you need to execute a release. One example involves twisting the weapon, pushing it down, and pulling it away to break free of his grasp. With the stick under your control, use the punyo (butt end) to strike his temple. If necessary, subdue him with a choke. The Side Note : In the Philippines, it's common for police to hold a baton in front of their bodies. This tactic is designed to create distance but can also encourage people to grab the weapon. Grabbing a cop’s baton is considered an attack, meaning the officer can legally employ a variety of techniques to control, strike, or take down the suspect. In contrast, police in the United States and some other countries are taught to keep the baton—and other weapons—behind them while using their empty hand to create distance. Scenario 3: Attacker Makes You Lose Your Weapon The Scenario : You’re facing an opponent who happens to be fast—fast enough to dart in and take you to the ground. That’s enough to make you drop your weapon in the process. The Solution : Your immediate priority is self-preservation. That likely means using your arms to shield your face and perhaps your forearms to protect your forehead—you don’t want any punches to land while you’re in this position. Your next priority is to visually locate your dropped weapon (assuming it fell nearby). If it’s within arm’s reach, you’ll need to deflect one of his blows and trap a limb or two to create space to retrieve the stick. As shown in the photo sequence, use the arm that trapped the punch to grab the man’s neck and pull him close. Then execute a close-range punyo strike to his temple. Maintaining your hold on his head, plant your right foot and lift your hip while driving another punyo strike into his temple. The stick strikes should weaken him sufficiently for you to flip him. This will leave you in an offensive position, from which you can gouge his eyes or continue to pound his temple. The Side Note : It’s essential to be aware of where you roll your attacker. You don’t want to move them close to the weapon you dropped, because then he could use it against you. Although the scenario depicted here involves a stick, it would be even more devastating if it was a knife or a gun, and the opponent managed to get control of it. Scenario 4: Attacker Deploys a Weapon First The Scenario : The severity of the threat causes you to deploy a stick for self-defense. Unfortunately, your opponent manages to get the jump on you with his bludgeon. The Solution : As soon as the opponent swings, create distance by sliding backward. With your body out of range, you can deal with the club that was just swung in front of you. Close the gap by stepping forward with your stick held in both hands, making it a superior blocking tool for his next attack. Use your left forearm to make contact with the attacker’s hand to reduce the momentum of his swing—which is essential if he’s using a heavy implement like a baseball bat. Your left hand is close to his face, so it makes sense to initiate a quick eye gouge and then regrasp your stick. Because he’s still close, you can drive a punyo strike into his face. As before, the temple makes an ideal target. The Side Note : The blocking technique used in this scenario is suportado . It involves supporting the stick with your free hand. The extra support means the block is sturdy enough to absorb a lot of force. If you possess sufficient speed and timing, you might be able to step in and get close enough to meet the attacking hand instead of blocking the stick. The theory is that the closer you get to the source of the power, the safer it is to intercept the attack, because the angular velocity of the point of contact is reduced. Translation: the closer you are, the less force it takes to stop the swing, and it doesn’t damage your hand. That kind of win-win situation is what stick fighting is all about. Photography by Peter Lueders Julius Melegrito operates Martial Arts International in Bellevue, Nebraska. He is the creator of Stix 4 Kids, Philippine Combatives, and Sandata System. A seventh-degree black belt in Filipino martial arts and a fourth-degree black belt in Tang Soo Do/Taekwondo, he serves as the stick and knife director for the International Combat Hapkido Federation. Melegrito is the founder of the Philippine Martial Arts Alliance, with affiliated schools in Australia, Russia, and the USA.

