It's time to take your first step toward being able to say, “I learned Muay Thai in Bangkok!” One of the most popular combat sports to emerge during the martial arts boom of the 1980s was Muay Thai, and it’s remained popular in the West ever since. We now have kickboxing federations in most countries with competitions taking place on a regular basis. Because of the art’s reputation for effectiveness, it’s common nowadays for martial artists looking to improve their full-contact skills to train in Thailand. For most of us, however, packing up and relocating to Southeast Asia just isn’t realistic. Fortunately, you can acquire vast amounts of knowledge and skill from a short sojourn — say, the kind you’d experience on a summer vacation. Know the History Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and has been practiced here for hundreds of years. It’s part of the Thai psyche, the fodder of myths and legends that stretch back to the 1600s when the nation was known as Siam. At the time, Siam was at war with neighboring Burma and Cambodia, and Muay Thai was an essential component of the military training of Thai troops. Later, Muay Thai evolved into a fight sport that became popular with the lower strata of society. Not surprisingly, it appealed to countless youngsters who dreamed of becoming champions and gaining fame and fortune — not unlike boxing in Western nations. Nowadays, Muay Thai is also treasured as a means of getting fit, as well as a system of self-defense, both of which make it attractive to people who have no interest in competition. The good news is that in the past 10 years, Thai boxing gyms have proliferated in Bangkok and other major cities, and they’re drawing increasing numbers of foreigners, called farang in the Thai language. Many of those trainees are casual practitioners who may or may not have trained in other martial arts. Nevertheless, they benefit immensely from the experience. Those who happen to be competitors — perhaps in Muay Thai, kickboxing, or MMA — also come here, usually to polish their ring skills or to fight in tournaments to gain experience. That’s led to a population of foreigners who participate at the highest levels of the sport, which has prompted promoters to match them against talented locals. Needless to say, the bouts that result have a true international flavor. Know What to Expect Most training sessions in Thailand run about two hours. The workouts tend to be similar at the gyms that accept farang, but they can differ in intensity and in the technical aspects that are emphasized. Much of the program at the center you wind up in will depend on your level. Often, it will begin with a warm-up and some stretching, followed by shadowboxing. After that may come one-on-one pad work with an instructor, a session on the heavy bag, a few rounds of sparring, clinch work, technique training, and a cool-down. Don’t let any of that scare you off. The warm-up — jumping rope, running in place, and so on — and the stretching will be similar to what you’re used to at home. One thing you may not be familiar with is the truck tires you often see here. Thai martial artists like to bounce on tires while shadowboxing because it limbers up the legs and builds balance. Standing on the edge while moving makes the exercise ideal for learning how to keep your feet in proper position at all times. Another odd training method you might encounter entails using a skateboard. Many coaches will have you stand on one while shadowboxing or hitting pads, claiming it hones your balance and ability to fight in the clinch. As you can see from what I’ve already mentioned, shadowboxing is common in Thai training camps. It fosters smooth combinations and good posture. Your instructor might have you do this in a group or individually in front of a mirror. You may do it as part of your warm-up and possibly as a recuperation break between more strenuous phases of training. The sparring that most foreigners engage in is fairly light, with no real contact. However, if you happen to be an experienced martial artist, the camps will accommodate you with protective gear and a worthy opponent. In general, that more advanced training won’t include clinching, the “ground and pound” of Muay Thai in which knees and elbows come into play. At the gyms I visited, clinching is reserved for the best kickboxers, people who are actually preparing for fights. A large part of your training here will be dedicated to pad work and the heavy bag. Experience has taught Thai instructors that hitting pads is great for developing power and speed while allowing you to practice combinations according to commands. Chances are your trainer will correct you during your workout, pointing out defensive problems and focusing on any weaknesses he spots in your skill set. Know Where to Go To help Black Belt readers determine which Thai gym might be best for fine-tuning their skills, I visited some of the most prominent facilities in Bangkok and worked out with the locals. The following are among the most accommodating ones I found. YOKKAO TRAINING CENTER This centrally located gym is one of the most popular in Bangkok, in part because it shares a name with a leading maker of Muay Thai products and apparel. Yokkao is one of the more upscale clubs, meaning it’s new, clean, and well-equipped, and its staff knows how to cater to foreigners who are beginners or intermediate-level martial artists. The training is directed by Saenchai, a living legend in the Muay Thai world who has more than 300 victories in the ring. Several top Thai boxers are sponsored by Yokkao, and they train here alongside visiting foreigners. That guarantees that the coaches are top-notch, which benefits students of all levels. ELITE FIGHT CLUB This is another unique gym in Bangkok; it’s located on the 10th-floor roof terrace of the Waterford Diamond Tower. From its ring, you’ll have an outstanding view of the city below. Contributing to its uniqueness is its ownership: Elite Fight Club is one of the few training centers in Thailand owned and operated by a foreigner. A Frenchman named Cedric Gautier came to Thailand five years ago and fell in love with the country and its national sport. Since then, he’s fought in several professional bouts and become involved in the Thai boxing scene. In 2017 he took over Elite and put together a program that’s tailored to foreigners who already have a certain level of expertise in the art and who come to Thailand to polish their skills and possibly compete. It has an ambiance of friendliness, and even though it’s casual, it will push you hard. 96 PENANG GYM This is one of the grittiest Muay Thai clubs you’ll find in Bangkok — or anywhere else. It sits in the seedy, semi-industrial slum of Khlong Toei in the southeastern part of the city. Here, you’ll be far from the flowing fountains, lush gardens, and bright lights of downtown. The sidewalks are dirty, and the lots are filled with piles of scrap metal and building material. The gym is sandwiched between an auto-repair shop and a truck-salvage operation. Not surprisingly, the atmosphere at 96 Penang Gym is a little foreboding. It’s dark and dusty with only a couple of neon lights above the ring. One thing you’ll see here that you won’t find in the upscale gyms is a kitchen and a line of tables and chairs. Why? Because 96 Penang follows the traditional Thai practice of accepting promising kids and molding them into Thai boxers, and those kids eat and sleep on the premises. By the time they’re 12 or 13, they’re ready to enter the ring. By the time they’re 18, they’re ready to be full-fledged professionals. Only recently has this gym started accepting foreigners. Several who train here told me they’re totally satisfied with the experience. I also learned that a few farang have opted to immerse themselves in Thai boxing and elected to eat and sleep at the facility with their Thai compatriots. I didn’t get to meet them, however, because when I visited 96 Penang, it was after a weekend of stadium fights and a holiday, which meant most of the fighters were taking some time off. Know What You’ll Spend If this data dump has piqued your interest, you’ll be pleased to learn that Thailand is one of the more affordable vacation destinations in the world. It’s also easy to get around here because so many locals speak English with acceptable fluency. With respect to food and lodging, you’ll be in for a pleasant surprise. Thailand is the world’s capital of “street food.” Just about anywhere you go, you’ll find a kiosk or push cart where you can buy anything from fresh fruit and juice to grilled meat and rice. In the evening, you’ll watch as empty sidewalks turn into open-air restaurants where you can share a table with locals and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. A meal in this kind of rustic setting will cost $2 or $3. At a more traditional restaurant, you’ll spend twice that. Overall, you can eat well on $10 a day. Plenty of cheap hotels exist all over Thailand, although Bangkok tends to be a bit more expensive. Expect to pay between $12 and $20 a night in establishments that range from simple-but-adequate to luxurious. Hostels and dormitories are also available — and cheaper. Perhaps the best approach to finding accommodations is to inquire at the Muay Thai club at which you’ll be training. Note that some gyms offer lodging as well as lessons. In your off time, you’ll probably want to see the sights. The good news is travel in Thailand is not expensive. You can hop on a train, bus, or plane to get from one city to another. Within Bangkok, you’ll enjoy the excellent mass-transit system. The