grapplator: 2010

Instructor cleared

UK -- A-50-year old instructor, who runs a martial arts school in Lye, has been cleared by a jury of raping a woman.

The prosecution had alleged that the man, described as "violent and domineering", had forced his victim to have sex, according to dudleynews.co.uk.

UK -- A-50-year old instructor, who runs a martial arts school in Lye, has been cleared by a jury of raping a woman.

The prosecution had alleged that the man, described as "violent and domineering", had forced his victim to have sex, according to dudleynews.co.uk.

Back, deported molester

California -- A 39-year-old Brazilian martial arts champion/fighter and jiu-jitsu instructor deported after being convicted of inappropriately massaging four boys in Half Moon Bay in December 2006, has been accused of illegally sneaking back into the U.S.

The man - a third-degree jiu-jitsu black belt veteran at the time - pleaded no contest and was sentenced to jail in April 2007, according to smdailyjournal.com. He was also ordered to complete a sex offender treatment program, register as an offender for life and not re-enter the United States illegally.

California -- A 39-year-old Brazilian martial arts champion/fighter and jiu-jitsu instructor deported after being convicted of inappropriately massaging four boys in Half Moon Bay in December 2006, has been accused of illegally sneaking back into the U.S.

The man - a third-degree jiu-jitsu black belt veteran at the time - pleaded no contest and was sentenced to jail in April 2007, according to smdailyjournal.com. He was also ordered to complete a sex offender treatment program, register as an offender for life and not re-enter the United States illegally.

Ex-officer sentenced

Georgia -- According to times-herald.com, a former Newnan police officer will be spending the next 60 years in prison after being sentenced on 13 counts involving his contact with an underage female - a student at a local martial arts school where the man instructed Saturday classes while also being a student there himself.

An internal investigation into the off-duty activities of the man was opened in July 2009, centered around the officer's alleged inappropriate contact with the juvenile by use of a cell phone issued to him by authorities.

Georgia -- According to times-herald.com, a former Newnan police officer will be spending the next 60 years in prison after being sentenced on 13 counts involving his contact with an underage female - a student at a local martial arts school where the man instructed Saturday classes while also being a student there himself.

An internal investigation into the off-duty activities of the man was opened in July 2009, centered around the officer's alleged inappropriate contact with the juvenile by use of a cell phone issued to him by authorities.

Real monkey style kung fu

Madagascar -- You probably don't wan't to kung fu** with these fellas, known as lemur monkeys. Aiaaaa!

The lemur monkeys appeared to launch the martial arts style attack as 33-year-old wildlife photographer Shem Compion from South Africa tried to snap them, according to thesun.co.uk.

Shem obviously escaped unharmed but admitted he wouldn't "mess" with the scary beasts again. "It was so funny to watch - they looked just like they were practising Kung Fu," he said.

Madagascar -- You probably don't wan't to kung fu** with these fellas, known as lemur monkeys. Aiaaaa!

The lemur monkeys appeared to launch the martial arts style attack as 33-year-old wildlife photographer Shem Compion from South Africa tried to snap them, according to thesun.co.uk.

Shem obviously escaped unharmed but admitted he wouldn't "mess" with the scary beasts again. "It was so funny to watch - they looked just like they were practising Kung Fu," he said.

Cop-fu

China -- 48-year-old Mir Zhang, a Chinese police officer in the Hei Longjiang province, has studied kung fu techniques rigorously for more than 20 years, according to metro.co.uk. These studies has allegedly left him invulnerable to pain and injury.

In any case, he does seem to take a lot of it, and it may seem like criminals and thugs on his shift had better think twice.

Below, you can see him shrugging off bricks smashed on his skull with a sledgehammer. Other feats include a steel spear being forced into his throat and breaking heavy stoneware pots to pieces with his head.

China -- 48-year-old Mir Zhang, a Chinese police officer in the Hei Longjiang province, has studied kung fu techniques rigorously for more than 20 years, according to metro.co.uk. These studies has allegedly left him invulnerable to pain and injury.

In any case, he does seem to take a lot of it, and it may seem like criminals and thugs on his shift had better think twice.

Below, you can see him shrugging off bricks smashed on his skull with a sledgehammer. Other feats include a steel spear being forced into his throat and breaking heavy stoneware pots to pieces with his head.

Claims of rape

Australia -- A 53-year-old man - a former martial arts instructor and black belt from Adelaide - is heading to South Australia to face five charges of raping a 14-year-old girl in 1984.

The alleged victim, now aged 40, was one of his former students, according to dailymercury.com.au.

The allegations were made in October 2009 and a warrant for his arrest was issued in November 2010.

Australia -- A 53-year-old man - a former martial arts instructor and black belt from Adelaide - is heading to South Australia to face five charges of raping a 14-year-old girl in 1984.

The alleged victim, now aged 40, was one of his former students, according to dailymercury.com.au.

The allegations were made in October 2009 and a warrant for his arrest was issued in November 2010.

An exceptional young man

It is not given anyone of us mere mortals to know how long our time on earth will be. It is even hard for many of us to know for sure the real purpose of the time we are given here.

I truly, honestly believe we can only try our very best, do something which benefits and impacts others as well, and hope we will leave a footprint we can look back upon without regrets - like this young man here: ottawacitizen.com.

It is not given anyone of us mere mortals to know how long our time on earth will be. It is even hard for many of us to know for sure the real purpose of the time we are given here.

I truly, honestly believe we can only try our very best, do something which benefits and impacts others as well, and hope we will leave a footprint we can look back upon without regrets - like this young man here: ottawacitizen.com.

Instructor denies rape

UK -- The man has been described as "violent and domineering", according to stourbridgenews.co.uk.

Now the 50-year-old instructor, who runs a martial arts school in Lye, is alleged to have brutally raped a female victim.

UK -- The man has been described as "violent and domineering", according to stourbridgenews.co.uk.

Now the 50-year-old instructor, who runs a martial arts school in Lye, is alleged to have brutally raped a female victim.

Taekwondo row

Taiwan -- Chinapost.com.tw reports the Taiwanese sports officials has filed an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne (Switzerland) regarding the controversial and disputed disqualification of (taekwondo fighter) Yang Shu-chun at the recent Asian Games in Guangzhou, China.

The Sports Affairs Council (SAC) in Taiwan said their move show its resolution to "fight until justice prevails".

Taiwan -- Chinapost.com.tw reports the Taiwanese sports officials has filed an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne (Switzerland) regarding the controversial and disputed disqualification of (taekwondo fighter) Yang Shu-chun at the recent Asian Games in Guangzhou, China.

The Sports Affairs Council (SAC) in Taiwan said their move show its resolution to "fight until justice prevails".

Olympic selection threatened

Australia -- Abc.net.au reports that a legal conflict between two Australian taekwondo organisations could result in no TKD athletes participating in the 2012 Olympics, unless a solution is reached soon.

Taekwondo Australia claims a rival organisation, TKD Sports Taekwondo Australia, allegedly have made misleading and deceptive claims that it could provide a direct pathway to the Olympics.

A Federal Court judge have informed lawyers for both parties that athletes seeking to gain selection for the London Games could be hindered.

Australia -- Abc.net.au reports that a legal conflict between two Australian taekwondo organisations could result in no TKD athletes participating in the 2012 Olympics, unless a solution is reached soon.

Taekwondo Australia claims a rival organisation, TKD Sports Taekwondo Australia, allegedly have made misleading and deceptive claims that it could provide a direct pathway to the Olympics.

A Federal Court judge have informed lawyers for both parties that athletes seeking to gain selection for the London Games could be hindered.

She pulled it off

China -- In Beijing recently, 53-year-old female Shaolin monk Zhang Tingting, shamed several men who had tried, and failed, to pull six cars - weighing in excess of nine tons.

The kung fu master, who reportedly learned the art from her granddad from the age of three, pulled the cars 50ft outside the Tanzhe temple, according to thesun.co.uk.

The picture below shows a visitor attempting, in vane, to pull the cars.

China -- In Beijing recently, 53-year-old female Shaolin monk Zhang Tingting, shamed several men who had tried, and failed, to pull six cars - weighing in excess of nine tons.

The kung fu master, who reportedly learned the art from her granddad from the age of three, pulled the cars 50ft outside the Tanzhe temple, according to thesun.co.uk.

The picture below shows a visitor attempting, in vane, to pull the cars.

Pedophile jailed

UK -- In November, a 64-year-old pedophile, who sexually abused a young boy while pretending to give him kung fu lessons, was sentenced to eight years in jail.

The man was convicted by a jury in October of abusing the boy at his Cheltenham home in the late 1980s, according to thisisgloucestershire.co.uk.

UK -- In November, a 64-year-old pedophile, who sexually abused a young boy while pretending to give him kung fu lessons, was sentenced to eight years in jail.

The man was convicted by a jury in October of abusing the boy at his Cheltenham home in the late 1980s, according to thisisgloucestershire.co.uk.

Pleading guilty to child porn

Texas -- A former martial arts instructor from Balch Springs, who was arrested in August, has plead guilty to production of child pornography, according to dallasnews.com.

An undercover police officer reportedly received child porn from the 40-year-old instructor's computer using file-sharing software.

One woman said that while she was still a minor, she saw images of child pornography on the man's computer and recognized some of the victims to be students from his martial arts class.

Texas -- A former martial arts instructor from Balch Springs, who was arrested in August, has plead guilty to production of child pornography, according to dallasnews.com.

An undercover police officer reportedly received child porn from the 40-year-old instructor's computer using file-sharing software.

One woman said that while she was still a minor, she saw images of child pornography on the man's computer and recognized some of the victims to be students from his martial arts class.

Instructor, offensive touching

Delaware -- A 43-year-old Wilmington martial arts instructor is facing charges of offensive touching and unlawful imprisonment after allegedly touching a 14-year-old female student inappropriately, according to delawareonline.com.

The incident is said to have happened when the 14-year-old student was finishing her training at the martial arts center in Talleyville, according to a state police spokesman.

Delaware -- A 43-year-old Wilmington martial arts instructor is facing charges of offensive touching and unlawful imprisonment after allegedly touching a 14-year-old female student inappropriately, according to delawareonline.com.

The incident is said to have happened when the 14-year-old student was finishing her training at the martial arts center in Talleyville, according to a state police spokesman.

Ex judo champ, drug baron

Australia -- A 60-year-old former Olympic judoka has been arrested by Australian police along with other alleged drug barons, according to coffscoastadvocate.com.au.

The judo champion, who reportedly participated in the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, was charged with 18 counts of drug supply and knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime.

Australia -- A 60-year-old former Olympic judoka has been arrested by Australian police along with other alleged drug barons, according to coffscoastadvocate.com.au.

The judo champion, who reportedly participated in the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, was charged with 18 counts of drug supply and knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime.

A ninja informant

Germany -- A 2009 diplomatic cable, sent from the embassy in Baku, Azerbaijan, allegedly cites an Iranian martial arts teacher - referred to as a "ninja black belt master".

The informant allegedly claimed that karate clubs were "under intense pressure to cooperate with Iranian intelligence and Revolutionary Guard organizations, both in training members and in working as 'enforcers' in repression of protests and politically motivated killings."

This is according to WikiLeaks and monstersandcritics.com.

Germany -- A 2009 diplomatic cable, sent from the embassy in Baku, Azerbaijan, allegedly cites an Iranian martial arts teacher - referred to as a "ninja black belt master".

The informant allegedly claimed that karate clubs were "under intense pressure to cooperate with Iranian intelligence and Revolutionary Guard organizations, both in training members and in working as 'enforcers' in repression of protests and politically motivated killings."

This is according to WikiLeaks and monstersandcritics.com.

Judo official gunned down

Dagestan -- A judo official has been gunned down in Russia's restive province of Dagestan, according to themoscowtimes.com.

A police spokesman said the vice president of the regional judo federation, Dzhabrail Barkalayev, was shot and killed by an unidentified assailant outside the federation's headquarters in Makhachkala.

Dagestan -- A judo official has been gunned down in Russia's restive province of Dagestan, according to themoscowtimes.com.

