Professional Documents
Culture Documents
JUNE 2007
Vol. 33
33 No.
No. 66 £3.50
£3.50
PINK
POWER
Glamour Enters the Dojo!
500 CALORIE WORK-OUT
The perfect calorie burning, kickboxing work-out!
UFC 70 / CAGE RAGE 21
Full reports and photographs inside!!!
BILL ‘SUPERFOOT’ WALLACE
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ell, unless you have been living in an under-
ground bunker you cannot fail to have
noticed that UFC arrived in the UK in April.
The event, in Manchester, went head to head with
Cage Rage 21 in London and it was great to see
that both shows were sell outs, proving just how
buoyant that sector of the market is. Both events
were screened live and we were thrilled to hear
IF YOU
T ONE’S O N U S ! that Cage Rage drew an enormous viewing audi-
Paul Hennesey
N
Julian Dale
IF R
PUBLISHER/MANAGING DIRECTOR
REGULARS Paul Clifton
EDITORIAL TEAM
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38 - DOUBLE IMPACT! Mark John Davies
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50 - MIKE FINN - The choke and strangle. Part 3. Kevin Thompson
Matthew Riches
111 - MARTIAL ARTS CALENDAR
121 - CLUBS DIRECTORY & CLASSIFIEDS SECTION HOW TO GET WORK PUBLISHED
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either on disc (ASCII), typed or on audio tape.
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88 -
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When dirty tricks can pay off!
WIN - A TRIP TO UFC 72 IN BELFAST!!!
UFC 70 - NATIONS COLLIDE
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www.CIMAC.net
94 -
The UFC returns to the UK with a bang!
CAGE RAGE 21 - JUDGEMENT DAY
For All Your
‘The Brits’ upstage ‘The Yanks’ in London! Martial Arts
98 - COMBAT CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2007
Kicking off in Aberdare! Needs
102 - WAKO BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIPS
A weekend never to forget!
106 - CIMAC SUPERLEAGUE
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COMBAT June 2007 Page 5
martial arts
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Grow High Quality Martial Arts Schools MAKING TOP GRADE over the ropes in the process.
With Integrity Not only is 2007 the 40th His fighting uniform consist-
we will show you why we are the highest performing
anniversary of taekwondo in ed of a Superman tee-shirt but
schools in the country
the UK, it is 30 years since the fooling around stopped
Martial Arts Insurance
Group rates available
John Taylor received his first when the fight began. His jabs
degree and opened his first were fast, effective and Jim’s
Courses Available
First Aid Courses, Child Protection Courses,
school in Penarth and 29 head was blocking most of
Health & Safety Courses, Forms & Weapons years since opening his Ely them. Jim managed to grab his
Full Association Support School. With that sort of com- neck and body-dropped him in
and back up services mitment, it’s appropriate that the second, only to have Brian
The Cheapest Billing Rate he also received his 8th degree turn him on the ground. Round
of any other martial arts company this same year, making him the three produced some fierce
Regular National And second highest rank in taek- grappling during which Brian
International Competitions wondo, a feat only achieved by dislocated his thumb. The
With subsidised travel a handful of individuals in agreed to continue the last
Validation Britain (and two of these are in round with just boxing and no
of grades & certificates Wales, look you!). kicking or ground work.
International Squad With more than 34 years His jabs came from all
Training training under his belt, John directions and Jim was
With the countries top competed at all levels and greatly relieved when the bell
martial artist and coaches became a World Champion finally went.
We Cater For before taking over coaching Let that be a lesson to you!
Kickboxing, Thai Boxing, the British team and later, the
Full, Contact Karate,
Karate, Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Do,
Welsh team. BUSHIDO COURSE
Aikido, Judo, Ju Jitsu
John’s promotion was only Bushido Academy of Judo
part of his club’s success recently held a referee/time-
Referees Courses
National and International because he had the pleasure of keeper and recorder examina-
CRB Checks
seeing two of his students - tion and refresher course at
Credit Card facilities Master Gareth Francis and Conah Seghill Judo Club. Sharon May
plus a whole lot more... Curtis Page Prosser - gain their black belt. (4th dan), Barry McSherry (4th
E-mail press@elytkd.co.uk dan) and Chris Dawson (6th
If in doubt, don’t rule us out or visit www.elytkd.co.uk for dan) ran the course, which
information about this estab- resulted in 4 new referees:
call us now on: lished and successful school. Kevin Corden (Seghill), Kris
Tel: 0800 8496334 Anderson (Heaton), John
Mob: 07939 217772 THE FIGHTING GRANDAD Bannister (Cramlington) and
Jim Cockram recently Andrew Yeates (Burradon).
for a free and impartial conversation about claimed that Brian Dossett Brian Batey (Whitley Bay) and
the many services we have to offer, we was old, slow and over- Duncan Stuart (Gosforth) were
look foward to talking with you. weight and should spend his registered as timekeepers and
days in an armchair watching recorders.
old black and white cowboy
films. Brian admitted to being MILLOM SUCCESSES
old but suggested that they Eight children from Millom
both went into training. March Judo Club brought home gold
saw the 67-year-old founder and bronze medals from a
of Spirit Combat returned to major event. They competed
the ring to test himself against against competitors from the
GBM001/01
WAPPETT’S WALLOPERS way allergic to dust mite aller- AMA SENIORS STEP UP! the World Filipino Martial
“Fighting Fit” Martial Arts gens(faecal matter). Plus dust The AMA Technical Arts Federation.
Academy of Bury St Edmunds mite can also be responsible Committee comprises Tom Tactical Knife Fighting
and Thetford recently sent 7 for infantile eczema! Hibbert MBE (soon to celebrate Seminars are planned during
young members and one The traditional way to his 81st birthday!), Vice- 2008 and you can register your
adult to Tolworth Recreation reduce the dust mite has been President Kevin Hamilton- interest or ask questions through
Centre in London for a through hours and hours of Stewart and Vice-President visiting www.MAAI.com.
Martial Arts All- Styles hard work - every week. The Peter Allen (both 6th dans).
(MAAS) Combat Weapons Dust Mite Controller couldn’t Recently they conducted two TEAM GB DOES WELL!
Tournament. Participants were involve less work! Just plug it senior dan grade promotion Britain’s taekwondo team
Ellen Wappett (10), Matt in! The device emits a range examinations held in Bury. The finished third overall at the
Hardy (13), James Wappett of ultrasonic sounds (not two examinees were Terry Dutch Open after securing a
(8), James Burt (12), Ruby heard by humans or pets) Rooke and Martyn Skipper. six-medal haul in Eindhoven.
Wappett (7), Louis Helms (8) that interfere with the feeding Skipper, who lives in Tyrone Robinson, Romaine
and Buster Wappett (5). They and reproductive cycles of the Darwen, Lancashire, began Bailey, Sarah Stevenson, Aaron
were joined by senior student dust mite, reducing the popu- his karate career in South Cooke, Daryl Stokes and
Emma Burge. All fought three lation of the dust mite and the London during 1976. He Bianca Walkden were the
1-minute rounds at Combat allergens produced. now teaches Shukokai with medal winners.
Nunchaku and by the day’s The Dust Mite Controller Andy Allwood (5th dan) in
end, the Fighting Fit team had does not use chemical sub- Bolton and Darwen. CAPITALISING ON THE
collected 9 winner’s trophies stances and it costs just £49.95 Examinees were tested on OLYMPICS
and 2 runner-up cups. This from www.tower-health.co.uk kata, kihon and kumite, as well Sport Taekwondo UK Ltd
was the most trophies won by or 0845-006-6077. as on physical endurance and has appointed Capitalize to set
any one club, so Team Captain makiwara testing. Terry was up and run an international PR
Ellen Wappett received a tro- PROTECT YOUR TEETH! promoted to third dan in campaign and on-event Press
phy and the Overall Club Anyone purchasing a Shotokan and Martyn achieved Office for the WTF World
Winners’ medal. mouth guard should be fourth dan in Shukokai. Terry’s Taekwondo Qualification
Contact Billy Wappett on aware that whilst it might promotion was, many would Tournament in the 2008 Beijing
Bury St Edmunds 0126-476- show a CE mark on the say, long overdue, since he Olympic Games.
9625, e-mail enquiries@ packaging, it is unlikely to had not graded since 1983.
fightingfit.uk.com or visit www. have actually achieved this Martyn passed his Shukokai TAGB - DROITWICH SPA TAGB
fightingfit.uk.com for details of proven safety standard. yondan after two previous DO WELL!
Fighting Fit Martial Arts. That’s the opinion of Dr. unsuccessful attempts. Michael Robbins won a
Anthony Lovat BDS, whose gold medal in the men’s yel-
IT MITE WORK! company - OPRO - sells cus- STICK IT! low belt division. Oliver
A product developed in the tom-fitting mouth guards. Dr. The Martial Arts Schwertfeger claimed victory in
UK has been launched to help Lovat believes it likely that the Association International the boys’ red belt middleweight
the increasing number of peo- majority of mouth guard offers a wide package of division. Joe Rahim won a sil-
ple suffering with asthma and manufacturers are applying training including courses in ver medal in the men’s blue belt
other respiratory allergies. the CE mark illegally because the Filipino Martial Arts. event. Bronze medallists were
Dust Mite Controller is avail- in actual fact, no EN stan- Introductory courses typically Damian Cartland (32) in the
able from Tower Health. dard exists! The result is that begin with single stick training Men’s red belt welterweight
It is a fact that 1 in 3 of the enthusiasts seeking a mouth based on the classic Cinco division, Robbins (39) in the
UK population is affected by guard cannot rely on the CE Terros system before moving Men’s yellow belt middleweight
allergies at some point in their mark alone and should ask to double stick and unarmed sparring and Erin O’Grady
lives. In fact 5.2 million of the to see the manufacturers’ cer- training. Students take the (12) in the Girls’ red belt mid-
population are asthma suffers tification before using it. training back to their own dleweight sparring.
whilst over 15% of the popula- OPRO have recently clubs and work at it there.
tion are thought to suffer hay launched a range of self-fit Tactical Stick-combat SEISHINKAI BRING HOME THE
fever (which includes perennial mouth guards known as training courses are led by MEDALS
rhinitis). Unlike pollen - which OPROshield and the com- Punong Guro Thorsten Eight fighters from
is one of the most common pany makes these to the Isringhausen and Guro Bernd Seishinkai Shotokan Karate
causes of hay fever - dust mites same specification as their Hoehle. They are supported International clubs won 11
are present all year round and custom-fit guard. and recognised by the Lapu golds, 2 silvers and 2 bronze
can cause perennial allergic You can get your teeth Lapu Filipino Instructor medals at the prestigious
rhinitis. Some figures show that into this subject by visiting Federation, the Samahang Shotokan Shield contest held
1 in 3 children are in some www.opro.com Eskrimador ng Pilipinas and recently in Kent.
COMBAT June 2007 Page 9
‘GLYN MAKES 4TH DAN’
GLYN MAKES 4TH DAN ACTION ALL THE WAY! EASTBOURNE & HAILSHAM with three-fifths of all current
Glyn Smith recently Galway Black Dragon KARATE JUTSU KAI payments still using notes and
received his 4th dan from Cris Kick-boxing Club recently held The Eastbourne and coins. Over 6 million con-
Janson-Piers of the BFKKO another successful promotion Hailsham Karate Jutsu Kai & sumers in Britain don’t have
and WFKKO. Now Glyn, in the Salthill Hotel. Their 19 Kick-boxing Club are mem- bank accounts or plastic cards
together with Kerry-Louise will fighters scored 14 wins, 2 bers of the Karate Jutsu Kai and a further 4 million prefer
run Cris’s own club - Falcon draws and just 3 defeats! Five organisation whose founder not to divulge personal account
Fight Academy of Dinnington, wins came by KO or TKO! and Chief Instructor is details over the Internet. This
Sheffield. Glyn passed all his The main event featured Bernard Creton (8th dan). adds up to over 10 million con-
gradings with 1st class ratings upcoming fighter from the Bernard now lives in Denmark sumers who, until now, have
and he went on to win a gold Galway camp - Cathal where he has a full-time dojo been excluded from joining the
medal at a kick jutsu event Manning. Cathal is ranked as for karate and kick-boxing. He online shopping revolution.
held in Germany. Ireland’s No. 1 Middle-weight spends over two weeks in
Contact Cris for information and his target was England’s every month running courses BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM!
about his organisation by call- No. 1 - Ashley Hook for the at his affiliated dojos in Kent, Teenager Daniel Squires
ing 0797-374-8907 or by visit- vacant Four Nations Middle- Sussex, Cardiff and Scotland. lost a leg to cancer but he
ing crisjansonpiers@aol.com. weight Title. Ashley’s ribs took The Eastbourne and could be playing football
a hammering from Cathal’s Hailsham Karate Jutsu Kai & again thanks to a group of
NEWRY’S AIKIDO COURSE kicks during the first round Kick-boxing Club held their martial artists who have
A seminar and grading in and this continued steadily annual Sussex Champion- vowed to help raise £20,000
aikido was held over a and with increasing violence ships and it attracted entries towards a special prosthetic
weekend in March at the into the fourth. It was then that from clubs in Kent, East and limb. This will hopefully help
Newry Sports Centre in Manning’s vicious left kook to West Sussex. Trophies were the youngster take part in his
County Down. Guest instruc- the floating ribs dropped Hook presented by Eastbourne and favourite sport, and fulfil his
tors were the British Aikido to the canvas. While Hook Hailsham’s Sensei, Cliff Bolt ambition to become a coach.
Association Chairman Bob was courageous enough to (4th dan). Call June on 0781- Martial artist Steve
Jones 6th dan) and Brian regain his feet, he was soon 820-2013 for information Youngman heard of Daniel’s
Eustace (7th dan), who is downed again by another about this club and the par- plight through a friend of the
Chairman of the Taiho Jutsu body punch. The English cor- ent organisation. family, and was so moved he
organisation. The course com- ner threw in the towel - and decided to organise a major
prised aikido for self-defence that was that! ORDER NOW - PAY LATER! exhibition to help raise cash for
and competition, plus a brief A full 7-man International Karate-kid is an on-line the limb. Good luck for the
run through of aikido kata. Team event between Ireland martial arts store and it has future, Daniel!
and Belgium is the next big joined with go&pay, the UK’s
MAXIMUSCLE’S AWARD FOR promotion for the Galway club. first off-line cash payment SALFORD DOES WELL!
MARKETING That’s planned for June 10th in facility for on-line shopping. Taekwondo instructor Mark
Maximuscle, a sports the 4-star Clayton Hotel in Go&pay is aimed at that signif- Richardson has every right to
nutrition supplement, has Ballybrit. In addition to the icant number of martial arts be proud after his two children
been awarded the T Mobile team event, expect also to see enthusiasts who can’t or won’t won medals at the Dutch
Fast Growth Business of the two All-Ireland title fights, one pay for goods and services Open. Daryl Richardson (21),
Year. Maximuscle’s range of Four Nations Title fight and a over the Internet. After selecting won silver and her brother
products claim to help you World Title fight! their merchandise, online Daley had to be content with a
burn fat, build muscle and Check out www.blackdragon Karate-kid shoppers simply bronze medal after a foot
help sporting performance, .ie for details. click on the go&pay option to injury forced him to withdraw
and they are being bought by generate an invoice which, from his scheduled semi-final
an increasing number of sports SHERIFF JACKIE once printed, reserves the clash with the Olympic silver
people. Presented by Adrienne Jackie, who is in California goods for a pre-determined medallist from Turkey.
Lawler of Sky News, the filming Rush Hour 3, has period of time. A customer
awards ceremony was organ- joined the Los Angeles County receipt is issued following bar- IRELAND BEATS TEAM GB IN
ised by Crimson Business in Sheriff’s Department to film a code scanning of the invoice TERMS OF MEDALS!
conjunction with Growing public service advertisement and payment by cash at any Mark Richardson (Salford
Business magazine. intended to encourage more payzone outlet. The goods are Taekwondo) said,
The black tie event took Asians and other minorities to despatched by the merchant ‘Representing Ireland, we actu-
place at the London Marriott join the force. Jackie told following confirmation of ally won more medals than the
during March and over 300 reporters that he was honoured monies received. Great Britain team on the first
entrepreneurs and industry to be an ambassador for the Cash remains a hugely day - and they spent £500,000
leaders attended. LA sheriff’s department. popular method of payment, on players and officials!’
COMBAT June 2007 Page 11
OPEN FOR BUSINESS away from your front teeth and
Zara Phythian’s Personal the guard includes front
Best Academy is now open for bumpers and pads that offer
business at the Intake Business protection against head and
Centre, Mansfield where they mouth injuries. These pads also
will play host to Zara’s new separate the upper and lower
Fusion Sport Karate pro- jaws, creating a clear and
gramme, Urban Kickboxing unobstructed airway.
and Edge MMA. Personal Best
will be home also for the ON THE WAY TO THE TOP
national Black Salt Screen Stunt Josh Veitch is a talented
Fighter Team. martial artist who refuses to
Zara has signed for 6 rest on his achievements, even
BE YOUR OWN BOSS instructional DVDs with MAR
International. Three cover the
after winning six medals
already this year. Josh
new UK Black Salt Screen attempted his black belt during
IF YOUR ANSWER IS "YES" TO THE Fighting, which covers every- April before competing in an -
BELOW CONTACT US thing from conditioning, to 13yrs tournament at a
how to be a screen fighter, to Taekwondo World
1 WANT TO RUN YOUR becoming a good fight Championships in August.
choreographer and learning Josh has already won two
OWN CLUB? industry language. gold medals at the Southern
Her new Power Kicking Championships in February, a
2 DISATISFIED WITH YOUR DVD, as well as her 2 volume gold and bronze in the
PRESENT UMBRELLA GROUP? women’s self-defence pro- Northern in March and two
gramme are planned for this silvers in the Mixed Martial
3 WANT TO DESIGN YOUR summer. Volume One of the Arts Super League, where he
OWN SYLLABUS? screen-fighting DVD was fought kick-boxers.
released by MAR and Titan
4 WANT TO CONTROL YOUR Sport Elite in the UK on March RYAN & COURTNEY
OWN GRADINGS? 13th (with US release date MAKE THE SQUAD!
March 16th). April was release Normanton Gemini Karate
Be like many of our clubs and date for the Volume One Self- and Kick-boxing Club’s Ryan
Defence and Power Kicking and Courtney Newton spent
enjoy being your own boss. DVDs in the UK. 10 hours taking on five oppo-
Subject to legal requirements and nents each at the World Kick-
YOUR WINNING SMILE! boxing Association’s National
conditions we can help you. Men - never forget your Championships held in
box when competing. You Birmingham. Both 6-year-old
Tel know that - yes? However, Courtney and 13-year-old
what’s kept in a box isn’t the Ryan won a bronze medal
01483720054 only precious package you each, meaning they are now
need to guard. How about pre- automatically included into the
Email serving your winning smile? England squad.