One of the most electrifying names in heavyweight kickboxing is making his long-awaited return! Jamal Ben Saddik (36-9, 29 KOs), known to fans as “The Goliath” , is stepping back into the GLORY ring in February 2025 after a two-year hiatus. This is the moment fans around the world have been waiting for! At 34, Ben Saddik is no stranger to the spotlight. A former GLORY heavyweight title contender and the 2018 GLORY Heavyweight Tournament Champion, he’s built a legacy defined by jaw-dropping power and unforgettable battles. His legendary rivalry with Rico Verhoeven stands as the most iconic feud in GLORY history, delivering drama and fireworks every time they clash. Want the scoop on his return?  Fans can sign up now for presale access  to be the first to know the date, location, and opponent for Ben Saddik’s comeback fight. Don’t miss your chance to witness history in the making! Ben Saddik’s resume reads like a “who’s who” of kickboxing greats. With career-defining victories over names like Guto Inocente, Junior Tafa, Errol Zimmerman, Remy Bonjasky, and even Rico Verhoeven, his global dominance has spanned iconic venues from Japan to the United States, France, and the Netherlands. But this isn’t just a comeback—it’s a clash with a redefined GLORY heavyweight division. In his absence, rising stars like Levi Rigters, Tariq Osaro, Bahram Rajabzadeh, Antonio Plazibat, Sofian Laidouni, Ionut Iancu, and Uku Jurjendal have brought fresh energy to the most explosive division in combat sports. Can “The Goliath” reclaim his throne, or will the new generation prove too much? Don’t wait—secure your place in history.  Sign up now for presale access and stay glued to GLORY’s social media for major announcements coming soon. And while you’re waiting for Ben Saddik’s return, don’t miss GLORY’s final blockbuster event of 2024! GLORY 97 , live from Japan this Saturday, December 21, will feature a must-see GLORY x RISE crossover Grand Prix, showcasing eight of the best featherweights on the planet. Fans in the Netherlands can watch live on Videoland, while global viewers can find broadcast details at GLORYKickboxing.com . The heavyweight division is heating up, and Jamal Ben Saddik is ready to turn up the fire. Will you be watching?

BRAVE Combat Federation is preparing to host BRAVE CF 92, marking a spectacular return to its origins with the BRAVE International Combat Week (BICW) 2024 at the Khalifa Sports City Arena on December 15th. In addition to the thrilling main event featuring Mohammad Fakhreddine (85.6 kg) against Abdel Rahmane Driai (86.0 kg), an exciting India vs Pakistan clash is also scheduled on the fight card. Watch the LIVE Stream of BRAVE CF 92 on the Black Belt Mag website, exclusively for our users on Sunday, Dec 15 at 7:30 AM Pacific, 10:30 AM Eastern. From Punches Traded to Friendly Selfies, BRAVE CF 92 Face-Offs Become Night of Extremes A night of extremes unfolded on Saturday in Bahrain as all the fighters came face-to-face one last time before their much-anticipated showdowns at BRAVE CF 92 on Sunday. Intensity peaked during the staredowns, with Mohamed Yosif Abdulrahman and Abdallah Mohamed even getting physical ahead of their Super Lightweight clash. Bahraini superstar Abdulrahman threw a cross at the chest of his Egyptian opponent, escalating tensions. The incident has raised the stakes for their showdown on Sunday night. While the intensity ran high between Abdulrahman and Abdallah, the face-off between Izzeddine Al Derbani and Omar Solomanov showcased a lighter side of the sport. Izzeddine lightened the mood by requesting a selfie with his Ukrainian opponent, providing a stark contrast to the earlier altercation. Derbani and Solomanov are set to lock horns in a high-stakes Featherweight bout at BRAVE CF 92. Here are the weigh-in results:   BRAVE CF 92 Weigh in Results Catchweight 86KG: Mohammad Fakhreddine (85.6 kg) vs. Abdel Rahmane Driai (86.0 kg) Lightweight: Rizwan Ali (70.8 kg) vs. Srikant Sekhar (70.6 kg) Bantamweight: Babar Ali (61.6 kg) vs. Mohammad Farhad (61.5 kg) Featherweight: Izzeddine Al Derbani (66.0 kg) vs. Omar Solomanov (66.1 kg) Catchweight 77.0KG: Abbas Khan (76.7 kg) vs. Seth Rosario (77.0 kg) Super Welterweight: Rami Hamed (79.5 kg) vs. Salamat Orozakunov (79.6 kg) Super Lightweight: Mohamed Yosif Abdulrahman (75.1 kg) vs. Abdallah Mohamed (74.4 kg) Bantamweight: Ismail Khan (61.3 kg) vs. Yadwinder Singh (61.2 kg) Flyweight: Aqib Awan (57.2 kg) vs. Ehtesham Ansari (57.2 kg) Strawweight: Jhen Buzon (51.0 kg) vs. Suchika Tariyal (52.6 kg)

