We're counting down the 12 Days with our Must See Holiday Guide for Action and Martial Arts Movies. This curated list took into account the elements of winter, Christmas and serious fighting that will satisfy even the most discerning Black Belt reader. So sit back, relax and enjoy this holiday gift that keeps giving from Black Belt Magazine Force of One The Iceman Cometh Police Story 4 House of Flying Daggers Silent Night Violent Night The Bourne Identity Peppermint Batman Returns Die Hard 2 Rocky 4 On Her Majesty's Secret Service A Force of One  (1979) Starring: Chuck Norris Best Fight Scene: Ending battle against Bill Wallace A Force of One  combines holiday atmosphere with raw action, making it a standout with Chuck Norris in his prime, set against a backdrop of Christmas in Southern California. The film follows Matt Logan (Norris), a karate champion recruited by law enforcement to stop a mysterious killer targeting undercover narcotics officers. As the holiday season unfolds, the tension builds between festive moments and the high-stakes investigation, culminating in a battle of discipline and skill. The film’s climactic showdown is a Christmas treat for action fans, as Logan faces off against Bill “Superfoot” Wallace in a pulse-pounding final duel. Wallace, playing the assassin, matches Norris with impressive martial arts, creating a dynamic fight filled with powerful strikes and swift kicks. Their brutal, high-energy confrontation highlights Norris's karate prowess, capping the film with a memorable display of martial arts mastery. The Iceman Cometh  (1989) Starring: Yuen Biao and Maggie Cheung Best Fight Scene: Final fight featuring Yuen Biao vs. Wah Yuen In classic 80s Hong Kong tradition, when Golden Harvest ruled the land, this thrilling blend of martial arts, time-travel adventure, and wintery spectacle, stars the legendary Yuen Biao . Known for his acrobatic prowess and flawless martial arts choreography, Biao shines as a Ming Dynasty warrior frozen in an icy prison for centuries. Thawed out in modern-day Hong Kong, he must adapt to a world of skyscrapers, neon lights, and holiday cheer—all while pursuing his treacherous rival, who has also been resurrected to wreak havoc. Set against the backdrop of the festive season, the film blends intense action with moments of comedic culture clash as Biao’s character navigates the glimmering, wintry cityscape, juxtaposing his ancient values with the modern world’s chaos and charm. One unforgettable sequence sees Biao battling his foe in a snow-covered plaza adorned with Christmas lights, turning the festive backdrop into a stage for a jaw-dropping duel of blades and fists. Already renowned for his roles in classics like Project A  and Dragons Forever , Biao delivers one of his most memorable performances, combining martial arts mastery with heartfelt heroism. The Iceman Cometh  is an exhilarating holiday-themed martial arts spectacle that offers action, humor, and a frosty twist to the genre. Jackie Chan’s First Strike (1996) Starring: Jackie Chan Best Fight Scene: Jackie vs. Bodyguard (scaffolding scene) Jackie Chan's First Strike, also known as Police Story IV: First Strike, is a thrilling action-comedy that stands out as one of Jackie Chan ’s most visually unique films, set largely in icy, snow-covered landscapes. The movie follows Chan as a Hong Kong police officer caught in a globe-trotting espionage mission that leads him from sunlit cities to the frozen wilderness. The film's winter backdrop plays a key role, with several scenes utilizing the cold, snowy environment to enhance its inventive action sequences. The holiday season adds a subtle festive layer, contrasting the high-stakes chases and fights with the serene, frosty beauty of its settings. Among the standout winter-themed action sequences is a breathtaking chase across snow-covered mountains, where Chan hilariously fends off enemies on skis, blending slapstick humor with his signature martial arts skills. The icy setting also sets the stage for an exhilarating underwater fight beneath the frozen surface of a lake, showcasing Chan’s creativity in adapting his stunts to the harsh, cold environment. Combining holiday charm, spectacular wintry visuals, and Chan’s one-of-a-kind choreography, First Strike delivers an adrenaline-fueled adventure that embraces its frosty atmosphere to create a unique entry in Jackie Chan’s legendary career. House of Flying Daggers (2004) Starring: Andy Lau Best Fight Scene: Final showdown between Andy Lau and Takeshi Kaneshiro House of Flying Daggers climaxes in a visually stunning and emotionally charged battle set against a wintry wonderland, where icy winds heighten the tension and underscore the characters' emotional stakes. The mix of martial arts, winter elements, and emotional depth makes this snowy battle one of the most memorable in martial arts cinema history. The snowy setting plays a critical role in elevating the drama, mirroring the characters' inner turmoil as the cold, unforgiving landscape becomes the stage for their final reckoning. Zhang Yimou ’s mastery of visual storytelling shines through, with the swirling snow adding an ethereal quality to the fight. Every step and clash of blades feels heightened, culminating in a shocking twist that leaves a lasting impression. Silent Night (2023) Starring: Joel Kinnaman Best Fight Scene: Bar room knock down drag out fight Directed by action maestro John Woo , Silent Night reinvents the holiday action genre with a vengeance, blending a Christmas backdrop with heart-pounding thrills and martial arts intensity. Joel Kinnaman stars as a grieving father on a silent but deadly quest for justice after tragedy strikes his family. The snowy, festive streets provide a sharp contrast to the film’s relentless action, turning Christmas cheer into a gritty battleground. Woo’s signature style is on full display, with dynamic choreography and breathtaking stunts amplifying the tension. The martial arts elements take center stage during visceral, high-impact fight sequences, where Kinnaman’s character channels raw emotion into every strike and movement. The snow-covered settings and twinkling holiday lights heighten the visual spectacle, transforming ordinary objects into improvised weapons in Woo’s trademark style. Silent Night captures the spirit of vengeance and redemption, blending emotional depth with jaw-dropping action to create a uniquely thrilling Christmas tale. Violent Night (2022) Starring: David Harbour Best Fight Scene: Santa Vs. the Kill Squad Violent Night takes the holiday season to new extremes by blending Christmas cheer with brutal action in a thrilling, darkly comedic setting. Santa Claus, played by Stranger Things star David Harbour , finds himself in the midst of a violent hostage situation when a group of mercenaries take over a wealthy family’s estate. Harbour trained in jiu-jitsu and Greco-Roman wrestling to prepare for the role. What follows is a wild, action-packed rescue mission where Santa fights back with surprising martial arts precision, using his combat skills to dismantle the criminals in brutal, yet creative ways. The fight scenes are a blend of raw physicality and holiday humor, turning Santa into an unexpected action