A police spokesman said the vice president of the regional judo federation, Dzhabrail Barkalayev, was shot and killed by an unidentified assailant outside the federation's headquarters in Makhachkala.

Suspension cut in half

California -- A loquacious MMA fighter who came very close to beating Anderson Silva in August, has had his drug suspension reduced from one year to six months by the California State Athletic Commission, according to newsday.com.

Chael Sonnen tested positive for elevated testosterone levels prior to his title shot at UFC 117, and he was suspended for one year by the CSAC in September.

California -- A loquacious MMA fighter who came very close to beating Anderson Silva in August, has had his drug suspension reduced from one year to six months by the California State Athletic Commission, according to newsday.com.

Chael Sonnen tested positive for elevated testosterone levels prior to his title shot at UFC 117, and he was suspended for one year by the CSAC in September.

Trial for reality show fighter

California -- A 28-year-old, former MMA fighter who was expelled from the "The Ultimate Fighter" reality TV show in 2006, is on trial for three counts of rape as well as other related charges.

The alleged incident occurred June 28, 2008, at the residence of his ex-girlfriend in Oxnard, according to vcstar.com.

California -- A 28-year-old, former MMA fighter who was expelled from the "The Ultimate Fighter" reality TV show in 2006, is on trial for three counts of rape as well as other related charges.

The alleged incident occurred June 28, 2008, at the residence of his ex-girlfriend in Oxnard, according to vcstar.com.

Illegal MMA fights

Maine -- Some participants in a November 8 organized MMA-style fights in Westbrook might have thought the fights were legal, according to police and blog.southportlandsentry.com.

The fights, which reportedly were staged in a circle of cars with illuminated headlights, drew spectators from throughout Greater Portland.

Two 18-year-old Portland-area male residents were arrested for taking part in the illegal fighting.

Maine -- Some participants in a November 8 organized MMA-style fights in Westbrook might have thought the fights were legal, according to police and blog.southportlandsentry.com.

The fights, which reportedly were staged in a circle of cars with illuminated headlights, drew spectators from throughout Greater Portland.

Two 18-year-old Portland-area male residents were arrested for taking part in the illegal fighting.

Ex X Factor

As controversial Wagner Carrilho is booted from the X Factor show, expressandstar.com asks: "Is there really a market for out-of-tune, long-haired karate instructors with an eye for the ladies?"

Well, I was kind of wondering... Why not going back to being a long-haired karate instructor with an eye for the ladies? Just leave the singing for the showers, OK?

As controversial Wagner Carrilho is booted from the X Factor show, expressandstar.com asks: "Is there really a market for out-of-tune, long-haired karate instructors with an eye for the ladies?"

Well, I was kind of wondering... Why not going back to being a long-haired karate instructor with an eye for the ladies? Just leave the singing for the showers, OK?

Jujitsu Jim

Here's a great, inspirational article about 83-year old Australian gentleman and 9. dan ju-jitsu master Jim Oliver.

The elderly gentleman has been doing the art since 1961. Mr Oliver, who also dabbles in tai chi, said he began studying the Japanese art as a way to keep fit.

"I'm very healthy for my age with lots of movement in my limbs and I think that's because of ju-jitsu," Mr Oliver said.

Here's a great, inspirational article about 83-year old Australian gentleman and 9. dan ju-jitsu master Jim Oliver.

The elderly gentleman has been doing the art since 1961. Mr Oliver, who also dabbles in tai chi, said he began studying the Japanese art as a way to keep fit.

"I'm very healthy for my age with lots of movement in my limbs and I think that's because of ju-jitsu," Mr Oliver said.

Fearless kung fu hamster

It's the kung fu hamster month obviously. Here's another clip, showing a cute but also fearless creature going after two Russian teens walking through a corn field. Say what you will, but this id one impressive "kung fuka".

Oh and in case you're wondering, the only ones hurt here were people. The boys showed respect for their opponent - hats off to them :-)

It's the kung fu hamster month obviously. Here's another clip, showing a cute but also fearless creature going after two Russian teens walking through a corn field. Say what you will, but this id one impressive "kung fuka".

Oh and in case you're wondering, the only ones hurt here were people. The boys showed respect for their opponent - hats off to them :-)

Kung fu hamster

Hi-ya... This little hamster fella is too cute - and one mean numbnut expert if I may say so :-)

Hi-ya... This little hamster fella is too cute - and one mean numbnut expert if I may say so :-)

A miracle of friendship

What ever you do, please make sure you take the time read this amazing article from mi4ssoulian.com - a truly inspirational piece about a boy named Dylan Helms and 16-year-old Michael Graef at the Missoula Taekwondo Center in Montana.

It is stories like this one here - describing the remarkable bond between a boy with a crippling disease (Friedreich's ataxia) and a young man dedicated to help him out at the kids taekwondo classes - which reinforces my belief in the spirit and kindness of mankind as well as the true power and potential of martial arts.

If a story like this - using a term like "a miracle of friendship" - doesn't melt your heart then I truly wonder what will...

There are many interpretations of the "true meaning" of martial arts or budo. The one described here should, in my opinion, rank at the very top.

What ever you do, please make sure you take the time read this amazing article from mi4ssoulian.com - a truly inspirational piece about a boy named Dylan Helms and 16-year-old Michael Graef at the Missoula Taekwondo Center in Montana.

It is stories like this one here - describing the remarkable bond between a boy with a crippling disease (Friedreich's ataxia) and a young man dedicated to help him out at the kids taekwondo classes - which reinforces my belief in the spirit and kindness of mankind as well as the true power and potential of martial arts.

If a story like this - using a term like "a miracle of friendship" - doesn't melt your heart then I truly wonder what will...

There are many interpretations of the "true meaning" of martial arts or budo. The one described here should, in my opinion, rank at the very top.

A kung fu welcome

China -- As guests from 56 countries recently arrived for the Eighth International Shaolin Martial Arts Festival, they were welcomed by more than 60,000 students of wushu performing Chinese kung fu along the 10-kilometer road leading to the famous Shaolin Temple, according to english.peopledaily.com.

China -- As guests from 56 countries recently arrived for the Eighth International Shaolin Martial Arts Festival, they were welcomed by more than 60,000 students of wushu performing Chinese kung fu along the 10-kilometer road leading to the famous Shaolin Temple, according to english.peopledaily.com.

Guilty as charged

Florida -- In Pensacola, a karate instructor is facing the death penalty after having been convicted of leading a group of armed men dressed as ninja to rob and kill a wealthy couple while their nine special-needs children cowered or slept nearby on July 9, 2009.

The prosecutor told the jury of 11 women and one man in closing arguments that it was the accused who conceived the plan to break into the home.

"(...) is the man who had his hand on the gun and his finger on the trigger. He is the man who fired the shots that killed Mr. and Mrs. Billings," the prosecutor said, according to topnews360.tmcnet.com.

Florida -- In Pensacola, a karate instructor is facing the death penalty after having been convicted of leading a group of armed men dressed as ninja to rob and kill a wealthy couple while their nine special-needs children cowered or slept nearby on July 9, 2009.

The prosecutor told the jury of 11 women and one man in closing arguments that it was the accused who conceived the plan to break into the home.

"(...) is the man who had his hand on the gun and his finger on the trigger. He is the man who fired the shots that killed Mr. and Mrs. Billings," the prosecutor said, according to topnews360.tmcnet.com.

Nailing it

China -- To paraphrase Monty Python - "And now, for something completely else" - here's a brief article about kung fu expert Li Xin performing a head stand on top of a nail...

Impressive? You bet. Will I be doing this? Nah, I suppose I'll simply pass on this one. It does look rather painful, thank you very much :-)

China -- To paraphrase Monty Python - "And now, for something completely else" - here's a brief article about kung fu expert Li Xin performing a head stand on top of a nail...

Impressive? You bet. Will I be doing this? Nah, I suppose I'll simply pass on this one. It does look rather painful, thank you very much :-)

Martial arts ... and pot

California -- A Vista medical marijuana dispensary was raided by authorities in September 2009 and the former owner, 46, has pleaded guilty to a felony charge of growing the drug, according to signonsandiego.com.

The man, who opened the dispensary in Vista in 2009, is reportedly also the owner of martial arts school/studio.

California -- A Vista medical marijuana dispensary was raided by authorities in September 2009 and the former owner, 46, has pleaded guilty to a felony charge of growing the drug, according to signonsandiego.com.

The man, who opened the dispensary in Vista in 2009, is reportedly also the owner of martial arts school/studio.

DUI arrest

Hawaii -- Well-known MMA fighter Chris Leben has reportedly been arrested in Hawaii for allegedly driving under the influence, according to headlineplanet.com.

It was reported that the fighter lost control of his truck and crashed into a wall on a Freeway just prior to 2 a.m. Allegedly, he was also driving without a license and without insurance.

Hawaii -- Well-known MMA fighter Chris Leben has reportedly been arrested in Hawaii for allegedly driving under the influence, according to headlineplanet.com.

It was reported that the fighter lost control of his truck and crashed into a wall on a Freeway just prior to 2 a.m. Allegedly, he was also driving without a license and without insurance.

MA, disabilities and children

From Utah, here's a great inspirational piece you should check out about martial arts for children with disabilities.

I believe the art in question here is hapkido, even though karate is also mentioned.

In any case - this is another proof of how our arts, properly taught and promoted, can be beneficial on a number of levels for so many people.

From Utah, here's a great inspirational piece you should check out about martial arts for children with disabilities.

I believe the art in question here is hapkido, even though karate is also mentioned.

In any case - this is another proof of how our arts, properly taught and promoted, can be beneficial on a number of levels for so many people.

Supplies!

New Jersey's finest

New Jersey -- A 25-year-old Plainfield police officer is facing charges of driving while intoxicated, aggravated assault on a police officer, resisting arrest and obstruction of justice following an early october incident in Bloomfield.

The young man is reportedly the son of a Plainfield Police Captain, with whom he also works at a mixed martial arts academy, a tae kwon do training center (eh... OK?) in Dunellen, according to dailyrecord.com.

New Jersey -- A 25-year-old Plainfield police officer is facing charges of driving while intoxicated, aggravated assault on a police officer, resisting arrest and obstruction of justice following an early october incident in Bloomfield.

The young man is reportedly the son of a Plainfield Police Captain, with whom he also works at a mixed martial arts academy, a tae kwon do training center (eh... OK?) in Dunellen, according to dailyrecord.com.

"Marital arts" fighting

China -- While the majority "marital arts" fighting begin after the knots have been tied, this doesn't always seem to be the case.

Two Chinese kung fu sisters, Xiao Lin and her sister Yin (penned as experts, of course) claim they will not get married until their suitors has proven worthy by beating them in combat, according to metro.co.uk.

It is evidently an option to choose between open-hand combat or any weapon the suitors may wish. However the sisters say they won't be holding back. "If they can't beat us, they aren't worthy," 22-year-old Lin says.

A three-day "fighting festival" will allegedly be held in Foushan. The sisters will be masked throughout the challenges, so the men must risk life and limb without even knowing what their potential brides-to-be look like.

Let me see if I get this right...

First you risk getting your furry behind whooped royally. Then, if you win, you may claim your prize without really knowing what it looks like? What if the sisters here end up being butt ugly? Will a "Thank's but no thank's" or running for cover lead to a violent rematch of sort?

I guess I'll be more than happy to pass on this one :-)

China -- While the majority "marital arts" fighting begin after the knots have been tied, this doesn't always seem to be the case.

Two Chinese kung fu sisters, Xiao Lin and her sister Yin (penned as experts, of course) claim they will not get married until their suitors has proven worthy by beating them in combat, according to metro.co.uk.

It is evidently an option to choose between open-hand combat or any weapon the suitors may wish. However the sisters say they won't be holding back. "If they can't beat us, they aren't worthy," 22-year-old Lin says.

A three-day "fighting festival" will allegedly be held in Foushan. The sisters will be masked throughout the challenges, so the men must risk life and limb without even knowing what their potential brides-to-be look like.

Let me see if I get this right...