Skytrain from the airport to downtown takes 45 minutes and costs just $3. The three-hour bus ride from Bangkok to Pattaya, a popular tourist destination, is only $8. As far as tuition goes, expect to pay $15 per day for Muay Thai lessons. Commit to a month, and the average rate drops to $250 for two workouts a day six days a week. Check the gym’s website for specific rates and schedules. When you’re ready for a different kind of learning, take in some Muay Thai matches. Contests are held at venues in most cities. If you’re in Bangkok, you can opt for Rajadamnern or Lumpini, the two largest stadiums. They host events several times a week. Pro tip: MX Muay Xtreme is a local TV studio where you can watch top-level bouts every Friday for free. The studio also broadcasts matches daily on television, meaning you can spectate in bars and restaurants for the price of a beer or a meal. Know Yourself So why should you travel to Thailand to train when you can save money and take your regular lessons at your regular dojo? Well, if you compete in full contact, be it kickboxing or MMA, there’s no better place to perfect your strikes. If you train for self-defense, there’s no better place to learn how to generate knockout power. If you have a casual interest in the arts, there’s no better place to expand your horizons while enjoying an exotic vacation. My advice is to jump on the internet and do some research. There’s no need to commit to a training facility before you go. Just collect information on several clubs and then visit them in person. Most offer daily, weekly, and monthly rates, which means you can train for as long or as short a time as you wish. If you’re still having trouble making up your mind, talk to a few foreign fighters who work out at each gym to determine which is the best fit for you. Most experienced farang have trained at several facilities and can offer valuable insights. Whatever your level or goals, training in Thailand is a bucket-list experience. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in an ancient culture while getting to know its ultra-effective martial art.

Almost every day of the week except Sunday, I put on my gi and drive to the dojo, then teach for several hours. I started doing this in 1980, and 38 years later, I find myself repeating the same sequence over and over. Maybe you do likewise, or maybe you’re hoping to embark on your own journey of school ownership. Either way, I’d like to share some of the things that have kept me loving what I do and motivated to continue conveying my art to my students. DERIVE PRIDE from your school name.  You must love it and love saying it so the name elicits a positive reaction from people. I went through a couple of school names before I ended up with Trad Am Karate, which is short for my eclectic system of traditional American karate. The name works well because it reflects our system, it’s easy to say and it has a ring that a community can get to know — which helps get people to train at the school. I didn’t come up with the name overnight; the process entailed writing down a mountain of names and descriptions over the years. I was happy when I made the change. Now if your school name is working as is, that’s great. If not, change it. Warning!  Don’t change your school name too often or in an effort to capitalize on the latest fad. You’ll just seem wishy-washy to the community. Also know that many names have been trademarked. Do some research before you pull the trigger. ESTABLISH A NETWORK for discussing business issues.  The lone wolf doesn’t last many long, cold winters. I meet with a mentor from time to time, as well as a few like-minded people I call regularly. It’s really beneficial to talk to fellow martial artists who can understand the challenges you face, whether they involve teaching, marketing, or social media. Warning!  Avoid being overly critical of your staff or students with your network unless the discussion is a sincere exercise intended to find solutions to particular problems. This includes not bad-mouthing other schools or instructors in your area. A discussion that deteriorates into attacking people who aren’t there will leave you feeling worse and undermine the positive motivation you’re seeking. JOIN AN ORGANIZATION that provides the professional guidance you may need.  There’s no limit to the help you can receive — on curriculum development, school operation, and even rank certifications. Three prominent groups are the American Independent Karate Instructors Association, the Martial Arts Industry Association, and the Independent Karate Schools of America. (Full disclosure: I’m affiliated with IKSA.) You can find others by searching the web. Warning!  Steer clear of groups that require you to make too many changes — such as alterations to your art. Also, avoid those that are operated by people who seek to strip your freedom or independence. FREQUENTLY ATTEND seminars or conventions.  They can motivate you and offer new knowledge and ideas. Case in point: When I attended the 2016 Martial Arts SuperShow, I liked a suggestion from the keynote speaker that pertained to building a “photo op” area in your dojo, one that includes your logo in the background. The speaker then said that whenever you host an event, encourage students to take photos there with their parents/spouses/siblings. When those photos get posted on social media, it’s great exposure for your business. As beneficial as that proved, it was just a fraction of the wisdom I encountered at the SuperShow. There are many other conventions, training camps, and seminars that take place across the country, and most of them will leave you better prepared for running a successful martial arts school. Warning!  Avoid events that make overreaching promises or that guarantee a rank advancement just for paying a fee. ALLOW PEOPLE TO PAY their enrollment fees directly to you.  Let it be a way for them to say you’re an awesome teacher — after all, you’re helping them make their lives better. If asked, be positive about the fees you charge and don’t hesitate to mention that their financial support helps keep your school thriving and vibrant. Warning!  When operating expenses rise, sometimes you have no choice but to raise prices. Don’t feel guilty. The last thing your students want is for you to close down because you can’t pay the bills. And don’t worry about what others in your area are charging. Charge what you need to charge to pay the bills. DEVELOP A POSITIVE MINDSET and start today.  Begin by using positive self-talk. Never say, “I have to teach class now.” Instead, say, “I get to teach class now.” With difficult students, don’t say, “I dread today’s kids class because of so-and-so!” Instead, say, “I can’t wait for the kids class because so-and-so is going to help me become a better instructor.” Another case in point: My wife, who teaches more than I do, used to come home after our community karate classes and say, “Tommy and Timmy (not their real names) were behaving so awfully I don’t want to go there anymore.” I told her, “One day, they’re going to be running the dojo.” Ten years later, my wife said to me, “You were right — Tommy and Timmy were running the dojo today.” It was so rewarding to watch those kids mature and become model students. Positive self-talk also includes telling yourself — and truly believing — that you’ll always get new signups. If you’re positive, you’ll attract positive. If you’re negative, you’ll attract negative, and that can drag you down. Warning!  Don’t spend too much time thinking about circumstances you can’t control. If a new school opens across the street, there’s nothing you can do about it. You can, however, control your attitude. When a new tang soo do school opened near my school, I used it as inspiration to create new window posters and spruce up the lobby. It also motivated me to be a better teacher. It’s all about the silver lining. SPREAD A POSITIVE ATTITUDE to those around you.  One way is to make an effort to be in a good mood and say things out loud that are positive. Also, avoid complaining about personal problems or life in general when your students or their parents are around. Once, I was talking about this very subject on the phone with Dr. Jerry Beasley of AIKIA. He advised me to reply to how-are-you-doing questions with “I’m happy, healthy and terrific.” I’ve been doing that for years — no matter how I feel — because it makes me feel good and never brings others down. ORGANIZE SPECIAL EVENTS at your school to spice up the routine.  For instance, hold day camps during spring break or summer vacation. Conduct training seminars and workshops. Find a guest instructor who will be a good fit with your art. Conduct an occasional tournament at your school and keep it fun and friendly. Warning!  Limit the number of events you have throughout the year, or you’ll wear out and de-motivate your staff. If an event won’t benefit you or your school, don’t hold it. I decided to stop doing day camps because they were harming a few student-instructor relationships, and the breakdown found its way into regular classes. On the other hand, a friend of mine named John Lipari runs day camps at his schools in New York and California, and he’s been doing them with no issues for more than 25 years. FINALLY, ADD SOMETHING to your own training plan.  A handful of my senior students and I started doing the traditional Japanese art of kenjutsu a couple of years ago. We found that adding to our skill set was motivational, and it has spilled over to our students — including those who will need to wait for some time before they’re invited to join us.