hero. Throughout the film, Santa’s combat moves combine elements of traditional martial arts with his own unique, improvised style. One standout scene features him taking down armed thugs with a mix of quick strikes, grappling, and using Christmas-themed weapons like tree ornaments and even a candy cane. The holiday atmosphere, filled with decorations and festive lights, heightens the absurdity of the intense fight scenes, making the film a one-of-a-kind holiday action thriller that offers a fresh twist on both the Christmas movie and martial arts genres. The Bourne Identity (2002) Starring: Matt Damon Best Fight Scene: Pen vs. Knife The Bourne Identity weaves a tense, gripping narrative of espionage and self-discovery, with Matt Damon starring as Jason Bourne, a man with amnesia and a deadly skill set. The film’s chilly European setting, with snow-covered streets and festive lights evokes a subtle winter holiday atmosphere. Bourne’s journey to uncover his identity takes him through a cold, foreboding landscape, where the contrast between the season’s peaceful backdrop and his violent, high-stakes mission amplifies the tension. Martial arts play a pivotal role in defining Bourne’s character and the film’s pulse-pounding action. Utilizing techniques such as Krav Maga and Filipino Kali, designed and influenced by Black Belt Hall of Famer Jeff Imada . Damon’s Bourne is a master of brutal, efficient combat. A standout scene involves an intense apartment fight where Bourne improvises weapons, including a pen, showcasing both his martial arts prowess and resourcefulness. These close-quarters fights, set against the frosty European winter, heighten the visceral nature of the story, creating a thriller that blends action, intrigue, and a touch of seasonal atmosphere. Peppermint (2018) Starring: Jennifer Garner Best Fight Scene: Car Fight and Party Store Peppermint showcases Jennifer Garner ’s transformation into a fierce action hero as Riley North, a grieving mother who seeks vengeance after her family is brutally murdered. While not directly a Christmas film, the movie features a wintery urban backdrop that evokes the holiday season, with Riley’s crusade for justice unfolding in cold, desolate streets decorated with festive lights. The juxtaposition of Christmas cheer against the dark, brutal story of revenge gives the film a unique atmosphere, highlighting Riley’s fight to reclaim hope amidst the bleakness. Jennifer Garner’s background in Elektra brings a sharp edge to her performance, with martial arts playing a significant role in Riley’s transformation into a lethal force. Using a mix of Krav Maga, kickboxing, and street fighting techniques, Garner’s action scenes are both raw and precise, emphasizing her physicality and emotional intensity. A memorable fight takes place in a holiday-lit plaza, where Riley dismantles a gang using swift, calculated moves. Peppermint combines martial arts action with a grim yet hopeful story, underscored by its wintry, subtly Christmas-themed setting. Batman Returns (1992) Starring: Danny DeVito, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Michael Keaton Best Fight Scene: Catwoman Vs. Batman Batman Returns is a dark, visually striking Christmas-themed entry in Tim Burton’s Batman franchise, set against a snowy Gotham City during the holiday season. The film centers on the rise of the Penguin ( Danny DeVito ) and Catwoman ( Michelle Pfeiffer ) as they challenge Batman ( Michael Keaton ). A key moment in the film is the martial arts-infused fight between Batman and Catwoman. Their showdown takes place amidst the Christmas revelry, making it a striking contrast of festive cheer and fierce combat. Using agility and precision, both characters engage in a physical and emotional battle, with Catwoman’s acrobatic martial arts style contrasting Batman’s disciplined fighting techniques. Real life martial arts champion and Black Belt Hall of Famer Kathy Long helped support the authenticity of the fight scene doubling for Pfeiffer. Die Hard 2 (1990) Starring: Bruce Willis Best Fight Scene: Ending on the airplane wing vs. William Sadler Die Hard 2 is a thrilling action film set during Christmas at a snow-covered airport, where John McClane ( Bruce Willis ) must stop terrorists from taking control of the airport's systems. The holiday setting amplifies the tension, with snowstorms creating a dangerous backdrop for McClane’s desperate battle to save the hostages, including his wife. The festive atmosphere contrasts sharply with the high-stakes action, adding a unique edge to the film’s relentless pace. In the film’s electrifying climax, McClane faces off against Colonel Stuart, played by William Sadler , in a martial arts-infused showdown on the wing of a moving airplane. The fight is a brutal, intense battle, with both men using their combat skills to outmaneuver each other amid the freezing winds. The icy setting and high-altitude danger heighten the stakes, making it one of the most memorable and physically demanding action scenes in the Die Hard franchise. Rocky IV (1985) Starring: Sylvester Stallone and Dolph Lundgren Best Fight Scene: Ending championship fight between Rocky and Drago The film, set against the backdrop of the Cold War, explores themes of national pride, personal redemption, and sacrifice. The most iconic Christmas connection occurs when Rocky prepares for his ultimate showdown with Drago, training in the snowy wilderness of Russia. The climax of the film, where Sylvester Stallone’s iconic Rocky faces off against Drago, played by 2024 Black Belt Magazine  cover star Dolph Lundgren, transcends personal glory to become a powerful symbol of unity and hope, set against the backdrop of Christmas Day. As the fight unfolds, the themes of determination, sacrifice, and overcoming adversity ring true, making the Christmas setting both poignant and integral to the emotional payoff of the film. The contrast between the festive, family-focused holiday and the intense, high-stakes world of boxing adds an emotional layer to the film. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969) Starring: George Lazenby and Diana Rig Best Fight Scene: Hotel scene The Christmas-themed setting and George Lazenby’s lone turn as 007 sees Bond infiltrating an alpine fortress in the Swiss Alps, where the nefarious Blofeld (Telly Savalas) is hatching a plot involving biological warfare. Against the backdrop of snowy peaks and festive cheer, Bond finds love with Tracy di Vicenzo (Diana Rigg) in a rare exploration of the spy’s emotional depth. The Christmas ambiance enhances the charm and poignancy of this distinctive Bond outing. Elements of the film, particularly in its costume design, can later be seen in the more modern film Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery . Lazenby’s performance as Bond emphasizes physicality, with the film featuring some of the series’ best hand-to-hand combat sequences, showcasing his martial arts skills, including karate, boxing, judo and Jujutsu. The action reaches thrilling heights during a daring bobsled chase and intense ski battles down treacherous slopes. Lazenby’s agility and precision bring a raw, visceral energy to the role, standing apart from the suave approach of his predecessor.