First you risk getting your furry behind whooped royally. Then, if you win, you may claim your prize without really knowing what it looks like? What if the sisters here end up being butt ugly? Will a "Thank's but no thank's" or running for cover lead to a violent rematch of sort?

I guess I'll be more than happy to pass on this one :-)

Released from jail

Virginia -- A former Roanoke police officer and accused bank robber -- described as a cage fighter with a "light switch" temper, an arsenal of weapons, and plans to kill police officers and county sheriff's deputies -- has been set free as prosecutors moved to drop the charges against him.

The man was arrested July 1 and was awaiting a scheduled trial on November 3, according to roanoke.com.

The DA in charge said he had not received important evidence from federal investigators, who reportedly were still looking into the case.

Virginia -- A former Roanoke police officer and accused bank robber -- described as a cage fighter with a "light switch" temper, an arsenal of weapons, and plans to kill police officers and county sheriff's deputies -- has been set free as prosecutors moved to drop the charges against him.

The man was arrested July 1 and was awaiting a scheduled trial on November 3, according to roanoke.com.

The DA in charge said he had not received important evidence from federal investigators, who reportedly were still looking into the case.

In need of kung fu

Oh dear... I'm afraid this person here will be out of luck. This individual will soon realize that the only effective counter against the deadly "ninjas" is the equally lethal "nunchucks" known as dumbchucks or numbnuts.

Never mind that it is really no plural s-ending in Japanese - like: one ninja, several ninja - and that the proper term is nunchaku. That's just boring details :-)

Oh dear... I'm afraid this person here will be out of luck. This individual will soon realize that the only effective counter against the deadly "ninjas" is the equally lethal "nunchucks" known as dumbchucks or numbnuts.

Never mind that it is really no plural s-ending in Japanese - like: one ninja, several ninja - and that the proper term is nunchaku. That's just boring details :-)

Self-proclaimed weirdness

Let's see now... What do we have in this story from San Antonio, Texas? Some weird stuff indeed.

Does someone else perhaps get a nagging feeling there's something amiss here?

Any how, the actions reportedly include a self-proclaimed MMA fighter (aged 26); a 44 year old alleged victim befriending him at a sports bar; the two men playing video games (really?) at the victim's home; and the alleged robber knocking his new found "friend" out and taking off with $2,000 in cash from the home.

Let's see now... What do we have in this story from San Antonio, Texas? Some weird stuff indeed.

Does someone else perhaps get a nagging feeling there's something amiss here?

Any how, the actions reportedly include a self-proclaimed MMA fighter (aged 26); a 44 year old alleged victim befriending him at a sports bar; the two men playing video games (really?) at the victim's home; and the alleged robber knocking his new found "friend" out and taking off with $2,000 in cash from the home.

Stupid, "deadly weapons"

Guam -- Two fighters, both co-defendants in a felony assault case, will be allowed to participate in an MMA event on November 13, according to guampdn.com.

The two men allegedly attacked a group of men in a Tumon karaoke bar February 6. One of the men allegedly hit a man in the face with a fire extinguisher, then attempted to stomp on his head. His "partner" allegedly attacked two other men.

Since the two men are trained in mixed martial arts, their hands and feet can be considered "deadly weapons," according to court documents.

Guam -- Two fighters, both co-defendants in a felony assault case, will be allowed to participate in an MMA event on November 13, according to guampdn.com.

The two men allegedly attacked a group of men in a Tumon karaoke bar February 6. One of the men allegedly hit a man in the face with a fire extinguisher, then attempted to stomp on his head. His "partner" allegedly attacked two other men.

Since the two men are trained in mixed martial arts, their hands and feet can be considered "deadly weapons," according to court documents.

Booze, cannabis and martial arts

Sparring and doing martial arts in state like this ... how utterly stupid.

New Zealand -- An evening with cannabis, home brew and martial arts Father's Day 2009 ended with a man stabbed to death in the West Coast settlement of Kumara.

A 55-year man is on trial for stabbing another man on September 7, 2009, inflicting a fatal knife wound to the heart, according to stuff.co.nz.

The case prosecutor said the defendant and the deceased were interested in martial arts and sparred on occasions, as they did that night.

Sparring and doing martial arts in state like this ... how utterly stupid.

New Zealand -- An evening with cannabis, home brew and martial arts Father's Day 2009 ended with a man stabbed to death in the West Coast settlement of Kumara.

A 55-year man is on trial for stabbing another man on September 7, 2009, inflicting a fatal knife wound to the heart, according to stuff.co.nz.

The case prosecutor said the defendant and the deceased were interested in martial arts and sparred on occasions, as they did that night.

Toe-kwon-do

This may look like a lot like taekwondo, but it's not. This is the slightly less known yet equally impressive toekwondo. Nice face block, by the way...

This may look like a lot like taekwondo, but it's not. This is the slightly less known yet equally impressive toekwondo. Nice face block, by the way...

Car-ate

California -- An 83-year-old man, who was pulling into his second floor parking spot at a parking garage in Glendale after a karate class, drove his car through metal guard rails and onto the pavement below - landing on its roof, according to ktla.com.

Still, the senior citizen was able to walk away from the crash with minor injuries, according to reports.

This has got to be one lucky individual. Either that, or his karate was really something else. In any case, glad he wasn't seriously hurt.

Good advertisement for the solid build of the Range Rover too - car-ate for the win :-)

But wait, here's more, from abclocal.go.com this time. Seems it may be a case of bad shoe-do...

"It appeared to me that he was driving with his shoes off, which may have contributed to the accident if his foot slipped," said a parking representative.

"(...) I understand he does karate, so maybe that's why he's not wearing his shoes today," said a police spokesman.

California -- An 83-year-old man, who was pulling into his second floor parking spot at a parking garage in Glendale after a karate class, drove his car through metal guard rails and onto the pavement below - landing on its roof, according to ktla.com.

Still, the senior citizen was able to walk away from the crash with minor injuries, according to reports.

This has got to be one lucky individual. Either that, or his karate was really something else. In any case, glad he wasn't seriously hurt.

Good advertisement for the solid build of the Range Rover too - car-ate for the win :-)

But wait, here's more, from abclocal.go.com this time. Seems it may be a case of bad shoe-do...

"It appeared to me that he was driving with his shoes off, which may have contributed to the accident if his foot slipped," said a parking representative.

"(...) I understand he does karate, so maybe that's why he's not wearing his shoes today," said a police spokesman.

Armed and dangerous

New York -- State Police said they were searching for a 27-year-old, of Brushton, wanted for his involvement in a kidnapping which occurred on Octover 5, according to northcountrygazette.org.

Police said the wanted man has been involved in mixed martial arts training and that he should be considered armed and dangerous. He has a "Gracie Academy Symbol" (jiu-jitsu school) tattoo on his right arm, according to reports.

New York -- State Police said they were searching for a 27-year-old, of Brushton, wanted for his involvement in a kidnapping which occurred on Octover 5, according to northcountrygazette.org.

Police said the wanted man has been involved in mixed martial arts training and that he should be considered armed and dangerous. He has a "Gracie Academy Symbol" (jiu-jitsu school) tattoo on his right arm, according to reports.

Kung fu sex abuse

UK -- A 28-year-old father recently told a court how he, more than 20 years ago, was sexually abused by a man who pretended to be teaching him kung fu.

The alleged victim said the 63-year-old defendant committed the offences after telling him and a friend to strip naked for the martial art lessons at a flat in Cheltenham, according to thisisgloucestershire.co.uk.

The alleged victim said all incidents took place in the friend's home when the defendant was looking after the boy while the boy's mother was working.

UK -- A 28-year-old father recently told a court how he, more than 20 years ago, was sexually abused by a man who pretended to be teaching him kung fu.

The alleged victim said the 63-year-old defendant committed the offences after telling him and a friend to strip naked for the martial art lessons at a flat in Cheltenham, according to thisisgloucestershire.co.uk.

The alleged victim said all incidents took place in the friend's home when the defendant was looking after the boy while the boy's mother was working.

Acquitted of rape charge

Colorado -- A former member of the U.S. Olympic judo team has been acquitted by a jury of raping a 15-year-old girl in Colorado Springs in 2008, according to gazette.com.

He was however found guilty of two misdemeanor counts of having oral sex with a juvenile who was at least 10 years his junior.

The man will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the misdemeanor convictions. He is facing up to two years in the county jail when he is sentenced February 8, 2011.

Also, a civil lawsuit the girl and her parents filed against him and the girl's judo team is still pending.

Colorado -- A former member of the U.S. Olympic judo team has been acquitted by a jury of raping a 15-year-old girl in Colorado Springs in 2008, according to gazette.com.

He was however found guilty of two misdemeanor counts of having oral sex with a juvenile who was at least 10 years his junior.

The man will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the misdemeanor convictions. He is facing up to two years in the county jail when he is sentenced February 8, 2011.

Also, a civil lawsuit the girl and her parents filed against him and the girl's judo team is still pending.

Grandma kwon do

Not bad at all... In fact, very cool :-)

Here we have someone past her teens who actually have spent some time to achieve her black belt (and no, two to three years is not some time).

And not only that, the grandmother correctly explains some of the the difference between Japanese karate and Korean taekwondo - more than a lot of the MacDojo so-called "karate black belt" holders out there is capable of.

North Carolina -- At the age of 59, LaVerne Tysinger from Denton began tae kwon do lessons at the age of 59 and then set a goal for herself — to attain a black belt before she turned 65, according to the-dispatch.com.

Not bad at all... In fact, very cool :-)

Here we have someone past her teens who actually have spent some time to achieve her black belt (and no, two to three years is not some time).

And not only that, the grandmother correctly explains some of the the difference between Japanese karate and Korean taekwondo - more than a lot of the MacDojo so-called "karate black belt" holders out there is capable of.

North Carolina -- At the age of 59, LaVerne Tysinger from Denton began tae kwon do lessons at the age of 59 and then set a goal for herself — to attain a black belt before she turned 65, according to the-dispatch.com.

Numbnuts and sword

Ohio -- "It looked like a violent and graphic scene in a karate movie." This was the description given by witnesses to a recent fight in Toledo, according to wtol.com.

A fight between two men at an apartments building allegedly escalated and ended with one person being stabbed several times and seriously injured by a sword.

According to witnesses, the two men were fighting when one of the men ran into an apartment to get his older brother. The brother then came out with nunchucks (aka. numbnuts or dumbchucks) and went after another person in the crowd.

Apparently the numbnuts wasn't the right tool for the encounter. Witnesses said the man then ran back inside and came out with a sword.

It's martial arts 101 really: The krotty sticks/dumbchucks is purely designed for those who are fond of self harm. The real thing -- called nunchaku -- may only be handled by those who actually knows what they're doing.

And man ... numbnuts as well as a sword? This "brother in arms" must definitely be a martial arts enthusiast.

Ohio -- "It looked like a violent and graphic scene in a karate movie." This was the description given by witnesses to a recent fight in Toledo, according to wtol.com.

A fight between two men at an apartments building allegedly escalated and ended with one person being stabbed several times and seriously injured by a sword.

According to witnesses, the two men were fighting when one of the men ran into an apartment to get his older brother. The brother then came out with nunchucks (aka. numbnuts or dumbchucks) and went after another person in the crowd.

Apparently the numbnuts wasn't the right tool for the encounter. Witnesses said the man then ran back inside and came out with a sword.

It's martial arts 101 really: The krotty sticks/dumbchucks is purely designed for those who are fond of self harm. The real thing -- called nunchaku -- may only be handled by those who actually knows what they're doing.

And man ... numbnuts as well as a sword? This "brother in arms" must definitely be a martial arts enthusiast.

Martial arts enthusiast

Connecticut -- A man attempted to steal money from a downtown Stamford bar on September 26, according to thestamfordtimes.com and now police says the man "may be a martial arts enthusiast."

First and foremost, whenever a term like "martial arts enthusiast" is used in settings like these, it tends to indicate a full blown Martial Arts Maniac.

And what is it that told police they may be dealing with such an individual in the first place? The fact that the suspect laid in wait while the receipts were being compiled by the manager - in other word a sneaky ninja? Or was it perhaps his athletic build which gave him away?