Wouldn’t you agree that a
info@maas.co.uk good mouth guard is definitely CLUBMARK AWARDS
a must? If yes, then you might Chichester Judo club was
Check Us Out On want to consider a Shock recently presented with the
Doctor mouth guard. Silver Clubmark by Andrew
www.maas.co.uk A leading name in mouth Moshanov, the technical direc-
guard technology and design tor for the British Judo
WE GIVE YOU WHAT YOU WANT in the USA, Shock Doctor has Association. Chichester is the
AND WHAT YOUR STUDENTS NEED now brought its range to the first judo club in the UK to
UK. They even offer a mouth- achieve the silver Clubmark.
guard designed to be worn Fairfield Community Centre
We are looking for any martial art over braces! Shock Doctor’s Judo Club was presented the
student holding brown belt or patented Shock Transfer Core Silver Clubmark award by
equivalent to spread our rapidly design directs impact shock Commonwealth medallist and
British Judo Association chair-
growing Aiki Jujitsu and kick boxing man, Densign White. He
system. If you are interested in was joined by three-time
becoming a ju-jitsu and/or kick Paralympics gold medal-
list, Simon Jackson.
boxing coach why not try one of Leominster Judo
our one day coaching diploma Club is one of only four
seminars. The Grandmaster was clubs out of the 50 in
the pioneer of such crash courses the West Midlands Area
to achieve the Clubmark
which have resulted in a World Bronze Award. Eddie Awford
wide established organisation. (5th dan), the BJA technical
Started back in the 60’s he knows director of coaching and
Malcolm Collins (6th Dan),
all the loop holes and unseen cons the Midland area develop-
we can protect you from. Change ment officer, presented the
your life now and enjoy being a award to club coaches Martin
Healey and John Cooper at
person and not a number. the Leominster Leisure Centre.
DOS001/04
HICKMAN’S KICK-BOXING Younger sister Clare GARY GETS THE POINT(S) return to their respective home
Hickman’s Kick-boxing Massmann made a great Middle-weight kick-boxer countries. We would like to
Academy recently held a impact in the 1st kyu category Gary Walsh fights out of the thank Humberto, and particu-
brown and black belt grading with two solid ippon wins Galway Black Dragon Kick- larly John for their hard work
at the HKA Headquarters, through her trade mark tech- boxing Club and he recently and commitment to Great
Heathfield Gym in Old Hill. The nique - o-goshi (hip throw) but out-pointed Dublin’s Aaron Britain team development over
grading panel comprised G. she lost to an armlock during Brookman at a match held in the last five years.
Hickman (7th dan WAKO) and the semi-final. the Spa Hotel, Lucan. Walsh is We continue to strive for
N. Hickman (3rd dan). fast gaining a reputation as further success as we work
Successful students were Ian GEORGE FOR THE OLYMPICS! one of the hard men on the towards Beijing and London
Hodson (2nd dan), Leanne A potential Olympian at Irish Middleweight kick-boxing 2012 and will commit to find-
Hickman (1st dan), Aaron judo, 15-year-old George circuit and you can see why in ing the best personnel to work
Walker (1st kyu), Nicole Stevens is all set to make his the promotion to be staged at as part of the high perfor-
Pointon (2nd kyu), Steve Walker debut for Great Britain in the Clayton Hotel. Gary is one mance team. We aim to further
& Ryan Nash (3rd kyu). Portugal next month at the of a 7-man team to take on support the Great Britain team
Cadet International Belgium’s finest. with the sole intention of assist-
MMA DEATH! Tournament. George impressed ing our athletes in achieving
Gilbert Aldana (aged 29) the Great Britain selectors by SIMON HICKS their high level goals.’
died during March while boat- winning a silver medal at the Simon Hicks, that film, the-
ing with his family at Lake National Age Band Tournament atre director and leading judo NO ELECTRONIC TAGGING
Pleasant in Peoria, Arizona. last October. coach was just 51 when he JUST YET!
The body of the two-time UFC died in March. His many tal- The WTF Electronic
fighter has been found, but not SETTING A BAD EXAMPLE ents ranged from film, theatre Protector International
yet been recovered. A 42-year-old father in and television design and pro- Taekwondo Championships
According to news reports, Germany recently became so duction, to coaching and pre- wrapped up its two-day event
the Rage in the Cage veteran angry about a foul that he ran senting judo. He founded in March and the WTF
drowned after diving into the onto the pitch and jump kicked Fighting Films in 1988, which Executive Committee came to
lake to recover a tee-shirt that the offender - an 8-year-old covered the judo contests at the conclusion that there should
fell in the water. boy to the ground! The parent four Olympic Games and nine be more time for athletes and
then jumped on him! The rest of World Championships. officials to get used to the new
NICOLA MAKES IT TO BLACK BELT the crowd had to restrain him Simon was a highly suc- equipment and also to further
Redbridge Judo Club’s from continuing to attack the cessful coach, producing sev- improve the system. Therefore,
Nicola Sandy battled her way boy, who fortunately suffered eral successful senior interna- the electronic protector will not
to black belt status recently at only bruises and scrapes. tional players including be used in at the upcoming
the High Wycombe Sports Winston Gordon, 2004 World Taekwondo
Centre. The 17-year-old need- REDBRIDGE MEDALS Athens Olympic Games semi- Championships in Beijing dur-
ed to win two fights by ippon Rebridge’s Sam Clark (- finalist and European Bronze ing May this year or in the
to qualify for a line-up of three 55kg), Reece Sandy (-34kg), medallist in 2006. 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
senior brown belts (who were Daisy Walsh (-57kg) and Katie Hicks was recently promot-
all considerably heavier than Walsh (+63kg) won gold ed from 1st to 6th dan in WGC SCHOOL SUCCESSES
her!). She beat them convinc- medals at the recent Tendring recognition of his contribution Edward Almond, Tommy
ingly and was awarded her Judo Championship held in to judo. Our condolences go to Almond, Scott Murray, Sam
black belt. Nice one Nicola! Clacton Leisure Centre. Jack his family and friends! Pigden and Oliver Harper
Daily (-38kg) won a silver from the WGC Judo Club all
RETURN OF THE medal and Stephanie Hahn (- DIAZ & INGUANZO QUIT! won medals at the recent
MASSMANNS (MENN?) 48kg), Freya Verlander (-48kg) Sport Taekwondo UK Hertfordshire Schools’
The Massmann sisters and Max Catmur-Hill (-50kg) recently posted the following Championships held at
returned to the judo contest all won bronze medals. on its web-site: Berkhamsted Sports Centre.
arena after a few years’ ‘It is with regret that we
absence and both won CHESTERFIELD’S hereby announce the resigna- DANIEL’S FOUR FIGHT SUCCESS
bronze medals for their NEW BLACK BELTS tion of Mr. John Wright Diaz, Daniel Duggan was cele-
efforts. Nikki Massmann- Chesterfield’s Wado Ryu National Coach and Mr brating after becoming a British
Brown fought in the black belt Sport Karate and Kick-boxing Humberto Inguanzo, Technical Junior Taekwondo champion.
category and forced the even- Club has added David Leaver, Manager with immediate effect. Competing in Doncaster at the
tual gold medallist Michaela Nathan Hague and Luke Price Both members of the high per- end of last month, Daniel won
Reilly to go the full distance to its black belt stable following formance team resigned quot- four fights, so claiming the gold
before narrowly beating her. a successful grading. ing personal reasons and will medal and the title.
COMBAT June 2007 Page 13
year Peter won a WHITBY SUCCESSES amins and minerals) For
‘WEAPONS FOR KIDS?’ gold medal repre- Whitby Shukokai Karate Goodness Shakes! Provides you
senting his country Club recently travelled to exot- with all the energy you need
at the Goodwill ic Thornaby for the second after a tough session as as well
Martial Arts annual Taisho-Do TASK karate as giving your body the build-
Festival held in competition. Mark Parkin won ing blocks it needs so your
South Africa. a gold medal and his Mum, muscles will grow back
The Peter Karen won a bronze. Whitby’s stronger. It should give you
Lynham Memorial senior kata team won first more power and endurance the
Fund was set up to place in senior team kata and next time you train.
help the voluntary Jessica Beeforth won a bronze In three great-tasting
rescue service and medal in her kumite division. flavours (BigBanana,
the youth organisa- GreatChocChocolate and
WEAPONS FOR KIDS? tions Peter was interested in. QUIT WHILE YOU’RE AHEAD! Superberry) For Goodness
Spirit Combat’s Founder Bruce Lawrence is a com- Shakes! Is available in all
Brian Dossett founded a new BTCB - HEAD UP NORTH munity worker in Kentish major supermarkets and con-
fighting system known as TO BE IN THE OLYMPICS! Town and recently he took venience locations but if you
Nunchaku and Viking Manchester is in prepara- on a drug dealer. Bruce was want to get hold of a free
Combat back in the mid-70s. tion for the 2007 WTF World knifed above his ear when he sample today simply pick up
It has grown at a rapid pace Taekwondo Qualification grappled with the thug out- the coupon inside the maga-
since then. Tournament for the 2008 side Kentish Town West rail- zine or, if you’re a combat
Nunchaku practice has Beijing Olympic Games. The way station. club owner or a team coach
been around a long time, sure, tournament will take place at This is not the first time and want to get hold of some
but there is a great difference the MEN Arena from 28th to Bruce has stepped in. He was samples for your club, email
between fancy juggling and 30th September this year. partially blinded after protect- us at clubsamples@
actually fighting with them! ing a woman from robbers in mygoodness.uk.com
Viking Combat includes a MARK & LOUISA Somers Town 10 years ago!
shield and a soft stick, and MAKE THE GRADE! Mr Lawrence was treated at ALEX’S JUNIOR DAN GRADE
both forms of combat use semi- Middleton Karate Club was hospital, as was the 42-year- Alex Rosser was promoted
contact sparring with protective pleased to celebrate the suc- old arrested on suspicion of to junior black belt after train-
wear. Both promote ring craft cess of two of its young mem- causing grievous bodily harm. ing for the past 3 years in the
and are believed to improve bers when they recently made Red Sun Cobra Karate Club.
skills in any martial art style. it to 1st dan in Wado Ryu FOR GOODNESS SHAKES! Alex is just 10 years old but
Brian promoted David karate. Mark (14) and Louisa FREE SHAKES FOR ALL!!! now he’ll have to wait until he’s
Dunlop as his weapons devel- Cundle (17) have trained for Be part of a unique trial... 16 before he can become a full
oper following the former’s eight years - most of that time Calling all Combat readers... dan grade.
retirement during 2004 and with the Middleton club under Do your muscles ache after
in turn, Dave has trained a Mike Lewis (4th dan). your session? Do you hobble RED DRAGONS
team to help. The team put to work the next day? Well DON RED NOSES?
together a Viking and NEVER GIVE IN! here is the answer...For Twelve month’s after the
Nunchaku event during the NEVER SURRENDER! Goodness Shakes! Is “exercise club formed in March 2006,
recent BKBI-WCF kick boxing Twelve-year-old Jack Day, food” and provides your mus- Bryncethin Shotokan Karate
event, running two weapon from Weymouth was born cles with the optimum nutrition club’s students donned red
mat areas throughout the day. with severe hip problems that to recover best after your fight noses, trained hard and
This proved so successful resulted in him spending 18 or training. donated the evening’s fees to
that a meeting was organised months with both legs in plas- Made from natural ingredi- Comic Relief.
to update the old rules. ter as a toddler. But he’s ents, free range milk, fruit and Find out about Bryncethin
Call 0148-372-0054, email fought and beaten the odds to Nutrimix (a sports blend of vit- Shotokan Karate Club by
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uk for information.
GRANDMASTER (Fung
JIMChuenFUNG
Keung)
O
ne of the world’s best known simple point of impact.
martial artists and a leading fig- Grandmaster Fung wrote two
ure in Australia’s Chinese busi- books, ‘Wing Chun’ (published in
ness community, Grandmaster 1981) and ‘The Authentic Wing Chun always something new to learn.”
Jim Fung, has died in Sydney. Weapons’ (1984) and produced a teach- His commitment and dedication to
Grandmaster Fung, whose International ing video, ‘Wing Chun’ in 1985. His first Wing Chun was epitomised in the final
Wing Chun Academy grew from a back- book remains the official handbook of the days of his life when, despite his ill
yard shed to Australia’s largest martial art Hong Kong Ving Tsun Athletic Association, health, he continued to train his senior
school, had been fighting cancer for the world’s leading body for Wing Chun, students with extraordinary enthusiasm
three years. He was 62. and is sold all over the world. despite suffering constant and debilitating
Grandmaster Fung came to Australia In 1988, Grandmaster Fung was cho- pain from his illness.
in 1959 as a secondary school student, sen as the sole representative of Australian Grandmaster Fung’s family - his wife,
having trained in Wing Chun kung fu for kung fu to participate in the International Linda, and children, Tristan, Naomi and
a number of years under Great Grandmasters Exhibition held in Adelaide Daniel - are committed to keeping his
Grandmaster Tsui Seung Tin in Hong during the South Australian bicentennial legacy alive to honour his life’s work. The
Kong. Master Tsui, a disciple of the leg- celebrations. Greater acclaim followed in Academy’s ties with his master, Great
endary Yip Man who took Wing Chun to 1998, when his Academy was listed in the Grandmaster Tsui, remain as strong as
Hong Kong during the Chinese Cultural Chinese Government’s official ‘All China ever and classes will be run as usual
Revolution, is the world’s leading expo- Martial Arts Register’, being one of only under the guidance of the Academy’s
nent of the art. Grandmaster Fung, who five martial art schools outside of China to senior instructors, several of whom have
continued to train with him for more than be so recognised. trained faithfully under Grandmaster Fung
47 years, was his number one student. Known affectionately by his students as since the 1970s and 1980s.
Grandmaster Fung majored in law and ‘Sifu Jim’, Grandmaster Fung’s life ambition A memorial service for Grandmaster
accountancy at Adelaide University and was to spread his knowledge of Wing Fung will be held in Sydney at a time and
established his Academy in that city in Chun to as many people around the world place to be announced.
1973. At the time, local knowledge of as possible. To this end, he pioneered full- During his illness, Grandmaster Fung
Chinese culture was limited; there were time education in Australia for martial arts. was a generous donor to cancer research.
no other Wing Chun schools and no for- In 1988, the IWCA became the first mar- Those wishing to contribute to the Sifu
mal training materials available on the art. tial art school in Australia to deliver full- Jim Fung Memorial Fund for Cancer
Grandmaster Fung set about implement- time courses in Wing Chun. The approval Research can do so by contacting the
ing his own unique training programme of student visas and AUSTUDY grants for International Wing Chun Academy, 1/F,
which he refined over the years, making students of these courses opened the door 355 Sussex Street, Sydney 2000, tele-
Wing Chun easy to learn for modern day to thousands of people, both local and phone 9264 2712.
students, whatever their age or gender. overseas, who would not otherwise have
He quickly gained a reputation as an had the opportunity to study under a mas-
exceptional teacher and his ethics, morals ter of his outstanding skill.
and genuine love and compassion for his Using his considerable business and
fellow man forged strong bonds between entrepreneurial ability, Grandmaster Fung
himself and his students. This reflected built up his business to more than 20
the traditional Chinese master/student branches in three states, including main
relationship which is similar to that of a offices in Sydney, Adelaide and the Gold
father and child. The high regard in Coast, and was establishing a network of
which he was held is evident in the pre- overseas franchises at the time of his
sent membership of his Academy which death. The 30th anniversary of his
includes prominent politicians, lawyers, Academy, celebrated in Sydney’s
doctors and top sportspeople. Chinatown in 2003, was watched by more
As word spread about his skills, than 2,000 people with hundreds outside
Grandmaster Fung became the subject of the venue having to be turned away.
countless media articles, television and Grandmaster Fung’s enthusiasm for
radio programmes. A major source of fas- Wing Chun never waned. He once said:
cination was his famous ‘One-inch Punch’ “The reason I signed up for Wing Chun all
a technique in which his fist, placed just those years ago was because it doesn’t
one inch from his target, could send a rely on brute strength. Instead, it takes
person reeling backwards three metres or skill, speed and positioning to over-
more. The technique uses Wing Chun’s come your opponent.
remarkable ‘determination force’, or chi, Wing Chun is a science which mixes
which is a method of drawing all available physics, maths, logic and biology all into
energy from the body to explode on a one. Even at my level, I find there is
COMBAT June 2007 Page 23
PINK
POWER
T
hirty four years ago my best
friend and I stood tentatively on
the steps of what was to be
(although we didn’t know it then)
changing room in the centre, was the
store cupboard, our small numbers didn’t
warrant any thing else. We trained and
fought alongside the men. In class we
dominate classes, particularly in kick-
boxing, and women’s only classes are
advertised as the norm (although I often
wonder what uproar would be caused if
a life changing move. At that moment it gave ‘piggybacks’ and ‘wheelbarrows’ to men only classes were advertised).
was just the courage we needed to our male training partners, never offered Today women run some of the major
descend those steps and enter the male or expecting any concessions from our martial arts retail outlets and female
dominated World of the karate dojo. Japanese taskmaster. The hour and a half heads of Association are common. Now
We were two of the only three training sessions were so tough that at last it seems the spending power of
women who attended the centre, which often we were hardly able to control our the female martial artist has been recog-
even then was full time and operating legs sufficiently to walk down the stairs nised as evermore products appear
two dojos. The third girl was a tremen- from the 2nd floor dojo. Hair tied back, aimed solely at them. I can’t help but
dously powerful brown belt who, if truth nails cut short, make-up frowned upon, smile when I attend classes where
be known, was feared by many of the our bleached white Tokaido suits, with pink, silver and even tiger
male students. Her legendary rising front sleeves rolled up to denote a workman- printed equipment dominates,
kick had been known to drop any oppo- like attitude, snapped and cracked with enough to give even the
nent who had foolishly failed to wear a every punch and kick. most liberal instructor of
groin guard, while sparring with her. Thirty four years on, now with knees the seventies a funny turn!
No quarter was given to our sex, our that crack louder than those suits, I Over the next couple
watch with some pride as it seems ( to of pages we look at some
quote the words of a song) ‘the sisters of the pink equipment
are doing for themselves’. Often women currently available.
7. 8.
11. 12.
9. 10.
13. 14.
14. T-toured
Sport Dipped Foam Shin Guard, con-
to fit naturally, with coloured Velcro
straps to keep the guard in place Junior to
straps to keep the guard in place Junior to
Senior.£21.95
COMBAT June 2007 Page 27
then that he was in as long as he
MIKE
passed his medical.
The result was a meteoric rise to
fame throughout 2006, a rise that he is
still coming to terms with. “It was mind-
blowing, to be honest. I won the con-
tract in June last year and they said your
life is going to change. I didn’t really
think about it but after UFC 66, where I
BISPING
won my debut things changed rapidly
and with the big PR push for UFC 70,
I’ve definitely signed a lot of autographs,
including two old ladies at my local post
office. (laughs) One said it was for her
son. I’m still blown away by it.”