Joaquin Buckley has become a name synonymous with explosive knockouts and unrelenting determination. Ahead of his headline fight at UFC Tampa this Saturday, Buckley’s journey from humble beginnings to the top of the UFC ranks is nothing short of inspiring. His rise reflects resilience, growth, and a fighter’s unyielding spirit, capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. The Early Days: Buckley’s Humble Beginnings Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Buckley’s life was shaped by challenges. Growing up in a tough neighborhood, he learned early on the importance of discipline and hard work. Buckley found solace in sports, particularly wrestling, which became his gateway into mixed martial arts. Determined to carve out a better future, he entered the MMA scene with grit and a goal to succeed at the highest level. Starting his professional career in 2014, Buckley displayed promise with a string of wins in regional promotions. His hunger for success and ability to learn from setbacks fueled his early success, setting the foundation for his eventual UFC breakthrough. The Viral Moment That Changed Everything Joaquin Buckley’s entry into the UFC in 2020 was marked by moments of brilliance, but it was one unforgettable highlight that cemented his name in MMA history. At UFC Fight Night: Moraes vs. Sandhagen, Buckley delivered a spinning back kick knockout against Impa Kasanganay. The move went viral instantly, being hailed as one of the greatest knockouts in UFC history. This spectacular finish not only earned him "Performance of the Night" honors but also introduced Buckley to a global audience. It was a defining moment, not just for his career but for the sport itself, as fans replayed the knockout across social media platforms, making Buckley a household name overnight. Climbing the UFC Ranks: A Testament to Hard Work Following his viral knockout, Buckley’s career trajectory saw both challenges and triumphs. Losses to seasoned competitors like Alessio Di Chirico were valuable learning experiences that propelled him to refine his skill set. With a work ethic rooted in humility and persistence, Buckley returned to the Octagon stronger, showcasing improved striking, footwork, and fight IQ. Buckley’s ability to adapt and evolve has been a hallmark of his success. Victories over fighters like Abdul Razak Alhassan and Andre Fialho proved his capability to hang with elite talent. Each fight brought new challenges, but Buckley consistently rose to the occasion, gradually earning his place as one of the most dangerous fighters in his division. A Fighter Driven by Ambition What sets Joaquin Buckley apart is his unrelenting drive to succeed. Known for his intense training sessions and innovative techniques, Buckley pushes himself to the limit to achieve greatness. He has openly spoken about his aspirations to become a UFC champion and his belief in his ability to defeat anyone in his path. Off the mat, Buckley remains grounded, using his platform to inspire others. His story resonates with fans because it’s a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance and self-belief. Buckley’s journey is not just about MMA; it’s about overcoming adversity and striving for excellence in all aspects of life. What to Expect from Buckley in Tampa As he heads into the biggest fight of his career this Saturday, Joaquin Buckley is more prepared than ever. Known for his explosive striking and unpredictability, Buckley brings an arsenal of weapons to the Octagon. His ability to adapt to different opponents and deliver highlight-reel finishes makes him a formidable force. Fans can expect Buckley to put on a show, showcasing the evolution of his game against a seasoned opponent. With the spotlight on him, Buckley aims to prove that his rise to the main event is no accident and that he belongs among the elite in the UFC. The Legacy in the Making Joaquin Buckley’s journey is far from over, but his story so far is one of resilience, hard work, and spectacular achievements. As he steps into the Octagon at UFC Tampa, the world will be watching to see if Buckley can continue his meteoric rise. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: Joaquin Buckley is a star in the making, and his best days are yet to come. This Saturday, the stage is set for Buckley to add another chapter to his incredible story. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to MMA, Joaquin Buckley’s rise is a tale worth following—because stars like him come around once in a lifetime.

This Saturday, the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, will host UFC Fight Night, with a thrilling co-main event featuring two seasoned warriors: Cub Swanson vs Billy Quarantillo. Fans are eagerly anticipating this featherweight clash that promises to deliver high-octane action, a showcase of skill, and a potential Fight of the Night contender. Cub Swanson: A Battle-Tested Veteran Cub Swanson, a fan favorite and MMA veteran, boasts a storied career spanning over 17 years. With a professional record of 29-13, Swanson has faced some of the toughest names in the featherweight division. Known for his dynamic striking, slick submissions, and a never-back-down attitude, Swanson has delivered numerous iconic moments in the Octagon. After transitioning to bantamweight in his last bout, Swanson returns to featherweight with renewed focus. While his career has seen ups and downs, the 40-year-old fighter remains a dangerous opponent. Swanson’s ability to adapt, his fight IQ, and his unpredictable striking arsenal make him a constant threat to anyone in the division. Billy Quarantillo: The Relentless Contender Billy “Billy Q” Quarantillo, a product of Dana White’s Contender Series, has steadily climbed the ranks with a record of 17-5. Known for his high-paced fighting style, cardio, and relentless pressure, Quarantillo has built a reputation as a fan-friendly fighter who never fails to bring excitement. Coming off a hard-fought loss earlier this year, Quarantillo is hungry to get back in the win column. At 35 years old, he is in the prime of his career and has the tools to challenge anyone in the featherweight division. This bout against Swanson presents a pivotal opportunity for Quarantillo to solidify his place as a top contender. The Build-Up This fight has all the makings of a classic. Swanson’s experience and technical brilliance meet Quarantillo’s youthful energy and tenacity. While there is no bad blood between the two, the mutual respect they’ve expressed for each other adds to the intrigue. Both fighters understand the stakes, as a win here could propel them closer to a top-10 ranking in the featherweight division. Swanson has emphasized his desire to prove he still belongs among the elite, while Quarantillo sees this as a golden chance to defeat a respected veteran and elevate his own standing. The stylistic matchup—Swanson’s creativity against Quarantillo’s relentless forward pressure—has fans and analysts buzzing. What To Expect Fans can expect a back-and-forth battle filled with drama and action. Swanson’s striking creativity will be tested against Quarantillo’s relentless pace and volume. Swanson’s fight IQ and ability to counter will likely play a significant role in how he handles Quarantillo’s aggressive approach. For Quarantillo, the key will be to pressure Swanson early, utilizing his cardio to overwhelm the veteran. If the fight goes the distance, his ability to maintain a high output could sway the judges. However, Swanson’s history of finishing fights—both via strikes and submissions—means that Quarantillo must tread carefully. Predictions and Stakes With both fighters coming off losses, the stakes are high. A victory could rejuvenate Swanson’s career or catapult Quarantillo closer to title contention. The fight is expected to be a striking-heavy affair, with moments of grappling brilliance sprinkled in. Swanson’s experience and versatility give him a slight edge, but Quarantillo’s hunger and pace could tilt the scales in his favor. Tune in this Saturday to witness a potential classic in the making. Will the veteran Swanson turn back the clock, or will the relentless Quarantillo seize his moment?