Did he flash on of them totally awesome and deadly dumchucks, or go into a kung fu stance? Did he flash a couple equally impressive fast and furious judo chops; perhaps uttering the all time classic: "I know karate!" (pronounced 'krotty')? No?

Then what? This is so confusing...

Connecticut -- A man attempted to steal money from a downtown Stamford bar on September 26, according to thestamfordtimes.com and now police says the man "may be a martial arts enthusiast."

First and foremost, whenever a term like "martial arts enthusiast" is used in settings like these, it tends to indicate a full blown Martial Arts Maniac.

And what is it that told police they may be dealing with such an individual in the first place? The fact that the suspect laid in wait while the receipts were being compiled by the manager - in other word a sneaky ninja? Or was it perhaps his athletic build which gave him away?

Did he flash on of them totally awesome and deadly dumchucks, or go into a kung fu stance? Did he flash a couple equally impressive fast and furious judo chops; perhaps uttering the all time classic: "I know karate!" (pronounced 'krotty')? No?

Then what? This is so confusing...

Bad car kung fu

October 5, on "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, an embarrassed actor Terrence Howard explained how he ended up injuring himself with some impromptu car-fu.

Explaining the accident he said: "I'm sitting in the car and I'm thinking about the Bruce Lee days and all of the kung-fu stuff that people used to do, and I'm trying to drive and I made a fool of myself in the process," he said according to hollywood.com and tvsquad.com.

"You know how Bruce Lee used to do that little short one-inch punch? I'm thinking I can do that in front of the rear view mirror. That one-inch punch. That mirror hit back. (...)."

So now we know - boards don't hit back (or so said Bruce), but mirrors apparently do. Good to know :-)

October 5, on "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, an embarrassed actor Terrence Howard explained how he ended up injuring himself with some impromptu car-fu.

Explaining the accident he said: "I'm sitting in the car and I'm thinking about the Bruce Lee days and all of the kung-fu stuff that people used to do, and I'm trying to drive and I made a fool of myself in the process," he said according to hollywood.com and tvsquad.com.

"You know how Bruce Lee used to do that little short one-inch punch? I'm thinking I can do that in front of the rear view mirror. That one-inch punch. That mirror hit back. (...)."

So now we know - boards don't hit back (or so said Bruce), but mirrors apparently do. Good to know :-)

Karate "Skippy" left town

Georgia -- A Byron man has been arrested in Mississippi after being accused of failing to render karate lessons and uniforms for money paid him, according to macon.com.

The 38-year-old man is reportedly also accused of skipping bond on a traffic charge.

He is accused of taking about $2,000 from six adult and children karate students without providing lessons, uniforms and knee pads.

Georgia -- A Byron man has been arrested in Mississippi after being accused of failing to render karate lessons and uniforms for money paid him, according to macon.com.

The 38-year-old man is reportedly also accused of skipping bond on a traffic charge.

He is accused of taking about $2,000 from six adult and children karate students without providing lessons, uniforms and knee pads.

Instructor takes Alford plea

North Carolina -- A 62-year-old karate instructor has taken an Alford guilty plea to seven charges of indecent liberties with a child, according to legal.blogs.starnewsonline.com.

An Alford plea means the defendant admits enough evidence exists to convict, but that he does not admit the accusations.

The man was accused in 2009 of molesting seven students, ranging from kindergarten to fifth grade, in his after-school program in Wilmington.

North Carolina -- A 62-year-old karate instructor has taken an Alford guilty plea to seven charges of indecent liberties with a child, according to legal.blogs.starnewsonline.com.

An Alford plea means the defendant admits enough evidence exists to convict, but that he does not admit the accusations.

The man was accused in 2009 of molesting seven students, ranging from kindergarten to fifth grade, in his after-school program in Wilmington.

The wrong kind of signal?

Here's a guy who has more than a crass word to say to all the "tough" guys who walks around in Affliction MMA-style T-shirts. You know the type, lots of visible tattoos, shirt one size too small, works at the gym to get the "right" kind of muscles to show off on a Friday night...

Although the whole article is kept in a light an refreshingly humorous style, there is a sincere and serious tone to it. And indeed - I have to agree: If you want to look like a moron, here's how :-)

The whole "dress code" reminds me of the equally stupid ripped muscle shirts who was in vogue years ago with steroid pumped guys who tried to look even bigger than they actually were, and so out of touch with their own bodies they could hardly walk properly - let alone walk past a mirror without having a look at that man candy :-)

If you're an MMA fighter for real, I say go for this kind of show off! If not then do the rest of the world a favor and get something else ... please.

Here's a guy who has more than a crass word to say to all the "tough" guys who walks around in Affliction MMA-style T-shirts. You know the type, lots of visible tattoos, shirt one size too small, works at the gym to get the "right" kind of muscles to show off on a Friday night...

Although the whole article is kept in a light an refreshingly humorous style, there is a sincere and serious tone to it. And indeed - I have to agree: If you want to look like a moron, here's how :-)

The whole "dress code" reminds me of the equally stupid ripped muscle shirts who was in vogue years ago with steroid pumped guys who tried to look even bigger than they actually were, and so out of touch with their own bodies they could hardly walk properly - let alone walk past a mirror without having a look at that man candy :-)

If you're an MMA fighter for real, I say go for this kind of show off! If not then do the rest of the world a favor and get something else ... please.

Jhoon Rhee

Here's a great article from politics.blogs.foxnews.com about legendary US/Korean taekwondo master Jhoon Rhee and his long dedication to teach martial arts and self defense to members of the US Congress.

For 45 years, the 79-year-old grand-master, who's physique belies his age, has driven to the Capitol before sunrise three days a week to teach the Congress members at 6:30 in the morning.

Here's a great article from politics.blogs.foxnews.com about legendary US/Korean taekwondo master Jhoon Rhee and his long dedication to teach martial arts and self defense to members of the US Congress.

For 45 years, the 79-year-old grand-master, who's physique belies his age, has driven to the Capitol before sunrise three days a week to teach the Congress members at 6:30 in the morning.

Investigated by Child Protective Service

Indiana -- MTV is running a reality television series about teenage mothers called "Teen Mom". In a recent episode, one of the "stars" lost her temper during a fight with her ex fiancé, according to celebs.gather.com.

This is reportedly not the first time the MMA trained woman has been seen on TV hitting her daughter's father. The two young parents can allegedly be seen almost every week fighting and cursing in front of their baby daughter on the TV show.

As a result, police and Child Protective Services in the woman's hometown are investigating her for domestic abuse.

Indiana -- MTV is running a reality television series about teenage mothers called "Teen Mom". In a recent episode, one of the "stars" lost her temper during a fight with her ex fiancé, according to celebs.gather.com.

This is reportedly not the first time the MMA trained woman has been seen on TV hitting her daughter's father. The two young parents can allegedly be seen almost every week fighting and cursing in front of their baby daughter on the TV show.

As a result, police and Child Protective Services in the woman's hometown are investigating her for domestic abuse.

Judo athlete, rape trial

Colorado -- During a trial, a 17-year-old judo competitor spoke about how she had pleaded for a former (2008) U.S. Olympic athlete to stop and get off her during an alleged raped her in his Colorado Springs hotel room.

The young judoka was 15-years-old and drunk at the time of the alleged assault by the judo fighter, according to gazette.com.

Following a tournament, the girl had been out drinking with friends when she reportedly ran into the man.

Colorado -- During a trial, a 17-year-old judo competitor spoke about how she had pleaded for a former (2008) U.S. Olympic athlete to stop and get off her during an alleged raped her in his Colorado Springs hotel room.

The young judoka was 15-years-old and drunk at the time of the alleged assault by the judo fighter, according to gazette.com.

Following a tournament, the girl had been out drinking with friends when she reportedly ran into the man.

Chuck release death grip

Well of course Chuck Norris is all you need to fix the iPhone 4 death-grip antenna mystery. Why? He's Chuck Norris for crying out loud!

Well of course Chuck Norris is all you need to fix the iPhone 4 death-grip antenna mystery. Why? He's Chuck Norris for crying out loud!

Lesbian taekwondo abductor

Some things apparently never change - like martial arts instructors doing crazy and some times even unlawful things.

Kind of like in this case from thejakartaglobe.com where you to have an Indonesian, lesbian taekwondo instructor having an affair with an under age student. But wait, there's more...

Allegedly, the girl's parents had the her handed over to local child protection services to have the child "cured" for her sexual orientation. But wait, there's even more...

The 26-year-old instructor reportedly found out where they kept her young lover and managed to "remove the girl from the shelter" - an act which I believe tend to be labelled as abduction.

Some things apparently never change - like martial arts instructors doing crazy and some times even unlawful things.

Kind of like in this case from thejakartaglobe.com where you to have an Indonesian, lesbian taekwondo instructor having an affair with an under age student. But wait, there's more...

Allegedly, the girl's parents had the her handed over to local child protection services to have the child "cured" for her sexual orientation. But wait, there's even more...

The 26-year-old instructor reportedly found out where they kept her young lover and managed to "remove the girl from the shelter" - an act which I believe tend to be labelled as abduction.

Rather crowded...

China -- No less than 3,170 kung fu (wing chun) practitioners, recently performed the nine series of 'Wing Chun Fist', to music.

The performance was held in Luo Village, Foshan, the hometown of Ye Wen, kung fu master and teacher of Bruce Lee. The performers were local resident as well as enthusiasts from wing chun associations worldwide.

Officials said the performance was also allegedly registered as a Guinness world record.

China -- No less than 3,170 kung fu (wing chun) practitioners, recently performed the nine series of 'Wing Chun Fist', to music.

The performance was held in Luo Village, Foshan, the hometown of Ye Wen, kung fu master and teacher of Bruce Lee. The performers were local resident as well as enthusiasts from wing chun associations worldwide.

Officials said the performance was also allegedly registered as a Guinness world record.

Ippon?

Perfect mawashi geri yodan (high roundhouse kick) - sorry it was the referee that was in the way. Total face block. Not much sympathy from the other students though...

Perfect mawashi geri yodan (high roundhouse kick) - sorry it was the referee that was in the way. Total face block. Not much sympathy from the other students though...

Russian MMA nutcase

Guys, guys... Come on... A criminal, probably insane, and definitely a right-wing nutcase by any standard. But still, let us welcome him with open arms, a big hug and an even bigger bottle of vodka. We are all so cozy and friendly over here; we like to see the good things in people, you know...

Story:
Norway -- A Russian MMA champ, known as Tarzan the Redhead, who fled a psychiatric facility in St. Petersburg has been held in Oslo after applying for asylum, according to themoscowtimes.com.

Police officials said the man was detained on suspicion of violating the country's law on gun ownership and having possible links to organized crime.

A YouTube video shows the 30-year-old man entering a Norwegian immigration office (and yes, that is Russian and Norwegian being spoken).

In the video you can see how "Tarzan", wearing a sweatshirt with Nazi insignia, says, "Sieg heil," as he raises his arm in a Nazi salute before entering the office.

The fighter tells a female immigration official that he arrived in the country by boat and gives her the pistol and his driver's license. He also asks her to search his name in Google.

Dmitry Dyomushkin, who is a friend of the man and the leader of the banned ultranationalist Slavic Union, said "I wished him all the best and told him not to act like a nutcase."

...which apparently didn't help much I might be tempted to add.

The heavyweight MMA champion was found guilty in 2009 of carrying out several robberies. However, he was sent to a criminal psychiatric hospital after an examination which deemed him insane.

Guys, guys... Come on... A criminal, probably insane, and definitely a right-wing nutcase by any standard. But still, let us welcome him with open arms, a big hug and an even bigger bottle of vodka. We are all so cozy and friendly over here; we like to see the good things in people, you know...

Story:
Norway -- A Russian MMA champ, known as Tarzan the Redhead, who fled a psychiatric facility in St. Petersburg has been held in Oslo after applying for asylum, according to themoscowtimes.com.

Police officials said the man was detained on suspicion of violating the country's law on gun ownership and having possible links to organized crime.