Blown away he may be, carried
M
He states that he already has a nice
number one MMA fighter ‘English guys’ for their hugely suc- car but would want to provide his fam-
has seen his face the cessful Ultimate Fighter reality televi- ily with a better house, a couple of
focus of a huge poster sion shows. Mike went to the audi- good holidays and leisure money in his
campaign for UFC 70, which took tions and then eight fighters were pocket, although be adds that finan-
place in Manchester in April, with flown to America for interviews and cially, he has never been more secure.
Bisping heavily promoted as one of further auditions and after cracking a He is quick to point out that this down
the stars. An unbeaten success story trademark joke, that made Dana to earth attitude is not a unique quali-
in this country, Mike was an obvious White laugh, he was told there and ty, rather that most MMA fighters are
actually down to earth decent guys,
Mike unleashes some punisment on
Eric Schafer in his debut at UFC 66 who don’t take themselves too serious-
ly, it’s just something that they do and
as a result the actual fight is simply
business rather than personal.
As to business, Mike’s newfound
fame has already led to a number of
potential offers. A documentary team
followed him for a year and the result,
of which he is very happy, will be
screened on Bravo later in the year.
BBC 1 phoned about their ‘One Life’
series and a couple of television offers,
including hosting a martial arts series,
have been tabled. This is a career
curve that interests him - “of course it
does. I’m ambitious and want to do as
much as I can with my life. First and
foremost I’m a UFC fighter and that’s
where my focus is but it’s a business at
the end of the day and I want to pro-
vide for my family. So I’m all for it, to
be honest. Yes, I love it (UFC fighting)
but you’ve got to be a realist.”
His personal pragmatism is proven
by the way he describes an average
day in the life of Mike Bisping and it’s
a description that bursts the bubble of
champagne and chauffeurs that some
might already be imagining for him. An
average Bisping day sees Mike help get
his kids ready for school, ( a boy 5 and
girl 4) drop them off then go to the
Page 30 COMBAT June 2007
“
If you really want to do
something, don’t talk about it, get off
of your arse and do it. Chase the dream!
COMBAT June 2007 Page 31
gym, work through two training ses- cerns but Bisping states that his diet is to go to a restaurant in our spare time
sions, sleep in the afternoon and then not really rocket science, more com- and eat whatever’s on the menu.”
train again in the evening (prior to a mon sense sensible eating. At breakfast Family obviously plays an important
fight he sleeps at accommodation in he has two scoops of protein, an part in Mike’s life. He quit work four
the gym). Otherwise he would pick up apple, a banana and three strawber- years ago to fight full-time, a big deci-
the kids and look after them until girl- ries, all blended into a drink and fur- sion with two children. An ambitious
friend finishes work, “it’s boring, real- ther Protein drinks follow after every man, he felt he wasn’t fulfilling his
ly!” He says with an irony free laugh. training session. potential and that he wasn’t “really
It may be boring but the training “It’s simple really but I just try to going anywhere”. That going some-
is intense, as his Monday through where looked to be boxing until he
“
Friday regime highlights. Every was steered towards the MMA.
morning sees an MMA session,
Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling or sparring,
Martial Arts are a very positive thing for His girlfriend stood beside him
and now the couple both
followed by a striking session children. It gives them discipline, fitness, believe, “it’s the best thing I
in the afternoons - Thai on a
Monday, Wednesday and
co-ordination and even if you don’t compete ever did.” To his five year old
son it’s just something dad’s
Thursday, Boxing on a Tuesday it has so many qualities that I feel the arts always done; it’s his friends
and Friday. Evenings see him should be promoted to young people. who are more impressed. In a
”
rotate between running, weights case of deja-vu, his son is now
and extra sparring and he pushes the doing traditional Jiu Jitsu at the same
evening sessions harder when a fight eat well, fruit and vegetables and lots club Mike started. “Martial Arts are a
is coming up. The heavy conditioning of it, to be honest. Eating straight after very positive thing for children. It gives
training really starts six weeks out training, for recovery, is essential. A lot them discipline, fitness, co-ordination
with increased intensity until the final of casseroles, chicken and rice, no gim- and even if you don’t compete it has so
week, when he considers rest vital. micks, just good clean food.” He tries many qualities that I feel the arts
For his most recent fight in to give himself just one bad day a should be promoted to young people.”
Manchester, he put himself through a week but admits with a laugh that His personal martial arts regime
ten week schedule. “sometimes it’s two. If it’s a bad day, I began when Mike was eight, starting
An integral part of any fighter’s love pizza or a nice chicken kebab or with Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, where he had a
training regime includes dietary con- me, the girlfriend and the kids; we like lot of success before drifting into kick-
boxing when he was 16. “I would
Mike won his first UFC bout by way
of a technical knockout (strikes)
probably say that the best base for
MMA is a wrestling base but if you can
learn a good take-down from a kick-
boxing base, then that’s also excellent.”
Mike’s ground game has become very
strong. He currently trains a lot of Jiu-
Jitsu and admits that because he has
won a lot of fights by knockout that
certain critics believe he relies on a
stand-up game. Personally, Mike
believes that the Japanese Jiu-Jitsu he
learnt as a kid stood him in good
stead, enabling him to pick up the
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu very quickly - “I still
have the mechanics”, he adds.
Alongside the physical training,
psychological preparation is important
to Mike but he admits that he has
been lucky in that the pressure is
something he has just always been
able to deal with. He has seen numer-
ous great gym fighters fall to pieces
and unable to handle the pressure
when they step into the ring or cage,
which leads him to conclude that,
“when you’re in the middle of a fight,
keeping your cool under pressure is as
important as your physical ability.” In
this respect, Mike simply tries to focus
on why he’s there, why he’s doing it
and what’s at stake if he loses and
Page 32 COMBAT June 2007
through these reflections, he pushes
himself forwards to the successful
fighter we see today.
At the pre-UFC 70 conference,
Mike pointed out that most of the
fighters he had met were intelligent
guys and he believes that it is impor-
tant for the modern MMA fighter to
be switched on. “It’s a human chess
match. So although I’m not saying
we’re all Einstein’s, you do need a
decent intellect, a good head on your
shoulders.” As to analysing his own
strengths, in terms of technical ability,
Mike doesn’t feel that he has one par-
ticular trademark technique - rather
he feels that his trademark is that he’s
relentless and mixes his techniques
up in devastating combinations.
The conversation inevitably turns
to a potential title shot and a fight
with Chuck Liddell and once again
Mike is a balance of ambition and
realism, affirming that a title shot has
always got to be the long-term plan.
“I’ve said before that I’m not here to
make up the numbers, I’m unbeaten
so far and I want to keep winning and
working my way up the rankings.” He
recognises that it’s still early days in
his UFC career but hints that six or
seven more unbeaten fights could see
him as a serious contender for the
UFC Light-Heavyweight title.
For anyone inspired by Bisping’s
success and wishing to follow in his
footsteps, he has equally practical
advice that is based initially on find-
ing a good local martial arts club
and then chasing the dream with a
passion. “If you really want to do
something, don’t talk about it, get
off of your arse and do it. The
younger you start the better.” It’s
advice that Bisping has followed
himself and the rewards are now
clearly visible for all to see. His rise
may have been of the fairy-tale type
but his grounding in reality will
ensure that he maximises every
opportunity that comes his way
and, at this particular moment in
time, the chase is over, he’s caught
up with his dream and is living it.
“I’ve never been happier. I’m truly
happy, I love my life and it couldn’t To contact a member
be better, as far as I’m concerned, of the WOLFSLAIR
academy in Widnes
at the moment. If at the end of Tel: 0151 422 8242
my fight career I can still be
involved, teaching, making a liv-
ing, then I’d love to be involved
with martial arts until the day I die.”
COMBAT June 2007 Page 33
WIMPS’
by Brian
Dossett
CULTURE
Are we living in the time of the wimp?
S
chool teachers, police and prison accept that the parent can complain. The Sometimes kids get a splinter that needs to
officers, religious leaders and kids too have that same weapon. The poor be removed. I get that needle, pick it out
sports coaches are all at risk coach has become an open target! and the kid continues to have fun. Have I
when we go into our reality action I have a good relationship with kids and abused that kid because, as I understand it,
mode. All of us trying to do a decent job parents. In fact my class is not only a mar- I have just performed an operation? How
now have so many requirements to consid- tial art club it’s entertainment for both the stupid is that?
er before putting our feet in the place of kids and parents. However, many of the Now religion and politics have sneaked
action. To be a kids’ coach now means we verbal and body language techniques I use into the scene. The training hall bow may
have to be administrators, nurses, social are in that grey area of abuse as it is be considered as an insult to some.
workers and the rest. described in the book. I shout; I point and I stuck to my guns as a martial art
Let’s consider the kids we try to coach sometimes pick up a kid by his belt and coach! While I will respect some of the
in our martial art clubs. The student enters throw him/her in another area on the mat. regulations laid down in the child protec-
“
the club to enjoy themselves - but tion requirements, I will refuse
they face requirements and barri- not to be a kids coach, grand-
ers based on so called health and To educate requires discipline but our father and a great-grandfather.
safety regulations. Could it be that I will continue serving, educat-
some of these are perhaps political
ability to discipline is now limited. Examples ing and entertaining my kids as
and/or money-making barriers? such as pointing a finger and raising your I have done over the years. I
To educate requires discipline will continue playing the roles
voice could be considered by some as abuse.
”
but our ability to discipline is now of instructor, father, grand
limited. Examples such as pointing a father and great-grand father.
finger and raising your voice could be con- Guess what? The kids laugh - as do the par- If society continues the way it is going,
sidered by some as abuse. Come on! ents! The kids expect me to act like a kid. then it will turn into a society of wimps.
Sometimes you just have to point and shout You may need to come down to the kid’s Indeed - it may be too late even now! I
to let the kid know you are communicating level of thinking and acting to communicate. suggest to those who think they know, to
with them, especially in a noisy hall! But the It has been claimed that it’s wrong for an get advice from those who have been
experts may claim that if there is discipline - adult to train with a child. What a lot of old there, done it and are still doing it with
then there is no need to shout! rubbish that is! The kids expect me to have a credibility. It’s called ‘experience’ and that
It’s obvious they’ve never tried to rough and tumble with them. I have done it can’t be purchased.
organise kid’s games in silence! as a father, as a grand daddy and now as a Laws are meant to govern the activities
Games have become subject to health great-grand daddy. I would not be that coach of man but reason determines and shapes
and safety. For example, the old bull dog was or that grand dad if I failed to do it. the law. The problem will always remain:
a game kids enjoyed. Yes, of course there I take kids on a day adventure that who assesses the assessors?
was a risk of injury - but that was part of the involves climbing trees. Guess what? That leaves room for thought!
game. Don’t head the football because of
brain injury. Don’t go swimming because you A recent report claimed that today’s children are more likely to suffer from injuries sustained by
may get wet. Where does it all stop?
playing computer games than from falling out of a tree. This supports the belief that youngsters
are no longer enjoying active childhoods, preferring instead to spend their leisure time indoors,
Yes, there are adjustments to be made watching television and playing console games. Even the body normally associated with health
but that’s different from changing the and safety, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, said “Climbing tree and falling out
whole system! For example the adult press- of them is all part of growing up. Having small injuries helps children learn about risk”
up practised by a child may interfere with The report comes after it was revealed that over 600 children went to hospital, last year
the development of young limbs and joints. suffering from Repetitive Strain Injury, something normally associated with assembly line
workers or those working with computers all day.
So the press-up has changed to suit.
Warm-ups are no longer work-outs. The findings of this report take on much wider implications, when added with those
recently reported by the Lancet , which claim that today’s youngsters are the first in his-
We must not forget that eyes are upon tory to be less healthy than their parents!
us when parents watch the class! Instructors
COMBAT June 2007 Page 35
IS WAKO, CARRYING
THE OLYMPIC TORCH
FOR KICKBOXING
Combat talks Exclusively to Tom Hibbert
Association) merged. others being taken out.”
At the GAISF General Assembly held in In order to cement their position,
Seoul (Korea) on April 7th 2006, WAKO WAKO is applying for Commonwealth
and IAKSA were required to complete their Games recognition, with WAKO GB split-
merging process to finalise their accep- ting into the various countries. Tom goes
tance. That task was finally completed in on to explain “By this time we will have the
Croatia, at the World Cadet and Junior Governing Bodies on board in Great Britain.
Championships when WAKO and IAKSA We’ve decided to go for WAKO GB rather
merged at the Extraordinary General than UK as Northern Ireland elected to
Assembly, which took place in Zadar on enter as one country with Southern Ireland.
September 27th 2006. There are over 90 countries in WAKO
As a result of the merger, new WAKO world-wide, and the majority of our mem-
Statutes and ByLaws were written, unani- bers are recognised as Governing Bodies by
mously voted and presented to GAISF. their own governments.”
The President of WAKO, Ennio Falsoni Tom is very confident about getting
said, “We are very excited about GAISF’s WAKO into the Commonwealth Games, “I
final acceptance of our Kickboxing Sport see no reason why we shouldn’t be success-
and that WAKO is the official representative ful. We’ve also applied for recognition from
federation at GAISF. With our revised, trans- Karate England and Sport England.”
parent and democratic statutes we have the The term ‘kickboxing’ covers a wide
foundation to support our strong Internat- range of schools of thought as well as fight-
O
lympic recognition is something ional Kickboxing Organization in the future” ing styles. Competitions range from semi-
that pretty much every sport “Merging IAKSA with WAKO was the nec- contact, to light-contact, to full-contact and
wants to obtain. It’s the Holy Grail essary step to unite Kickboxing in the world. I even have musical forms. Not including
for many who view it as achieving am delighted to see that GAISF acknowledge any one section would therefore alienate
mainstream recognition and much greater and reward this positive direction and I hope and exclude a large number of competi-
public awareness. Getting such recognition that other federations will join us” - added tors. Tom agreed saying “We’re looking at
is not an easy task however and there is a Horst Prelog, President of IAKSA and newly getting semi, light, full and musical forms
lot of work required. elected WAKO Vice President. accepted into the competitions.”
One big step towards gaining Olympic This means that from now on WAKO - With the wide variety of definitions on
recognition is gaining membership of the (a not for profit association), that is com- what ‘kickboxing’ is, there are just as many
General Association of International Sports posed of autonomous, independent kickboxing organisations around, something
Federations (GAISF). Membership of GAISF national federations and other national which Tom hopes to see as an area, where
means that for each of the sports included organizations - is the only official kickbox- there can be overall improvement and all
in the programme of the Olympic Games, ing body in the world. can start to work together rather than pull
the technical preparation and actual run- WAKO Pro, another arm of WAKO is a against each other. Some small groups claim
ning of the competitions during the Games totally different set up and deals solely with that they are willing to work with others but
are the responsibility of the International the professional side of Full Contact. have still formed their own little community.
Federations governing the sport in ques- Obviously this is a big step indeed and Some even attempt to ostracise valuable
tion. This means that if WAKO (World certainly very exciting for everyone key figures or groups who eventually and
Association of Kickboxing Organisations) involved. One person who is certainly innevatibly will be part of the solid back-
gets Olympic recognition then it will be excited is Tom Hibbert MBE, one of the bone in building a countrywide accepted
viewed by the Olympic Committee as the UK’s longest-standing martial artists, census of opinion and correct procedure.
Governing Body of Kickboxing. President of WAKO GB and the AMA. “All the various aspects need controlling
GAISF’s approval of WAKO member- “As a result of our acceptance, GAISF heavily because they’ve been allowed to go
ship came during the last GAISF Council have stated that the officially nominated wild, WAKO have kept strict rules and
meeting, held on October 17th in kickboxing organisation recognised for the made sure it doesn’t get out of control.” He
Lausanne (Switzerland). This membership Olympics is WAKO. As some of the newer explains, “It’s all a matter of safety for the
was only granted after WAKO and IAKSA sports such as kickboxing are being consid- fighters and the evolvement of the sport in
(International Amateur Kickboxing Sport ered for recognition there are actually some a way that is advantageous to all involved”
Page 36 COMBAT June 2007
I asked if WAKO had therefore been in own words been “Very big. Being recog- he explained that, “We’re constantly grow-
a one-horse race, “The SKI was the only nised has obviously created a lot of interest ing, and since the announcement people
other one considered and they too made even from a couple of previously sceptical are more inclined to join this ever growing
the decision to join WAKO which they have groups who have conducted study and and great team. When we acquire the post
now done.” It seems that the Holy Grail of realised the combined benefits to be had by of “British Governing Body” this will again
sport is already having a positive effect. all . It badly needs controlling as a lot of provide additional benefits to all. We have
With this sort of recognition in the off- stuff has gone haywire and sideways within everything covered from fighter safety
ing, people are naturally going to the kickboxing community, hopefully this through to CRB, and C&G Certificates
want to be a part of it. Did this mean that way we can work towards a system that (coaching certificates).”
anyone who wanted to fight in the Having gone through the proce-
“
Olympics would have to be a fully- dure of gaining membership I
paid-up member of WAKO?
“Not at all. To get onto the
As a result of our acceptance, GAISF have asked whether they would con-
sider changing rules or cate-
team they would apply for insur- stated that the officially nominated kickboxing gories in order to make them
ance with WAKO but would’nt
have to be members. They would
organisation recognised for the Olympics is WAKO. more Olympic friendly.
“We are working directly
need to have sports passes once As some of the newer sports such as kickboxing within the suggestions and
they had been selected.
I’m not saying that everyone
are being considered for recognition there are directives of the authorities
and at this moment many
actually some others being taken out.
”
who does kickboxing has to join changes have already been
the Gov-erning Body. The instructors implemented that do run in line
do however, and their club comes in with requirements. Although I am
under them. If someone wants to compete, will offer improvement to all of usl” happy with things at this moment in time
they will have to have a sports pass, just It should be explained however that obviously we will be working very closely
like in ABA boxing. This means that if some- Muay Thai is not included in this recogni- with all concerned in relation to any modi-
one gets knocked out they can’t fight for a tion as this is not a sport covered by fications or improvements”
month and it’s marked on their sports pass WAKO at amateur level, upon which the This is most certainly an exciting time
medical record. It’s all about protecting the main element of article is based. for martial arts as a whole. We can only
fighters, their safety is our prime concern.” When I asked whether WAKO had hope to see kickboxing finally gain the
The general feedback has, in Tom’s seen an influx of students and instructors recognition it deserves.
n today’s constantly changing and them all these two articles but hope we have
I
AT: It always helps to seek prior advice
demanding society, whether these are included some of the main points. As a stu- from the police or other professional body,
from the student/customer, or the dent or prospective student of a club it may I am also studying as a trainee Legal
powers that be such as insurance, gov- serve as a guide to ensure your first steps are Executive also which helps tremendously.
ernment or governing bodies, we heading in the right direction. As a club
thought we would have a basic look at how instructor it may help you realise what sup- CJP: So does age or gender have limita-
individual clubs or organisations are made port and facilities should be available to you. tions within the defence situations?
up and what considerations or improvements Risk assessment is another area that all
they have to continually look at. We hope clubs and groups have a duty to perform on a AT: I believe that anyone is able to defend
this account will allow people to make fur- regular basis. This can actually be part of insur- themselves if prior knowledge, awareness
ther considerations or comments that we will ance requirements and can relate to virtually and preparation procedures are followed.
gladly include in future articles so that they any area. By assessing risk on a regular basis Self-defence techniques can be adapted to
may aid the further advancement of safety and systematically taking the correct steps to suit individual needs, such as lack of height
within our sport. There are so many areas to reduce it you, as a club or an individual, will or strength or even a disability without
be discussed that we cannot possibly cover also be reducing the possibility of blame. much force being necessary
To minimise the potential of injury Think of any questions an insurance company may ask in
● Complaints from student’s wrists hurting after pad work session. event of a claim.