BRAVE Combat Federation closed out 2024 with a bang as BRAVE CF 92  delivered one electrifying moment after another, proving to be a spectacular finale for the world’s most global MMA organization. With jaw-dropping finishes, intense rivalries, and a star-studded lineup, this event had it all! Here are the full results of BRAVE CF 92. Fakhreddine’s Triumphant Comeback Ends in Dominant Fashion In the main event, Mohammad Fakhreddine  reminded everyone why he’s a legend in BRAVE CF. Facing Abdel Rahmane Driai  in a drama-filled contest, Fakhreddine survived a controversial first round that featured multiple near-finishes and an illegal strike from Driai. But the second round belonged to Fakhreddine, who stormed out with unrelenting aggression, finishing the fight with devastating ground-and-pound. Fresh off his victory, the former two-division champ sent shockwaves through the MMA world, calling for a dream matchup against Erko Jun  in his post-fight speech. Could we see this epic showdown in 2025? India vs. Pakistan Rivalry: Pakistan Dominates The India vs. Pakistan rivalry added another chapter, with Pakistani fighters stealing the show and sweeping all five matchups. Rizwan Ali , in the co-main event, secured a first-round stoppage over India’s Srikant Sekhar . After a competitive grappling exchange, Ali unleashed a barrage of strikes that forced the referee to step in, keeping his undefeated record intact. Sekhar later announced his retirement, capping off a remarkable decade-long career. Rising star Babar Ali  delivered the biggest win of his career, neutralizing India’s Mohammed Farhad  with his superior grappling. A unanimous decision win showcased his dominance and solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with. In a back-and-forth war, Abbas Khan  edged Seth Rosario  in a split-decision thriller. Abbas’ control and effective striking gave him the edge, marking his second straight BRAVE CF victory. Ismail Khan  overwhelmed Yadwinder Singh  with relentless grappling, earning a dominant unanimous decision win. Despite enduring a one-sided bout, Yadwinder displayed incredible resilience. Aqib Awan  bounced back from a prior defeat with a third-round TKO over Ehtesham Ansari , snapping his opponent’s six-fight win streak with ground-and-pound mastery. International Stars Shine Bright Omar Solomanov  executed a flawless first-round submission against Izzeddine Al Derbani  with a rear-naked choke. His clinical performance reaffirmed his status as a Featherweight contender. Rami Hamed  made a thunderous return, overcoming adversity to stop Salamat Orozakunov  with brutal ground-and-pound. Hamed’s sixth consecutive win has officially put the Super Welterweight division on notice. Abdallah Mohamed  dominated Mohamed Yosif Abdulrahman  with relentless takedowns and control, cruising to a unanimous decision victory. Suchika Tariyal’s Stunning Comeback Indian Judo champion Suchika Tariyal  made her long-awaited return to MMA after a seven-year hiatus, and she didn’t disappoint! In the opening bout, she showcased her world-class grappling, submitting Jhen Buzon  via armbar in the second round. The victory not only keeps her undefeated at 2-0 but also cements her as a rising star to watch in the women’s divisions. A Year to Remember for BRAVE CF BRAVE CF 92 marked the end of a historic year for the organization, which expanded into uncharted territories like Mauritius, the Netherlands, and China while shattering records and forming strategic global partnerships. With a roster teeming with world-class talent and unforgettable events, BRAVE CF has set the stage for an even bigger 2025. This final chapter of 2024 not only celebrated the triumphs of MMA’s brightest stars but also teased an explosive future for BRAVE Combat Federation. Don’t blink, because the best is yet to come!