A YouTube video shows the 30-year-old man entering a Norwegian immigration office (and yes, that is Russian and Norwegian being spoken).

In the video you can see how "Tarzan", wearing a sweatshirt with Nazi insignia, says, "Sieg heil," as he raises his arm in a Nazi salute before entering the office.

The fighter tells a female immigration official that he arrived in the country by boat and gives her the pistol and his driver's license. He also asks her to search his name in Google.

Dmitry Dyomushkin, who is a friend of the man and the leader of the banned ultranationalist Slavic Union, said "I wished him all the best and told him not to act like a nutcase."

...which apparently didn't help much I might be tempted to add.

The heavyweight MMA champion was found guilty in 2009 of carrying out several robberies. However, he was sent to a criminal psychiatric hospital after an examination which deemed him insane.

A neo-fascist MMA fighter

Poland -- An alleged neo-fascist MMA fighter from Finland was reportedly allowed to fight in Lodz, Poland and show off his Nazi tattoos, according to thenews.pl.

In a statement to Polish radio, Marcin Kornak from "Never Again" - an association which fights against racism, xenophobia and intolerance - said "It’s a scandal that a neo-Nazi was allowed to participate in the show."

Poland -- An alleged neo-fascist MMA fighter from Finland was reportedly allowed to fight in Lodz, Poland and show off his Nazi tattoos, according to thenews.pl.

In a statement to Polish radio, Marcin Kornak from "Never Again" - an association which fights against racism, xenophobia and intolerance - said "It’s a scandal that a neo-Nazi was allowed to participate in the show."

"Great role model"

Utah -- A 29-year-old karate instructor, described as "an excellent teacher and a great role model for the kids," has been arrested after prosecutors said he sexually abused young female students at his school, according to deseretnews.com.

The man was charged with 15 felony counts including 12 counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child, two counts of rape of a child and dealing in harmful materials to a child. Documents alleges the man abused four girls, all under the age of 13, between January and September this year.

Utah -- A 29-year-old karate instructor, described as "an excellent teacher and a great role model for the kids," has been arrested after prosecutors said he sexually abused young female students at his school, according to deseretnews.com.

The man was charged with 15 felony counts including 12 counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child, two counts of rape of a child and dealing in harmful materials to a child. Documents alleges the man abused four girls, all under the age of 13, between January and September this year.

Criminal harassment

Update: The man has been given a conditional discharge by a judge and ordered to stay away from his former lover. He will be on probation for two years and is not allowed to contact the woman or the woman's current boyfriend.

----

Canada -- In mid August, a Grimsby martial arts teacher pleaded guilty to criminal harassment, according to stcatharinesstandard.ca. The case reportedly involved a former partner, a young woman the 36-year-old man met through his martial arts school.

After admitting to having threatened the woman causing her to fear for her safety, the 5th dan black sport ju-jitsu instructor was told he would be sentenced on September 20.

Update: The man has been given a conditional discharge by a judge and ordered to stay away from his former lover. He will be on probation for two years and is not allowed to contact the woman or the woman's current boyfriend.

----

Canada -- In mid August, a Grimsby martial arts teacher pleaded guilty to criminal harassment, according to stcatharinesstandard.ca. The case reportedly involved a former partner, a young woman the 36-year-old man met through his martial arts school.

After admitting to having threatened the woman causing her to fear for her safety, the 5th dan black sport ju-jitsu instructor was told he would be sentenced on September 20.

Music and martial arts

The author of this great article about a Vietnamese flute and martial arts master named Trinh Nhu Quan, claims that "music and martial arts are viewed as two wildly unrelated genres".

The martial art of master Trinh Nhu Quan combines movements with feet and hands where the flute is used as the weapon. This art is known as a "flute sword". According to the author, the art was created between 1883 and 1913 by peasant insurgent leader Hoang Hoa Tham (or De Tham) as a means of self-defense against French colonialism in the Yen The area in province of Bac Giang.

So obviously, for master Quan at least, the arts of music and martial arts are closely related. And I'm in the same boat, something I have touched upon in previous posts. I would argue strongly that these arts are connected in ways more than one.

Unless someone is into the "martial" part alone, skipping over the "arts" section all together - something I see quite a few of the MMA folks doing without giving it a second of thought - then you might begin to reflect upon certain similarities:

Does music (if you take in all styles and genres of music) contain beauty as well as "brutality"? Softness and hardness? slower and quicker paces - tempo changes? Flow and rhythm? How about counter movements? Ascending and descending movements?

And how about the need for proper breathing in performing music? How about the importance of posture? Do you need constant practice in music as well as martial arts? Is there a transfer of energy involved? Can you perform music alone or with others?

Can music as well as the fighting arts invoke strong emotions such as joy, peacefulness, animosity or disgust? Of course they can! I'm not sure about you, but I find it only natural that a lot of people who are in the performing arts also tend to find at home within the martial arts.

As always, feel free to leave your comments below. Oh, and don't forget to read the article :-)

The author of this great article about a Vietnamese flute and martial arts master named Trinh Nhu Quan, claims that "music and martial arts are viewed as two wildly unrelated genres".

The martial art of master Trinh Nhu Quan combines movements with feet and hands where the flute is used as the weapon. This art is known as a "flute sword". According to the author, the art was created between 1883 and 1913 by peasant insurgent leader Hoang Hoa Tham (or De Tham) as a means of self-defense against French colonialism in the Yen The area in province of Bac Giang.

So obviously, for master Quan at least, the arts of music and martial arts are closely related. And I'm in the same boat, something I have touched upon in previous posts. I would argue strongly that these arts are connected in ways more than one.

Unless someone is into the "martial" part alone, skipping over the "arts" section all together - something I see quite a few of the MMA folks doing without giving it a second of thought - then you might begin to reflect upon certain similarities:

Does music (if you take in all styles and genres of music) contain beauty as well as "brutality"? Softness and hardness? slower and quicker paces - tempo changes? Flow and rhythm? How about counter movements? Ascending and descending movements?

And how about the need for proper breathing in performing music? How about the importance of posture? Do you need constant practice in music as well as martial arts? Is there a transfer of energy involved? Can you perform music alone or with others?

Can music as well as the fighting arts invoke strong emotions such as joy, peacefulness, animosity or disgust? Of course they can! I'm not sure about you, but I find it only natural that a lot of people who are in the performing arts also tend to find at home within the martial arts.

As always, feel free to leave your comments below. Oh, and don't forget to read the article :-)

Organized crime connections?

Holland -- The new Mayor of Amsterdam, Eberhard Van der Laan, who reportedly is determined to clean up the city, is looking to ban certain MMA/kick-boxing events taking place in the city, according to headkicklegend.com.

The Mayor has spoken out against some of the martial arts events, citing undesirables elements, from the spectators to the fighters all the way up to managers and promoters.

Authorities claiming to have taken a closer look at certain VIPs from an upcoming, as well as a recently finished event. Authorities have claimed to have found that a majority of these VIPs had previous convictions ranging from drugs and weapons to violence and connections to organized crime.

Holland -- The new Mayor of Amsterdam, Eberhard Van der Laan, who reportedly is determined to clean up the city, is looking to ban certain MMA/kick-boxing events taking place in the city, according to headkicklegend.com.

The Mayor has spoken out against some of the martial arts events, citing undesirables elements, from the spectators to the fighters all the way up to managers and promoters.

Authorities claiming to have taken a closer look at certain VIPs from an upcoming, as well as a recently finished event. Authorities have claimed to have found that a majority of these VIPs had previous convictions ranging from drugs and weapons to violence and connections to organized crime.

Karate chicken

Here's a little amusing clip for you - a boy who tries to scare a chicken with a bit of karate (?) display. Then the feathered one strikes back and the boy chickens out - smart move :-)

Here's a little amusing clip for you - a boy who tries to scare a chicken with a bit of karate (?) display. Then the feathered one strikes back and the boy chickens out - smart move :-)

No iNinpod?

So, the story about Apple godfather Steve Jobs being stopped at a Japanese airport with ninja throwing stars (shuriken) in his luggage isn't completely true after all?

Dang, that would have been such a great battle story. Guess it was simply too good to be true.

I can readily envision Mr Jobs throwing shuriken in the Apple boardroom at giant images of Google maps :-)

Oh well, no iNinpod. Guess it's back to the fantasy drawing board...

So, the story about Apple godfather Steve Jobs being stopped at a Japanese airport with ninja throwing stars (shuriken) in his luggage isn't completely true after all?

Dang, that would have been such a great battle story. Guess it was simply too good to be true.

I can readily envision Mr Jobs throwing shuriken in the Apple boardroom at giant images of Google maps :-)

Oh well, no iNinpod. Guess it's back to the fantasy drawing board...

Bad kung fu shoe

New Zealand - It appears that the kung fu shoes - made popular by none other than legendary Bruce Lee - has made a reappearance, at least according to nzherald.co.nz.

They also report that people are experiencing foot problems from walking around in these soft shoes. Well duh, they are training shoes. If you are used to having foot wear with a strong support of the foot, is it really that strange you will experience some problems when you're basically walking around in slippers?

New Zealand - It appears that the kung fu shoes - made popular by none other than legendary Bruce Lee - has made a reappearance, at least according to nzherald.co.nz.

They also report that people are experiencing foot problems from walking around in these soft shoes. Well duh, they are training shoes. If you are used to having foot wear with a strong support of the foot, is it really that strange you will experience some problems when you're basically walking around in slippers?

Former fighter sentenced

California -- A 28-year-old former MMA fighter from San Francisco has been sentenced to three years and one month in prison for assaulting an African American man in a Chico bar, and for an unrelated fraud conviction, according to sacbee.com.

In 2008, the accused approached the victim in a bar, uttered a racially derogatory term, and knocked him out with one punch. The victim did not know the attacker and the assault was unprovoked, the prosecution said.

During the trial, the defendant said that the incident was nothing more than one in a long line of barroom type brawls in which he had participated.

California -- A 28-year-old former MMA fighter from San Francisco has been sentenced to three years and one month in prison for assaulting an African American man in a Chico bar, and for an unrelated fraud conviction, according to sacbee.com.

In 2008, the accused approached the victim in a bar, uttered a racially derogatory term, and knocked him out with one punch. The victim did not know the attacker and the assault was unprovoked, the prosecution said.

During the trial, the defendant said that the incident was nothing more than one in a long line of barroom type brawls in which he had participated.

More victims

California -- The 29-year-old soccer coach and former martial-arts assistant instructor who was charged in August with molesting five boys has been accused of sexually assaulting two more young boys, according to ocregister.com.

The man, who was arrested August 5, taught karate in Fullerton and was a soccer coach for the North Orange County Youth Soccer Premier League. He has now been charged with 24 child molestation counts regarding a total of seven alleged victims..

It has been reported how the suspect met all his victims through the karate practice or through the soccer league. He allegedly befriended their families, who allowed the man to take their sons to the movies.

California -- The 29-year-old soccer coach and former martial-arts assistant instructor who was charged in August with molesting five boys has been accused of sexually assaulting two more young boys, according to ocregister.com.

The man, who was arrested August 5, taught karate in Fullerton and was a soccer coach for the North Orange County Youth Soccer Premier League. He has now been charged with 24 child molestation counts regarding a total of seven alleged victims..

It has been reported how the suspect met all his victims through the karate practice or through the soccer league. He allegedly befriended their families, who allowed the man to take their sons to the movies.

Possible murder-suicide

Texas -- An MMA fighter and a model are the victims of what appears to be a murder-suicide, according to kvue.com.

The bodies of the 23-year-old model and the 26-year-old fighter were found by police Sunday night in Northwest Austin.

Texas -- An MMA fighter and a model are the victims of what appears to be a murder-suicide, according to kvue.com.

The bodies of the 23-year-old model and the 26-year-old fighter were found by police Sunday night in Northwest Austin.

Judo in Toytown

Oh my - there seems to be some rather naughty action going on in Toyland between Noddy and Big Ears.

According to newsbiscuit.com., Noddy himself claims it is just some late night judo and grappling between the two and that he prefers to grapple with his lucky hat on - hence the sound of the bell. Sounds all well and true to me :-)

A British political comment, you say? Judon't say...