Mike Tyson is famous for saying, “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” Think what you want about the former heavyweight boxing champ, but there’s deep wisdom in his words. That wisdom happens to be the reason martial arts instructors so often remind their students about the necessity of having a backup plan. The logic applies whether you’re engaging in a friendly sparring session in the dojo or fighting full contact in the ring. Or battling for your life on the street. Suffice it to say that you should strive to have a Plan B for many, if not all, of your go-to techniques. In other words, you should have a concrete idea of what you’ll do if you take your best shot and for some reason it misses the mark. Ideally, you also will have practiced doing those Plan B moves in a relevant context. Ricardo Liborio has a sixth-degree black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, as well as a black belt in judo. The co-founder and former coach of American Top Team, as well as founder of Brazilian Top Team, he’s a big believer in backup plans in your BJJ strategy. He teaches his advanced students about the importance of this, and he recently collaborated with Black Belt to produce this piece to spread the word. Being a grappler at heart, Liborio, 50, shows in the accompanying photos examples of how he might react if a choke attempt goes south. However, the principles he demonstrates and the words he speaks apply to all martial arts techniques. Conceptualization Think of a physical encounter in which you pit your skills against those of another person as a chess match, Liborio says. Sure, you can play moment by moment, evaluating the board afresh after every move your adversary makes. But that’s for beginners. Advanced competitors use strategy. “You have to think a couple of moves ahead of your opponent,” Liborio says. “That’s how you account for the unexpected and gain the advantage. The best way to guarantee your victory is to make sure you have options and be ready to use them.” Makes perfect sense. But if you’re new to your art — say, you’re a white belt who’s still fine-tuning his or her basic techniques — is that a viable path to follow in the dojo? “In general, white belts aren’t skilled enough to think that way yet,” Liborio says. “If they barely know the techniques, it would be asking too much of them to plan two or three moves ahead. It takes an experienced martial artist to keep their cool and see positions and opportunities when they come. They have to know the basic skills by heart and be able to use them without too much thought.” Another complication arises from the effects that stress has on the human body, Liborio says. “Stress can blur your ‘vision’ of whether a technique will function in a given situation. The more stress you feel, the worse it is. You have to maintain a certain cool to see an opening for a backup move, and that happens only with experience, with training and drilling, with time spent imagining which situations could happen if you try a specific technique and then getting on the mat to find out if you were right.” The challenge is similar — and perhaps worse — in self-defense, he says. “Very few people who haven’t trained extensively in martial arts would be able to do this on the street. For the untrained or those who have just trained a little, self-defense is never as straightforward as they imagine because the techniques they end up trying don’t always work. And that brings us back to the importance of having a backup plan.” Implementation The best way for anyone below the rank of black belt to overcome the aforementioned obstacles is to train with a clear focus on the fundamental techniques of his or her art, Liborio says. “That means repeating the basic moves that are known to happen a lot in the type of fights you’re preparing for. Those moves have to be in your muscle memory. That’s your No. 1 priority.” After that, start adding a second movement and then a third movement that you might be able to transition to should that initial go-to technique fail, he says. “Practice them in the dojo, paying attention to your actions and your opponent’s reactions. Your goal is to learn how to read the other person, read his movements, read his emotions. “This is how you build up a few ‘choreographies’ in your brain and begin putting them in your muscle memory, too. It’s also how you build the knowledge and skills you need to make them happen and, more importantly, to function the same way in unfamiliar situations. It gives you the ability to pick and choose what you do in a fight. “Here, I have to add that you can have all the skills in the world, but if you’re not physically fit, you’re going to struggle with making this work. That’s especially true when you’re facing someone who’s stronger and/or younger and your first technique doesn’t work. In those cases, you have to win by knowledge and by instinct — but you can’t do that if you’re out of gas.” Escalation To improve your acumen in combat, you’ll eventually want to use trickery. “At higher levels in the martial arts, you need to play games with your opponent to set things up,” Liborio says. “Maybe you need to attack an arm to get his neck. Maybe you attack his neck to get an arm. Maybe you attack both at the same time — whatever chance you have, take it. “But to be successful at that, it all has to be structured in your mind. That means you must be prepared. You need to have a good comprehension of the moves and positions so you know which techniques can work together. And for that, you need to do what your instructor or coach says.” To illustrate his point, Liborio cites one of the martial arts–related pitfalls of training in the information age: “We live in a time when people can get as much knowledge as they want for free. You can go to YouTube and learn how to do a flying armbar before you can even do an armbar. But you’re not going to understand the concepts behind the technique. “There’s a reason for the progression that martial arts instructors use. I see this sometimes when I teach guys who are at the highest levels. They don’t think they have time to learn the concepts, but that’s the wrong approach. The coach has to take the time to make sure they understand the concepts. It’s important for them to go deep inside how everything works.” Example: If you go for a triangle choke and your opponent blocks the attempt, it’s your deep knowledge of the concepts behind the technique that will tell you how easy it might be to transition to an armbar from that position. “There are so many setups like that you have to think about to get ready for fighting,” Liborio says. “You have to fundamentally know the transitions between the technique that fails and what you can do as a follow-up, and you have to know how to make that transition as fast as possible.” Mitigation Equally important in any give-and-take encounter is damage control, Liborio says. “You need to know how to react if your first technique does not work and you’re unable to make a second technique work for whatever reason. The worst thing that can happen is you lose position. Much better is getting into a neutral position.” If possible, avoid giving up on a technique unless you have an advantage over your opponent with respect to position, he says. “When you know you have an advantage, don’t spend too much time trying to make a technique work. Instead, let it go and immediately go to your backup plan.” The take-away here is that with proper training and experience, you will have options if your primary move fails, Liborio says. “There’s always something you can do to win. If you’ve already seen the opening, do it. If it requires a setup, you’ll have to do that. Not as good is a situation in which you have to discover what your best option is. If necessary, you go back to a neutral position. That’s how your mind should work. “Carlson Gracie used to tell us, ‘You don’t give up position unless you know exactly where you’re going.’ When you need a second technique in a fight, you have to know where you’re going, and you have to have a sense of urgency.” PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORY SORENSEN

In 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry sailed into Edo harbor (now Tokyo) with four steam-powered warships. The United States was on a mission to open Japan to the outside world, and the arrival of this fleet caused chaos to erupt. It continued until the following year when Perry returned, and a reluctant compromise was reached between East and West. Perry's steamships offered indisputable proof of how far the rest of the world had progressed while Japan had hibernated under two and a half centuries of Tokugawa control. It became apparent that the island nation could no longer live in relative isolation as it had since the 1600s. The resulting Treaty of Kanagawa forced open the door to Japan while closing the doors to the Tokugawa. The rejection of feudalism gained momentum in 1865, and a faction of forward-thinking Japanese sought to restore the Emperor as the supreme ruler. In 1868, the young Emperor Meiji found himself back in power, facing the arduous task of helping his country catch up with the world. Emerging from its futile cocoon, Japan began to metamorphose into a modern nation. However, this transformation did not happen smoothly. The old ways had to be discarded, and new Western methods adopted. Before, the Shogun reigned supreme, and his daimyo controlled the fiefdoms, with samurai maintaining order among merchants and shop owners. Now, the samurai class would be abolished; no longer could they carry two swords or wear a topknot in public. The last Shogun stepped down, and those changes precipitated regional wars across Japan. The movie The Last Samurai  is a good depiction of this era of turmoil. No Need for Martial Arts? Despite the difficulties, Emperor Meiji stayed the course and continued to introduce ideas from the West to infuse new life into