There is a moment, in some rituals of the tea ceremony, that calls for the kettle to be lifted from the charcoal brazier that heats it. When lifted, it can leave a dusting of burned charcoal on the side of the brazier, and to brush this away, the host uses a fan, called a hakobi , made from a single tail feather, usually of a hawk. The brushing movement, like everything else in the ceremony, is done according to strict form. As the hakobi is lifted with one hand, for instance, the host places a finger of the other on the far end of the feather. It’s a gesture of respect for the fan. The fan comes in two types. If you look at a bird’s tail feathers, you’ll see that those from the left side of the tail have the spine of the feather (it’s called a rachis) slightly offset. There is more “feather” on the left side than on the right. On the opposite side of the tail, this is reversed. So there are clearly left and right tail feathers, and there are hakobi made from them both. The Kata of the Tea Ceremony The kata  of the tea ceremony are called temae . Meaning “hands in front,” it refers to both the motions and the act of learning them. One watches his teacher’s hands in front of him and copies the movements. In those ceremonies that involve a hakobi, when it’s not in use, it sits at the side of the host, who is kneeling on the mat. Here’s where a distinction comes in: If the tea room is set up so the guests are to the right of the host, he will use a left-style hakobi, with the bigger part of the feather closest to the guests. If they’re on the left, he will use the opposite hakobi. And if the hakobi is reversed, if a right hakobi is used when the guests are seated to the host’s right? If just this tiny, apparently insignificant break in form is made, it’s an indication. It’s a sign the host is giving to his guests. It’s a message. I’m serving you tea. We’re observing social niceties. But I do not trust you. I do not know what your real intentions are. I do not necessarily wish you harm, but know that I have reservations about our relationship. The Martial Context of Japanese Etiquette If you want to understand feudal Japan, you must understand that the country, from the 15th century until the 17th century, endured constant civil war. That’s where its martial arts came from. Not just fighting on the battlefield but also methods of conducting oneself in virtually every social interaction were martial in nature. Sliding on or off a floor cushion had a classical etiquette — and it was, at its heart, a safe way to do it, to move without exposing oneself to potential danger. Picking up a pair of chopsticks had its own etiquette. In all but the most informal — and, therefore, trusted — environments, the chopsticks were lifted using both hands and with the palms turned outward while the chopsticks rested in them to show to others that the hands were empty of weapons. In addition to this etiquette, social symbolism became developed to an almost fantastic degree. Communication was made through this. I was once at an exhibition of flower arranging, or ikebana , with a senior teacher of a very old ryu  of the art. As we came to one large arrangement, I heard her suck in her breath and mutter. I knew enough to pursue it. The arrangement included big strips of bamboo that had been split and curved dramatically. “The bamboo’s torn to split it lengthwise,” she told me. “That would indicate the practitioner’s clan was going to war. It should have been sawn smoothly, not roughly split, to indicate a peaceful intent.” Understanding Symbols and Etiquette Much of this symbolism seems almost absurd to us today. However, you must place it in context. When societies develop in a closed way, the sharing of symbols is easy. Japan had a closed culture. It was a closed country for hundreds of years. Every Japanese shared the same history, the same society. Compare this to our multicultural history and society. We do not have the same volume of shared symbols; the whole concept is foreign to us. Gestures or manners that might be a sign of openness in one context could be interpreted as “pushy” in another. If I brought flowers cut from my garden to a female neighbor, her husband might interpret it as a genuine sign of friendship — or he might be angry at my “forwardness.” But in ancient Japan, there was a mutuality of understanding and a shared perspective. The Martial Arts Connection I haven’t addressed the martial arts yet, but can you see the connection? The American sits in the dojo in seiza , on his knees. His Japanese, or Japanese-trained, teacher tells him his hands are too low when they’re resting on his thighs. His shoulders are too high. His knees are too far apart. The teacher finds half a dozen corrections — just in the way he’s sitting. I was watching a video of a karate demonstration together with a Japanese budo  teacher. As it began, the participants bowed to one another. The teacher snorted. “They can’t bow,” he said. And I knew that no matter how good the technique might be, the teacher would not take it seriously. Again, this is difficult for us to understand, but it is not entirely foreign. If you come to a job interview wearing a checkered tie with a checkered shirt, in some companies, you will have seriously compromised your chances of getting the job. Learning the rules, learning the symbols and their use, is part of living in society. Yes, in our society, things are much more relaxed. Good thing, I suppose. The next time you think that your teacher in the dojo is being overly critical, that he’s nitpicking your every move, remember the hakobi fan in the tea room. And remember how in Japanese society, little things can say a lot.

The September 1972 issue of Black Belt Magazine  captured James Yimm Lee, protege of the one and only Bruce Lee, demonstrating the fierce power of wing chun! Although not family, the close friendship between James Lee and Bruce Lee played a crucial role in the growth and development of both of their martial arts journeys. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

Michael Johnson, better known as "The Menace," has etched his name in UFC history as one of the most explosive and unpredictable fighters in the lightweight and featherweight divisions. Known for his blistering speed, devastating knockout power, and gritty performances, Johnson has thrilled MMA fans for over a decade. As he prepares to face Ottman Azaitar this Saturday at UFC Tampa, let's take a trip down memory lane to revisit some of his most iconic moments in the Octagon. 1. The Star-Making Victory Against Tony Ferguson On May 5, 2012, Michael Johnson faced future interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson at UFC on FOX 3 . Despite entering as the underdog, Johnson put on a striking clinic, outpacing Ferguson with precise combinations and impeccable footwork. The unanimous decision victory not only snapped Ferguson's winning streak but also showcased Johnson as a legitimate threat in the division. 2. A Highlight-Reel KO of Gleison Tibau Johnson delivered one of his most memorable performances at UFC Fight Night 28  in 2013. Facing the always-durable Gleison Tibau, Johnson showcased his evolved striking game. He landed a perfectly timed left hand that sent Tibau crashing to the canvas, earning a stunning second-round TKO. The victory underscored Johnson's knockout power and earned him widespread recognition. 3. Stopping Dustin Poirier in His Tracks Arguably Johnson's most iconic victory came against Dustin Poirier at UFC Fight Night 94  in 2016. Poirier, riding a wave of momentum, was expected to steamroll Johnson. However, "The Menace" silenced doubters with a jaw-dropping first-round knockout. A lightning-fast right-left combination floored Poirier, marking one of the most spectacular knockouts of Johnson's career and a statement to the division. 4. Going Toe-to-Toe with Justin Gaethje In a bout that many consider one of the greatest fights in UFC history, Michael Johnson took on Justin Gaethje at The Ultimate Fighter 25 Finale  in 2017. While Johnson ultimately fell short via TKO in the second round, the back-and-forth war highlighted his incredible heart and willingness to engage in firefights. The bout earned "Fight of the Night" honors and remains a fan favorite. 5. Dominating Edson Barboza At UFC Fight Night 61  in 2015, Johnson faced the dangerous striker Edson Barboza. Displaying an aggressive game plan, Johnson neutralized Barboza's kicks with relentless pressure and accurate striking. The unanimous decision win demonstrated his ability to execute a smart game plan against elite competition. 6. A Gritty Comeback Against Andre Fili In a razor-close bout at UFC Fight Night 137  in 2018, Johnson faced featherweight standout Andre Fili. Despite Fili's early success, Johnson's striking and takedown defense shone through in the later rounds, earning him a split decision victory. It was a testament to his durability and veteran savvy. 7. The TUF Legacy Before his UFC stardom, Michael Johnson gained fame as a finalist on The Ultimate Fighter: Team GSP vs. Team Koscheck  in 2010. Although he fell short in the finals against Jonathan Brookins, his performances on the show hinted at his future potential. Over the years, Johnson has proven that hard work and perseverance can turn a reality show prospect into a legitimate UFC contender. What Makes Michael Johnson Special? Michael Johnson's unique blend of speed, power, and technique has made him a perennial fan favorite. With nine career knockouts to his name, he is on the hunt for his 10th against Ottman Azaitar. His ability to adapt and evolve has allowed him to remain competitive in one of the toughest divisions in MMA. Known for his aggressive striking style, Azaitar presents a tough challenge, but Johnson's experience and knockout power make him a dangerous opponent. If he can secure a 10th KO victory, it will further cement his legacy as one of the most exciting fighters in UFC history.