Oh my - there seems to be some rather naughty action going on in Toyland between Noddy and Big Ears.

According to newsbiscuit.com., Noddy himself claims it is just some late night judo and grappling between the two and that he prefers to grapple with his lucky hat on - hence the sound of the bell. Sounds all well and true to me :-)

A British political comment, you say? Judon't say...

Kung fu business

UK -- Two high-ranking civil servants -- employed in the Assembly Government’s Department of Economy and Transport in Wales -- have reportedly been suspended during a probe into how £500,000 of public funds came to be spent on buying a former hotel for a company being led by a Shaolin monk.

The company, the brainchild of the former kung fu world champion, was hoping to open a health and wellbeing centre in the hotel in Llangollen, according to walesonline.co.uk.

UK -- Two high-ranking civil servants -- employed in the Assembly Government’s Department of Economy and Transport in Wales -- have reportedly been suspended during a probe into how £500,000 of public funds came to be spent on buying a former hotel for a company being led by a Shaolin monk.

The company, the brainchild of the former kung fu world champion, was hoping to open a health and wellbeing centre in the hotel in Llangollen, according to walesonline.co.uk.

A martial arts maniac

UK -- A 20-year-old man, tagged a "martial arts maniac" (and for obvious reasons it seems) has been sentenced to seven and half years in jail for two sickening attacks.

The full-blown idiot left a party-goer with serious brain injuries when he delivered a kick to the head which prosecutors proclaimed "Jean Claude Van Damme would have been proud of."

While on bail for this attack, the sneering moron then stabbed a man twice after being kicked out of a martial arts competition.

While the judge at the Newcastle Crown Court trial outlined the injuries he inflicted, the young low-life was reportedly laughing and and smiling.

It is indeed reports like this from chroniclelive.co.uk which at times makes me deeply ashamed to belong to the martial arts fraternity.

UK -- A 20-year-old man, tagged a "martial arts maniac" (and for obvious reasons it seems) has been sentenced to seven and half years in jail for two sickening attacks.

The full-blown idiot left a party-goer with serious brain injuries when he delivered a kick to the head which prosecutors proclaimed "Jean Claude Van Damme would have been proud of."

While on bail for this attack, the sneering moron then stabbed a man twice after being kicked out of a martial arts competition.

While the judge at the Newcastle Crown Court trial outlined the injuries he inflicted, the young low-life was reportedly laughing and and smiling.

It is indeed reports like this from chroniclelive.co.uk which at times makes me deeply ashamed to belong to the martial arts fraternity.

Passing of a legend

Holland -- After being ill for some time, the Dutch judo legend passed away at the age of 76 in his home town of Utrecht, according to rnw.nl.

Geesink shocked Japan as well as the judo world by being the first non-Japanese to beat their own title favorite - Akio Kaminga - at the Olympics in 1964. All though this was a huge blow to the Japanese, Geesink was revered there as a great judoka into his old age.

Holland -- After being ill for some time, the Dutch judo legend passed away at the age of 76 in his home town of Utrecht, according to rnw.nl.

Geesink shocked Japan as well as the judo world by being the first non-Japanese to beat their own title favorite - Akio Kaminga - at the Olympics in 1964. All though this was a huge blow to the Japanese, Geesink was revered there as a great judoka into his old age.

School judo deaths

Japan -- When a 15-year-old boy skipped judo practice, the boy's teacher was furious and stood waiting for him at the gates of his junior high school in Yokohama, according to the boy's parents.

The teacher, a former All Japan judo champion then reportedly forced the boy into the gym and made him grapple one on one. The judo teacher allegedly then choked the boy until he lost consciousness.

When the boy came to, the teacher once again choked the boy until he went limp. The teenager was thrown to the floor with such force that he suffered a severe brain injury - acute subdural hematoma.

The above is one of the cases referred to in this article from search.japantimes.co.jp, titled "108 school judo class deaths but no charges, only silence".

The Japan Judo Accident Victims Association has a special web site set up at at judojiko.net/eng/

Japan -- When a 15-year-old boy skipped judo practice, the boy's teacher was furious and stood waiting for him at the gates of his junior high school in Yokohama, according to the boy's parents.

The teacher, a former All Japan judo champion then reportedly forced the boy into the gym and made him grapple one on one. The judo teacher allegedly then choked the boy until he lost consciousness.

When the boy came to, the teacher once again choked the boy until he went limp. The teenager was thrown to the floor with such force that he suffered a severe brain injury - acute subdural hematoma.

The above is one of the cases referred to in this article from search.japantimes.co.jp, titled "108 school judo class deaths but no charges, only silence".

The Japan Judo Accident Victims Association has a special web site set up at at judojiko.net/eng/

Sued: Combat krav maga

Florida -- DBA Commando Krava Maga and its founder Moni Aizik have been served with a multi-million dollar class action lawsuit for fraud, misrepresentation, unjust enrichment, fraudulent inducement, or tortious interference with business, according to pr-inside.com.

The plaintiffs claim that all of Mr Aizik's many misrepresentations has been created for the sole purpose of exaggerating his credentials in order to induce prospective students to purchase martial arts training from him.

The plaintiffs, which include his former top student and his former business partner, list a number of these alleged false claims and fake Israeli army credentials given by Mr. Azik.

Florida -- DBA Commando Krava Maga and its founder Moni Aizik have been served with a multi-million dollar class action lawsuit for fraud, misrepresentation, unjust enrichment, fraudulent inducement, or tortious interference with business, according to pr-inside.com.

The plaintiffs claim that all of Mr Aizik's many misrepresentations has been created for the sole purpose of exaggerating his credentials in order to induce prospective students to purchase martial arts training from him.

The plaintiffs, which include his former top student and his former business partner, list a number of these alleged false claims and fake Israeli army credentials given by Mr. Azik.

Sumo iPad

Japan - It may seem the Apple iPad can become a hit amongst sumo wrestlers because of the the larger larger touchscreen keyboards found on this product, according to ft.com.

The governing body of sumo has said it would provide these tablet computers to each of the 51 training stables in Japan.

Japan - It may seem the Apple iPad can become a hit amongst sumo wrestlers because of the the larger larger touchscreen keyboards found on this product, according to ft.com.

The governing body of sumo has said it would provide these tablet computers to each of the 51 training stables in Japan.

Man choking juveniles

Indiana -- In Jeffersonville, a 6'5" inches and 297 pound 43-year-old man has been charged with felony battery for allegedly grabbing a juvenile boy by the neck and threatening to kill him, according to newsandtribune.com.

The man, who claimed he "knew martial arts" had chased a group of kids and assaulted one of them after the boys allegedly had been antagonizing and throwing rocks on his son.

When one of the kids took a swing at him, the man allegedly grabbed him by the neck and "foot-swept him," making the juvenile fall on the ground.

Indiana -- In Jeffersonville, a 6'5" inches and 297 pound 43-year-old man has been charged with felony battery for allegedly grabbing a juvenile boy by the neck and threatening to kill him, according to newsandtribune.com.

The man, who claimed he "knew martial arts" had chased a group of kids and assaulted one of them after the boys allegedly had been antagonizing and throwing rocks on his son.

When one of the kids took a swing at him, the man allegedly grabbed him by the neck and "foot-swept him," making the juvenile fall on the ground.

Got 'car-ried' away?

UK -- An employee at a car dealer in Liverpool was beaten by a 29-year-old Muai Thai fighter, according to menmedia.co.uk.

The heavyweight fighter and Muay Thai expert - who also trains children - reportedly lost his temper and eventually assaulted the employee after learning that his wife's car hadn't been fixed.

UK -- An employee at a car dealer in Liverpool was beaten by a 29-year-old Muai Thai fighter, according to menmedia.co.uk.

The heavyweight fighter and Muay Thai expert - who also trains children - reportedly lost his temper and eventually assaulted the employee after learning that his wife's car hadn't been fixed.

Beating up a girl

Ohio -- A 29-ye-old Sylvania man - said to be "involved in boxing and mixed martial arts" - has been charged after allegedly assaulting a teenage girl before barricading himself in his apartment and engaging police in a five-hour standoff, according to toledoblade.com.

The man was reportedly shouting insults at a group of teen girls and a boy across his backyard fence about 5:30 p.m.Thursday when one of the the teenagers, a 14-year-old girl, told him to stop.

Police said the suspect had reached over the fence and attempted to pull the girl over the fence by her hair and punched her in the face before she managed to break free.

Ohio -- A 29-ye-old Sylvania man - said to be "involved in boxing and mixed martial arts" - has been charged after allegedly assaulting a teenage girl before barricading himself in his apartment and engaging police in a five-hour standoff, according to toledoblade.com.

The man was reportedly shouting insults at a group of teen girls and a boy across his backyard fence about 5:30 p.m.Thursday when one of the the teenagers, a 14-year-old girl, told him to stop.

Police said the suspect had reached over the fence and attempted to pull the girl over the fence by her hair and punched her in the face before she managed to break free.

Instructor arrested

New York-- After a young male, now 18, came forward and claimed inappropriate sexual contact with his taekwondo teacher, the 38-year-old Fulton instructor was arrested.

The martial arts teacher has been accused of of committing a criminal sex act and endangering the welfare of a child, according to 9wsyr.com.

Police said the sex acts, which allegedly started in 2005 while the boy was 13 years old, continued until 2009.

We would like to state the following (although obvious) - any accused individual is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

New York-- After a young male, now 18, came forward and claimed inappropriate sexual contact with his taekwondo teacher, the 38-year-old Fulton instructor was arrested.

The martial arts teacher has been accused of of committing a criminal sex act and endangering the welfare of a child, according to 9wsyr.com.

Police said the sex acts, which allegedly started in 2005 while the boy was 13 years old, continued until 2009.

We would like to state the following (although obvious) - any accused individual is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

MMA fighter arrested

Texas -- A 35-year-old MMA fighter who recently found himself a victim of a violent crime is now accused of assaulting a man outside a nightclub in San Antonio.

The local fighter and a 20-year-old man were both arrested early Sunday morning outside nightclub and charged with assault causing bodily injury, according to ksat.com.

The fighter also had outstanding warrants for public intoxication, disorderly conduct and driving without a valid license.

Texas -- A 35-year-old MMA fighter who recently found himself a victim of a violent crime is now accused of assaulting a man outside a nightclub in San Antonio.

The local fighter and a 20-year-old man were both arrested early Sunday morning outside nightclub and charged with assault causing bodily injury, according to ksat.com.

The fighter also had outstanding warrants for public intoxication, disorderly conduct and driving without a valid license.

'Bruce Liberty'

China -- A red-painted 30-meter-high ceramic sculpture of kung fu legend Bruce Lee has been in Foshan, Guangdong, according to chinadaily.com.cn.

The city reportedly bills itself as "home of Chinese kung fu", and the local artists apparently hope the sculpture eventually will become a landmark on the scale of the (New York City) Statue of Liberty.

China -- A red-painted 30-meter-high ceramic sculpture of kung fu legend Bruce Lee has been in Foshan, Guangdong, according to chinadaily.com.cn.

The city reportedly bills itself as "home of Chinese kung fu", and the local artists apparently hope the sculpture eventually will become a landmark on the scale of the (New York City) Statue of Liberty.

Accused of child-sex attempts

Florida -- Fifteen men from around Florida have been arrested in a Craigslist sting operation and accused of trying to have sex with girls, according to orlandosentinel.com.

Among the suspects is a youth baseball coach as well as a 19-year-old martial arts instructor. The latter, a college student form Plant City, reportedly drove the undercover location to have sex with a woman in the presence of her children. He had allegedly used a martial arts related screen name and had told detectives he was an assistant karate instructor.

Florida -- Fifteen men from around Florida have been arrested in a Craigslist sting operation and accused of trying to have sex with girls, according to orlandosentinel.com.

Among the suspects is a youth baseball coach as well as a 19-year-old martial arts instructor. The latter, a college student form Plant City, reportedly drove the undercover location to have sex with a woman in the presence of her children. He had allegedly used a martial arts related screen name and had told detectives he was an assistant karate instructor.