ancient Japan. To bolster his reign, he conscripted the first modern national army. To more efficiently mobilize troops, as well as to improve commerce and build infrastructure, he had the first national railroad system constructed. To promote the advantages of these new ways, he encouraged newspapers to publish. Another of his priorities was improving public education to ensure future generations of knowledgeable citizens. Up to this point, only the wealthy could afford an education in the classics; now, everyone would be able to obtain at least a high school diploma. During this upheaval, martial arts were being tossed aside. The rationale was that who needed knives, lances, sickles, arrows, and swords when rifles, grenades, and bombs could ruin the enemy’s day on the battlefield? Many arts were regarded as having outlived their usefulness. Kenjutsu, jujutsu, bojutsu, and other systems, while not outlawed, waned in popularity. Ultimately, however, the martial arts that were to be discarded came to be regarded as integral parts of the new education system—thanks to the efforts of one man. He was trained in the Chinese classics, as well as in a Western education. He studied philosophy, political science, and English before graduating from what would become Tokyo University. Outside college, he took up jujitsu to compensate for his small frame, quick temper, and larger adversaries. After graduation, he accepted teaching positions, first at Gakushuin University and then at a school for the children of the upper class. Later, he became president of a teacher's college. As his career progressed, he continued to practice jiu-jitsu. He polished his skills to such a degree that he was recruited to demonstrate for U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant and other dignitaries. Perhaps just as important as his ability in jujitsu was his proficiency in English, which paid off when, because of his political context in Japanese society and growing connections with the Western world, he was invited to social functions where ideas were discussed by exponents from around the globe. He would later use those ideas to reshape Japanese society. The man in question, of course, is Jigoro Kano —philosopher, statesman, educator, innovator, Judo founder, and the man who saved the martial arts of Japan from extinction. This was possible because Kano understood that the arts represent more than just means of overcoming an adversary; they are ways to foster better human beings. Value of Games One of the reasons the martial arts enjoy their current position in society is that Kano's command of English enabled him to glean important concepts from Great Britain and the United States. In fact, he used those concepts to mold Japan's physical education model. A crucial part of this effort was acknowledging the role that games play in society. In Great Britain, it was long known that games helped prepare a country for conflict, and a bit of tweaking for added safety could physically train participants for the defense of the state. This line of thinking dates back to the Middle Ages, when knights engaged in sword contests and jousting. In more recent times, the Duke of Wellington is remembered for saying, “The Battle of Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton." What are some of the qualities you can find on the playing field or, in our case, in the dojo? The cultivation of the drive to prevail over an adversary or situation. The development of the capacity to strategize to enhance performance. The knowledge that the body can be trained to meet practically any demand. No one in Japan understood this better than Kano. It's what prompted him to state, “The body is the instrument for the purpose of life, without which we have nothing." Adaptations for Modern Society Kano believed that the inherent positive qualities of Japanese martial arts should be preserved in the new education system. However, to do so, he had to make the martial arts palatable to the government and the public. First, he had to make practice safe; then, he had to demonstrate those positive qualities. With his beloved sport of Judo, Kano excluded dangerous techniques such as leg locks and strikes that could permanently damage participants who lacked control. In this way, he was formulating the rules of conduct for sports—badly needed because the concept of organized sports was mostly foreign to Japan. It was certainly foreign to jujitsu, in which a match was expected to continue until one person was put down. Kano was also instrumental in developing the Judo gi. Before he came along, ordinary Japanese kimonos were worn, but they tore regularly. The Judo gi most likely was born out of Kano’s preference for randori over kata and the need to deal with the stresses clothing endured. Knowing that tougher material must exist, he turned to the thick woven happi coats that Japanese firemen wore. With the adoption of the Judo gi, there emerged a sense of uniformity and military order, both of which were accepted by the modernizing nation. Traditionally in Japan, happi coats were worn loose. Kano set out to change that, too. Before the introduction of the belts he envisioned, the Japanese martial arts used the menkyosho system—written letters of recognition indicating students had reached a certain level of expertise. The documents were signed and dated by the instructor. The problem was that teachers rarely offered these letters to their students, and there were no other incentives or markers distinguishing beginners from experts. Kano divided practitioners into two levels: beginners with a white belt and advanced practitioners with a black belt. Later, he established five dan levels for black belts and divided the beginner stage into six levels called kyu, half of which were associated with a brown belt. More Than Physical Practitioners of other arts know Kano because of those belts; practitioners of Judo know him because of his maxims. Three of the most popular are jiko no kansei (self-perfection), jita kyoe (mutual welfare and benefit), and seiryoku zenryo (maximum efficiency with minimum effort). These qualities fostered through Judo training are not only essential to the sport but also transferable to daily life, helping to make society a better place. Moreover, the maxims emphasize the new purpose and goals of what was once traditional jujitsu. Self-perfection : In Judo, this is evident whenever you try to improve a technique. You quickly learn that there are degrees of self-perfection, which are different for everyone and even for the same person at different times. Throwing a cooperating opponent is quite different from throwing a resisting opponent, and both are different from throwing a world-class athlete in the Olympics. When done to its highest form, each can be labeled as perfection; they differ because of circumstances. The important thing is to strive to attain that perfection at whatever level you aspire to reach. Mutual welfare and benefit : You cannot learn Judo without a partner, whether the partner is cooperative or not. There is mutual welfare even when the opponent is competing against you. If you lose, there is benefit from experiencing the mistake. This parallels life, where none of us is alone; we must interact with other people all the time. Maximum efficiency with minimum effort : This can be found in almost every Judo throw. Even against an unwilling opponent, you might find yourself saying, “That seemed like I used no effort at all.” This happens when all your body parts are in alignment at the right time while your opponent's body parts are not. To understand the deeper meaning of these maxims requires effort, practice, willpower, discipline, and help from others. The important thing is that they demonstrate principles that apply to life and not just to Judo. As such, they help build better citizens and a better society—which was precisely what Kano envisioned. Spread Around the World Although we are fortunate to have been born in an age of sporting events and martial arts, this was not always the case. It wasn't until the mid to late 1800s that many of the sports we love—including baseball, football, softball, basketball, and volleyball—were created. This was also the age of physical education in America, a time when movers and shakers at universities began to convey the importance of physical culture. In Japan, Kano not only encouraged the incorporation of Judo, Kendo, and other martial arts into the Japanese education system but also argued for the adoption of Western sports as a means of inculcating positive qualities. His efforts earned him the title of “father of modern sports” in Japan. He later became the first Asian representative to the International Olympic Committee. We owe a debt of gratitude to Kano for saving Japan's martial arts legacy by transforming the bujutsu (martial arts) into the budo (martial ways), thus sparing all the ancient fighting systems from the Meiji chopping block. As with modern sports, the budo survived because they reinforced the positive aspects of physical activities—qualities that translate into improved lives and improved societies, rather than merely what's needed to prevail in battle. The martial ways serve as a microcosm in which we learn and train to be better people than we would have been had we not taken the martial path. Positive qualities are developed more efficiently because there's a lower risk to the ego when mistakes are made in a game, as opposed to when mistakes are made in real life. In the hearts of many, this is reflected in the bowing we do in Judo. Bowing is about demonstrating respect. It's done customarily in Japan when meeting or greeting others, but also as a show of appreciation. For students of the budo, it's an acknowledgment of the gratitude they feel toward their instructor, their dojo, and sometimes even the founder of their art—a man without whose contributions the martial ways likely would not exist.