Colby Covington, the man who needs no introduction, is set to make waves yet again as he prepares to enter the Octagon this Saturday at UFC Tampa . Known as much for his polarizing persona as his impeccable skillset, Covington has become one of the most talked-about fighters in the UFC. Here’s an in-depth look at his journey and what fans can expect from him in Tampa. The Rise of “Chaos” Covington’s rise to prominence in the UFC has been nothing short of dramatic. A two-time NCAA All-American wrestler, he transitioned seamlessly into MMA with a solid foundation in grappling. Signing with the UFC in 2014, Covington quickly established himself as a relentless competitor, amassing an impressive streak of victories against names like Max Griffin and Bryan Barberena. However, it wasn’t until his 2017 fight against Demian Maia that Covington transformed into “Chaos.” After defeating Maia in hostile territory in Brazil, Covington grabbed the mic and delivered one of the most infamous post-fight speeches in UFC history. While controversial, this moment catapulted him into stardom. Champion Material Covington’s defining moment came at UFC 241  when he dismantled former champion Robbie Lawler with a record-breaking volume of strikes. This performance solidified his place as one of the most relentless fighters in the welterweight division. His cardio, wrestling, and ability to pressure opponents became his trademarks. Covington claimed the interim welterweight title  at UFC 225 with a dominant performance over Rafael dos Anjos. Though he fell short in his two championship bouts against Kamaru Usman, both fights showcased his toughness and skill, particularly in the razor-close rematch at UFC 268. The Persona That Divides Fans Covington’s brash, trash-talking persona isn’t just for show. His antics—whether mocking opponents, flaunting MAGA hats, or bringing in WWE-style theatrics—have made him a polarizing figure. Love him or hate him, Covington’s ability to generate headlines has made him one of the UFC’s biggest stars. But beneath the chaos lies a dedicated athlete. Training out of MMA Masters in Miami, Covington’s preparation is second to none. His relentless work ethic has earned respect even from those who criticize his persona. What to Expect This Saturday at UFC Tampa Covington’s upcoming fight at UFC Tampa is critical for his career. Set to face a rising contender in the welterweight division , this bout could determine whether Covington earns another shot at the title or slides down the rankings. With stakes this high, fans can expect “Chaos” to bring his A-game. Key factors to watch in this fight: Relentless Pressure:  Covington’s hallmark style of grinding down opponents with his wrestling and high-volume striking will undoubtedly be on display. Mind Games:  Will Covington’s trash talk and psychological tactics affect his opponent’s performance? Historically, his antics have rattled more than a few competitors. Cardio Edge:  Covington is known for maintaining an insane pace. Can his opponent keep up? Can Covington Cement His Legacy? While Covington is no stranger to the spotlight, this fight is a must-win for the former interim champion. With a victory, he could position himself for a trilogy fight against Leon Edwards or even face the rising stars of the division like Shavkat Rakhmonov. A loss, however, would open up questions about whether his time at the top is fading. Find out this Saturday at UFC Tampa , where the stakes couldn’t be higher, and the drama is guaranteed.

The stage is set for an electrifying main event at UFC Fight Night Tampa 2024: Covington vs. Buckley, where former interim Welterweight Champion Colby “Chaos” Covington  will square off against the dynamic and unpredictable Joaquin “New Mansa” Buckley . This clash of welterweight warriors not only promises fireworks but could also have major implications for the divisional rankings. The Build-Up: Colby Covington’s Grit vs. Joaquin Buckley’s Explosiveness Colby Covington (17-3), one of the most polarizing figures in MMA, is known for his relentless cardio, wrestling pedigree, and unrelenting pace. A staple of the welterweight elite, Covington has faced—and beaten—some of the biggest names in the division, including Tyron Woodley and Robbie Lawler. However, after coming up short in two title bids against Kamaru Usman, Covington is on a mission to reestablish himself as a top contender. For Covington, this fight isn’t just about victory; it’s about dominance. "I’m going to grind him into the ground," Covington declared in a recent interview. "I’m here to remind everyone why I’m still the king without a crown." On the other hand, Joaquin Buckley (17-6) has steadily climbed the ranks with his jaw-dropping knockouts and growing arsenal of skills. Buckley, who catapulted to fame with his viral spinning back kick KO of Impa Kasanganay, has since evolved into a well-rounded fighter. A win over Covington would cement Buckley’s place among the division’s elite and could set him up for a marquee fight against a top-5 opponent. What to Expect: A Clash of Styles The Covington vs. Buckley matchup is a classic clash of styles. Covington thrives on grinding his opponents with suffocating pressure, chaining takedowns, and overwhelming them with volume striking. Buckley, however, is a highlight-reel finisher with knockout power in both hands and feet. His unorthodox striking and explosive athleticism could pose a significant threat to Covington’s forward pressure. Key Questions to Consider: Will Covington’s cardio and wrestling neutralize Buckley’s power? Can Buckley land a game-changing strike before being dragged into deep waters? How will Covington’s experience against top-tier opponents fare against Buckley’s raw athleticism and hunger? High Stakes for the Rankings This fight holds significant weight for the welterweight rankings. A win for Covington could thrust him back into title contention, especially with current champion Belal Muhammad keeping a watchful eye on the division. For Buckley, a victory over a name like Covington would not only validate his rise but also open doors to a potential top-5 matchup or even a title eliminator. Both fighters are aware of the stakes. "This isn’t just another fight; it’s my ticket to the top," Buckley said at the pre-fight press conference. Covington, unfazed, responded, "I’ve fought killers before. Buckley’s just another name on my list." Expect Fireworks As fight night approaches, fans are bracing for an unforgettable showdown. Will Covington’s relentless wrestling grind out another victory, or will Buckley’s power and creativity deliver a shocking upset? One thing is certain—when these two welterweights meet in the Octagon, Tampa will witness a battle for the ages.