Kendo Tournament – ASEAN 2010

Special Interview with Malaysia’s Kendo Team Manager

Brief introduction from the Author:

It is quite fortunate for me to get a chance to interview Christopher Sensei (5th Dan), I met sensei about a year ago and Chris Sensei is a very serious when it comes to training, a very humble person and at the same time someone who loves to share his experiences.

Although time is limited for this interview, but Chris sensei made full use of the time we had for the interview.

The Interview

MAA (Martial Arts Asia): Sensei, How many years has Malaysia been competing in Kendo Tournaments?

Christopher Sensei: If I remember correctly, Malaysia started competing internationally back in late 1970’s, and Prof. Baginda who is the President of Malaysia Kendo Association was one of the Pioneers back then.

As for Asean, it started around 1980s and back then it was known as a goodwill championship between Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.

MAA: Sensei, can you share with us a few memorable from your experience in a tournament

Christopher Sensei: 11th World Kendo Championship in Santa Clara, US. It was the first time for few of us being exposed to international championship, to be there is already something memorable, but the best moment is when we score the first point, that is something that no one can ever forget.

MAA: Sensei, out of curiosity, normally how many players does Malaysia team send out for tournaments?

Christopher Sensei: It really depends, there is not much of a guide in the number of players that we send out, normally it falls back into the budget and the subsidiary we have. Normally, for tournaments in neighboring countries we would be able to send more players. Everything depends on the budget, and of course we would love to send out as much players possible for them to gain experience.

MAA: Sensei, ASEAN Tournament is around the corner, what results are you expecting?

Christopher Sensei: I do hope the team can do well, but this year we don’t have enough time for training and the chances we have to get everyone to train together is quite minimal due to most players are working and some studying.

Plus other team has been training really hard and they have some really youthful players with experiences which is a big threat to us.

MAA: Sensei, how long have the team been in serious training?

Christopher Sensei: Not too long ago, only since early July

MAA: Sensei, which country do you think for this coming ASEAN is the toughest competition? And who will win?

Christopher Sensei: I would say Thailand, they have some promising young and experience players which started training since their teens or early twenties which they are around 30s now. Plus in Kendo Shiai, One Key factor is Stamina.

MAA: Sensei, how do you choose your players? Is Dan is prerequisite?

Christopher Sensei: Haha.. nope, Grades are never a prerequisite to us, we look at the Kendo spirit and the skills that the players have, everyone who have a fair chance. We normally will observe everyone during the classes, and if we think that the player is good enough, we will approach the player.

MAA: Sensei, how long have you been managing the Malaysian Team? And are there any tough moments managing a group of martial artist?

Christopher Sensei: Started around year 2000, and as a team manager, I have to think of ways to build up the team’s spirit. Normally I would coax the players to practice more, and do more. There was never a tough moment because everyone in the team does it for the love in kendo.

We learn from each other, and we respect each other, everyone share and everyone learn that is how we build our relationship. Even as a sensei, I learn from the players a lot and of course I share with the team what I know and that is how we improve.

MAA: Sensei, I am curious, why do you pick up kendo in the first place? There are so many martial arts like judo, karate, but why Kendo?

Christopher Sensei: Haha… I never have any experience from other martial arts, and kendo came into my like when I was in my 30s. Somehow I felt that kendo is easy for myself to pick up and I did my best to train since then. Until now, kendo has been my way of life.

Sometimes I have a rough day at work, tired, lazy, but because of kendo I have become more discipline, no matter what happen, when the time for kendo calls, I will be ready in the Dojo, no matter what. And for myself, In Kendo, I prefer to lose a point during sparing in the class and embrace the failure, because with the failure I know how to progress and become a better Kendoka.

MAA: Thank you sensei for the lovely interview, just a last question, if anyone reading this blog in Malaysia would like to join the Kendo class that you and other sensei’s are teaching, who can they contact?

Christopher Sensei: you can call 60-3-7728 7577 or email tlyap@pop.jaring.my to our Yap Sensei who is also our Secretary General for Malaysia Kendo Association (MKA)

MAA: Thank you very much Sensei for the precious interview

Christopher Sensei: It’s my pleasure to be able to share

Special Interview with Malaysia’s Kendo Team Manager

Brief introduction from the Author:

It is quite fortunate for me to get a chance to interview Christopher Sensei (5th Dan), I met sensei about a year ago and Chris Sensei is a very serious when it comes to training, a very humble person and at the same time someone who loves to share his experiences.

Although time is limited for this interview, but Chris sensei made full use of the time we had for the interview.

The Interview

MAA (Martial Arts Asia): Sensei, How many years has Malaysia been competing in Kendo Tournaments?

Christopher Sensei: If I remember correctly, Malaysia started competing internationally back in late 1970’s, and Prof. Baginda who is the President of Malaysia Kendo Association was one of the Pioneers back then.

As for Asean, it started around 1980s and back then it was known as a goodwill championship between Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.

MAA: Sensei, can you share with us a few memorable from your experience in a tournament

Christopher Sensei: 11th World Kendo Championship in Santa Clara, US. It was the first time for few of us being exposed to international championship, to be there is already something memorable, but the best moment is when we score the first point, that is something that no one can ever forget.

MAA: Sensei, out of curiosity, normally how many players does Malaysia team send out for tournaments?

Christopher Sensei: It really depends, there is not much of a guide in the number of players that we send out, normally it falls back into the budget and the subsidiary we have. Normally, for tournaments in neighboring countries we would be able to send more players. Everything depends on the budget, and of course we would love to send out as much players possible for them to gain experience.

MAA: Sensei, ASEAN Tournament is around the corner, what results are you expecting?

Christopher Sensei: I do hope the team can do well, but this year we don’t have enough time for training and the chances we have to get everyone to train together is quite minimal due to most players are working and some studying.

Plus other team has been training really hard and they have some really youthful players with experiences which is a big threat to us.

MAA: Sensei, how long have the team been in serious training?

Christopher Sensei: Not too long ago, only since early July

MAA: Sensei, which country do you think for this coming ASEAN is the toughest competition? And who will win?

Christopher Sensei: I would say Thailand, they have some promising young and experience players which started training since their teens or early twenties which they are around 30s now. Plus in Kendo Shiai, One Key factor is Stamina.

MAA: Sensei, how do you choose your players? Is Dan is prerequisite?

Christopher Sensei: Haha.. nope, Grades are never a prerequisite to us, we look at the Kendo spirit and the skills that the players have, everyone who have a fair chance. We normally will observe everyone during the classes, and if we think that the player is good enough, we will approach the player.

MAA: Sensei, how long have you been managing the Malaysian Team? And are there any tough moments managing a group of martial artist?

Christopher Sensei: Started around year 2000, and as a team manager, I have to think of ways to build up the team’s spirit. Normally I would coax the players to practice more, and do more. There was never a tough moment because everyone in the team does it for the love in kendo.

We learn from each other, and we respect each other, everyone share and everyone learn that is how we build our relationship. Even as a sensei, I learn from the players a lot and of course I share with the team what I know and that is how we improve.

MAA: Sensei, I am curious, why do you pick up kendo in the first place? There are so many martial arts like judo, karate, but why Kendo?

Christopher Sensei: Haha… I never have any experience from other martial arts, and kendo came into my like when I was in my 30s. Somehow I felt that kendo is easy for myself to pick up and I did my best to train since then. Until now, kendo has been my way of life.

Sometimes I have a rough day at work, tired, lazy, but because of kendo I have become more discipline, no matter what happen, when the time for kendo calls, I will be ready in the Dojo, no matter what. And for myself, In Kendo, I prefer to lose a point during sparing in the class and embrace the failure, because with the failure I know how to progress and become a better Kendoka.

MAA: Thank you sensei for the lovely interview, just a last question, if anyone reading this blog in Malaysia would like to join the Kendo class that you and other sensei’s are teaching, who can they contact?

Christopher Sensei: you can call 60-3-7728 7577 or email tlyap@pop.jaring.my to our Yap Sensei who is also our Secretary General for Malaysia Kendo Association (MKA)

MAA: Thank you very much Sensei for the precious interview

Christopher Sensei: It’s my pleasure to be able to share

Now, that's a sensei

All this talk about being a "master" or an "expert" as soon as you've reached the level of black belt will probably never stop. The uneducated media will always need something to write about when the next Karate Kid shows up.

Now don't get me wrong, the achievement is always a good thing for that individual. Also, many students still have to work long and hard for that grade ... and mind you, we're not exactly talking about two or three years of "training" at a black belt mill either for those who are truly dedicated to martial arts.

In all fairness, almost anyone should be able to reach the level of first dan, black belt in most martial arts, providing you give it enough time and regular training.

Now, dedicating 50 years or more to an art and still be kicking, like 68-year-old James Ambrose sensei here has done in the hard karate style of shotokan - that's an other matter all together.

This, to me, is a sensei - a master and expert worth writing and reading about.

All this talk about being a "master" or an "expert" as soon as you've reached the level of black belt will probably never stop. The uneducated media will always need something to write about when the next Karate Kid shows up.

Now don't get me wrong, the achievement is always a good thing for that individual. Also, many students still have to work long and hard for that grade ... and mind you, we're not exactly talking about two or three years of "training" at a black belt mill either for those who are truly dedicated to martial arts.

In all fairness, almost anyone should be able to reach the level of first dan, black belt in most martial arts, providing you give it enough time and regular training.

Now, dedicating 50 years or more to an art and still be kicking, like 68-year-old James Ambrose sensei here has done in the hard karate style of shotokan - that's an other matter all together.

This, to me, is a sensei - a master and expert worth writing and reading about.

Quite some ethics...

Texas -- The 63-year-old chairman of a county ethics commission has been accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting an underage female relative over a period of five years, according to lcsun-news.com. The girl reportedly also told police she is now pregnant.

The former teacher and school administrator is reported to have taught karate at a community college in El Paso.

Texas -- The 63-year-old chairman of a county ethics commission has been accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting an underage female relative over a period of five years, according to lcsun-news.com. The girl reportedly also told police she is now pregnant.

The former teacher and school administrator is reported to have taught karate at a community college in El Paso.

Karate, soccer coach accused

California -- A 29-year-old Fullerton martial-arts/karate assistant instructor and soccer coach, already facing child-molestation charges in Fullerton and Anaheim for allegedly sexually assaulting two boys is now accused of molesting three more youngsters, according to ocregister.com.

The first reported cases dates back to September 2009 and involves two 8-year-old boys. Police arrested the man on August 5.

California -- A 29-year-old Fullerton martial-arts/karate assistant instructor and soccer coach, already facing child-molestation charges in Fullerton and Anaheim for allegedly sexually assaulting two boys is now accused of molesting three more youngsters, according to ocregister.com.

The first reported cases dates back to September 2009 and involves two 8-year-old boys. Police arrested the man on August 5.

Accused: TKD instructor

Maryland -- An investigation has been conducted into the report of sexual abuse of a child and solicitation of child pornography in Waldorf, according to thebaynet.com.

The suspect, a 25-year-old taekwondo instructor and owner of a TKD school, is accused of soliciting explicit photographs from a 14-year-old girl - a former student of his.

It was also discovered the girl had been to the man's house on at least one occasion for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct. The incidents reportedly started in February 2010 and were discovered by the girl's mother in June 2010.

Maryland -- An investigation has been conducted into the report of sexual abuse of a child and solicitation of child pornography in Waldorf, according to thebaynet.com.

The suspect, a 25-year-old taekwondo instructor and owner of a TKD school, is accused of soliciting explicit photographs from a 14-year-old girl - a former student of his.

It was also discovered the girl had been to the man's house on at least one occasion for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct. The incidents reportedly started in February 2010 and were discovered by the girl's mother in June 2010.

Charged with murder

Nevada -- An MMA fighter from Gillette has now been formally charged with second-degree murder in the beating death of a former University of Nevada, Las Vegas football player.

Prosecutors charged the man, 25, in Las Vegas on Thursday, according to gillettenewsrecord.com.

Nevada -- An MMA fighter from Gillette has now been formally charged with second-degree murder in the beating death of a former University of Nevada, Las Vegas football player.