Why now and why the return? The decision to return to print for Black Belt Magazine was made after careful consideration and consultation with prominent martial artists and industry leaders from both the business world and the martial arts world. As someone who has always focused on moving forward, I questioned how to revitalize a medium that some view as outdated. The answer became clear: by creating content that is important, evergreen and perpetually relevant. Our overarching goal is to expand the publication's reach in the digital realm. However, we also heard the desire for a tangible physical copy—something readers can collect, feel, and own. This sentiment reflects a wish to possess a piece of history rather than just a fleeting digital memory. We are committed to honoring this feedback as we continue to build and enhance our legacy. To achieve this, our focus will remain steadfast on covering the biggest stars, influencers, and legends in martial arts. This was why we loved Black Belt, as it introduced us to masters and stars beyond our dojo. We aim to provide our readers with access to these icons, sharing their ideas and lives while inspiring a new generation of martial artists to take pride in the legacy they are a part of. Our coverage will stand on four pillars: Entertainment Sport Training Master Profiles Entertainment will spotlight the vibrant world of martial arts in film and television. We’ll feature legacy stars and legends like Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. Alongside contemporary superstars such as Jackie Chan, Jet Li, Jean Claude Van Damme, Cynthia Rothrock, Michael Jai White, Scott Adkins and Donnie Yen. We'll also celebrate emerging talents like Iko Uwais and the recent resurgence of Ke Huy Quan, as well as visionary directors and stunt coordinators like David Leitch, J.J. Perry, and Jon Valera. Sport coverage will provide up-to-the-minute coverage of MMA and traditional martial arts, from the UFC to the IJF. Black Belt will be ringside, delivering unbiased coverage of fights and fighters, including current stars like Islam Makhachev, Kayla Harrison, and Valentina Shevchenko and GOATS like Randy Couture and Chuck Liddell. We’ll also pay tribute to the legends of the sport, such as Mike Stone, Bill Wallace, Jeff Smith, Benny Urquidez and Ron Van Clief. Training will encompass a wide range of styles, emphasizing a return to Budo—the traditional principles of martial arts that stress respect, discipline, and the often-overlooked art of self-defense. Our focus will include traditional arts from Brazil, China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, and Thailand, addressing self-defense techniques and mind-body training for optimal performance. We’ll also feature insights from modern combative experts like Jared Wihongi, Graciela Casillas, Tim Kennedy, Olivier Gruner, and Kelly McCann. Finally, if training is the heart of the magazine, then Master Profiles will be its soul. We’ll showcase both legendary figures and rising stars in our industry, from Mas Oyama and Ed Parker to contemporary masters like Burt Richardson, Apolo Ladra, Harinder Singh and David Kovar—those leading the charge in dojos and communities worldwide. "We are thrilled to expand the magazine into new media frontiers and hope our journey continues to motivate and inspire you on your martial arts path. My promise is straightforward: to showcase the best in the field while honoring the greatest decision we've ever made—to learn the martial arts."

Believe it or not, you can access a treasure trove of free classic martial arts films without spending a dime!  Black Belt Magazine's YouTube channel is a goldmine for action movie fans, offering a diverse collection of kung fu flicks, blaxploitation gems, and pulse-pounding 80s action. Ready to dive into a world of high-flying kicks and bone-crunching punches?  Here's a taste of what awaits you: Classic Kung Fu & Action The Screaming Tiger (1972) Witness Jimmy Wang Yu unleash his fury in this classic tale of revenge! When his village is brutally attacked by the Japanese, a skilled martial artist embarks on a bloody quest for vengeance. Expect intense fight choreography and a gripping storyline. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IE819hj6b94 Fighting Ace (1979) John Liu stars in this action-packed story of a young man who conceals his kung fu skills to avenge his parents' murder. Get ready for explosive fight scenes and a plot filled with twists and turns. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Sb9LxHzE7w&t=3s Fight To Win (1987) Cynthia Rothrock showcases her incredible talent in this high-octane film about a group of martial artists battling over ancient Chinese statues. Expect fierce competition, impressive stunts, and Rothrock's signature blend of beauty and badassery. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ti5zB0qN-rM&t=1s L.A. Streetfighters (1985) Phillip Rhee shines in this coming-of-age story about a Korean immigrant who faces challenges when he refuses to join a gang. This film delivers hard-hitting action and a powerful message about staying true to yourself. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktVs0bQXqcs Enter The Game Of Death (1978) Bruce Le takes center stage in this thrilling espionage film set against the backdrop of World War II. Watch as he fights his way through a six-floor tower to retrieve a secret document. This movie is a must-see for fans of classic kung fu cinema. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIFrU1gva64&t=137s Blaxploitation & Urban Action Killpoint (1984) Leo Fong and Richard Roundtree team up in this gritty action thriller about an L.A. cop seeking revenge for his wife's murder. Expect intense shootouts, brutal fight scenes, and a classic blaxploitation vibe. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SyD6B1WPLE&t=2616s Get Christie Love! (1974) Teresa Graves stars as a beautiful undercover policewoman determined to bring down a drug ring. This film is a blaxploitation classic with a strong female lead and plenty of action. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E7wUEra6Cs&t=1s 80s Action Heroes Scorpion (1986) An American spy finds himself protecting an international terrorist in this high-stakes action thriller. Expect explosive action, unexpected twists, and a classic 80s aesthetic. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6MYiOhF-Fo&t=2s Nine Deaths Of The Ninja (1985) Sho Kosugi leads the charge in this action-packed film about anti-terrorist agents rescuing hostages from a ruthless group. Get ready for ninja battles, intense shootouts, and classic 80s action. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1murLB83K0I Death Machines (1976) Three martial artists are transformed into zombie-like assassins in this cult classic. Expect over-the-top action, bizarre plot twists, and a healthy dose of 70s cheese. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgxDbSpBals&t=135s Return Fire: Jungle Wolf 2 (1988) Ron Marchini returns as Steve Parrish in this action-packed sequel. This time, he must rescue his son from a ruthless gang boss. Expect non-stop action, cheesy one-liners, and a healthy dose of 80s nostalgia. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLpSSKw0JYY&t=149s The Black Cobra (1987) Fred Williamson stars in this gritty action film about a cop protecting a photographer from a gang of psychopathic bikers. Expect intense fight scenes, high-speed chases, and Williamson's signature brand of badassery. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwwWVA7W-68&t=10s Martial Arts Mayhem Karate Cop (1991) Ron Marchini stars as the last honest cop in a dystopian future ruled by martial arts gangs. This film is a blend of action and sci-fi, with plenty of martial arts mayhem. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qmjJpoBW_4 Karate Raider (1995) Ron Marchini is back in action as Jake Turner, who must rescue a DEA agent from a drug lord in the Colombian jungle. Expect intense fight scenes, exotic locations, and a classic action hero storyline. Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9KXsGO3EvE Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to watch these martial arts movies for free!  Head over to Black Belt Magazine's YouTube channel and get your action fix today! New Movies streamed every weekend!!