● How did it happen?
● Reports of toe injuries.
● Who was involved?
● Report of regular impact injuries.
● When did it happen?
To record any defect areas that injury could occur ● Why did it happen?
● Students hitting pads without hand wraps. ● What did you do to try to prevent it from happening?
● Ill fitting mats, slipping, corners sticking up. ● What will you do to try to prevent it from happening again?
● Poor quality safety equipment such as the home use range A risk assessment form should be completed on a regular basis
as sold in many high street stores. and kept for inspection.
T
he press-up, when done cor-
rectly, can really help to done almost any where, and can be covering the three main types, the
strengthen and tone the chest, made progressively harder. However, box, the three quarter and the full.
tricep, forearm and shoulder in order to get the best out of press- They are of increasing levels of inten-
muscles. The full-press up is ups it is important to do them correct- sity with the full press up being the
considered to be a compound exercise ly. They are certainly worth doing - most demanding.
(one that works different muscle and worth doing properly.
groups) as it also works the stomach, There are many adaptations of the THE BOX
leg and back muscles, which are used For this exercise the body is liter-
to stabilize the position. ally in the shape of a box. It is the
Despite the fact that they are still easiest form of press up as there is
seen as the mainstay of physical fit- the shortest leverage.
ness by the armed forces, the press up The hands should be placed on the
has become somewhat of a ‘forgot- floor, shoulder width apart, and point-
ten’ exercise, overtaken by more high ing forward, directly beneath the
tech training methods. They are, how- shoulders with the elbows slightly
ever, the perfect convenience exer- bent. The knees should be on the
T
defence,” he replied. “Something that
the following, is a true Master. I’m encouragement of their students to study would give me confidence, self-reliance and
not talking about his technical skill the healing as well as the harming arts. strengths that I could apply to real life. I
here. I’m talking about how to me, The arts on offer at the centre range didn’t find this transference in other arts -
and to his students, he is the embodiment from Chinese Tai Chi through Japanese not that you don’t find it in other arts! It
of what a Master should be. Karate to Korean Tai Chi. Tony’s journey might be something lacking in me but
He strives to perfect himself, to perfect through the martial arts reflects this. whichever, I found Tang Soo Do had that
his students, and to set the best example. easy transference and my instructors in
“
Tang Soo Do is his life and every action Tang Soo Do insisted on it.
or statement is influenced by this.
Tony began training in martial The vast majority of people who So Tang Soo Do for me was a
complete system. It wasn’t some-
art a long time ago, when they
weren’t so common and well-
don’t train still have no idea of what thing that worked only in the con-
fined space of a dojang and would
known as they are now. Tang Soo Do is - and never will! fail if you took it outside.” Clearly
“My parents let me stay up one the ‘Seven Samurai’ had a large
evening when I was a little boy,” he For me there is no difference impact on his life and his outlook!
explained. “I watched a film called
between Karate and Tang Soo Do. I mentioned the ongoing debate
”
‘Seven Samurai’ by Kurosawa and it between traditionalists and (on the
struck me as being a wonderful thing whole) mixed martial artists about the
that martial arts were something you could “I began with Shotokan Karate and relevance of patterns in the present day.
practise to defend yourself. Everyone’s per- White Crane Kung Fu,” he told me. “We “We’ve always practised the applications
ception of a tough guy in those days went to China to study the Crane under and continue to do so,” he told me. “We
seemed to involve giving away a lot of your Grandmaster Dong Mu Yau - one of the practise them in a way that’s reality-based.
humanity in order to become adept at most famous White Crane exponents in The forms in their original state (I think)
fighting. The thing about the Seven Samurai Taiwan. We trained with him on a number of were taught that way, and it’s only with the
was that they kept the human face whilst occasions because the roots of Tang Soo Do advent of tournaments after the war that the
being absolutely fantastic fighters.” and Karate lie in China - and White Crane applications ceased to be taught.
Keeping the human aspect is something very specifically for some styles of Karate. They were always taught in Okinawa
that he and his wife Rachel are keen on. I’ve a 1st dan in taekwondo, and I’ve and China! It wasn’t something that was
“
“I would say that you definitely forms. Here he was trying to intro-
have to teach about pressure points
very carefully” he replied. “Pressure
I was looking for an art that would duce Karate to the masses, which at
that time was an extraordinary thing
points don’t work at all if they’re help me in life over and above self- to do! There was a lot of opposition
anaesthetised through drugs or drink but he went ahead with it anyway!
- unless you go for the major ones! defence, Something that would give me This was at a time when Japan
They must be used selectively and
you need a detailed knowledge in
confidence, self-reliance and strengths was coming under a lot more influ-
ence from the West. Itosu embraced
order to teach and apply them. So that I could apply to real life. that change and rather than stick to
although we do use pressure points, we
don’t rely entirely on them. We always have
a back up ready in case they don’t work.”
Unlike many masters of Korean martial
arts, Tony isn’t afraid to label his style
‘karate’ and neither does he downplay Tang
Soo Do’s Japanese heritage. I asked him to
”
ation. No mention was ever given of it com-
ing from Karate but, then, Koreans under-
standably don’t like the Japanese because of
their occupation - but that does nothing to
change the historical facts of the matter,
tradition, he aimed at completely
revamping the art so it could be taught to
masses of people in schools. Funakoshi car-
ried on this change and his changing of the
name from ‘Tang Hand’ to ‘Empty Hand’
caused a huge controversy on Okinawa.
Even now they describe Karate as ‘To de’.
explain why he referred to his art as ‘karate’. and those are that it originated on Okinawa Bill Burgar is a traditionalist who decid-
“Karate,” he responded, “was known via China. So ‘Karate’ describes the activity ed to follow in the footsteps of the Masters
early on to a lot of people and although a lot better I think.” and study only one pattern for five whole
Tang Soo Do has been in this country for a I next asked Tony whether he thought years. That was the way taught by the old
number of years, the vast majority of peo- the Masters were as special as most people Masters. Entire styles contained just one or
ple who don’t train still have no idea of believe them to be, and when does an art two kata. Now, taekwondo has 24 patterns
what Tang Soo Do is - and never will! You actually became an art? and 2 ‘exercises’. Shotokan has 26.
Page 46 COMBAT June 2007
Johnson’s Karate has roughly 60 patterns.”
That prompted me to ask Tony whether
he would have kept on training if his style
contained only the one pattern.
“I would have done so, yes, because
that’s the way I would have been taught.
But if I could have compared it to other
things, then I would have wanted more out
of it. We have forms in our syllabus that
used to be in Tang Soo Do but were
dropped years ago. I’ve reintroduced them
so students get a more complete picture of
the original Tang Soo Do. In a way it’s going
back to tradition.”
I asked Tony whether he thought titles
were important or whether students should
just call him ‘Tony’.
“The students like a title because it
reassures them,” Tony replied. “It’s also a
source of pride for them to tell someone
they’re graded by a Master. Other than
that, titles don’t mean damn thing! I think
that respect is more important than titles.
Respect has to be earned. During a
beginner’s class, this guy came up and said
‘What do I call you?’ He wanted to know
the correct etiquette, so I said ‘Call me
Tony’. Then when the seniors referred to
me as ‘Sabumnim’, so the same beginner
asked what that word meant. I told him it
meant ‘Instructor sir’. He asked me to write
it down for him - and he’s been calling me
that ever since!
However had I said ‘Call me Sabumnim!’
in a bombastic way, then I might well have
turned him off. The notion of respect has to
be gently introduced and slowly earned.”
As I said before, Tony commands
respect without demanding it.
Martial arts are often criticised for trying
to churn out clones of their instructors but
arts such as Shunryu Kempo aim at produc-
ing individuals who practise the same art.
“Up to 1st Dan certainly you need to
go along with everything your instructor
tells you,” Tony explained. “But after that
you can look at the aspects of the art that
suit you. But always train hardest on your
weaker points and try to improve them.
Always be aware that various forms better
suit different body types - so you should
find the ones that suit you, and try to
develop them further.
Personal development within any aspect
of life is important. Martial arts offer a life
skill with an almost infinite amount of
options compared to, say, football. There is
only one form of football whereas the num-
ber of martial arts available is very great.
A black belt is not the be-all and end-all
that some people think it is. Once you’ve
achieved that grade you need to push on;
to find new aspects of your art and new
ways of looking at your art. Not only that
but you should be looking to improve your-
self in other ways.”
See what I mean about Tony?
COMBAT June 2007 Page 47
IF A STUDENT GOES DOWN INJURED
BUNBU SERIES
of articles we explore the tech-
niques, the applications, and
the science behind this skill.
However, these type of tech-
niques should only be prac-
THE CHOKE AND ticed by experienced expo-
STRANGLE Part 3 nents under strict professional
tuition and supervision.
J
udo, Jujutsu and other martial skill often have some
aspects of chokes and strangles within their reper-
toire. In the last few articles I have covered some of
the basics that relate to this skill. I spoke of the use of
strangles within police forces (presently prohibited), in situa-
tions where a violent person was perhaps beyond the pain
threshold, where alternatives such as CS spray, Tasar (stun
guns), or repeated blows with a baton, could easily result in
injury or death. I think that if specially selected officers were
properly trained, they could be called upon to deal with these
specific situations. Like any specialized skill, it is not for every
beat officer to use, nor would it be for just any old situation
involving violence. However, if the true facts were looked into,
it may be a very effective option in very specific circum-
stances.
Some years ago the Society For Scientific Research at the
Kodokan Judo Institute In Japan undertook specific scientific
studies to determine the effects of chokes and strangles.
Studies were made of the central nervous system, the cardio
vascular system, and the respiratory system. Specific tests were
selected that included:
● Electroencephalogram readings.
ELI001/03 ● Percentage oxygen saturation of blood in the helix of the ear.
● Electrocardiogram readings.
● Arterial blood pressure.
● Finger and forearm plethysmogram readings.
● Skin temperature.
● Pupillary reflex.
● Reaction of urine.
● Cramp or convulsion symptoms.
A high ranking master performed three types of strangles
(chokes) on five subjects. The techniques selected were:
STRANGLE
CHOKE
unconciousness were the
choke and the strangle.
(1). Okurierijime, where the neck as a whole is put under pressure. scious, the amplitude increased, reaching approximately 100
(2). Hadakajime, where pressure is applied to the trachea. uV, while the frequency decreased notably reaching 3 - 5 per
second, and recorded the so called slow waves. This was con-
(3). Katajujijime, where pressure is applied to the carotid arteries. sidered the characteristic result of the Electroencephalogram of
Pressure was released at the first signs of unconsciousness, the the state of unconsciousness following the technique. During
criteria of which was the reflex dilation of the pupils. the middle state of unconsciousness, superposed waves
Measurements of each subject were taken in rest position, in appeared, followed by separation, finally becoming 50 - 100
the preparation stage, continuously during the application, and uV, 3 - 10 per second. (d). Near the period of awakening,
until five minutes after waking. Then measurements were taken waves appeared that were identical to those observed during
at five minute intervals up to the half hour period. The room sleep, and were superposed by ‘B’ waves. (e). When the sub-
temperature where the experiments were conducted was 15.6 - ject awoke, the ‘B’ waves became notable, after 10 seconds
18.2∞ C (dry temperature) and 12.0 - 15.4∞ C (wet tempera- the ‘A’ waves also began to appear. Within 20 seconds of
ture). The atmospheric pressure was 755.0 - 771.3mm Hg. awakening, the Electroencephalogram showed similar reading
to those of the getting ready period. Within 3 - 3 minutes the
METHOD AND RESULTS readings returned to that of the rest period. (with Hadakajime,
In the case of Hadakajime (across the trachea) none of the where there was no loss of consciousness, the reading of
subjects fell unconscious. In the other cases unconsciousness last- course showed a different picture).
ed 10 to 12 seconds. During this period the subject very often In summary of the above cases, where unconsciousness
developed clonic cramps (a spasm with alternate muscle contrac- was induced by the technique, the Electroencephalogram
tions and relaxations). While unconscious, the subjects sometimes recorded definite changes during the state of unconsciousness,
experienced pleasant dreams, they all awoke spontaneously and however the duration was short and after 20 seconds of being
none complained of any unpleasant feelings after waking. The awake the subjects reading returned to normal, leaving no
dilation of the pupils accompanied the unconsciousness. after effects. This is in contrast for example to a case of con-
The subjects were put into an electrically shielded room cussion of the brain. In all the tests the technique was released
and recordings were taken from the frontal and occipital immediately the subject fell unconscious, but it is fair to say
regions with the Electroencephalogram. The electrodes used that if the technique was continued for a longer duration,
were 1.0 cm in diameter and made of silver. The recordings more serious after effects may be expected.
were taken on an ink recorder that moved at a rate of 3 cm There is a great deal of evidence to show that up to the point
per second. In all cases where the subjects fell unconscious the of unconsciousness there is no detrimental effects upon the recipi-
readings were similar. (a). In the preparatory position, ‘A’ waves ent. This particular article deals with the conditions under which
were inhibited, ‘B’ waves increased by comparison to the rest the tests were instituted, then deals mainly with the tests involving
position. This was attributed to anxiety in the anticipation of the Electroencephalogram, in the next article I will relate more sci-
the technique. (b). In the early stages of the technique, the entific evidence showing the effects of strangulation techniques.
amplitude and the frequency increased, followed by a Remember that these type of techniques should only be undertak-
decrease in amplitude. (c). Just as the subject became uncon- en by experienced exponents under proper supervision.
COMBAT June 2007 Page 51
The 500 Calorie Work-Out
BASIC STANCE
With left foot forward, feet shoul-
der width apart, come up on to the
W and the pressure on to shape
up ready for the beach, we
have the perfect 500 calorie
burning, kickboxing work out. The
great thing about this body toning routine
ball of the right foot. Twist the hips is that it doesn’t need any equipment, and
so that the right hip and shoulder
leads the body. Make tight fists can be done almost anywhere. It’s fun,
with both hands and raise them to it’s fast and if practised at least three
about six inches away from the time a week will quickly bring results.
jaw, right hand slightly forward.
COMBAT June 2007 Page 53
The 500 Calorie Work-Out
JAB
This punch will not only tone the upper-body muscles but also help with
cardio fitness.
Begin in the Basic Stance, protect the face with the left fist and punch
straight out with your right, palm down. As you jab twist the hips, so that
the power comes from the shoulder and right leg. Immediately snap the fist
back to the starting position. Begin slowly, until you have the technique and
then raise the pace. Switch sides, changing the jabbing arm and lead leg.
Beginner 3 sets of 10 jabs with each arm
Intermediate 3 sets of 15 jabs with each arm
Advanced 3 sets of 20 jabs with each arm
FRONT KICK
This shapes the legs, tones the backside
and increases the lower body endurance.
From Basic Stance raise both fists paral-
lel in front of the face, lift the left knee
(keep the standing knee slightly bent)
and kick the leg out straight, powering
the kick from the hip. Kick with the ball
of the foot, toes pulled back making sure
not to lock the knee. Repeat with the
other leg. Begin slowly gradually
increasing the speed of the kick. Initially
aim for knee-level, then hip-height and
eventually chest high kicks.
Beginner 3 sets of 10 kicks with each leg
Intermediate 3 sets of 15 kicks with each leg
Advanced 3 sets of 20 kicks with each leg
ROUNDHOUSE KICK
This power kick will build strength in the lower
body and tone the legs, waist and hips.
From Basic Stance (arms still raised protecting
the face) shift the weight to the right foot. Bring
the left knee to hip height, twist the hips and
bring the kick round in a crescent shape so that
by using the top of the foot you make imaginary
contact with a target straight in front of you.
The upper body will lean back over the support-
ing leg for balance Change stance and repeat.
Kick slowly until you are comfortable with the
technique and then increase the speed. Initially
aim the kick at waist height, gradually pro-
gressing to chest-high kicks.
Beginner 3 sets of 10 kicks each side
Intermediate 3 sets of 10 kicks each side
Advanced 3 sets of 10 kicks each side
THE WARM UP
/ COOL DOWN
You must always warm up before
beginning the routine. A great
way to work up a sweat is by
skipping, gradually increase the
time until you can skip continu-
ously for about 5 minutes, after
which loosen up, by circling the
shoulders and shaking out the
legs. Equally important is the
cool down after completing the
routine, once again shakeout the
arms and legs and finish with a
simple, slow stretching routine
COMBAT June 2007 Page 55
PREPARING FOR YOUR
FIRST FIGHThe first thing I’m going to say Here are some pointers to look for. after 3 minutes of totally committed
“
out movies, Seagal’s star peaked would jam with greats such as BB
with ‘Under Siege’ amid reports
and rumours of him being diffi-
This is not something new for me. King and John Lee Hooker, men-
tioning that his strongest influ-
cult to work with. This trouble- My first artistic endeavour was ence was Clarence ‘Gatemouth’
some reputation saw much of his Brown. He may be selling out
later work go straight to DVD but playing music and that music was concert venues Worldwide now
during that period it also became
apparent that the big man was blues. It is something that has but his earliest gigs were the old-
fashioned juke joints that were
working music into his movies, always been natural to me. steeped in Blues history.
”
singing on the soundtrack or, as in Leaving home in his early
the case of ‘Fire Down Below’, singing teens, Seagal went to Japan and devel-
and playing guitar on screen. tering ability to make his guitar sing, a oped the reputation that ‘Combat’ read-
Now movie stars releasing albums talent that has seen the British leg of his ers will know him most for - as an
and singles is nothing new, many try World tour sell-out. Aikido master of such repute that he was
their hands at it with varying levels of Seagal grew up near Detroit, in a the only American to open his own dojo
ego-driven success but the difference mostly black neighbourhood and it was in the country. Although he returned to
with Seagal is tangible; this is a man with this cultural backdrop that he America in 1985, he still visits Japan at
least three or four times a year. Martial
success eventually led to movie success,
fame and fortune but his love of music
never dissipated, movie fame giving him
the platform to promote his talent as a
singer/songwriter.