The July 1979 issue of Black Belt Magazine  spotlighted Ed Parker , the "Father of American Kenpo," demonstrating his dynamic and innovative fighting method. Known for its speed and practicality, Parker’s kenpo revolutionized martial arts, blending traditional techniques with modern self-defense strategies. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

The PFL Europe Championship Lyon concluded at the LDLC Arena, marking a landmark night for European MMA. It showcased top talents and emerging fighters from France, alongside the elite and newly crowned 2024 PFL European Champions.  The Lyon audience electrified the LDLC Arena with an enthusiastic welcome for its inaugural major MMA main event, as France's own Abdoul "Lazy King" Abdouraguimov (19-1) delighted the locals with a unanimous decision win over Argentina's Laureano "Pepi" Staropoli (13-7), demonstrating his signature grappling prowess.  The eagerly awaited co-main event featured the Belgian star maintaining his undefeated streak as Patrick "The Belgian Bomber" Habirora (5-0) knocked out Swiss PFL newcomer Catalin Safta (5-3) with a spectacular single punch, leaving his opponent unconscious on the mat as he leaped from the SmartCage to celebrate with the crowd.  The 2024 PFL Europe Bantamweight title was claimed by Lewis "The McGrizzla" McGrillen (11-1), who concluded his year triumphantly by winning the PFL Europe Bantamweight Championship, defeating Alexander "Schlingel" Luster (9-2) in the second round via TKO, once again proving his left hand to be one of MMA's most formidable weapons.  The 2024 PFL Europe Men's Lightweight Season wrapped up in Lyon, with Jakub "The Auditor" Kaszuba (14-0) becoming the first athlete to achieve consecutive victories in PFL European history by defeating Connor Hughes (10-2). The Pole overcame early challenges from the Liverpudlian's power, but his experience and determination enabled him to capitalize on top position, exemplifying why elbows were legalized in PFL, finishing the fight in the fourth round via TKO.  The 2024 PFL Europe Men's Welterweight season concluded as Florim Zendeli (10-1-1) delivered a remarkable performance by submitting Daniele "The Cyborg" Miceli (13-6, 0, 1 NC) in the first round to become the champion, once again demonstrating his formidable prowess, having won nine of his ten victories by finish.  The evening's ceremonial crownings began with the Women's Flyweights, as Paulina Wiśniewska (5-0) extended her unbeaten record and captured the 2024 PFL Europe Women's Flyweight Championship by defeating Valentina Scatizzi (3-4) in a stunning fashion, dropping the Italian in the first round with powerful ground strikes that prompted the referee to stop the fight.  Finally, Cédric "The Best" Doumbé awarded three PFL contracts to Salvo Giudice (12-9), Mahio Campanella (7-1) , and Mathys Duragrin (4-0) after their stellar performances at the PFL Europe Championship Lyon, proving to be the most promising prospects emerging from French MMA.  PFL Europe Championship Lyon - RESULTS Welterweight Showcase Bout : Abdoul Abdouraguimov  (19-1) def.  Laureano Staropoli  (13-7) by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 30-27)   165lb Catchweight Showcase Bout:  Patrick Habirora  (5-0) def.  Catalin Safta  (5-3) by 3rd round KO (2:16)   Heavyweight Showcase Bout:  Mickaël Groguhe  (6-2) def.  Lamine Sene  (5-8)   by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)   PFL Europe Bantamweight Championship Bout:  Lewis McGrillen  (11-1) def.  Alexander Luster (9-2)  by 2nd round TKO (3:52)   PFL Europe Lightweight Championship Bout:  Jakub Kaszuba  (14-0) def.  Connor Hughes  (10-2) by 4th round TKO (4:07)   Featherweight Doumbé Decides Bout:  Mathys Duragrin (4-0) def.  Yassin Chtatou  (2-5-1) by unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 20-25)   Bantamweight Doumbé Decides Bout: Mahio Campanella  (7-1) def.  Ezzoubair Bouarsa  (7-4) by 1st round submission (Arm Triangle Choke, 4:45)   177lb Catchweight Doumbé Decides Bout:  Salvo Giudice (12-9)  def.  Atilla Kobas (2-2)  by unanimous decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-25)    PFL Europe Welterweight Championship Bout:   Florim Zendeli  (10-1-1) def.  Daniele Miceli  (13-6,0, 1 NC) by 1st round submission (Rear-Naked Choke, 4:24)   PFL Europe Women’s Flyweight Championship Bout:  Paulina Wiśniewska  (5-0) def.  Valentina Scatizzi  (3-4) by 1st round TKO (0:20)   Weltweight Showcase Bout:  Eoin Sheridan  (2-0) def.  Brice Belghazi  (1-1) by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)   Lightweight Showcase Bout: Claudio Pacella  (5-2) def.  Oscar Ownsworth  (8-4-1) by unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