The Las Vegas World Judo Championships Veterans 2024 kicked off with a spirited first day, celebrating the achievements of male judokas across four different age categories: M6 (55-59 years), M7 (60-64 years), M8 (65-69 years), and M9 (70+ years). These athletes, representing 17 countries, came together for a thrilling day centered on performance, respect, and camaraderie. In the M7, M8, and M9 categories, competition rules were adapted to prioritize safety, with shime-waza techniques restricted and shorter match durations. But make no mistake — age hasn’t dulled the drive of these seasoned competitors. Each judoka displayed an undying commitment to victory, all while upholding judo's core values of respect for opponents, referees, and the sport itself. The day was filled with emotional moments, with families cheering on the athletes from the sidelines. "Come on, Daddy!" echoed from the crowd, a testament to the unique family-oriented atmosphere that characterizes veteran judo events. The spirit of judo was further exemplified by competitors who, after their matches, donned coaching jackets to support their teammates — embodying the spirit of mutual prosperity envisioned by judo founder Jigoro Kano. Among the victorious athletes, judokas from countries like Mongolia, Japan, USA, Kazakhstan, and France stood out, reaching the highest step of the podium and earning admiration from all. These veteran champions, many of whom have graced the sport for decades, continue to inspire both on and off the mat. Highlighting the day’s celebration was a tribute by the IJF Veterans Commission to athletes who have won the championships ten times or more. Legends like Sandy North (USA), Hendrik Koppe (Netherlands), and Farhad Rajabli (Azerbaijan) were honored, reminding the world that judo is a lifelong passion and a beacon of resilience. As the championships unfold, the Las Vegas World Judo Championships Veterans 2024 prove that age is no barrier to fierce competition, lifelong friendships, and a legacy that inspires society at large. For more news visit.. https://www.ijf.org/news/show/5578 All Photos via ijf.org

On November 9, 2024, Carlos Prates will step into the Octagon for the most significant fight of his life: a main event showdown with UFC veteran Neil Magny at UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Prates, who debuted with the UFC just nine months ago, has had an incredible journey so far, marked by rapid success and remarkable humility. Now, he faces the ultimate test against Magny, a seasoned fighter with a record-breaking number of fights and wins in the UFC’s welterweight division. From Humble Beginnings to UFC Stardom Prates’ journey to the UFC has been nothing short of a dream. Signed after a spectacular performance on Dana White’s Contender Series  in 2023, where he showcased his striking prowess by knocking out Mitch Ramirez, Prates quickly became a name to watch. UFC CEO Dana White himself compared Prates to a young Anderson Silva, igniting excitement for the rising Brazilian talent. Since then, Prates has delivered on that promise with electrifying knockouts over Trevin Giles, Charles Radtke, and Li Jingliang, each of which earned him Performance of the Night honors and put him on a fast track to this main event clash with Magny. Despite his meteoric rise, Prates remains grounded. “Being in the UFC doesn’t dazzle me,” he shared in a recent interview. “I’m grateful that life took me to the world’s greatest organization, but if that hadn’t happened, I would still be a happy man.” He emphasizes that his earnings and success are more for supporting his loved ones than personal gain, saying, “The money I make is to help everyone who has helped me get to where I am.” The Challenge of a Lifetime: Facing Neil Magny Standing across from him on November 9 will be Neil Magny, one of the most experienced fighters in the UFC. Known for his grappling prowess and resilience, Magny has shared the Octagon with some of the sport’s biggest names, including Demian Maia, Rafael Dos Anjos, Carlos Condit, and Robbie Lawler. Prates recognizes the challenge but remains confident. “I respect him a lot,” he said of Magny. “But when we step inside the Octagon, it’s just business. I see myself finishing him in the third or fourth round.” This fight presents a unique test for Prates, who has predominantly relied on his Muay Thai background to secure early finishes. However, against a grappling-oriented opponent like Magny, Prates anticipates a more strategic battle that will demand patience and endurance over five rounds. “Training for this one has been different,” Prates explained, noting the shift to five-round conditioning. “I’m a jiu-jitsu black belt, but in MMA, I prefer striking because it’s the fastest way to end a fight.” A Family Man at Heart Outside the Octagon, Prates is motivated by his role as a father. His recent fight in Perth for UFC 305 allowed him precious time with his daughter, who lives in Australia. Now, with UFC set to return to Australia in February 2025, Prates hopes to secure another fight Down Under and reconnect with his daughter. “My daughter is there, and I want to fight there again,” he shared. “She took me to see kangaroos, and we had an amazing 10 days together. I want to go back, and now it’s in Sydney, which is exactly where my daughter lives.” Though his focus is firmly on his upcoming fight with Magny, Prates can’t help but look forward to this potential family reunion in Sydney. What’s Next for Prates? With 26 pro fights under his belt and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Prates aims to make a statement in his first UFC main event. Victory over Magny would undoubtedly propel him into the UFC’s official welterweight rankings, a milestone he is eager to achieve as he solidifies his place among the sport’s elite. The fight promises fireworks, with Prates’ explosive striking clashing against Magny’s gritty grappling game. Will Carlos Prates continue his astonishing rise with another highlight-reel finish, or will Neil Magny’s experience prove too much? Tune in to UFC Apex on November 9, 2024, to witness this epic main event showdown live on ESPN+.