His first album, ‘Songs from the
Crystal Cave’, was a critically well-
received eclectic mix of tracks, includ-
ing a track ‘My God’, which featured
none other than Stevie Wonder. Given
his enduring love of the Blues, however,
it was his second album, ‘Mojo Priest’,
that was to reflect his true passion and
satisfy a long-held desire to record an
album that honoured the Delta Blues
legends. He was joined on the album by
legendary figures Ruth Brown, Robert
Lockwood Jnr, Ko Ko Taylor, James
Cotton, Bo Diddley, Willie ‘pine top’
Perkins and a man Seagal references
throughout our interview, Hubert
Page 62 COMBAT June 2007
COMBAT June 2007 Page 63
Sumlin, who not only played with they have all tried to play blues songs “I love that, you know.” As to his own
Muddy Waters but who was also with but I don’t look at them as blues guys.” musical heroes, men he would take time
Howlin Wolf. To Seagal, these artists may have out to watch, he states that they are all
I interviewed Seagal in the interval been inspired by the Blues but what they dead, “apart from a handful of guys.”
between his sound-check and the actual produce is blues influenced rock, where- We warm to this part of the conversation
gig and whilst he is not the most forth- as “I, myself, am the opposite; I couldn’t and Seagal laughs heartily when I ask
coming interviewee, he is polite and, play rock if I tried. I just wouldn’t know him who would form his band
given his previous reputation, remark- how. I play the blues.” To him, the blues ‘Thunderbox’ if he could have anyone to
ably laid-back. Short answers are punc- is about becoming one with the music choose from. “It would be like, Howlin
tuated with a slight lean forward which and allowing it to become a true expres- Wolf, Muddy Waters, Lightning Hopkins,
means next question, questions which Albert King, Gabemouth Brown, peo-
truly interest him are greeted with
longer answers and some laughs
but there is never any sign of the
moodiness which has haunted his
press coverage over the years. In
fact, when we talk of his humor-
“ Britain has been very kind to me.
We’ve had a lot of sold-out shows
and a tremendous amount of love
ple like that. Hell, man, that would
be something!”
Finally, we get back to the
side of Seagal’s personality that
the press rarely focuses on and
again, Steven warms to the con-
ous display on the television pro-
gramme ‘The Friday Night and appreciation. I’m blessed. versation, nodding as I point out
how well he was received on
Project’, where he was the guest I couldn’t be happier. The Friday Night Project. “I try
”
presenter, he smiles and says that to be just a natural born country
friends know him as a funny guy, with folk. By the same token, I love to be
a warm sense of humour but he adds sion of what is in your soul; sometimes funny and I love being with people who
wryly that it’s a side of him that general- that’s pain, sometimes joy, sometimes are funny. Many people have said that
ly holds less interest to the press. heartbreak but it stays true to a certain Steven Seagal is the most misunder-
What the press does want to latch feel and a certain sound “and that’s all stood person I know; I don’t want to
onto, namely his tough guy reputation, dictated by where you come from and say that but the people who know me
his ‘shady’ past and his bad-ass film how you were raised.” are always astounded by the way some
roles, irritates him, as Seagal is deadly Martial Arts practice has always had of the press try to portray me but that’s
serious about his music and his ability as a strong spiritual connection to it for really all about sales.” - (laughs)
a bona fide musical artist, emphasised Seagal and he finds the same connection
by the fact that eleven of the tracks on with playing the blues. The first album
‘Mojo Priest’ were self-penned. Whilst had an eclectic array of influences and
acknowledging his film career and mar- musical styles but future albums will be
tial arts as positive forces in his life, much more blues orientated, although
Seagal is here to talk about his music Seagal admits with a little smile that,
and that’s what we do. With his song “I’ll sneak out a little bit.” That won’t,
writing, Writing, for Seagal, is a mixture however, include Japanese music, as it
of both inspiration and work at a craft - doesn’t provide an inspiration that would
the idea comes first, the concept and fit into his current repetoire, although he
once that is in place, the lyrics and final- admits that “there was some Okinawan
ly the music. “Sometimes, I’ll work on stuff.” Lyrically, his experiences in Japan
the music and lyrics at the same time.” have filtered through - “of course, I
As to what inspires him thematically, lived in Japan for a long time and
they are typical blues subjects, “pain, that is a strong influence, for sure.”
betrayal, joy, happiness...” If anyone doubted Seagal’s
When it comes to issues that are blues credentials they’re misgiv-
close to Seagal’s heart (he campaigns ings were put to rest by Sumlin,
actively for a number of causes, includ- who regards the big man as a
ing the environment) he finds that music musical brother, an accolade
is often a better outlet for him to gain that leaves Seagal speechless.
awareness as “it’s easier to control (than Seagal affects an impressive
a film). When you work on a movie blues legend drawl as he
there’s like 4,000 people around you and impersonates Sumlin, stating
you never know how it’s going to turn with a big grin, “me and
out.” As to how something turns out, Steven have ways alike and we
Seagal was determined that ‘Mojo plays alike. That’s really cool
Priest’ would be a true blues album, not you know?” he adds, reverting
a rock album with a blues feel. “I come back to his own voice.
from the blues, the old delta guys, I got When it comes to knowing
to spend a lot of years playing with BB the ‘real’ Seagal, Steven believes
King, Gatemouth Brown, Hubert Sumlin, that his music is the best medi-
a lot of different great blues legends. um and although he has
There isn’t a formula for who’s a blues played stadium gigs, he
guy and who’s not but you can just tell prefers the intimacy of
by seeing where they came from and the smaller venues as it
how they play. In my opinion, guys, harks back to his days
whether it’s the Rolling Stones, Jimmy playing in the local
Page or Humble Pie, Eric Clapton or juke joints, finding
any of the British guys who play Rock, them the most rewarding.
COMBAT June 2007 Page 65
BILL WAL
Kicking’s $6m Dollar
B
ill ‘Superfoot’ Wallace is a kicking the things that I used to do. Number two, important, factors. If you’re not having fun
legend. With his kicks clocked at my ideas have changed, my priorities have whilst training, then it becomes a chore. If
over 60mph, and the ability to changed. When I was younger all I wanted you’re losing students, it could well be due
throw a hook kick, roundhouse to do was workout, spar, and fight. And now to apathy or (more likely) they’ve become
(turning) and sidekick from the same there are other things to do. Your priorities bored and disenchanted.
chamber, he was as great a pioneer in kick- change as you get older. Your body changes This certainly isn’t the case for Bill as he
ing as Bruce Lee was in concepts. and gets different. But I still love it.” explains: “I find the training is still great. I
Such was his influence in kicking, that These conflicting priorities are otherwise don’t like to fight as much as I used to, I’m
many people now use his chamber without known as ‘life’. Fortunately, Bill used his 61 years old. I like to have someone come
realising where it came from in the first place. nimble footwork to out manoeuvre life, and out and say to them ‘okay, now you block
With an active career spanning more still gets to train whilst working, “I do semi- this kick’. I’ll show them where it’s going
than 30 years, Bill is still as good a kicker nars every weekend and that’s when I get to and have them try to block the kick. Then I
now, as he was when he started. His view on do my workouts. That’s my job. I get paid to move onto the creation of a combination,
training however, has moved with the times. work out. It’s perfect, I’m having fun.” so I have the guy able to block the first
“I don’t want to do the same things that Having fun whilst training in the martial technique and hit him with something else.
I’ve done before. My body just doesn’t do arts, is one of the most overlooked but That’s the fun part of it.”
Aside from having fun, it’s important to
feel that you are making progress in the
martial arts, and one way is to take ideas
and concepts, and adapt them to your own
way of doing things. This is something that
Bill has also recognised, and made a core
part of his seminars. He was kind enough
to explain how he did this.
“What I try to do is to provide ideas, I
provide ideas on how to create openings,
how to make something work. Most people
are not good kickers because the leg is heavy,
they’re not flexible and they’ve found it’s eas-
ier to punch than it is to kick. My whole goal
in my martial arts career is to get people to
start liking the kicking movements, to get
people to start liking the kicks themselves.”
Bill and I talked about how kicking has
changed over the years, “I see a lot more
people kicking now. Especially in competi-
tions. I see a lot more people throwing the
flashy kicks to the head, I see a lot more peo-
ple using the front leg kicks, using the speed
aspect as opposed to the power shots.”
Bill’s enthusiasm when he talks about
the seminars he gave to the TAGB is obvi-
ous, and it’s clear he still remembers them
with affection, “I really like the TAGB, they’re
good people. The first time I met Kenny
Walton and David Oliver was in Buenos Aires
in Argentina. We walked into a bar and there
they were. We sat down and started talking
and had an absolute ball. They did some
exhibitions and demonstrations, and one that
Page 68 COMBAT June 2007
LACE
By Matthew
Sylvester
Man!
I remember was them in Tuxedos. I also did
a demonstration with Cynthia Rothrock
where we fought in slow motion. I wore bib
overalls (dungarees) for that.”
(Ed’s note: This was the ‘Extravaganza’
show in the UK.)
Bill’s career has had its effects upon his
health, especially on his hips. “I have new
ones. I have brand new ones. Both have
been replaced. My left was replaced after
an accident in Africa, and my right was
replaced because of my right knee. My right
knee had been bad for so long that I over-
compensated and wore the right hip out.”
For those that don’t know of Bill’s histo-
ry, Bill began studying karate in February
1967, after suffering a serious injury to his
right knee in a judo accident. He complete-
ly ripped the ligaments in his knee. The
injury left him unable to compete in Judo,
and so he moved into Shorin-Ryu Karate.
From there he proceeded to make history
both in semi-contact and then full-contact.
Having two new hips is going to affect
the way you train, no matter how old you
are, and we discussed what effect this
surgery had upon Bill’s training, “When I
started to stretch I actually felt the stretch.
The muscles themselves were affected
because they’d atrophied, so I had to
rebuild my flexibility. I had to change
some other things, but the kicking is
still there. I still feel fast and I’m two
or three inches off the floor in box
splits, which isn’t bad when you’ve
got two new hips.”
“
Aside from having to work on his
flexibility, and rebuild the atrophied
muscles, the surgery has made Bill
think about the way he kicks.
“When you have brand new hips
there are certain things that the doctors
I was a wrestler in College
don’t want you to do. They don’t want
you to cross your legs, to have your feet
point out, and they don’t want you to bend
and if I was younger, 21 or
more than 90 degrees. Fortunately my doc-
tor knows what I do for a living, so he fixed
22 I would totally consider
entering the MMA events.
it so that I could do everything I needed.”
This definitely seems to be a case of ‘we
have the technology to rebuild him’.
COMBAT June 2007 Page 69
Hip replacement operations aren’t easy public. With the ability to enter a tourna- Norris, simply because when I started they
on the body. If you’ve never seen one on ment in their locality every weekend, the were the competitors of the time, and
television, you haven’t missed much. The US fighters are going to keep their lead. were the top guys and I wanted to com-
trauma on the body is as severe as you How the UK gets around this is certainly pete against them.”
might expect when it involves replacing a matter for debate. It seems that Bill was an accidental
such major bones. Often the time taken to One aspect of freestyle competition hero however. A somewhat reluctant full-
heal can be months. Not in the case of that Bill doesn’t like is musical forms. “A lot contact fighter, he didn’t actually volunteer.
‘Super Bill’, “I had my operation at the end of the fancy stuff, the jumping, the diving, “At the start of it I was more or less
of May, and I gave my first seminar in the the spinning, and the somersaults is some- forced into it. I was a natural middleweight
middle of June. It wasn’t a great seminar thing I don’t like because it has little to do so Joe Lewis said ‘you’re going to do it’. I
but I had it arranged so I showed up, and I with the martial arts. It looks great on the didn’t want to do it, I didn’t want to get hit
demonstrated the techniques.” movie screen though, and people like to but he said ‘you’re going to do it’.
Aside from a successful career on the see it. People who aren’t martial artists It started getting fun, all of a sudden I
semi and full contact arenas, Bill has also think it’s really neat.” was a World Champion Kickboxer and I
co-starred in a number of films, often Not only was Bill a pioneer in kick- was like ‘wow’.”
being the bad guy. ing, he was also a pioneer in kickboxing. His first fight definitely had an impres-
“I haven’t done a movie for a few years, Many readers will have grown up know- sion on him as he can remember it as clear
but it’s fun being the bad guy. You can be ing kickboxing as a mainstream martial as glass, “Whatever you train for, you can
the bad guy on-screen and it’s great being art (whether it’s full-contact or ‘freestyle train for all day long, but unless you actual-
the bad guy off-screen, staying in the role. kickboxing’ aka semi/light). When Bill ly get out there you don’t know what it’s
I think that movies are like. I was up there in front of
“
behind me because I’m 10,000 fans and all of a
older now, I don’t have the sudden I’m going ‘oh sh*t’.
same look I as I did when I What I try to do is to provide ideas, I provide ideas I was nervous, scared to
was younger, and there are on how to create openings, how to make something death until the bell went
so many other people out ‘ding’. I said to myself ‘well
there that can be the bad work. Most people are not good kickers because if I’m scared now and the
guy. Movies are a young the leg is heavy, they’re not flexible and they’ve guy hits me it can’t be any
people’s game nowadays, worse’. After the bell went
but I’d still like to do them found it’s easier to punch than it is to kick. My ding I wasn’t scared at all, I
if I was asked to.” whole goal in my martial arts career is to get was ready to do it.”
Having competed One does wonder
in semi-contact, and trav-
people to start liking the kicking movements, to get whether it was worth
elled the world teaching people to start liking the kicks themselves. all that fear and stress,
”
martial artists how to and Bill agreed citing
improve their kicking, Bill was the reason that he kept
in a good position to point out the differ- started kickboxing it was viewed in pret- fighting, “I just enjoyed it, it starting
ences between competitors in the US, ty much the same light as BJJ, rocking becoming fun.” Unfortunately, the pre-
and competitors in the UK. the foundations of people’s belief as to fight fear, stress and preparation started
“A lot of the UK people have been com- what martial arts and full-contact karate having a negative impact on his life,
ing over to the states to compete, so when (as it was known before becoming kick- “It’s one of the reasons that I retired. It
they come over to compete they’re learning boxing) actually were. was always on your mind. You just don’t
a lot and taking it back. This means that He was also one of the lucky few who want to go through with it after a while,
they’re so much better now.” got to train with other pioneers of the and I said ‘enough is enough’.”
That said, he continues saying, “They sport, “I did a lot of training with Joe Lewis. The full contact world now has a lot to
need to compete more. You learn through Back when we first started in the early 70s, offer fighters. They can enter Muay Thai,
competing, you learn the best aspects by Joe was the only one who knew how to kickboxing, WTF Taekwondo, the WCL
entering competitions. Over here you can box. Joe was the only one that had the box- and MMA. I asked Bill If he was starting
take one large city like Chicago, Miami, or ing skills, and the rest of us were karate out in full-contact now, would he fight in
New York, and you’ll find a tournament in people. It was a great time to spar with Joe MMA or WCL?
that area every weekend. If you’re a martial Lewis. There were other people that came “Not the WCL”, is the emphatic
artist you can compete every weekend and along. When I was in Memphis, Tennessee answer, “because I’m a thinker. The WCL
you can’t help but learn.” there was a boxing coach that came along, aspect of it means you have one, three
It’s clear that the US is still streets Bevo Covington. I trained a lot with him.” minute round and if you hesitate at all they
ahead when it comes to the martial arts Even pioneers have their heroes how- warn you for stalling. It’s okay but I like to
and their acceptance by the general ever namely, “Skipper Mullins and Chuck set stuff up, I want to create openings on
the guy, want him to block stuff, I want
him to move around. I want to hesitate a
The Protector ..................1985
FILMOGRAPHY Manchurian Avenger ......1985
bit, but in the WCL you have to continually
kick and punch all the time.
The Falkland Man ............2001 Los Angeles Streetfighter1985 I was a wrestler in College and if I was
Silent Assassins ................1988 Get a Job ........................1985 younger, 21 or 22 I would totally consider
American Hunter ..............1988 Killpoint ..........................1984 entering the MMA events.”
As with any martial artist, there is
Fight to win ......................1987 Sword of Heaven ............1981 always a reason for them starting beyond ‘I
Sword of Heaven ..............1985 A Force of One ..............1979 just wanted to’. With Bill it was a common
problem. He was scrawny.
Page 70 COMBAT June 2007
“When I went to High School I want to be there.”
weighed 98lbs, so it was a little bit difficult Having trained with, and fought
for me to play basketball, a little bit diffi- against, some of the best in the world,
cult to play football (American Football, Bill has plenty of memories. I asked if
not Soccer), so I got started in wrestling he had any that stood out.
and fell in love with it.” “The time I sparred with Bob Sykes in
Not only did he fall in love with England was great. We had a ball. Bob,
wrestling, he went on to become very Kenny Walton and I all sparred. When I do
good at it. His competitive nature shone the seminars everyone gets together and
through even then, “I really liked the spars and tries out different techniques.
competition. I always wanted to beat That’s always the fun thing, see how they
someone, I wanted to be a better react, how they learn something.
wrestler than they were.” Kenny was a good fighter. We
As we were talking about wrestling, sparred in Liverpool and we had a
we moved back towards discussing the great time, it was super sparring
modern trends of BJJ and MMA. Bill was with Kenny. We were out there
quick to point out how wrestling has influ- kicking and punching each other,
enced these arts, “If you look at wrestling, he’d just won a TAGB champi-
the takedowns are fantastic.” He onship, it was a great time.”
explained. “They’re using wrestling take- Speaking about how he
downs such as the double leg takedown, came over to England for
the single leg and then once they get seminars, we talked about his
down they’re using the chokes and arm forthcoming seminar in Belfast
bars from the JJ and putting them together. and whether he was coming
If you watch the Gracies, the number one over to Scotland, “I’d love to.
technique is the double leg takedown Some people have asked me to
which is a wrestling move.” come over and give seminars in that area.
Bill was also a commentator on UFC I, I’d like to be able to tie it into the semi-
back in the days when it was style versus nars that I’m doing for John Rosborough in
style, bare hands and pretty much ‘no Ireland, on August 1st in Belfast, and from
holds barred’. In those days attacks to the there go over to Scotland and do some
groins and eyes weren’t banned, fighters stuff over there. I’ve also had calls from
would just be fined something in the England, and I’d love to do some stuff over
region of $10,000. It was a time when there as well. The last time I was in
the Gracies dominated due to the fact England was in the early 90s. I would love
that no-one knew about ground fighting, to set some seminars up.”
and how to counter it. Bill was very firm about what his plans
“It’s okay, but it’s like a brawl. You’re for the future were, “Still travelling around
not really learning how to punch, you’re doing the seminars and exhibitions. I still
not really learning how to kick. It’s just really enjoy doing all of that. I’m not retir-
tough guys in there that like to get guys to ing” He offered his philosophy on retir-
the ground and pummel them.” I think it ing, “You retire you die. I don’t wanna
is safe to say he’s not necessarily a fan of die, not yet anyway.”
sloppy technique. It was clear that Bill had a love
Bill then put forward an interesting for the martial arts that went beyond
idea, “I’d like to see the same competition the feelings most people have for
on a concrete floor or a hardwood floor. them. He had mentioned other pri-
Do the same takedowns, the same throws, orities however, and I wanted to
do the same movements on the floor. know more about the man than the
You’re not going to get the same take- martial artist, so I asked what he did
downs or the same movements because when he wasn’t demonstrating how
it’s going to tear your knees up, it’s going to kick someone in the head multi-
to tear everything apart.” ple times: and “I like to play golf,
He wouldn’t deny just how popular it sometimes I hit it good, sometimes I
has proven with the public however, nor hit it bad. I have a 4/5 handicap right
how it had got into the general martial now. I have a motorbike which I
arts psyche, “People here in the US see enjoy riding. It’s a Harley Davidson.
this MMA, everybody wants to learn the My martial arts help a lot with the bal-
takedowns, everyone wants to learn the ance, the tempo and movement and get-
chokes, all that stuff. What they find out in ting the hips into the swing. A lot of times it
the first month though is that it’s not as gives me focus. I play for the fun of it, I
easy to do as it looks, and when you reach get upset sometimes but on the
a certain age, the last thing you want is to whole I play for the fun of it.”
have someone roll around on top of you. I truly pity any golfing
I’m 61 years old and I don’t want some- partner that’s with Bill when he
one rolling on me. I get mat burns, bruises ‘gets upset’. Hooking the ball must take
on my shoulders and hips, you just don’t on a whole new meaning!