Unfortunately, active-shooter incidents have become not only a frequent story on the nightly news but also a threat to people of all ages in virtually all locations. These horrible events can and do occur at any time, so it’s important to have an overarching plan to protect yourself and your loved ones should you ever wind up in the presence of an active shooter. If you’re reading this article, it can be assumed that you’re either a martial arts instructor like me or a practitioner. (If you’re not already a martial artist, I highly suggest you join a program — there’s nothing more empowering!) Through your martial arts training, you have the ability to defend yourself, which means you already have a last-resort plan of action should you find yourself confronted by an active shooter. However, it’s very unlikely that you will ever face such a criminal in a fair fight because an active shooter, by definition, has the advantage of possessing a firearm — and he’s already using it. That’s precisely why my team and I developed an active-shooter training course that teaches students to place their focus on being aware and devising an exit strategy, as well as recognizing threats before they manifest. I started teaching active-shooter tactics because of my background in law enforcement and martial arts. Additionally, our school is a certified krav maga center that teaches all kinds of weapon disarms, so developing the course was a natural fit. The program has garnered a lot of press because whenever a tragedy occurs, martial arts school owners scramble to find a course that will help them help their students. For several years, I’ve conducted this training around the country, as well as online. Here, I will present it to yet another audience that may be in need of a plan for an active-shooter scenario. How to Respond Run The No. 1 option is to run. If you find yourself in a situation in which shots are being fired, your priority is to get away. To that end, have an exit strategy in place. Always be aware of potential escape routes no matter where you are. Some people mistakenly assume that the best exit is the same door they used to enter the room or building, but that’s not always the case. In a restaurant, the best exit might be a backdoor or a window. Even a Sheetrock wall can be broken through in an emergency. Hide The second option is to hide. When running isn’t possible, it’s a good way to increase the odds that you’ll survive, but you need to understand where and how to hide. Here is what I recommend in our course: Strategically position yourself in a room where the shooter isn’t so you have the best chance to defend yourself. Barricade the door(s) with any furniture that can be moved. Stay quiet and stay by yourself (unless you’re with loved ones). If possible, darken the room. Consider using your belt, purse strap, or cellphone charging cable to secure the door. Fight The third option is to fight. Think of this as the last resort in any active-shooter situation. Our course focuses on this component for obvious reasons: I’m a martial artist and I’m usually teaching other martial artists, so it only makes sense to spend time fine-tuning the physical side. Martial arts schools that follow our method often incorporate the combatives they teach every day, along with our gun-disarm strategies. Those gun disarms grew out of my background as a National Rifle Association instructor, as well as a krav maga, jiu-jitsu, and karate black belt. All that enabled me to create a set of disarms that are easy to learn, easy to remember, and easy to implement under stress. Of course, there are other ways to take a gun away from a shooter, but it’s always best to concentrate on methods that a person with no previous experience can retain. Having a Gun Might Not Help I’m a gun owner and a believer in the Second Amendment, but I caution my students — and they always find out in our course — that carrying a firearm can add a huge variable to a mass-shooting situation. If you draw a gun in an active-shooter scenario, you might be putting yourself and those around you in greater danger. Here’s why: When responding to an active-shooter report, law-enforcement officers immediately will perceive any person holding a gun as a suspect — even if that person is just reacting to shots being fired. There will be precious little time for the police to ask questions because ending the threat is their top priority. The other thing you need to remember is that if you deploy your gun and the shooter sees you, you will inadvertently draw his fire, which will endanger you and the people around you. In cases in which the shooter has a semi-automatic weapon, you might cause a hail of bullets to be unleashed in your direction. For Ongoing Training I always advise people to find a martial arts school that includes an active-shooter training program. It’s likely you can find such a facility in your town. By all means, consider joining — after you’ve checked the instructor’s credentials. As we all know, participating in a program is the best way to learn the real-life application of martial arts skills. It’s one more way to get people to learn awareness skills and physical techniques that can save their lives.

As the UFC gears up for UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley  at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, on December 14, 2024, fans are brimming with anticipation. This marks the UFC’s fourth visit to Tampa and the first since October 2019, making it a nostalgic return for the promotion. Before Colby Covington and Joaquin Buckley step into the Octagon, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the last time the UFC electrified Tampa. Joanna Jedrzejczyk: A Masterclass Against Michelle Waterson-Gomez The main event of UFC Tampa 2019 saw former strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk  dominate Michelle Waterson-Gomez  in a five-round clinic. Jedrzejczyk’s superior size, strength, and striking precision overwhelmed Waterson-Gomez, leading to a unanimous decision victory with scores of 50-45, 50-45, and 49-46. While Waterson-Gomez had her moments, Jedrzejczyk’s clinch game and relentless elbows and knees proved too much. The fight peaked in the third round when Waterson-Gomez nearly secured a rear-naked choke, showcasing her tenacity. However, Jedrzejczyk finished strong with her elite kicking game, earning her 11th career decision win. Amanda Ribas and Mackenzie Dern’s First Showdown The 2019 event also featured the first meeting between Amanda Ribas  and Mackenzie Dern , two rising stars who have since climbed the ranks in the strawweight division. Ribas, now ranked No. 8, outclassed Dern, currently No. 6, with superior striking and grappling. Ribas turned Dern’s takedown attempt into a spectacular throw, dominating from the top position and dictating the pace throughout the bout. The unanimous decision win showcased Ribas’ elite grappling and precision, setting the stage for their highly anticipated rematch, now scheduled for January 11, 2025, at the UFC APEX. Deiveson Figueiredo’s Breakout Performance Long before becoming a UFC Flyweight Champion, Deiveson Figueiredo  made waves in Tampa with a stunning first-round submission of Tim Elliott. Figueiredo’s lightning-fast guillotine choke forced Elliott to tap within minutes, solidifying his contender status. The victory propelled Figueiredo into title contention, where he would later capture the flyweight belt and engage in a record six consecutive championship bouts, cementing his legacy in the division. Catch all the action live from Amalie Arena this Saturday, December 14, 2024. Prelims begin at 7 PM ET/4 PM PT, with the main card airing on ESPN2 and ESPN+ at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT . Don’t miss this thrilling chapter in UFC history!

Just three days before his return fight at BRAVE CF 91, Muhammad Mokaev requires a new opponent. This change is due to Luthando Biko withdrawing from their planned flyweight match because of health concerns.  Mokaev's return to BRAVE CF is one of the year's most eagerly awaited match-ups, following his re-signing with the promotion earlier this year after becoming the most sought-after free agent in MMA. The fight has been dubbed “The People’s Main Event” of BRAVE CF 91. Undefeated in both his amateur and professional MMA careers, Mokaev holds a professional record of 13 wins, no losses, and one no contest. Known as “The Punisher,” he is one of the top flyweights in the world and a former two-time IMMAF World Champion. BRAVE Combat Federation is now in a race against time to find Mokaev a new opponent in the coming days, or they may have to cancel the superstar's return bout to the promotion. BRAVE CF 91 features a packed fight card for fans, with the Bantamweight World Title fight between champion Nkosi Ndebele and challenger Nicholas Hwende as the main event. The co-main event will see the return of Arab MMA legend Hamza Kooheji, who will battle Turkish superstar Alperen Karabulut. BRAVE CF 91, held during BRAVE International Combat Week, will be followed by BRAVE CF 92 on December 15, concluding a record-breaking year for the MMA organization.