In the world of combat sports, the emphasis is often on hard training, endurance, and mental toughness. However, a critical yet frequently underestimated element is recovery. For combat athletes, recovery is not just about rest; it’s an essential process that allows the body to repair, build strength, and ultimately improve performance. Failing to prfioritize recovery can lead to injuries, burnout, and a decline in competitive edge. Why Recovery is Essential for Combat Athletes Prevents Injuries and Supports Longevity Recovery helps prevent overuse injuries, which are common in combat sports due to repetitive and intense movements. By giving the muscles, joints, and ligaments time to heal, athletes are less likely to suffer from injuries that could sideline them. Regular recovery practices like stretching, foam rolling, and rest days improve flexibility and muscle resilience, contributing to a longer, more successful career. Enhances Muscle Growth and Repair During training, muscles undergo microscopic damage, which is essential for growth but also requires proper recovery. When athletes allow adequate recovery time, the body can repair and strengthen these muscle fibers, leading to improved performance and greater muscle mass. Recovery also promotes the release of growth hormone, which is crucial for building lean muscle and reducing fat—a combination that boosts power and endurance in combat sports. Boosts Mental Sharpness and Resilience Combat sports demand high levels of mental focus and discipline. Recovery plays a vital role in cognitive performance, helping athletes maintain mental clarity, emotional stability, and resilience. Activities like meditation, visualization, and mental relaxation are key aspects of recovery, aiding athletes in staying composed under pressure and focused during competitions. Balances Hormones and Reduces Fatigue High-intensity training can lead to hormonal imbalances, causing fatigue, irritability, and even reduced immune function. Recovery helps stabilize stress hormones like cortisol and promotes the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, which reduce stress and enhance mood. Combat athletes who prioritise recovery experience more balanced energy levels, improved sleep, and reduced symptoms of burnout. Types of Recovery: Finding the Right Balance Active Recovery Light exercises, such as jogging, yoga, or swimming, improve blood circulation and help reduce lactic acid buildup, accelerating muscle recovery. Active recovery is particularly beneficial after high-intensity workouts, as it allows athletes to stay active without the strain of rigorous training. Sleep: The Ultimate Recovery Tool Sleep is essential for physical and mental restoration. During deep sleep, the body repairs muscle tissue, strengthens the immune system, and processes information. Combat athletes who consistently get 7-9 hours of quality sleep have sharper reflexes, better decision-making skills, and stronger immune systems, all of which contribute to superior performance. Hydration and Nutrition for Recovery Replenishing nutrients and fluids post-training is essential for recovery. Proper hydration helps prevent muscle cramps, and nutrient-dense meals with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats support muscle repair and energy restoration. Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, help reduce inflammation, while protein helps rebuild muscle tissue. Massage and Foam Rolling Massage therapy and foam rolling help release muscle tension, improve blood flow, and speed up recovery. Regular sessions can reduce muscle soreness and improve flexibility, which is essential for the fluid, agile movements needed in combat sports. Foam rolling between training sessions helps athletes avoid stiffness and maintain flexibility, making every workout more productive. Cold Therapy and Heat Therapy Ice baths, cold showers, and cryotherapy are popular for reducing inflammation and alleviating muscle soreness. Conversely, heat therapy helps relax muscles, reduce stiffness, and increase circulation. Alternating between cold and heat therapy can improve circulation and accelerate recovery, helping combat athletes feel more energised. Long-Term Benefits of Prioritising Recovery Increased Endurance and Stamina By balancing training intensity with recovery, athletes can build stamina and improve endurance without overloading their bodies. This combination allows fighters to perform at a high level for extended periods, enhancing their ability to endure long matches without losing strength or focus. Faster Adaptation and Skill Progression Regular recovery enhances the body's ability to adapt to increased training loads and absorb new skills. As the body heals and builds strength, athletes experience improved agility, flexibility, and strength, allowing them to master techniques faster and compete more effectively. Sustained Motivation and Focus Athletes who integrate recovery into their routine experience reduced mental and physical burnout, enabling them to train consistently and with greater intensity. Consistent recovery fosters a healthy balance between pushing limits and staying energised, which keeps athletes motivated and invested in their growth over time. Practical Tips for Building a Recovery Routine Plan Rest Days : Schedule at least one rest day per week, focusing on activities like stretching, light walks, or gentle yoga. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene : Set a consistent sleep schedule, minimize screen time before bed, and create a relaxing pre-sleep routine. Incorporate Stretching : Spend 10–15 minutes after training sessions stretching to improve flexibility and release tension in key muscle groups. Listen to Your Body : Pay attention to signs of fatigue or soreness. If you’re feeling overly drained, scale back training intensity and focus on rest. Recovery as the Key to Competitive Success For combat athletes, recovery is more than a break—it’s a fundamental part of their training strategy. By embracing a structured recovery plan, fighters can achieve optimal physical and mental performance, stay injury-free, and maintain long-term success. Recovery isn’t a luxury; it’s the secret weapon that allows athletes to train harder, fight smarter, and become the best versions of themselves in the ring and beyond.