The UFC returns to action with a year ending blockbuster event on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. With 13 electrifying MMA bouts scheduled, UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley promises unforgettable action, featuring some of the biggest names in the sport. Broadcast live on ESPN+, this event will showcase thrilling matchups across multiple weight classes, culminating in a highly anticipated Welterweight main event between the brash Colby Covington and the explosive Joaquin Buckley. Here’s a detailed breakdown of every fight on the card: Main Card Main Event: Welterweight Bout - Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley The headline fight pits former interim champion Colby Covington against knockout artist Joaquin Buckley. Covington’s relentless wrestling and cardio are legendary, while Buckley’s explosive striking and highlight-reel finishes make him a dangerous opponent. This clash of styles is sure to deliver fireworks as Covington looks to cement his dominance, and Buckley aims to shock the world. Co-Main Event: Featherweight Bout - Cub Swanson vs. Billy Quarantillo Fan favorite Cub Swanson  faces rising star Billy Quarantillo  in a high-stakes Featherweight bout. Swanson’s experience and technical striking will be tested against Quarantillo’s pressure and high-volume attacks. Expect a battle of wills between the seasoned veteran and the hungry contender. Flyweight Bout - Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva Two dynamic Flyweights, Manel Kape  and Bruno Silva,  clash in what promises to be a fast-paced and action-packed fight. Kape’s unpredictable striking will meet Silva’s well-rounded skills, making this a must-watch matchup. Light Heavyweight Bout - Dustin Jacoby vs. Vitor Petrino Dustin Jacoby,  known for his kickboxing pedigree, takes on heavy-hitting prospect Vitor Petrino.  This Light Heavyweight showdown is expected to be a striking masterclass, with both fighters aiming to make a statement. Bantamweight Bout - Daniel Marcos vs. Adrian Yanez Rising contender Daniel Marcos  faces the sharp boxing skills of Adrian Yanez.  Both fighters bring aggressive styles to the Octagon, promising a thrilling exchange in the Bantamweight division. Light Heavyweight Bout - Navajo Stirling vs. Tuco Tokkos Navajo Stirling  squares off against Tuco Tokkos  in a clash of rising Light Heavyweight talents. This bout is a sleeper fight of the night contender, with both fighters showcasing knockout power and grappling acumen. Preliminary Card Lightweight Bout - Michael Johnson vs. Ottman Azaitar Veteran Michael Johnson  returns to face the hard-hitting Ottman Azaitar.  Johnson’s experience and Azaitar’s power create an intriguing stylistic matchup that could end in dramatic fashion. Lightweight Bout - Drakkar Klose vs. Joel Alvarez Drakkar Klose  takes on submission specialist Joel Alvarez  in a Lightweight bout. Klose’s physicality will be tested against Alvarez’s lanky frame and dangerous ground game. Featherweight Bout - Sean Woodson vs. Fernando Padilla Sean Woodson’s  unique striking style meets the grappling-heavy attack of Fernando Padilla  in a Featherweight bout. Both fighters are looking to climb the rankings, making this a critical matchup. Bantamweight Bout - Miles Johns vs. Felipe Lima Miles Johns  faces newcomer Felipe Lima  in a Bantamweight clash. Johns’ knockout power and Lima’s all-around game will make this a fascinating fight. Flyweight Bout - Miranda Maverick vs. Jamey-Lyn Horth In the Women’s Flyweight division, Miranda Maverick  takes on the tough Jamey-Lyn Horth.  Maverick’s grappling prowess will be tested against Horth’s striking and durability. Bantamweight Bout - Davey Grant vs. Ramon Taveras Action fighter Davey Grant  meets rising star Ramon Taveras  in a Bantamweight battle. Expect fireworks as Grant’s aggressive style clashes with Taveras’ calculated approach. Strawweight Bout - Piera Rodriguez vs. Josefine Knutsson The preliminary card opens with a Strawweight bout between Piera Rodriguez  and Josefine Knutsson.  Both fighters bring exciting styles, with Rodriguez known for her striking and Knutsson for her grappling. UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley is packed with thrilling matchups, from rising stars to seasoned veterans. The mix of styles and divisions ensures a night of unforgettable action for fight fans. With Covington and Buckley leading the charge, this event is poised to deliver jaw-dropping moments and high-octane excitement. Catch all the action live on ESPN+  from the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida,  on Saturday, December 14, 2024.  Don’t miss your chance to witness MMA history in the making! Stay tuned for more updates, fighter interviews, and in-depth analysis leading up to the event.