Tonight, while you sleep your deepest sleep, 100 black-clad figures gather in meditation. Their mantra fills the air around their clandestine mountain retreat and contrasts with the hiss of their controlled breathing. They prepare for their upcoming mission by believing they are turning into tigers; by force of will, they drift into a different phase of being. Their breathing becomes deeper, and they count backward from nine to one, mentally taking a step down an imaginary flight of stairs with each number. They control their inner voices and bring what they call their “five minds” into a single point of focus. Their preparations complete, they arm themselves with shuriken, garrotes, knives, and crossbows. Then they depart, their destination a guarded building nestled in a valley miles away. There, a dozen of them scale the walls meant to protect the inner compound. In silence, they make their way past sentry after sentry, finally coming to a small room guarded by still more sentries. With those guardians looking almost directly at them, they steal documents of great value and return, completely undetected, to their retreat. Is this a fantasy of Tibetan monks raiding a neighboring monastery in ancient times? Perhaps a script for a new martial arts thriller? No, this drill actually takes place somewhere on the East Coast of the United States, and the participants are 100-percent American boys who once volunteered for the Green Berets. But these hardy souls weren’t quite satisfied with the tortuous training they’d already received. They wanted more. They were aware that the art of guerrilla warfare had once again become the world’s most popular game, and they wanted to be the very best in a contest in which you either took first place or died. So they volunteered — again — for this special school operated under the supervision of one Michael D. Echanis, a former Green Beret himself. Not everyone who volunteered made it. In fact, nearly half quit within 24 hours. “I don’t have much time to get these men ready,” Echanis states, “so I push them right from the start. At the end of the first day, I sit them down and tell them they can get out if they want to.” But few leave at that point; the ones who are going to quit have already been scared away. “By lunch, I will lose about 10 out of every 25 volunteers,” he says. There’s a good reason for that. Ancient Military Methods Become Modern As you may have guessed, this is not a normal military training center. Echanis has been given permission by our military to instruct a portion of our fighting forces in the ancient ways of hwa rang do. More precisely, he shows them the secrets of the sul sa , the “magical” technicians of hwa rang do whose prime counterparts in Asia long ago were the famed ninja of Japan. The ninja and sul sa  were regarded as almost superhuman. They could dislocate joints to slip out of knots. They could scale walls. They could walk on water — using special boat-like shoes. And it was said they could make themselves invisible. All these things, combined with supreme empty-hand and weapons techniques, made them invaluable to the warlords of the day. The art originated in Korea when the Hwarang warriors came into being in the old kingdom of Silla, located at the southeast tip of the peninsula. Silla was being harassed by its larger neighbor to the north, the kingdom of Koguryo. Koguryo had almost finished swallowing the kingdom of Paekche and was eyeing Silla. In response, Silla united internally and created one of the premier fighting forces of its day: the Hwarang. From 661 to 935, these warriors expanded Silla’s territory until it covered more than the current geographical area of Korea. Later, martial arts fell into disrepute in Korea, leading to the banishment of warriors. Some of them took refuge in Buddhist temples, where the art was preserved. In the past several decades, with a worldwide renaissance of the fighting arts and a heightened interest in guerrilla warfare, hwa rang do began to be publicly taught in Korea. It later found its way to the United States. Search for a Warrior’s Art One person to whom the teachings fell was Michael Echanis. Today, he credits all his skills to his mentor Joo Bang Lee, who was instrumental in introducing the art to America and who periodically tutors Echanis on the “inside” aspects of it. Although Echanis has studied judo since the age of 4 and later got involved with taekwondo in Korea and Vietnam, he kept searching. When he discovered hwa rang do five years ago, he was ecstatic. “I had finally found a martial art that combined everything necessary to make a man a modern-day warrior,” he says. Echanis’ experiences in the 75th Ranger Battalion during the Vietnam War made him wish more than once for such a system. Although given the best military training available, our Special Forces still had much to learn. Using the knowledge embodied within hwa rang do, Echanis developed a new concept of training that would ensure our men would know all they needed to know before going into action. Naturally, American military leaders didn’t accept his theories the first moment he mentioned them. Teaching ancient Asian philosophy to combat soldiers is not the easiest idea to sell. Echanis had to prove the benefits of his system. He did that by demonstrating the physical effects of the ki power he’d developed as a result of his own training. He let cars run over him. He hung 25 pounds from a needle piercing his neck. He moved a volunteer 15 feet with his 1-inch punch. He demonstrated his kicking, punching, and weapons skills. The generals were impressed. They gave him an assignment that involved teaching a series of three-week classes for the Special Forces at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The results were so impressive that Echanis was catapulted into military prominence. Rangers, SEALs, and other commandos became interested in his teaching. He was asked to prepare a series of manuals on hand-to-hand combat, the first such texts to be produced since World War II. “The first week is like hell week,” Echanis says. “The idea is to put these guys in the right frame of mind. We begin at 6 o’clock in the morning. I give them an introduction to the martial arts in relationship to each of them as a soldier, as a warrior. I don’t care if the men have had previous martial arts training or not. I start them all over again.” Those who have studied the martial arts are shocked to learn how out of shape they still are. “They might have been in shape for normal living but not for combat,” Echanis says. Civilian hwa rang do, like other martial arts, can be taken simply for physical and mental development. Echanis’ special version of sul sa  training is different. The difference is not just in orientation; it’s also a difference in intensity. Accelerated Learning Echanis has only a few weeks to get his people in shape, so he’s created a martial arts boot camp. “It’s tough,” he says. “We do anywhere from 250 to 500 knuckle push-ups a day. Then we do another 100 on our wrists. We do somewhere between 250 and 500 sit-ups a day. I run them to tunnels with water, run them through those back and forth. We then do our basic techniques. Then we do the same till lunch. After lunch, back to the same.” Some of his training methods are almost straight out of pro football. “I use a system of physical harassment,” Echanis says with a straight face. “I say, give me 30 push-ups, give me 50. Always give me more.” Some of his methods are not so familiar. At the beginning of each session, Echanis does something very Eastern. He puts all his students into a frame of mind that will let them comprehend and retain all they’re about to be shown. He won’t use the word “hypnotize,” but it does pop into one’s mind. In any event, it works. Shown a perfect technique once or twice, the student is so free of doubt that he can mimic that perfection with only a few tries. Then he retains it in permanent memory. Obviously, all this is for more than just trophies for the dojo window. “We are not interested in the sport thing, tournaments and things like that,” Echanis says. “Our main concern is survival in combat. My goal is to develop a modern American warrior who can survive when he is called upon to protect his country.” He goes on to talk about his manuals and his courses. “This will be the most sophisticated approach to hand-to-hand combat, knife fighting, sentry stalking, hypnosis for combat, defense against armed attack, riot control, mind control, breath control, acupressure massage, standard punching and kicking techniques, throwing, joint locks, choking and neck-breaking techniques…and the