COMBAT June 2007 Page 71
THE SECRET OF LOCAL POWER against the centre of your chest but do
T
his is a try-it-for-yourself article Picture 2
and to do just that, you will need not let your fingers overlay the impact
three things: a partner of approx- surface (Pic 1). Females should hold the
imately equal body mass to your- impact pad against their shoulders and
self, an impact pad and a short length upper arms and not against their breasts.
of one inch dowelling. Assuming you An impact pad is an essential item of
don’t know what an impact pad is, it’s a equipment for all martial artists who use
foam sandwich - but not just any old any form of strike in their syllabus. As
foam. The sponge you use in your bath- you know, your technique adapts to the
room is open-celled plastic foam that way you practise and if you train to
soaks up water because it contains a punch and kick the empty air, then that
large number of tiny spaces that are is what you will become skilled at. If
open to the air. you train to strike a punching post, then
A flotation pad used in swimming is you will be skilled at coping with its Square off in front of the pad and
also made of plastic foam but this time, resistance and springiness - but an oppo- throw your normal punch at it (Pic 2).
the foam is of the closed-cell kind - it nent is neither the molecules of the air After a few trial hits, go for a full impact
will not soak up water because all its nor a wooden plank! shot. Do the whole thing - pull back
spaces are closed off. Your impact pad The impact pad is useful because the your leading guard hand, twist the
is made from layers of this closed cell recoil it provides is precisely that of a punching hip behind the action and
plastic foam. Either buy a sheet of it human body, and that, presumably, is the move your centre of gravity forward etc.
from a specialist supplier and cut it sort of target you wish to learn to hit See whether you can knock your partner
yourself (use an electric knife), or buy it hard. Furthermore, the hardness of the backwards. Avoid just shoving him back
from a normal sports shop as a pre-cut closed-cell foam will transmit impact because this is not a high-energy impact.
flotation panel (they cost about £5 each). shock through to the holderís body with- When you are happy with the force
The number of layers used in your out caving in the breastbone. you are delivering, get the opponent to
personal pad will depend on how tough Incidentally, the impact pad does not move towards/away from you and prac-
you are. I recommend starting with four substantially toughen your knuckles, tise punching a moving man-mass. This
layers, perhaps with a single layer of though it does help align your wrist dur- is a little harder to do but it gets you
open-cell foam in the middle. This latter ing punching. Anyway, you now have used to dynamic ranging.
gives extra shock absorbance without not only an essential training aide, but You will discover that maximum
making the pad so thick that it becomes an impact-measuring device too, and it effective impact is developed when the
unwieldy. Weld your pads together by is in that latter capacity that I now want elbow is still slightly bent and not when
playing a hot air paint stripper against you to use it. it is locked straight. You will also come
their edges. Alternatively, bind the lay- By now, readers who practise to appreciate that practical techniques
ers together with a belt - though this is Shukokai karate may be yawning with are characterised by a good depth of
less satisfactory. If you prefer of course boredom because they know all about field over which they work well. But in
you can buy a ready made focus shield impact pads. But hang on in there folks the middle of self- congratulation, you
from any martial arts supplier. because we’re soon coming to something may miss out a vital component of
When you have your pad, hold it the Shukokai people may not know about! impact development and that is: how
effective are your punches when you are
Picture 1 sat down, or sprawling on the floor with
a real-life opponent?
If you expect to be taken seriously,
then you won’t suggest that you will
never allow yourself to fall to the floor,
or that you will always be able to get to
your feet before you need to strike. The
fact is that you cannot always guarantee
being able to fight on a level surface
and/or in a large clear area. And you
certainly cannot guarantee being able to
maintain a precise distance from the
opponent when there are chairs and
tables around you. So my reformulated
question becomes: what training do you
use to enable you to hit hard from disad-
vantaged positions? If your answer is
ënoneí, then how can you call yourself a
martial artist? ‘Partial’ artist more like!
Remedy this shortcoming by using
your impact pad to help develop the
ability to hit hard, regardless of your
body position. This means developing
what is known as ‘local power’ and by
that I am talking about the ability of an
Page 74 COMBAT June 2007
arm or leg alone to generate a substan-
tial impact without having to link into a
whole-body action.
To begin developing this ability, you
must forget all you have learned about
impact power generation and start all
over again. Instead of thinking of
impact as being generated by a fist being
driven as fast as possible into the target,
visualise throwing a fist as heavy as lead
Picture 3 Picture 4
into the target. How hard do you need
to hit someone with a sledgehammer to
hurt them? If you can make your fist
heavy (i.e., ‘dense’), then the speed of
delivery needn’t be so high. And if you
don’t need a high delivery speed, then
you don’t need specialised stances or
whole body action. Proving the effec-
tiveness of a ‘dense fist’ is the first stage
in coming to accept the theory and prac-
tice of local power.
Face the impact pad in a left leg
Picture 5 Picture 6
leading stance and throw your right fist
at it. Don’t bother overly much with hip
action, though you may lean your upper turns upward and the fist spasms (Pic 6). This third stage is more difficult to
body in the direction of the strike if you Now sit in a chair as your partner get right but ultimately it will provide
like. Keep your fist relaxed until it is stands close behind you. Your fists the technique you want.
about to strike the pad, then suddenly rest palm-downwards on your lap. When you can strike really hard with
tense it as hard as you possibly can. Look over your right shoulder (Pic 7) a sustained dense fist, then you can
Spasm-squeeze all the air out of it and (but don’t turn your face too far or you apply your new ability to blocking tech-
provided you haven’t cheated, you’ll be may catch a faceful of glass!) and niques. One of the worst things that can
surprised at the impact. bring your right fist into a vertical happen is when the novice catches a fast
Notice that I told you to ‘throw’ your back fist strike (Pic 8). Spasm-close moving shin with a relaxed fist/wrist.
right fist - not thrust it out as you cus- your fist on impact. Unfortunately the average martial artist
tomarily do. Use a relaxed but not nec- When you are satisfied with the has to keep his fist relaxed or lose too
essarily a slow movement. impacts being generated, go to the third much speed in block execution. There is
If you find you are hitting the pad and final stage of local power develop- no doubt in my mind that proper use of
harder than you thought possible, then ment. This does not use a spasm-close at a sustained dense fist provides both an
go on to the next step. But if you can’t all. Instead the fist remains tightly closed invaluable safety measure and a way of
generate much of an impact, cheat by throughout the movement - don’t just delivering really punishing blocks.
squeezing a short length of one inch tighten it on impact. Because you have As always, test your techniques
dowelling in your fist as you hit the pad. localised the muscle contraction to your against the impact pad because although
This will simulate the effect of a dense forearm muscles, then the elbow is not they may feel powerful, the only way of
fist and give you an impact to aim for. stiffened and your strike is just as quick. discovering whether they actually are is
During your early attempts, you will If your fist is dense throughout the move- to belt the pad really hard! Feel free to
find that though your hip may not ment, then it no longer matters whether experiment with the way you deliver the
become involved in the action, your you precisely range your technique so it technique but always aim to disengage
whole upper body locks up with the spasms exactly on impact (indeed, this those muscles not involved in clenching
muscle spasm used to close your fist. may not be possible anyway!). the fist. That is the secret of local power.
This unfortunately slows both technique Picture 7 Picture 8
delivery and retrieval because it inter-
feres with joint action. So the second
stage in developing local power is to
learn how to restrict the spasm to the
muscles of the forearm.
A training drill that I’ve found useful
is to clench the fist tightly and then alter-
nately extend/flex your elbow. At first
this action feels stiff but the elbow joint
loosens as you concentrate on restricting
muscle contraction to the forearm.
Practise with back fist against the
impact pad. Stand with your back to the
pad and turn your head to look over your
right shoulder (Pic 3). This pulls your
upper body partly around. Point your
elbow at the target pad (Pic 4) and lash
out with the right fist (Pic 5). At first
the little finger-edge of your fist leads
but as the distance closes, the thumb
COMBAT June 2007 Page 75
THE MARTIAL
ARTS EXPLORED
hilst strolling through my es, yet with even more of an enthusiastic By Zacharias Mario Christodoulou
“
cipline. These were the three colours of what this style has to offer. For begin-
Go Kan Ryu, a traditional Japanese ners and the experienced alike, I
karate established in 1984 in Always be yourself, express wish to give my, somewhat, pro-
Adelaide, Southern Australia, by fessional opinion on a certain
Robert Sullivan. yourself, have faith in yourself. Do martial arts style and explain its
The one woman and six men
wearing these conspicuous jackets not go out and look for a successful positive points and possibly even
its negative points. I saw this as a
were accompanied by a tall, slim, personality and duplicate it. chance to review certain martial
”
delicate-looking man in a charcoal - Bruce Lee disciplines. I have chosen to analyse
grey suit and tie. As he approached me, I three of the most popular martial arts,
noticed that his white shirt had no creas- wide as the Grand Canyon, and thrust each one altering in style to the other and
es, and his black slender Police glasses out a slender, yet rough skinned hand to originating from a different country.
understated his steel blue eyes that greet me with. I began talking to him However, they all do have one thing in
sparkled with enthusiasm. This was about my reasons for having to leave the common concerning their origins. They
undoubtedly a PR man with a purpose. club and that I was interested in rejoin- all originated from the Oriental parts of
“Excuse me sir,” he began, “have you by ing. Again, he directed me to the Asian Asia: China, Japan and Thailand.
any chance ever heard of GKR?” man for assistance in this matter and
bade me farewell. Upon telling Nippu WING CHUN
“I have,” was my instant reply. “I my name, he at once recognised it and Wing Chun is a notoriously hard-line
used to train with GKR.” told me that I was the subject of a recent style that has been said to have emanat-
“Oh right. Then you may as well speak conversation amongst some of the GKR ed from Chinese Kung Fu. Legend has it
to my colleague here, Nippu, if you are teachers involving my skills as a martial that Wing Chun was originally invented
interested in rejoining.” He pointed to an artist. This surprised me, yet at the same by a Buddhist nun, Ng Mui, who taught
Asian man, also with sleek black glass- time, enlivened me. To be remembered this system to another woman named
Page 76 COMBAT June 2007
Yim Wing Chun, who in turn popu- In general, Wing Chun practitioners then moved onto elbow strikes, followed
larised the style. It is a style that has believe in using the least amount of by a variation of blocking techniques
been studied by many famous names required force in any fighting situation. and kicking techniques. We finished the
within the martial arts community, most- They believe that small movements, initial stages with stance practises.
ly under the guidance and teachings of properly timed and correctly positioned, After a five-minute break, the Sensei
Grand Master Yip Man. Individuals can and should be used to defeat large began to teach the class ‘kata’ (meaning
include Yuen Biao, William Cheung, movements. This is achieved through ‘form’ or ‘pattern’). As described on the
Sammo Hung, Donny Yen, Michelle balance, body structure and relaxation. It CD-ROM Martial Arts Explorer (1998),
Yeoh, Bolkiah Hassanal (The Sultan Of is personified by the use of short, explo- these are dance-like moves designed to
Brunei), and of course, Yip Man’s most sive hand strikes, low kicks and synchro- imitate fights against
prominent student, Bruce Lee. nized attack and defence techniques. imaginary oppo-
Therefore, when I had the chance to I would recommend it as a simple, nents. Kata uses
study this art in Nicosia, Cyprus, I liter- graceful, efficient and enjoyable martial
ally jumped at the opportunity. I met art to learn.
with Sifu (teacher) Kypros through my
cousin and found out that he was taught KARATE
by one of Grand Master Yip Man’s stu- Karate-Do, or ‘The Way of
dents, William Cheung, making him a the Empty Hand’, is the most
second-generation student of Yip Man. widely known and prac-
The passion and determination that ticed martial art in the
echoed through his description of the art world. It has practitioners
was quite simply astonishing. His love and followers in every corner
for the system persuaded me even more of the world. Believed to have
to join him for a couple of training ses- originated in the 1500s on the
sions. The next day, upon arrival to the small Japanese island of Okinawa,
gym, I was quick to notice that it was a Karate was originally used by the
Cypriot, male-dominated club and that I island’s villagers to defend themselves
was the youngest individual there. All against the Chinese soldiers that occu-
were wearing a black outfit that symbol- pied the island. It was not until the late
ised their club, along with black plimsoll 1970s that Karate became a popular
training shoes. Most of the men there martial art in the western world, helped
seemed the spawn of an Olympic body- on by the famed movie ‘The Karate Kid’
builder and a London club bouncer. I in 1984. I found that I made quite a few
knew that it would be long night. contacts amongst the martial arts circle,
Sifu Kypros began the class with my due to the previous Karate style that I
introduction, followed by a light warm-up studied. Therefore, I rang around and
- nothing too strenuous. The other stu- managed to contact a Karate teacher,
dents were quite helpful and aided me with whom I arranged to begin my
through the initial stages, as they would classes with. He had a very polite
do throughout the duration of the class. phone manner, instantly encouraging
After the warm-ups, Sifu Kypros went me into taking part in his classes and
straight into the basic fluid movements of why I should be.
the style. He demonstrated the techniques When I turned up to the dojo, I
and instructed us to follow, correcting any saw that there was a mixture of
flaws that we may have had. We went backgrounds, as well as a mixture
through many short punches and kicks, of ages, ranging from seven to 57
followed by a few grappling movements. years. There was also a more bal-
Unknown to me, this was all preparation anced male and female ratio. The
for the last half-hour of sparring. first thing I had to do was to take
For some reason I felt a burning sen- off my training shoes and socks.
sation in the back of my throat when I All Karate classes are taught
heard that I was going up against a six bare-footed as a sign of strength
foot five inch colossus for light sparring. and respect. The ‘gi’, or uniform,
This may have just been nerves. was all white, with a coloured belt
Nevertheless, we engaged in a 50 per around the waist to signify the
cent effort sparring session, where I level of the wearer. Before begin-
found myself trying to counter his long- ning the class, Sensei (teacher)
reaching arms and legs for the majority Steve would dictate a series of
of the session. On a few occasions, I bowing on hands and knees to
managed to dodge past his attacks and show respect to the founders and
fight him on the inside, surprising both pupils of the Karate style.
him and me. He also helped me with a Then the class began with an
traditional Wing Chun technique known all-over body warm-up, from head
as the ‘sticky-hands’, which is used for to toe, followed by a series of light
the developing automatic reflexes upon punches and hand strikes, slowly
contact with an opponent. We then fin- working up a faster pace. Sensei
ished the class with an exhibition from Steve would go around the dojo and
the teacher and his two top students, correct anybody’s technique if
who all demonstrated the real power of required, as he would do for the
Wing Chun so effortlessly. entire duration of the class. We
COMBAT June 2007 Page 77
all of the basic defensive and offensive
moves learnt in the class, with a range of
movements and stances also incorporat-
ed. Each grade of student, signified by
the belt colour, was taught a different
style of kata accordingly. These kata are
a way of not only practising defence and
attack, but also self-discipline, balance
and coordination.
After the katas, for the finale, every-
body was placed with somebody the
same grade as themselves for ‘kumite’
(sparring). Each bout was a two minute
long, no contact, light sparring session,
with the Sensei circling the dojo and
advising people on their techniques.
Every two minutes, we would rotate
partners, no matter their grade. We all
enjoyed the odd joke in-between each
bout, making it easier in getting to know
each sparring partner, as well as making
it an overall enjoyable experience.
On the whole, this session was
extremely enjoyable and beneficial. I count (or grunt) of Rob’s. I felt that this feats of strength and agility, and compli-
learnt a lot in terms of philosophy, disci- was not a martial art at all, but as I cated techniques are performed so effort-
pline and self-control. Karate focuses a expected, a simple exercise class. There lessly, that every observer wishes that
lot on strength and specific stances, was no passion, no philosophy and no they too possessed such skills. However,
making it an extremely physical workout discipline to this style. I could not wait it takes years of devotion and intensive
for the mind and body alike. It can be an to step out of the class. I did not feel training to reach a high level of profi-
enjoyable sport, hobby or passion for tested at all, which was a shame really. I ciency in the martial arts.
anyone and everyone. have always looked forward to studying The best way to decide which martial
the art of kickboxing. This was obvious- art is for you is to explore the several
KICKBOXING ly at the lighter end of the scale com- styles that you are interested in before
Kickboxing is known as the western pared to other martial arts classes. making a final decision. Ask around,
alternate of Muay Thai, a Thai martial research their philosophies and beliefs.
art that focuses on explosive kicking CONCLUSION Better yet, try them out for one session.
and punching techniques. It was devel- On the whole, I felt that all three When you do find a suitable martial art,
oped as a martial art in the late 1500s by styles were an obvious way of keeping stick to it. Be a good observer and
King Naresuan of Thailand, just after fit, as well as burning a hole in my respect your instructors experience and
the Thai people migrated from China to wallet. However, only two showed guidance. Always keep in mind that
Siam (now known as Thailand). I true passion, philosophy and disci- patience is a virtue. Only through prac-
searched for local kickboxing classes pline. They were the Wing Chun and tice will your skills begin to ripen and
and found only one. Upon ringing the Karate classes. Both were unique in your self-confidence grow.
number, a burly voice greeted me. I their own ways, practicing dif-
explained that I was interested in taking ferent routines and values. They
up kickboxing, asking about a few more both showed different, but effec-
details along the way. The instructor, tive characteristics.
Rob, did not sound too enthusiastic at All of the various martial
the prospect of a new student and had a arts make different use of ele-
somewhat cold manner. ments such as striking, grap-
I attended the class a few days later pling, throwing, limb-locks,
and was met by a shaven-headed, sturdy holds and weapons. When
man, easily in his 40s. He introduced choosing which martial art to
himself as Rob, the instructor. He pro- study, you must bear in mind
ceeded to explain the structure of the that there is no superior martial
class and the routine that I should art. You should pick the art that
expect. At once, I knew this was going you are most attracted to, and
to be more of an exercise class than a find a ‘dojo’ (practice hall) with
martial arts class. a good learning atmosphere and
The class was mostly full of male qualified instructors. Always
participants in tracksuits, ranging from steer clear of teachers or
mid 20s to mid 40s. As with every mar- instructors that disregard the
tial arts class, we began with a warm-up, spiritual side of martial arts and
focusing particularly upon the hips and promise quick results. This
midsection. Standing in a horizontal line merely indicates that they are
across the gym, Rob showed us punch- after your money.
ing, kicking, knee and elbow techniques, The martial arts are fascinat-
grunting with each count that we would ing to watch. Their practition-
strike to. During the hour-long class, we ers’ beautifully timed moves,
would do certain movements to each lightning-fast strikes, impressive
COMBAT June 2007 Page 79
RICHARD
CANTON
NAS Champion of Champions
COMBAT: When and why did you first take up martial arts? COMBAT: What made you choose the style you’re in, and
have you ever tried any other styles?