The cover of the Spring 1977 issue of Fighting Stars  showcased the legendary Bruce Lee, poised for action. Known for his lightning-fast strikes and innovative approach to training, Bruce Lee truly made a significant impact on the world. With Lee's artistry establishing him as a legendary figure both on and off the screen, it's no wonder his presence can still be felt decades after his passing. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

The UFC flyweight division heats up this Saturday as former champion Brandon Moreno takes on rising star Amir Albazi in a high-stakes showdown at UFC Edmonton. Scheduled for November 2, 2024, at Rogers Place, the event promises intense action as both fighters vie to cement their standings in one of the UFC’s most competitive divisions. Here’s a breakdown of the main event - Brandon Moreno vs. Amir Albazi, the journey leading up to it, and what fans can expect when these two electrifying flyweights collide. The Build-Up: How We Got Here Brandon Moreno, known for his relentless pace and dynamic skill set, reigned as the UFC Flyweight Champion before his rivalry with Deiveson Figueiredo took him on a roller-coaster journey of title defenses and rematches. Moreno has showcased resilience, bouncing back from his ups and downs with an impressive record, making him one of the division's most respected fighters. After losing the title, he’s been on a mission to climb his way back to the top, securing wins over top contenders and proving his mettle once again. On the other hand, Amir Albazi has been steadily rising, making waves with his powerful grappling and calculated striking. Undefeated in his last five outings, Albazi has earned his spot in the upper ranks of the division with strategic wins and a rapidly growing fanbase. Known for his ability to adapt and neutralize opponents’ strengths, Albazi’s journey from a prospect to a main event fighter speaks volumes about his skill and dedication. This main event was set in motion after Moreno’s decisive win over Kai Kara-France, while Albazi’s recent victory over top contender Alex Perez solidified his position as a worthy challenger. With both fighters riding high on recent wins, the stage is set for a showdown that could determine the next in line for a title shot. The Fighters’ Backgrounds: Strengths and Skills Brandon Moreno  is a well-rounded fighter with a knack for adapting in the cage. His striking is precise, and his grappling is slick, often luring opponents into submission attempts from positions they thought were safe. Moreno’s experience as a former champion gives him an edge in high-pressure situations, making him a formidable opponent for any flyweight. Known for his tenacity and cardio, Moreno rarely tires, which could give him the upper hand in a five-round battle. Amir Albazi , meanwhile, brings a grappling-heavy approach and a laser focus in the cage. He’s known for his smooth transitions on the ground and has a habit of taking control from the get-go, dictating the pace with effective takedowns and relentless pressure. Albazi’s striking has improved considerably, allowing him to stand toe-to-toe with strikers and find openings to transition into his grappling game. His adaptability and mental toughness will be essential in facing a seasoned opponent like Moreno. What to Expect on Fight Night Fans can anticipate a technical clash between Moreno’s precision striking and Albazi’s aggressive grappling. Moreno’s experience and well-rounded skill set may give him an edge in prolonged exchanges, but Albazi’s grappling could become a serious threat if he manages to take the fight to the ground. The five-round main event format will test both fighters' endurance, adding another layer of excitement. Keys to Victory : Moreno : For Moreno, keeping the fight on the feet and using his striking to wear down Albazi will be crucial. His ability to stuff takedowns and create openings with combinations could frustrate Albazi and lead him to make mistakes. Albazi : Albazi will look to close the distance early and test Moreno’s takedown defense. His control on the mat could be a game-changer if he manages to trap Moreno in uncomfortable positions and keep him guessing. Prediction: Will Experience or Rising Momentum Prevail? This is a fight that has all the makings of a classic – the seasoned former champion versus the hungry up-and-comer. Moreno’s experience in title fights may give him the composure to handle Albazi’s relentless pressure, but Albazi’s determination and recent form make him a live underdog. Expect a competitive battle where both fighters leave everything in the Octagon. Will Moreno’s experience and tenacity prove too much, or will Albazi’s grappling prowess and drive for the title push him to a career-defining win? Tune in this Saturday to witness the answer as two flyweight titans clash in Edmonton’s Rogers Place for what promises to be an unforgettable main event.

Get ready for an action-packed night as UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Albazi comes to Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, on November 2, 2024 ! Fans worldwide can catch the showdown live on ESPN+, with a headlining Flyweight title clash between Brandon Moreno  and Amir Albazi  that promises high-octane action. From the thrilling female Flyweight co-main event featuring Rose Namajunas  and rising star Erin Blanchfield  to a series of heavyweight battles on the main card, this fight night is stacked with dynamic matchups and explosive bouts. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of each fight! Main Event: Flyweight Bout – Brandon Moreno vs. Amir Albazi The main event sees Brandon Moreno , former Flyweight champion and fan favorite, take on Amir Albazi , an emerging contender known for his grappling finesse. Moreno’s striking and Albazi’s grappling set up a classic clash of styles. Can Moreno reclaim his throne, or will Albazi’s ground game secure his spot among the Flyweight elite? Co-Main Event: Flyweight Female Bout – Rose Namajunas vs. Erin Blanchfield Former Strawweight queen Rose Namajunas  steps up to face Erin Blanchfield  in the Flyweight division. Namajunas brings her elite striking and championship experience against Blanchfield’s relentless pace and ground control. This bout will either showcase Namajunas’s adaptability or solidify Blanchfield’s claim to the Flyweight elite. Main Card Heavyweight: Derrick Lewis vs. Jhonata Diniz Heavyweight knockout artist Derrick Lewis  meets Jhonata Diniz  in a fight that likely won’t go the distance. Known for his one-punch power, Lewis will look to test Diniz’s durability in the Octagon. Diniz, however, is no stranger to striking and could make his mark in this all-action battle. Heavyweight: Caio Machado vs. Brendson Ribeiro Two rising Heavyweight prospects clash as Caio Machado  faces Brendson Ribeiro . Both fighters bring power and grit, making this a battle of who can impose their will first. Machado’s crisp striking may counter Ribeiro’s aggressive approach, promising fans a heated exchange. Middleweight: Marc-André Barriault vs. Dustin Stoltzfus In the Middleweight division, Canada’s own Marc-André Barriault  takes on Dustin Stoltzfus . Known for his durability, Barriault will look to leverage home advantage and his heavy hands. Stoltzfus aims to counter with his grappling skills, setting up a test of endurance and tactics. Welterweight: Mike Malott vs. Trevin Giles Canadian Welterweight Mike Malott  battles Trevin Giles  in a fight that mixes speed with power. Malott’s explosive style and knockout potential will clash with Giles’s composure and technique, promising an exciting matchup that could go either way. Preliminary Card Bantamweight: Aiemann Zahabi vs. Pedro Munhoz Aiemann Zahabi  looks to make his mark in front of a Canadian crowd against Pedro Munhoz , an experienced Bantamweight striker. Zahabi’s balanced skill set faces the challenge of Munhoz’s power, making this an intriguing bout for fans. Flyweight Female: Ariane Lipski vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius Brazilian striker Ariane Lipski  squares off with Canada’s Jasmine Jasudavicius . Lipski’s aggressive stand-up game will meet Jasudavicius’s grappling-heavy approach, adding another layer to this international rivalry. Featherweight: Charles Jourdain vs. Victor Henry Canada’s Charles Jourdain  meets Victor Henry  in a high-energy Featherweight bout. Both fighters bring a go-forward style, promising a crowd-pleasing battle where neither will hold back. Heavyweight: Alexandr Romanov vs. Rodrigo Nascimento Alexandr Romanov  returns to the Octagon against Rodrigo Nascimento  in a clash of Heavyweight powerhouses. With Romanov’s wrestling and Nascimento’s striking, this fight could end in a flash. Bantamweight: Serhiy Sidey vs. Garrett Armfield Canadian Serhiy Sidey  goes up against Garrett Armfield  in a promising Bantamweight matchup. Sidey’s aggressive grappling style faces Armfield’s counterattacking striking game, creating an exciting dynamic for fans. Bantamweight: Chad Anheliger vs. Cody Gibson Chad Anheliger  faces Cody Gibson  in a bout expected to be fast-paced and high-pressure. Anheliger’s determination to break into the upper ranks may clash with Gibson’s unyielding fighting style, making this a battle to watch. Flyweight Female: Jamey-Lyn Horth vs. Ivana Petrović Canada’s Jamey-Lyn Horth  meets Ivana Petrović  in an exciting Flyweight Female bout. Both women bring a relentless pace and will look to gain momentum in a crowded division. Featherweight: Jack Shore vs. Youssef Zalal Jack Shore  faces Youssef Zalal  in a Featherweight bout that promises a blend of tactical prowess and fast exchanges. Both fighters are known for their technical skill, and this matchup is likely to be a fan favorite. This card promises explosive action across all divisions. With Moreno and Albazi  headlining, every bout on this card brings intrigue, national pride, and knockout power! Be sure to tune in for what’s shaping up to be one of the most thrilling fight nights of the year.