development of ki power for use in the field.” To teach all the above in 21 days is quite a task, but Echanis has devised a way. “I’ve got this guy for three weeks, and I have to turn him into a fighter,” he begins. “I have to put him in a crash program, eliminate the nonessentials. Take an Olympic judo champion. He may know 50 takedowns, but he’ll use only two or three which relate to his body structure and mind.” He continues: “I don’t teach the whole art. I take out what specifically applies to my situation.” So Echanis simplifies, then adds intensity. “Sometimes by the second week, I have these men 24 hours a day,” he says. “We practice, eat, sleep and go out on operations together. Ours is a mountain-training situation. Isolated within my environment, I’m controlling the psychological aspects. I’m stimulating these men constantly, day in and day out.” And though Echanis feels that empty-hand techniques are important, he stresses armed combat. “I can take a black-belt martial artist and a person with no previous training,” he says. “I could train the black belt for two weeks at unarmed hand-to-hand combat and the other guy two weeks at knife fighting. Put them together in a combat situation, and there’s no doubt about which man to choose. You’ll have to take the man with the knife. The weapon in a trained hand makes the difference.” Life and Death Up to this point, one gets the picture of a Marine Corps boot camp carried to body-breaking extremes. Then comes the hint of more. After the first day, most dropouts are not quitters, Echanis says. They retire from injury. Try getting up at 2 a.m. and free-sparring full contact until breakfast — every night. Get used to not sleeping, for the predawn hours are when most people are least alert. Put on your fatigues after a night on the town, drunk and dead tired, and practice knife fighting for five hours. Try staying alive through the training. It is, put in the simplest terms, dangerous. And, of course, you have the techniques of hwa rang do, which you thought only other ancient warriors like the ninja could perform. One of those demanding techniques is called un shin bop , the art of “invisibility” or concealment. In ancient days, there were two reasons that warlords had their special forces study concealment. One was for gathering intelligence; the other was for eliminating key personnel. Echanis teaches un shin bop  for both those reasons but has added guerrilla-warfare training as part of the overall operational skills his men must have. Naturally, the ability to conceal oneself until the final moment is vital to the success of an operation — and vital to survival. Echanis stresses that in today’s military, the ultimate goal is survival, not the completion of an operation. He wants his men to come back alive. Then they can succeed time after time, instead of wasting their lives on a one-shot chance at success. Mastery of the techniques of concealment help them accomplish this goal. How to Be a Tree He starts by teaching the basics: “Concealment. Use what you’ve got. Look for depth and density of shadow. If you’re looking below a building offset from the ground, it looks like you’re looking into a cave at night. That is where I would conceal myself.” He thinks a moment. “Try to complement light shadows instead of contrasting them. If you have to be by a wall with horizontal brickwork, don’t stand vertically. In a tree, try to look like a tree. In open spaces, fold up like a rock. Between buildings, look like a connecting pipe.” More than simple body posture, there are the elements of clothing and disguise. If one of his warriors needs to pose alongside a featureless white wall, he does not present himself as a black-garbed man. He uses a reversible piece of cloth he has brought with him and holds up a white square in front of him as he moves. No man-like silhouette, no man. Yet if that were all it took to become a guerrilla, we would all be hiding in trees tomorrow. The most important part is more difficult, Echanis says. It’s the part that the meditation and the mantras are about. It teaches men how to control their own thoughts — as well as the thoughts of others. First, there is mind conditioning. Echanis’ approach is a mixture of modern psychological principles and ancient Zen Buddhist concepts. In many ways, his teaching resembles the traditional training of samurai warriors. “The samurai was taught to focus his mind on the activity to be done,” Echanis says. “He learned to be dispassionate about the operation, to coldly analyze the job and proceed in logical fashion to get it done.” So Echanis teaches his people to have control over their inner being. “Clear your mind with a black image,” he commands his soldier/warriors. “Think black. That is the nothingness. If a man is just firing a handgun without thinking about it, he’s just doing it. But the moment he thinks, ‘I might miss,’ he’s lost his focus of concentration. He’s listening to a little voice that’s saying, ‘Can I or can’t I?’ And the answer will be, ‘I can’t.’” Eyes Are the Mirror of the Mind Yet there is more reason for inner control than simply the improvement of performance. Echanis believes in the concept of “one mind,” which holds that all people share a sort of psychic oneness. In action, that translates into the fact that the sentry you are stalking can — if you are in a normal state of mind — feel you before he sees you. It’s like when you stare at the back of a person’s neck and they turn around. They’ve felt something. “There’s the thing of emotional projection,” Echanis says. “I come into this room, and I don’t feel good. You’ll get bad vibes as soon as you feel me. What I tell my people is to freeze the feeling point, which we say is at the tip of the sternum. When I freeze myself, I keep you from getting any vibration. It’s a feeling like my entire body is ice.” In addition to keeping one’s emotional content inside, Echanis says it’s important not to look at the “centers” of an opponent’s awareness — like his head, back or the center of his body. “Look at your target’s arms or leg. Don’t look at his eyes — even from the side — until the last second.” The eyes play another role in Echanis’ training: “You can create a freeze in a person by locking onto him with your eyes for a split second. You walk up to a person, not looking at him. Suddenly, you look up intently at him. As [your] eyes make contact, he looks at [you]. At that split second, as he is looking at [you] and his body is frozen, that is when [you should] hit him.” Adding the power of suggestion, you gain even more control over him. “You can talk smoothly, go into a monotone,” Echanis says. “Use body language — the way you stand, little gestures — to appear relaxed. And use the eyes. The eyes are the mirrors of the mind. [You] can project with [your] eyes: ‘No, I’m not going to stab or attack you.’ Then do it. If you’re totally relaxed in eyes, body and voice, it will not occur to the other person that you are ready to move on him.” Physical and Mental After reading the details of Echanis’ training methods, you might think the people who volunteer for such an assignment would be true gorillas — strong backs and weak minds. But the reverse is true. Only the most intelligent, most sensitive people can make the mind-control methods actually work. So there is the problem of desensitizing the volunteers so they can use their skills without hesitation. One exercise for this sounds like something straight out of Tim Leary’s commune textbook. “We do alpha exercises,” Echanis says. “A person relaxes until he is in what we call a good alpha. We then have him read a paper that suggests he put himself into the frame of mind of a tiger day after day. In time, he is no longer in the frame of mind of a man. He will actually visualize himself as a tiger.” And with other exercises, he also learns to think of his opponent as something other than a man, he adds. Yet desensitization is less of a problem once Echanis’ troops hit the beach. “Americans are probably the most violent when it comes to combat,” he says. “Take you out of this environment and put you into a war with your intelligence and your old pioneer spirit, and you will become desensitized in a very short time. Your ingenuity will come out. This is what makes the American soldier so unique — his ability to adapt.” Michael Echanis has certainly proved that last point. The American soldier is perfectly capable of taking an ancient Korean fighting style and turning it into the most effective system of combat in the modern world. If the Hwarang had known what would become of their art in the centuries ahead, they no doubt would have been pleased.