RICHARD CANTON: I started training when I was 13 years old in
Tae Kwon Do for about a year or two. Then at 17 I started train- RICHARD CANTON: Primarily I am a karate-ka, but initially my
ing once again, this time in karate,again for a year or two. At 22 main focus was in Maui Thai kickboxing and karate. Recently for
years old I decided to train again, this time I had the bug and I the past few years I have been concentrating on Ju-Jitsu ground-
was hooked, I knew then I would never leave. Three years later I work and weapons. What I have tried to do is to take the best
started training in martial arts full time. I have been a full time bits from these four systems and incorporate them into one
instructor/student ever since. I love what I do, and would never dynamic and exciting style of martial art.
consider ever doing another thing. I started in order to get fitter,
be able to defend myself, and become a black belt, all of which I COMBAT: How and why did you first get involved in NAS?
have achieved, and more.
RICHARD CANTON: I had heard of the NAS tournament circuit in
Richard in action Australia, it was highly regarded and to win there was a real
achievement. One of my black belts saw the advert in the
Traditional Karate magazine and contacted me. In turn, I rang James
and asked if my school and I were allowed to enter and the next
weekend I turned up and competed in Crawley. Since then I have
been back to win the Champion of Champions. In 2007 I plan to
take a strong tournament squad to these events, as I believe they
are well run, the judging is not bias, and it gives all of us a chance
to test out our skills against other martial arts styles and schools.
“
about cultivating the mental
approach. This article is going to
deal with just one aspect of the Finding out how the opponent feels, what he
mental approach and that is: get-
ting the opponent into a position
does and how he reacts in a certain situation
where you can dominate him. In is not the be-all and end-all of psyching out.
others words - psyching him out.
Psyching the opponent out is Even when you know full well what the
by no means a new concept.
Read Miyamoto Musashi’s Go
opponent is going to do, it doesn’t mean you’re
always going to be able to cope with it.
”
Rin No Sho (‘Book of Five Rings’)
or Sun Tsu’s ‘Art of War’ to see how
time-honoured the idea actually is. good ways of messing up your oppo-
Basically, you discover and use some nent’s preparation. Tell preparing
aspect of the opponent’s own character kata/pattern performers that you think
against him and even if this does not they’ve just made a mistake in their per-
actually allow you to completely domi- formance and see what happens!
nate him, it may allow you to work out If this sort of thing appeals to your
what he’s going to do next. twisted mind, then buy a copy of John
Psyching the opponent out does not Cleese’s video ‘How To Irritate People’.
just take place in the combat area; the Not only is it a good laugh but it shows
astute fighter will come to know his just how many ways there are to ruin
opponent long before that. This is espe- someone’s concentration.
cially noticeable in the international But finding out how the opponent
arena where a small number of the same feels, what he does and how he reacts in
fighters come to know each other over a a certain situation is not the be-all and
period of years. That former British end-all of psyching out. Even when you
world-class karateka Vic Charles MBE know full well what the opponent is
often fought the French fighter Pyree going to do, it doesn’t mean you’re
and when this happened, Vic’s confident always going to be able to cope with it.
and aggressive demeanour always sud- For example, it doesn’t take a lot of
denly changed for the worse. It was observation to figure out that Bill
almost as though Vic came to see Pyree Wallace favours his left leg, but that has-
as his Nemesis, losing the bout before n’t stopped him winning a few bouts
even the opening hajime! along the way!
Talk to your opponent before the Psyching out also means misleading
bout. If he seems nervous, then it may the opponent, so you limp into the ring,
be a good idea to tell him how success- making as though you have damaged
ful you’ve been in the last few bouts, your ankle or knee. During the opening
pointing out that several times you nar- bout you try a few times to perform a
rowly missed being disqualified for technique using the injured leg as sup-
hospitalising someone. This form of port, but it obviously causes you a lot of
intimidation doesn’t always work, how- trouble. So you fight skillfully but
ever, and there are plenty of young defensively until the match is more than
Page 84 COMBAT June 2007
entirely recovered. From then on the ref- him to do all the attacking and be ready nique performance. Let him take a few
eree will be looking carefully at your to exploit any weakness as it appears. really heavy kicks on his arms as he tries
opponent’s control and another slip may Make your opponent angry, so he to block them. Avoid face contact
cost him a penalty point. Also, the oppo- loses that razor edge of concentration. though, because there is little margin for
nent’s coach may tell him to stay away The more comments you make, the more error and the referee will always err on
from your head/face and you may have angry and unsettled his opponent the side of penalty.
succeeded in undermining his faith in became. At a past European Junior Karate
his own control. You can also make your opponent Championship, one spectator really
That all-time master, Ticky Donovan angry by repeatedly sweeping his lead upset everybody by letting fly with an
OBE, used more honourable tactics leg. Provided the technique looks like a air horn and interrupting kata performer-
when he told his people to discover what valid sweep and not just a direct attack sí concentration. Had this spectator been
kind of opponent they’re facing and then upon a limb (which is what it actually identified as part of a particular per-
adopt a fighting strategy their opponents is!), then the referee will not intervene. former’s retinue, then that performer
would find difficult to deal with. In the meantime, the opponent becomes might well have been disqualified!
By their very nature, attacking fight- steadily angrier. A word of caution The list could go on but the main
ers like to sweep what you’ve got to one though: don’t sweep against his knee thing is always to disadvantage the
side and blast in. They may not be so because this is a clear rule violation. opponent in some way. Try to draw his
good on defence because perhaps it Make your opponent wary or even attention away from the bout and
doesn’t suit their build or temperament. frightened of you by really digging in focus it towards some other area of
So by constantly attacking, you force those mid section attacks. Lean in and irritation, fear whatever. If you suc-
them into an unfamiliar mode and they aim to drive your fist clear out through ceed in doing that, then his thinking
will not be able to perform to best effect. his backbone. A couple of really heavy will be less clear and he is more likely
This same type of approach will help thumps will warn him against taking any to blunder into a situation he might
defeat the defensive fighter too, so force liberties with you and inhibit his tech- otherwise have avoided.
Nations
Collide Magazines and Journals we hadn’t even
Lyoto Machida
vs David Heath
T
HE UFC IS HERE! Only if Fans both North and South were in for a
you’ve been on holiday in the Tora heard of joined the scrum, totally over- feast, along with Sky Sports viewers and
Bora mountains for the last 2 whelming the whole event. Bad for us, those Pay per viewing the UFC. I can’t
months could you possibly be good for the sport... assuming they keep speak for London, but Manchester was
unaware that the UFC is here, and the faith and stay positive (wishful buzzing! The atmosphere around the
according to Dana White, “here to stay!” thinking me thinks!?!?). Manchester Evening News Arena was
£4 million pounds has been allegedly I did notice in the days preceding electric, and it seemed there were only
spent on advertising here in the UK; Nations Collide that some negative press two men the fans were there to see; their
Billboards have adorned our streets, TV was being thrown the way of MMA in own Mike ‘The Count’ Bisping and the
advertising has bombarded us. Pay Per general; sometimes you have to wonder legendary striker; kickboxing and Pride
View and the UFC has arrived. Never exactly what agendas are at play here... sensation, Mirko ‘Cro-Cop’.
before have we seen such a concerted surely people can see past the fact that just Now, we all know the British fight
effort to promote a martial arts event in because fights take place in a cage, it fans like a good old stand up war; lots of
on such a grand scale. And it seems to doesn’t automatically make them barbaric. striking and very little wrestling, but it
have worked; my girlfriend tells me I There are rules ‘ya know folks’... anyway, seemed though the internationally repre-
mutter “live on Pay per view” in a deep that’s a debate for another time and anoth- sentative card featured a plethora of
American drawl in my sleep! er day. We were there to see the action! Striker Vs Grappler match ups. It was
Mixed Martial Arts is rapidly becom- Having spent a fair bit of time with sure going to be interesting; not only
ing not only a global, but a very sophis- Mike Bisping in the weeks building up to how the fights panned out themselves,
ticated affair; the ad men, PR girls, and UFC 70 (See our sister magazine FIGHT- but also how the crowd took to the styles
glitzy events are not only promoting the ERS for the article), we all were aware of of fighting on offer.
shows, but chasing TV coverage, mer- just how much pressure was being heaped
chandising and all other manner of upon the chiselled shoulders of this young CRO-COP vs GONZAGA
methods of showing us the action whilst man. Despite having won the Ultimate The first round began with a tentative
funding the feast for our senses. The Fighter series on Bravo and already hav- exchange of inaccurate strikes on the
Yanks are invading! ing made his Pay Per View debut at UFC part of both fighters; they were clearly
Readers, you must understand; with 66, the scrutiny of the aforementioned trying to get the measure of each other.
the UFC we are not talking about just media, plus the hundreds of personal Even the most seasoned UFC observer
turning up for the show and hoping all friends and family attending the event did- would admit that everyone believed Cro-
goes well and the action is exciting. The n’t seem to be fazing him much. I have Cop to be afraid of Gonzaga’s BJJ skills
build up to this event began months ago at met numerous fighters in the build up to on the ground (see UFC66 guys... what
a press conference that caught us all in the big match ups, and Mike seemed no dif- an armbar by the big man!) with the
industry by surprise. Manchester’s finest ferent to the rest; a little nervous, but reverse being true of Cro-Cop’s leg-
five star hotel, the Lowry, was the venue; overall oozing confidence and determina- endary stand up skills.
Dana White, Michael Bisping, Rampage tion. Mike’s manager Anthony McGann Gonzaga seemed confident in his
Jackson, and Forrest Griffin were the must take credit for keeping his very own skills before and during his way to the
entertainment. The date had been set, the superstar’s feet firmly nailed to the ground octagon, and furthered this self belief
MEN arena had been booked, and Mirko and ensuring that his preparation at the with a beautifully planned and executed
Cro-Cop was to headline the bill. Wow! Wolfslair in Widnes (Mike’s gym... again, take down; completed by catching the
We were like Kids at Christmas! see FIGHTERS magazine for a full report) leg of Cro-Cop as his first kick
The next couple of months passed in was top notch. Mike felt better than ever, slammed into his side. The Brazilian
a blur and before we knew it, we were strong, fit, fast and ready to go. Elvis was opened up with elbow after elbow, daz-
again in the Lowry for the pre-fight in for a World of hurt; we were convinced. ing Mirko and cutting open his head
press conference. Compared to the initial Would he deliver? We would see... near the hairline. Cro-Cop has for many
Lowry gathering, this was akin to an April 22nd was a big night for Mixed years fought in the Pride organisation
Oxford Street Primark opening sale! Martial Arts across the UK; Cage Rage where elbows on the ground are out-
From far and wide, they had come; was taking place at Wembley arena at lawed... We all realised at this point that
London media types from TV stations, the same time and on the same night. this fact might result in the blood and
Page 88 COMBAT June 2007
Photography by Josh Hedges
All photographs Copyright of Zuffa, LLC
gore the stadium was waiting for. this one. In all fairness to Kongo he did nist Michael ‘The Count’ Bisping.
Cro-Cop had no answer to the ground put together some wonderfully fluid The crowd went absolutely and utter-
and pound of Gonzaga, yet inexplicably striking combinations, the like of which ly bananas as the Count sprinted from
the referee stood both fighters up (inex- would have put many a heavyweight to his dressing room to the octagon; Mike
plicable because it looked like Mirko the canvas. A majority decision win for was bouncing up and down like a caged
was going to get his pasting right there Kongo; a majority loss for the spectators lion, eyes burning with passion and fire.
and then!). “This is it,” we thought, time who were baying for a KO for the first The hometown boy was so excited
for Mirko to show those South fight on the Pay Per View. before the fight that he almost forgot to
Americans what it’s like to take on a stop for his check up by the cage side
European kickboxer whilst on his feet... ARLOVSKI vs WERDUM medical team; this was Bisping’s dream,
CRACK... the next thing we know “When I step into the Octagon I’m he wasn’t going to let anyone get in his
Cro cop is asleep mid air, knees buck- going to demonstrate to all the fans that way, least of all Elvis!
ling underneath him (the grotesque I have what it takes to be the best in the The King of Rock and Rumble looked
twisting of his leg was probably the world.” This tough talk by Fabricio calm and calculating, smiling in an “I’ve
most gruesome sight of the night, caus- Werdum failed to translate into any got your card marked sunshine” kind of
ing even the referee to shield his eyes tough action unfortunately. Another case way before the bout began. Whilst Elvis’
before flipping it back into position), of grappler V’s wrestler, and another record isn’t exactly amazing, he always
crashing towards the canvas in a large, cagey disjointed affair; Arlovski terrified turns up and gives it his all. We all knew
muscular heap. Gonzaga had feinted for of being put on the mat by the BJJ world we were in for something special... we
the body kick and seeing Cro-Cop’s champion and Pride fighter Werdum, could just feel it in the air!
hands lower to protect his side from the with the Brazilian in turn not really fan- Bisping came flying out of his corner
impact, adjusted the trajectory of the cying a good old brawl with the to begin the fight, perhaps a little too
high round kick to the Croat’s temple on Belarussian kickboxer. over-eager and catches a couple of low
the left side of his head. What a strike Three rounds of edgy, defence ori- kicks from Sinosic. Bisping caught three
and what an upset... the UFC is here! entated fighting resulted in a points kicks, a straight right hand and a knee
decision for Arlovski, and a round of before his eagerness off. Mike does a
SILVA vs KONGO boos from the crowd. Ever the show- Gonzaga, catching the Australian’s kick
“I’m going to be an assassin” Silva man, Arlovski apologised for his tenta- and putting him flat on his back...
announced before the fight to the crowd. tive display and begged forgiveness, cit- ground and pound time!
In hindsight that would seem a strange ing his need for a win, and his desire to Bisping had confided to Fighters
prediction, given that at no point in this climb back up towards the UFC heavy- magazine before the bout that although
fight did Silva look even remotely inter- weight championship. he was slightly apprehensive of Elvis’
ested in finishing it! Another classic case Werdum clearly needs to spend a lit- BJJ skills, he knew that once he had him
of the striker Vs the grappler in this tle more time sparring with his training on his back, those fists of fury would not
encounter; except we usually see fighters partner and best friend Mirko Cro Cop let him down!
with slightly more rounded skills on dis- and a little less time teaching him Ju- Elvis ate hammer fist after hammer
play in the UFC. Kongo is a kickboxer Jitsu if he is ever to fully realise his fist, left right, left right... the blows get-
of some ability, perhaps the best in the potential within the UFC. ting harder and the Australian absorbing
world on current form, yet his lack of a a serious amount of punishment. Bisping
take-down defence and any form of BISPING vs SINOSIC had said of Elvis before the fight “It’s
ground game skills whatsoever really “Victory is always sweet, especially alright being a master of Ju Jitsu, but
will hold him back if he wishes to grow when you knock out or submit the home- it’s another thing practising these skills
as a fighter in this organisation. Silva is town favourite in front of his hometown whilst I punch you in the face!” Mike
a grappler of somewhat average ability; crowd.” Elvis Sinosic. wasn’t wrong; Elvis’s head was cut to
no amount of time in the guard position This was the Main Event in all but bits, blood was everywhere... the crowd
resulted in anything remotely threaten- name and placing on the fight card. It was absolutely loving it!
ing to the Frenchman. But for Kongo’s seemed like the 15,000 screaming fans There is no doubt in my mind that
hand speed and unbelievable physique to inside the Manchester Evening News Elvis was saved by the bell in the first,
admire, I think we might have all just Arena were all there for one man, and which ended with Bisping beating the
about fallen asleep at ringside during one man only; Fighters magazine colum- daylights out of the Aussie; a stoppage
Page 90 COMBAT June 2007
Cheick Kongo vs Junior Assuncao
Assuerio Silva vs David Lee
due to strikes seemed inevitable. The knee to the face totally against the run of In perhaps the most emotionally
break between rounds gave us the oppor- play; the stadium took a collective deep touching moment of the evening, Mike
tunity to see up close the damage done breath as Elvis tried a Kimura... how showed the whole world just what a nice
to Elvis’s face; three huge gashes joined Mike reversed the technique, nobody guy he truly is. As the post fight ques-
his mouth, eyes and nose, making him could quite fathom, but reverse it he did. tions were due to take place, Mike’s first
resemble something akin to a horror film The near miss was like a catalyst to thoughts were not regarding the bloody
monster, not a pro sportsman going the Liverpudlian; Mike flipped Elvis battle he had just taken part in but with
about his work. over ending up in guard, then BANG his fiancée and son, the latter of whom
After a quick check up (on Elvis!) by BANG BANG BANG BANG, a flurry ran excitedly into the octagon to proudly
the doctors, the second round began; of devastating punches left the King of hug his victorious father. Unlike some
Mike looking to pick up where he left Rock and Rumble truly rumbled. This parents who would have instructed their
off and give the local crowd something furious onslaught gave the referee no kids not to come into the ring, Mike
to remember. We certainly won’t forget choice but to put Elvis out of his misery delayed the interview, hoisted Callum
what happened next as Bisping caught a and call an end to the fight. into his arms and planted a big kiss on
Bisping remains undefeated and still his cheek and declared to the world, live
on a headlong charge up the Light on TV, “I love you”. What a great guy
Heavyweight division. and what a satisfying result!
See you in Belfast!