Date:  Saturday, December 14, 2024 Venue:  Amalie Arena Location:  Tampa, Florida, United States Broadcast:  ESPN+ Live Gate Revenue:  $3,060,000 Attendance:  18,625 Total MMA Bouts:  13 The MMA world witnessed an electrifying night at UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley, as Tampa’s Amalie Arena hosted 13 unforgettable bouts. The event showcased brutal knockouts, technical masterpieces, and an impressive attendance of 18,625. Here's UFC Tampa results with detailed breakdown of every fight from this high-stakes night. Main Event: Joaquin Buckley vs. Colby Covington – Welterweight Showdown Winner: Buckley defeats Covington via KO/TKO (Doctor Stoppage, Cut Above Eye) at 4:42 of Round 3. Joaquin Buckley delivered a career-defining performance against former interim welterweight champion Colby Covington. Buckley’s precise striking opened a devastating cut above Covington’s eye, leading to a doctor’s stoppage in the third round. Buckley’s victory cements him as a serious contender in the division. Co-Main Event: Cub Swanson vs. Billy Quarantillo – Featherweight Bout Winner: Swanson defeats Quarantillo via KO/TKO (Right Cross) at 1:36 of Round 3. Veteran Cub Swanson proved age is just a number with a stunning third-round finish over Billy Quarantillo. A perfectly timed right cross floored Quarantillo, showcasing Swanson’s elite striking and fight IQ. Main Card Results Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva – Flyweight Bout Winner: Kape defeats Silva via KO/TKO (Strikes) at 1:57 of Round 3. In a fast-paced flyweight contest, Manel Kape overwhelmed Bruno Silva with a flurry of strikes, earning a late third-round TKO victory. Kape’s relentless pace and precision were too much for Silva to handle. Dustin Jacoby vs. Vitor Petrino – Light Heavyweight Bout Winner: Jacoby defeats Petrino via KO/TKO (Right Cross) at 3:44 of Round 3. Dustin Jacoby showcased his kickboxing pedigree, landing a picture-perfect right cross to finish Vitor Petrino in the third round. Jacoby’s striking clinic reaffirmed his status as a top-tier light heavyweight. Victor Marcos vs. Adrian Yanez – Bantamweight Bout Winner: Marcos defeats Yanez via Split Decision. Victor Marcos edged out Adrian Yanez in a closely contested bout. The split decision victory highlighted Marcos’ technical grappling and counter-striking, narrowly outpointing Yanez. Jamall Stirling vs. George Tokkos – Light Heavyweight Bout Winner: Stirling defeats Tokkos via Unanimous Decision. Jamall Stirling’s dominant wrestling and ground control secured a unanimous decision win over George Tokkos. Stirling’s relentless pressure kept Tokkos on the defensive throughout. Preliminary Card Results Michael Johnson vs. Ottman Azaitar – Lightweight Bout Winner: Johnson defeats Azaitar via KO/TKO (Right Hook) at 2:03 of Round 2. Michael Johnson turned back the clock with a stunning right hook knockout against Ottman Azaitar in the second round. Johnson’s speed and power were on full display. Rafael Alvarez vs. Drakkar Klose – Lightweight Bout Winner: Alvarez defeats Klose via KO/TKO (Flying Knee to Ground Strikes) at 2:48 of Round 1. Rafael Alvarez delivered a highlight-reel finish with a flying knee followed by ground strikes to stop Drakkar Klose in the opening round. This emphatic win is sure to be a top contender for Knockout of the Night. Sean Woodson vs. Daniel Padilla – Featherweight Bout Winner: Woodson defeats Padilla via KO/TKO (Hooks) at 4:58 of Round 1. Sean Woodson’s precise hooks secured a late first-round TKO victory over Daniel Padilla. Woodson’s striking acumen shone bright in this dominant performance. Douglas Lima vs. Miles Johns – Featherweight Bout Winner: Lima defeats Johns via Unanimous Decision. Douglas Lima used his experience and effective striking to earn a unanimous decision victory over Miles Johns. Lima’s calculated approach kept him ahead on the scorecards. Miranda Maverick vs. Jasmine Horth – Strawweight Bout Winner: Maverick defeats Horth via Unanimous Decision. Miranda Maverick’s superior grappling and control earned her a clear unanimous decision victory over Jasmine Horth. Maverick’s consistency continues to impress in the strawweight division. Davey Grant vs. Carlos Taveras – Bantamweight Bout Winner: Grant defeats Taveras via Unanimous Decision. Davey Grant showcased his veteran savvy, outworking Carlos Taveras for a unanimous decision win. Grant’s striking and cage control were pivotal in this bout. Amanda Rodriguez vs. Josefine Knutsson – Strawweight Bout Winner: Rodriguez defeats Knutsson via Unanimous Decision. Amanda Rodriguez’s well-rounded performance earned her a unanimous decision win over Josefine Knutsson. Rodriguez’s striking and movement proved too much for her opponent. Event Highlights and Records Attendance:  18,625 fans filled the Amalie Arena, creating an electric atmosphere. Live Gate:  $3,060,000 in ticket revenue showcased the event’s massive popularity. Main Event Spotlight:  Joaquin Buckley’s victory positions him as a future welterweight title contender

Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Elvis, Steve McQueen, and thousands of other martial artist around the world can credit much of their growth in martial arts to one man with an eye for innovation, Ed Parker. Hailed as the "Father of American Kenpo," Parker was a groundbreaking martial artist whose influence extended far beyond the dojo. A visionary teacher, tournament pioneer, and innovator, he brought martial arts into the mainstream, shaping the way it is practiced and perceived today. From training celebrities like Elvis Presley and Peter Sellers, to founding the legendary Long Beach International Karate Championships which launched icons like Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris, Parker was at the forefront of martial arts’ rise to global prominence and we are all better because of him. As we near the anniversary of his passing, we celebrate the man and the legend. Through his creation and refinement of American Kenpo—a system rooted in adaptability, practicality, and philosophy—he laid the foundation for a lasting legacy. Ed Parker's name is synonymous with innovation, bridging traditional martial arts with modern self-defense and popular culture. Teacher to Celebrities: Bridging Martial Arts and Hollywood Ed Parker’s journey began in Hawaii, where he was introduced to Kenpo Karate. After moving to the mainland, he established his first dojo in Pasadena, California, in 1956. There, Parker quickly gained a reputation not just for his skill, but for his charisma and ability to adapt Kenpo for modern self-defense. Early years of the Ed Parker dojo Training Elvis Perhaps Parker’s most famous student was Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Elvis, a lifelong martial arts enthusiast, became Parker’s student in the 1960s. The two shared a deep mutual respect, and Elvis even received a black belt under Parker’s tutelage. Beyond the dojo, Parker’s influence helped Elvis incorporate martial arts-inspired moves into his stage performances, showcasing martial arts to millions of fans worldwide. Elvis Presley and Ed Parker The Birth of Martial Arts in Film Parker’s involvement with celebrities and film personalities helped martial arts find a natural place in action cinema. By the late 1960s, martial arts scenes were becoming a staple in Hollywood, and Parker’s early work contributed to this trend. Ed Parker's early appearance on The Lucy Show in 1963 Peter Sellers, the celebrated comedic actor, trained under Parker. Sellers, known for roles like Inspector Clouseau in The Pink Panther, learned martial arts for physical comedy and discipline. Through his celebrity students, Parker subtly introduced martial arts into the cultural lexicon of Hollywood, paving the way for the genre’s explosion on the silver screen. Ed Parker in Revenge of the Pink Panther (1978) Pioneer of Modern Tournaments: The Long Beach Internationals In 1964, Parker organized the inaugural Long Beach International Karate Championships, a tournament that would forever change the martial arts world. Unlike traditional competitions, Parker’s event emphasized inclusivity, innovation, and spectacle. Chuck Norris and Mike Stone also made their names at Parker’s tournaments. The exposure these events provided helped martial artists transition into acting and stunt work, blending martial arts with popular culture. Before we knew him as an international superstar, Chuck Norris was an international champion. Circa late 1960s. The Internationals became the launchpad for some of the most iconic figures in martial arts history. Bruce Lee’s electrifying demonstration of his “one-inch punch” at the 1964 Internationals is now the stuff of legend. It was here that Lee caught the attention of Hollywood producers, ultimately leading to his groundbreaking roles in The Green Hornet and later, his iconic films. The punch heard around the world—Bruce Lee showcasing the one inch punch. Circa 1964. Mike Stone: Black Belt Hall of Fame and Champion of the First Long Beach Internationals (held in 1964) " Mr. Ed Parker had a profound and lasting impact on me and my career and the martial arts. Mr. Parker was highly intelligent and had a keen sense of who he was. His dedication and vision of the martial art were far-reaching. He was one of the leading forces and top pioneers of that era. Mr. Parker invited me to teach at his Kempo Headquarters in