Michael Bisping vs
All photographs
Elvis Sinosic Copyright of Zuffa, LLC
Tom ‘Kong’ Watson Vs round began with the guys trading but it an excellent submission fighter with ade-
Xavier ‘Professor X’ Foupa Pokam did not take long for the fight to hit the quate stand up skills. From the outset
Both these guys love to entertain the floor with Pokam again trying to secure Owen played it his way, putting the fight
crowd. Pokam made his way to the cage the triangle choke, Watson would not tap on the ground early. With Pickett in guard
door dressed as a zombie and Watson and Pokam reached in for a Kimura Owen went to work constantly looking
was not to be outdone as he entered the forcing Watson to tap at 2.27 of the sec- for an arm bar or triangle. Pickett did a
cage with his ‘Gorilla Academy’ ond round. great defensive job escaping and counter-
entrance, with the gorilla dressed as Winner Xavier Foupa Pokam by ing all Owen’s attempts at a submission,
Napoleon. The entertainment continued Kimura 2.27 Round 2 whilst trying to throw some bombs. The
as the cage door closed and the first fight continued much like this for the next
round began. Pokam was sharp and Brad ‘One Punch’ Pickett Vs couple of rounds with Owen securing a
knocked Watson down early but Watson Alex ‘The Boy’ Owen body triangle from Pickett’s back. In the
recovered well and fought out most of This was set to be a great battle on third round Owen took control and began
the round trading with Pokam. paper but turned out to be a frustrating throwing shots at Pickett while looking
Towards the end of the first round night for Pickett as the two men have for a choke. Pickett was able to turn and
Pokam secured a triangle choke and completely different fighting styles; escape with only ten seconds left but it
began to set it in when the bell sounded Pickett being an excellent stand up fighter was to be too little to late.
for the end of the round. The second with good ground skills and Owen being Winner Alex Owen by Majority Decision
COMBAT June 2007 Page 95
Paul ‘Hands Of Stone’ Jenkins Vs Paul ‘Semtex’ Daley Brad ‘One Punch’ Pickett Vs Alex ‘The Boy’ Owen
Cyrille ‘The Snake’ Diabate Vs Ross ‘Gladiator’ Pointon Vs Jenkins apart. The first round was all
Ryan ‘NXS’ Robinson Abdul Mohammed Daley as he looked the more accurate,
This was another battle of styles with This was to be an exciting fight from landing low kicks and knees at will.
Diabate predominantly a Muay Thai the outset as Pointon continually did a Round two started off in a similar vein
expert and Robinson a submission spe- great job of avoiding the takedowns. with Daley as the sharper strike. It was a
cialist. With Diabate and Robinson going Both fighters looked sharp in trading fantastic body shot that was to stop
to ground early, Cyrille quickly looked shots but it was to be Mohammed’s Jenkins in an instant, putting him to the
for an omoplata with no success. He then night as he landed a picture perfect spin- canvas floor.
turned quickly making the transition to ning back fist that saw Pointon knocked Winner Paul Daley by KO 41 Sec Round 2
arm bar forcing Robinson to tap. out before he hit the canvas.
Winner Cyrille Diabate by Arm bar Winner Abdul Mohammed by Roman Webber Vs
1.16 Round 1 KO 3.20 Round 1 Mark ‘The Beast’ Epstein
This was a slugfest with both men simi-
Paul ‘Hands Of Stone’ Jenkins Vs lar in style and stature both guys came
Paul ‘Semtex’ Daley out throwing for the fences with Epstein
As always Jenkins made a classic landing more frequently. Webber landed
entrance that will be remembered by a couple of good shots of his own that
anyone who was there. He made his way saw a cut appear on the face of Epstein
down the runway in a green lycra outfit but Epstein is a well weathered experi-
that mirrored the wrestling outfit from ence fighter and that showed as he land-
the hit movie Borat. ed a huge uppercut that saw Roman
When the cage door closed it was all Webber knocked clean of his feet and on
business for British Welterweight to his back.
Champion Daley as he began to pick Winner Mark Epstein KO 4.27 Round 1
knee and Reid’s shin that saw Reid in year lay off. Round one saw Zikic look- Gary ‘Smiler’ Turner Vs
trouble. A huge gash opened up on his ing uncomfortable as Santos went to land David ‘Tank’ Abbott
shin that needed several stitches. some brutal leg kicks that saw Zikic left This was set to be Mr Nice Vs Mr
Winner Murilo Rua by TKO 28 Sec leg bruise quite badly. Santos pushed the Mean from the word go as both men
Round 1 pace throughout the first round forcing exploded into action. Turner landed a
Zikic backwards with brutal combina- huge overhand right that connected but
Michael ‘The Black Sniper’ McDonald tions. The balance in round two shifted as Tank came back with a right of his own
Vs James ‘The Machine’ McSweeney Zikic seemed to shake off the cobwebs which sent Turner to the canvas. Tank
This was a first for Cage Rage as they and come to life as he went to work call- quickly followed up with a barrage of
held a cage kickboxing fight that was an ing on his boxing skills to turn the tables strikes before taking Turner to the
exciting bout between two K-1 veterans on Santos. Now it was Zikic that looked ground. It was quickly clear that Tank
with phenomenal track records. From the the more accurate, landing combinations was to breathe heavy and in an unex-
moment it started McSweeney looked from all angles. The third round contin- pected turn of events Tank shot back-
dangerous, throwing huge combinations of ued with Zikic counter punching Santos wards from Turner’s guard looking for
low kicks and knees that saw McDonald at every opportunity. The atmosphere was an ankle submission that failed. As
knocked to the canvas twice in the first tense as resident MC Mark Aplin Turner now took control he began to
round. In the second round McDonald announced Zikic the new Light- strike Tank forcing him to turn and
seemed to improve, putting together good Heavyweight champion of the World. with Turner still firing shots Tank was
combinations of punches that shook Winner James Zikic by forced to tap.
McSweeney up but he was persistent in Majority Decision Winner Gary ‘Smiler’ Turner TKO
his attempts to KO McDonald and contin- 2.31 Round 1
ued to throw knees and jumping knees Ivan ‘The Terrible’ Serati Vs
that landed only occasionally Vitor ‘The Phenom’ Belfort All in all it was a fantastic night for
Round three was a good round where Belfort looked very good in this bat- Cage Rage Championships, as they
both men continued to trade until the tle between the two big guys. Serati set seemed to rise to the occasion with
final bell. out like a bull and after a quick an awesome action packed card
Winner James McSweeney by exchange Belfort brought Serati down including cage kickboxing. The only
Majority Decision where he began to strike at him forcing question left is if Cage Rage raised
the big Italian to cover up. Belfort even- the bar to this dizzy new height what
James ‘The Messenger’ Zikic Vs tually made his way to the back of Serati will they have for us next? All I can
Evangelista ‘Cyborg’ Santos where he began to unleash some huge say is roll on July 14th because I’m
With the Cage Rage World Light- shots that saw the ref jump in to stop it. ready to feel the heat from Hard as
Heavyweight title on the line it was a tall Winner Vitor Belfort by TKO Hell at the Wembley Arena the home
order for CRC veteran Zikic after a three 3.47 Round 1 of UK MMA!
James ‘The Messenger’ Zikic Vs Michael ‘The Black Sniper’ McDonald Vs
Evangelista ‘Cyborg’ Santos James ‘The Machine’ McSweeney
League 2007
FORMS BOYS L/C 4th grade plus +1.55m Brown plus -85kg
-12’s Creative Open Hand (music) 4th grade plus -1.35m 1 L Price 1 D Cheshire
1 K Harrison 1 J Williams WCKA MENS L/C Brown plus +85kg
1st-3rd -75kg 1 J Morgan
-12’s Creative Weapons (music) 4th grade plus -1.45m
1 J ward SKA
1 C Robinson 1 C Mays WCKA
1st-3rd +75kg WOMEN L/C
Under 16’s Traditional Japanese 4th grade plus -1.55m 1 K Rossi O/W 1-3 grade
1 K Kenny 1 J Withers WCKA 1 R Bowers SKA
4th-6th -75kg
-16’s Creative Open hand (music) 4th grade plus -1.65m 1 L Sayce KKAW 4-6 grade -65kg
1 D Lucking 1 D Evans 1 B Gurmin KKAW
4th-6th -80kg
4th grade plus +1.65m 1 Cancelled 4-6th grade +65kg
-16 Creative Weapons (music)
1 D Lucking 1 S Carter SKA 4th-6th +80kg 1 G Owen
1 E Loft London Predators
Traditional Japanese GIRLS L/C Brown plus -55kg
1 R Harvey 4th grade plus -1.35m Brown plus -70Kg 1 K Barbaby
1 S Davey SKA 1 R Pickering ECKA
Creative Open hand with Music 4th grade plus -1.45m Brown plus -75kg Brown plus -60kg
1 O Worsley 1 S Bechares SKA 1 C Jones 1 A Brace SKA
Creative Weapons with Music 4th grade plus -1.55m Brown plus -80kg Brown plus -65kg
1 L Carter WCKA 1 J Newth SKA 1 M Featherstone ECKA 1 A Brace SKA
FULL CONTACT
There was a constant buzz around the
ring over the 2 days, with so many good
fights throughout the duration of the
championships there was a constant mass
of spectators watching the cream of
British kickboxing do their thing. There
were some great performances through-
out the weekend but a couple of fighters
did catch my eye and they were Audifa
Kinga, who completed the double at
these championships by winning the full
contact and light contact divisions, and met the day before where Ashley took entertainment by these guys kept the
Stuart Lawson for his sheer skill. gold. This time Paige pulled out all the crowd on their feet. They are all worthy
stops to come out a convincing winner, a British champions.
DAY 2 well-deserved gold.
Day 2 was sure to be of the same cali- Let me catch my breath ... right lets MUSICAL FORMS
bre. Fighters and spectators alike were move on to the adults! Emily Thew from Team Evolution put
looking forward to what had to be anoth- Sharon Gill maintained her domi- in a great performance to win both the
er great day at these championships. The nance, putting in a professional display Girls -16yrs Open Hand and Weapons
organisers were still buzzing from the of points fighting doing the double tak- divisions. Not to be out done by his
Saturday’s fighting and were looking for- ing the Ladies U50kg and U55kg divi- team mate, Joe Hallet also did the dou-
ward to some of the best Semi Contact sions. Jem Campbell’s goal was also to ble by winning the Boys -16yrs Open
and Musical Forms the country can boast. become double British Champion but Hand and Weapons divisions. The
Natasha Walker had other ideas and impeccable Ashley Beck put in a sound
PICK OF DAY 2 beat Jem, a close final in the Ladies performance to win the Men’s Open
The juniors again started the proceed- U70kg semi contact division. Jem was Hand division in good style but a big
ings, and they definitely did not fail to dis- determined in her next category to go shout must go to Joe Hallet for winning
appoint, showing the depth of talent this one better and she did just that and the Men’s Weapons division, knocking
country has got to offer. The Maddogs captured the Ladies +70kg semi contact the great Ashley Beck into runner up
school proved that they are one of the title. Ashley Brace and Lorraine Hughes spot on this occasion... Look out for this
top teams around picking up 3 gold also put in strong performances to show guy - expect big things from him in the
medals in the boys division. Tom Gould all who stood in front of them that they future. Jessica Holmes finished off Team
completed a great double capturing the were the ones to beat and became this Evolution’s dominance of the musical
U37kg and U42kg divisions while team- years British champions. forms by winning both the Ladies Open
mate Tom Wood picked the gold in the Now it was the turn of the men to Hand and Weapons division to become
U52kg category. Not to be outdone, Lee step up to the mark, first up was the ever double British Champion.
Matthews Black Belt School also picked 3 present Robbie Hughes from Liverpool Apologies if I have missed anyone off
gold’s in the boys divisions in the way of Freestyle. This was his second time at from this report; I am only human and
Tom Evans U28kg, Jack Evans U63kg and these championships and he rose to the can only be in one place at a time.
Kieron Furey U69kg. occasion taking the U57kg division in Well what can you say... what a
Next up were the girls and this proved great style and then had a great final with great 2 days. I wish it could last for a
to be just as exciting with many great Chris Collymore in the U63kg division, week! By the time the World
fights along the way. In the girls U37kg Robbie came out victorious once again Championships come round this year
division Charlie Maddocks’s final with making it a double. Another great final to and with the wealth of talent that is on
Natasha Ryan was a battle, with Charlie watch was between Mark Brown and Sam these shores, I am sure this country will
taking gold. Another good final was Timmis; this was fast and furious and the be a force to be reckoned with. Special
between Rachel House and Leasha mind games being played between these thanks must go to Tom Hibbert, Lucy
Morrison with Rachel taking the honours two great fighters were incredible. It went Edwards, Peter Edwards, Del Sampson,
on this occasion. Yaz Anderson from right down to the wire and Mark ended Brian Beck, Cris Janson-Piers and Dwyer
Complete Scotland won the Girls -55kg up as the British champion. Evelyn for all of their efforts in putting
division in style against Ashley Brace mak- David Hughes, Jacey Cashman, Andy this great event on. This could not be
ing it a double, in both the light and semi, Cleeves, Drew Neal, Michael Page and done without the team of support that
another great talent for the future. To top Lee Matthews demonstrated to all that they have and not forgetting all the ref-
it all, what a final between Paige Walker they were the men to beat in their erees, judges and time-keepers who
and Ashley Brace in the Girls U60kg divi- respective categories and they did not dis- helped out over the 2 days.
sion. These two competitors had already appoint. The level of skill, technique and See you in the squared circle.
COMBAT June 2007 Page 103
CIMAC
SUPERLEAGUE
Hot action on a Cold day in Windsor!
he Cimac Superleague opened the Girls Under 4’6” Shannon Ryan started Girls over 5’3”, Danielle Regan gave a
11
11/14
alendar
M A R T I A L
Prof Rick Clark, Cabra, Dublin. For details contact Jon Mackey 085-
7309740 or iutfdublin@eircom.net or www.iutf-dublin.com
26
26
A R T S
This section is provided as a service to all our readers. If you have information which you would like to
appear in the calendar we must receive it six weeks in advance. Send your entry to “Calendar”,
Combat, 135 Aldridge Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham, B42 2ET. E-Mail: calendar@martialartsinprint.com
Prof Rick Clark Bantry, Co. Cork. For details contact Les Elliot audrey-
booaudreyles@yahoo.co.uk
15 Prof Rick Clark Tralee, Kerry. For details contact Niall Wright on 086-
0526319 or NiallWright@KerryKarate.com www.kerrykarate.com
JUNE
16 Prof Rick Clark Castleisland, Kerry. For details contact Niall Wright on 1/2/3 WAKO 12th International Bestfighter Tournament. For any questions
086-0526319 or NiallWright@KerryKarate.com www.kerrykarate.com contact Gianfranco at info@bestfighter.com
17 Prof Rick Clark Kenmare, Kerry. For details contact Niall Wright on 3 Taishindo Defence Combat System, edged weapons defence work-
086-0526319 or NiallWright@KerryKarate.com www.kerrykarate.com shop, Dumfermline, Fife. £15, 10am-1pm, contact Stuart 07877
824003 or stuart@taishindo.co.uk
17 Jeet Kune Do workshop, Merseyside with Sifu Alex Jameson, full
instructor under Sifu Steve Golden one of Bruce Lee’s students. 0151 3 BIKO, Level One Coaching Course, Cambridge, must pre book,
513 8745 ww.jeetkunedomerseyside.co.uk 12:00pm-4:00pm, Contact The Secretary 01227 369212 or 07778-
169212 www.bik.org.uk
19 Prof Rick Clark Cork City. For details contact Paul O’Leary 086-
3545032 or jungshin@mac.com www.jungshin-tkd.com 3 Doce Pares Eskrima seminar with Percival Pableo & Danny Guba in
Cambridge. Tel 01223 565020 or email info@cama.org.uk
19 EKR Open Championships, Worthing Leisure Centre, West Sussex. Tel
01903 877456 or 07880 726167 for details or e-mail the tournament 3 AMA karate squad training/selection, Walsall Sports Centre, Walsall.
organiser at Robert@ekr.uk.com Cotact Peter on 0161 797 1077 start 14:30 hrs.
19/20 Seni 07 - The Combat Sports Show, Europe’s Martial Arts Exhibition & 9/10 “Hit harder, move quicker” boxing concepts - tvp instructors course
Festival, ExCel, London. Tickets £8 adults £5 children. Ticketmaster with Tommy Thompson & Rocky Sondhi, Nottingham. Contact tvp
0870 6077477 or www.senishow.com Institute on 0115 955 5109.
20 BIKO Referee/Judges & Table Official course, Canterbury. 11:00pm- 9/10 Master Percival ‘Val’ Pableo 2 day seminar, Kent open to all. £80 in
3:00pm, Contact The Secretary 01227 369212 or 07778-169212 advance for both days, £100 on the door 10am-4pm. 07932 746642
www.bik.org.uk or info@rapidarnis.com
20 Pain & Glory, K1 Max Tournament plus MT & MMA Superbouts, ExCel 10 The infinite group presents the re-active sphere, Church Stretton
London Docklands, tickets £25, £75 RS, Ticketmaster 0870 6077 477. Secondary School, Shropshire. Contact 07899 801269 for details.
20 Prof Rick Clark, Waterford City. For details contact John McGrath or 10 Training Courses, different levels different times with Sensei Cyril
Colette Kent on 087-9025141 info@waterfordmartialarts.com Cummins 7th dan, Birmingham. Contact cyrilcummins@hotmail.com
www.waterfordmartialaqrts.com for full details
20 Judo competition, Bulldogs, Wallace Sport & Education Centre, Stoke- 16 Hokushin Karate Academy/Karate-no-Michi World Federation (GB)
on-Trent. Details from Dave Moore 07805 195952 or katanamar- course, Glasgow. Contact Mike on 07879 238089.
tialarts.com email brian@katanamartialarts.com
16 Kickboxing Championship Full Contact, East Tilbury Recreation Club,
20 “When the gloves come off” - karate as an effective method of person- East Tilbury, Essex. Adults £15, limited no of child tickets £7, info &
al protection, with Don Came, Bernie Heerey, John Sawyer, open sem- tickets from Rob 07799733700 or Terry 07884215257
inar, Ilford, Essex. Call 07932 378399
17 Open to all styles championship series, consecutive points,
21 Patrick McCarthy 8th dan hanshi, flow drills & kata applications, £20. The Peterborough, Doors open 10am start 11 prompt. Call Andrew 01733
Karate Academy, Newton Abbot, Devon. Call 01626 360999 for details 810043 www.peterboroughseries.co.uk
15 Open to all styles championship series, consecutive points, Peter Paine 9 The infinite group presents prime ordeal, Church Stretton Secondary
Sports Centre, Boston, doors open 10am. Call Andrew 01733 810043 School, Shropshire. Contact 07899 801269 for details.
www.bostonseries.co.uk
9 AMA Northwest Karate championships, Bury Castle, Lancs. For infor-
15 Great Britain Savate Federation Savate League Event 2 or 3 in mation contact Peter on 0161 797 1077
Guildford. Tel 0777 0226089 or email savateur@tiscali.co.uk ama.sensei@btopenworld.com
15 Central England 11th Open Karate Championships, University of 9 Training Courses, different levels different times with Sensei Cyril Cummins
Wolverhampton, Walsall. Entry forms form 01902 397650 or 7th dan, Birmingham. Contact cyrilcummins@hotmail.com for full details
karate@cewka.co.uk
16 Open to all styles championship series, consecutive points,
17 Jeet Kune Do workshop, Merseyside with Sifu Alex Jameson, full Peterborough, Doors open 10am start 11am prompt. Call Andrew
instructor under Sifu Steve Golden one of Bruce Lee’s students. 0151 01733 810043 www.peterboroughseries.co.uk
513 8745 ww.jeetkunedomerseyside.co.uk
16 BIKO Open Training Course, Herschel School Sports Centre, Slough,
21 UK Martial Arts Federation, combat weapons course, Nottingham. 12:00pm-3:00pm Contact The Secretary 01227 369212 or 07778-
Instructor Phil Mead 6th dan, details from 0115 9702877. 169212 www.bik.org.uk