Pasadena, Calif. I lived at his home for 6 months and was honored to be a part of his Ohana (family). He allowed me to teach tournament fighting strategy and techniques in his noon and one-o'clock classes. One of the students was a young brown belt named Danny Inosanto. I saw Danny's incredible potential and passion for learning and sharing knowledge. It is difficult to express in words and context the volume and true impact of Mr. Parker's contributions to the martial arts. We all miss his leadership, energy, and charisma." Mike Stone, winner of the first 1964 Long Beach Internationals, parlayed his championship fame to earn the respect of fellow martial artist Bruce Lee, as seen here on the set of The Wrecking Crew in 1968 with Ed Parker, Joe Lewis, and Dean Martin. Jeff Smith: PKA World Champion "I first met GM Ed Parker when | was competing at his Long Beach International Karate Championships. I was a blue belt and got to see Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Joe Lewis, Allen Steen and Mike Stone. I got to meet GM Parker many times later when I became a black belt while competing at all the National Tournaments where he was always one of the Judges. I always held him in such high esteem and respect as one of the Greatest Pioneer Legends of Karate in the World." Jeff Smith. Circa 1974 Revolutionizing the Tournament Scene Parker’s tournaments were more than competitions; they were showcases of martial arts as a performance art. His events incorporated music, choreography, and mixed styles, making them exciting for both participants and spectators. The Internationals launched the careers of many martial artists, propelling them to global superstardom from a single performance, including Benny Urquidez, Chong Lee, Jim Kelly, and Steve Sanders Muhammad. Benny Urquidez and John Natividad’s epic battle at the Long Beach Internationals, with Tadashi Yamashita serving as referee. Circa mid-1970s . KC Jones: President BKF "Ed Parker was responsible for the training of two of the Kenpo instructors. Dr. Ron Chapél and Steve Sanders (now 'Muhammad') by supporting them in shaping their skills and philosophies of the martial arts. Mr. Parker provided the training necessary to empower the BKF warriors to be successful and dominant on the tournament circuit." Steve Muhammad facing Joe Lewis in the Long Beach Internationals. Circa early 1970s. Legacy as a Pioneer of Martial Arts: The Art of Kenpo Ed Parker’s greatest legacy lies in American Kenpo, a system he modernized and tailored for practical self-defense. Unlike traditional martial arts, which often emphasized rigid forms, Parker’s Kenpo was fluid, adaptable, and grounded in real-world application. 1975 Issue of Black Belt Magazine, his first of many covers for the publication. Parker's art form was celebrated beyond the Kenpo community as he was respected and adored by champions of multiple styles. Kenpo’s Unique Philosophy Kenpo, under Parker’s leadership, combined traditional Eastern techniques with Western concepts like boxing and street fighting. Parker emphasized principles such as economy of motion, speed, and accuracy. His teachings were codified in books like Infinite Insights into Kenpo , a multi-volume series that remains a seminal text in martial arts literature. From the April 1991 memorial issue of Black Belt Magazine A Global Martial Arts Movement Today, American Kenpo schools can be found worldwide, a testament to Parker’s influence. His students, many of whom became masters in their own right, continue to teach and spread his philosophy. Ed Parker surrounded by beloved super students including Larry Tatum (pictured to his left), Jeff Speakman (sitting) John Sepulveda (back row). A Legacy that Endures Ed Parker’s influence on martial arts cannot be overstated. From training Hollywood’s elite to revolutionizing tournaments and creating a martial arts system that endures to this day, Parker’s legacy is one of innovation and passion. His work bridged the gap between martial arts and popular culture, ensuring that his contributions will continue to inspire future generations. John Sepulveda: Black Belt Hall of Fame 2024 "I had many conversations with Mr. Parker on the making and development of the self defense techniques. He wanted it understood that they were just thoughts to help us understand movement in a logical sequential nature. He perpetuated having us make them our own. From this I coined the phrase 'I will teach you a way and never say it’s the way. The way is what works in the street'." John Sepulveda, pictured here with Jack Autry, earned his way into the Black Belt Hall of Fame as one of only a handful of Ed Parker Black Belt who carry on the tradition to the next generation