Prosecutors charged the man, 25, in Las Vegas on Thursday, according to gillettenewsrecord.com.

Accused of molesting boy

California -- Accused of molesting a 13-year-old boy, a 38-year-old La Mesa karate instructor has been arrested by police, according to nbcsandiego.com.

Police alleges the man sexually abused the boy over a one-year period and that the victim was a student at the man's karate school in San Diego.

The arrested man's brother is calling the allegations "pure retaliation" from a former student who was kicked out of the karate school.

California -- Accused of molesting a 13-year-old boy, a 38-year-old La Mesa karate instructor has been arrested by police, according to nbcsandiego.com.

Police alleges the man sexually abused the boy over a one-year period and that the victim was a student at the man's karate school in San Diego.

The arrested man's brother is calling the allegations "pure retaliation" from a former student who was kicked out of the karate school.

Kung fu stripper

Oregon -- A man reportedly stripped down to his boxers and took what was described as a kung fu stance at a county courthouse, according to kptv.com.

The man began harassing another person in the incident on Thursday. The shirtless kung fool took off his shorts and socks and then appeared ready to fight.

In any case, it looks more like some sneaky ninja move to me...

Oregon -- A man reportedly stripped down to his boxers and took what was described as a kung fu stance at a county courthouse, according to kptv.com.

The man began harassing another person in the incident on Thursday. The shirtless kung fool took off his shorts and socks and then appeared ready to fight.

In any case, it looks more like some sneaky ninja move to me...

Kung fu for troubled youth

UK -- A 'Karate Kid' inspired TV series given the working title 'Kung Fu Street Fighters' is going to be aired in Britain in 2011, according to guardian.co.uk.

The series is reportedly set to combat what they call a "hoodie culture and antisocial behavior" - using a British Shaolin munk and kung fu expert to mentor troubled inner-city youngsters.

UK -- A 'Karate Kid' inspired TV series given the working title 'Kung Fu Street Fighters' is going to be aired in Britain in 2011, according to guardian.co.uk.

The series is reportedly set to combat what they call a "hoodie culture and antisocial behavior" - using a British Shaolin munk and kung fu expert to mentor troubled inner-city youngsters.

Karate, not gay

Guyism.com has a story about what appears to be karate ads.

"A Miami ad agency's idea to promote karate by using a presumably gay young boy seems, well, not so progressive," the author writes. Not very hard to disagree on that statement. Given that these ads are real, it does in fact seems quite stupid.

Guyism.com has a story about what appears to be karate ads.

"A Miami ad agency's idea to promote karate by using a presumably gay young boy seems, well, not so progressive," the author writes. Not very hard to disagree on that statement. Given that these ads are real, it does in fact seems quite stupid.

Where's the justice?

You will probably be just as chocked as I was when I read about this case from Texas. It involves a taekwondo coach who allegedly assaulted a young girl at the Houston daycare center where the man was working.

The case goes back to October 2006 when the young girl told her mother that her taekwondo coach brought her into a room and sat her on his lap. She said the man placed a blanket over her as she sat with him, and that he used his finger to assault her.

From here on out, the case is a mess of information not being presented to the grand jury, the seemingly shady actions of Harris County prosecutors, and how the mother has been fighting a losing battle to get the man to trial for his crime.

In December 2006, the man was fired from the daycare center when investigators from Child Protective Services concluded that he did in fact sexually assault the girl.

Even so, the perpetrator will not face charges for sexually assaulting the young girl, ten years old at the time.

In my humble opinion, there seems to be something really fishy about this whole case...

You will probably be just as chocked as I was when I read about this case from Texas. It involves a taekwondo coach who allegedly assaulted a young girl at the Houston daycare center where the man was working.

The case goes back to October 2006 when the young girl told her mother that her taekwondo coach brought her into a room and sat her on his lap. She said the man placed a blanket over her as she sat with him, and that he used his finger to assault her.

From here on out, the case is a mess of information not being presented to the grand jury, the seemingly shady actions of Harris County prosecutors, and how the mother has been fighting a losing battle to get the man to trial for his crime.

In December 2006, the man was fired from the daycare center when investigators from Child Protective Services concluded that he did in fact sexually assault the girl.

Even so, the perpetrator will not face charges for sexually assaulting the young girl, ten years old at the time.

In my humble opinion, there seems to be something really fishy about this whole case...

No swords? Start small!

Got no swords to swallow? Well then, why don't you just start with smaller pieces of metal and work your way up from there?

Quite possibly, that was what this martial arts nutcase from Xinjiang, in north west China, was thinking when he decided to down 15 pairs of nail clippers, 30 razor blades and a countless number of nails before he - after a month of practicing - reportedly collapsed in pain.

It took Chinese surgeons five hours to remove the stuff from the man's stomach. Some of the metalwork had allegedly rusted into place.

A sheepish wanna-be stuntman - who supposedly was so impressed with the feats of kung fu sword swallowers that he tried to copy them - later said: "I didn't have any swords so I started small and used what I could get from the local shop."

I'm at loss for words - seriously...

Got no swords to swallow? Well then, why don't you just start with smaller pieces of metal and work your way up from there?

Quite possibly, that was what this martial arts nutcase from Xinjiang, in north west China, was thinking when he decided to down 15 pairs of nail clippers, 30 razor blades and a countless number of nails before he - after a month of practicing - reportedly collapsed in pain.

It took Chinese surgeons five hours to remove the stuff from the man's stomach. Some of the metalwork had allegedly rusted into place.

A sheepish wanna-be stuntman - who supposedly was so impressed with the feats of kung fu sword swallowers that he tried to copy them - later said: "I didn't have any swords so I started small and used what I could get from the local shop."

I'm at loss for words - seriously...

Kung fu stuntmen

China -- Here's a clip is from a nice article in cnngo.com.It's telling the story of the hard work involved by the Chinese kung fu stuntmen. Read the article and enjoy the clip! Impressive? You bet.

China -- Here's a clip is from a nice article in cnngo.com.It's telling the story of the hard work involved by the Chinese kung fu stuntmen. Read the article and enjoy the clip! Impressive? You bet.

He floored knife attacker

UK -- A 28-year old retired professional kick-boxer has been described as a hero after risking his life to floor a knife man who was threatening to kill his neighbor in Blackpool, according to blackpoolgazette.co.uk.

Brave Mark Clifton felled the 21-year-old drunken attacker with a single jumping side kick to the face as the man ran at him wielding a machete.

UK -- A 28-year old retired professional kick-boxer has been described as a hero after risking his life to floor a knife man who was threatening to kill his neighbor in Blackpool, according to blackpoolgazette.co.uk.

Brave Mark Clifton felled the 21-year-old drunken attacker with a single jumping side kick to the face as the man ran at him wielding a machete.

Fighter in street brawl

Texas -- Tmz.com has a story about well known MMA fighter Roger Huerta beating and stomping another man in a street fight in Austin over the weekend.

The 27-year-old UFC figure was apparently in front of a bar in Austin around 2 a.m. on Saturday morning, when he witnessed a man punch a female.

Observing how the woman collapsed to the ground -- the fighter immediately tried to confront the attacker saying, "You just punched a [explicit] girl!"

The fighter immediately after took off his shirt and slammed his hat to the ground. He then rushed after the man and the fight broke out.

Texas -- Tmz.com has a story about well known MMA fighter Roger Huerta beating and stomping another man in a street fight in Austin over the weekend.

The 27-year-old UFC figure was apparently in front of a bar in Austin around 2 a.m. on Saturday morning, when he witnessed a man punch a female.

Observing how the woman collapsed to the ground -- the fighter immediately tried to confront the attacker saying, "You just punched a [explicit] girl!"

The fighter immediately after took off his shirt and slammed his hat to the ground. He then rushed after the man and the fight broke out.

Former instructor, mentor charged

North Carolina -- July 22, wxii12.com had a story about a former child mentor and karate instructor who was charged with first-degree sex offense which reportedly happened 16 years ago.

Officials said the 40-year-old man, who taught karate in Lowgap for about 20 years, was charged after two adult victims came forward

North Carolina -- July 22, wxii12.com had a story about a former child mentor and karate instructor who was charged with first-degree sex offense which reportedly happened 16 years ago.

Officials said the 40-year-old man, who taught karate in Lowgap for about 20 years, was charged after two adult victims came forward

Instructor assaulted teenagers

Update, Januar 2012:
The man has been found not guilty by a jury, according to brownsvilleherald.

----

Texas -- A 39-year-old karate instructor recently turned himself in to face charges that he sexually assaulted three teenagers, according to themonitor.com.

The man allegedly have a long history of working with teenagers before his indictment from June this year amid allegations of child molestation.

The allegations follow two stints the man did as a correctional officer at a juvenile center in Edinburg. The center ultimately fired him over allegations that he tried to attack one of his detainees.

Update, Januar 2012:
The man has been found not guilty by a jury, according to brownsvilleherald.

----

Texas -- A 39-year-old karate instructor recently turned himself in to face charges that he sexually assaulted three teenagers, according to themonitor.com.

The man allegedly have a long history of working with teenagers before his indictment from June this year amid allegations of child molestation.

The allegations follow two stints the man did as a correctional officer at a juvenile center in Edinburg. The center ultimately fired him over allegations that he tried to attack one of his detainees.

Muay Thai fighter dead

Florida -- Adrienne Simmons, a female Muay Thai fighter who took a strong blow during a fight recently died from the injuries she sustained, according to americanchronicle.com.

The 34-year-old woman from Atlanta, Georgia, received a left hook during the the last and final round of a bout at a hotel in Orlando, the Orange County Sheriff's Office said.

Florida -- Adrienne Simmons, a female Muay Thai fighter who took a strong blow during a fight recently died from the injuries she sustained, according to americanchronicle.com.

The 34-year-old woman from Atlanta, Georgia, received a left hook during the the last and final round of a bout at a hotel in Orlando, the Orange County Sheriff's Office said.

Coach saves judo youngster

Belgium -- A brave judo coach probably saved the lives of several young judo players when a tornado tore through a sports hall at a training camp in Belgium, according to kentnews.co.uk.

The 50-year-old British coach was blown out of the building when the tornado hit. However, he reportedly risked his own life to head back in and rescue those left inside.

Belgium -- A brave judo coach probably saved the lives of several young judo players when a tornado tore through a sports hall at a training camp in Belgium, according to kentnews.co.uk.

The 50-year-old British coach was blown out of the building when the tornado hit. However, he reportedly risked his own life to head back in and rescue those left inside.

Jailed for molestation

Australia -- In what has been described as a massive fall from grace, a well known taekwondo instructor and international coach has been jailed for four months after being found guilty of molesting a 17-year-old female student, according to http://www.dailymercury.com.au.

The 47-year-old 5th degree black belt, pleaded not guilty to two charges of sexual assault of a 17-year-old female student in early 2009.

Australia -- In what has been described as a massive fall from grace, a well known taekwondo instructor and international coach has been jailed for four months after being found guilty of molesting a 17-year-old female student, according to http://www.dailymercury.com.au.

The 47-year-old 5th degree black belt, pleaded not guilty to two charges of sexual assault of a 17-year-old female student in early 2009.

A world heritage

China -- The famous Shaolin Temple in the Henan province of Central China has now been was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, according to http://english.peopledaily.com.cn.

The temple, nested in Mount Songshan, is claimed to be the birth place of Chinese kung fu and home of Zen Buddhism.

China -- The famous Shaolin Temple in the Henan province of Central China has now been was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, according to http://english.peopledaily.com.cn.

The temple, nested in Mount Songshan, is claimed to be the birth place of Chinese kung fu and home of Zen Buddhism.

Guilty: Former karate teacher

Texas -- A 47-year-old former karate teacher who was arrested in Marble Falls in February 2008, has been given two separate jail sentences (99 years, plus life) after a jury found him guilty of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old former karate student of his.

The man was also convicted of burglary for breaking into the girl's home a few days before the assault, according to kxan.com.

Side note: The news brief mentions that the man taught at an ATA academy. If I'm not mistaken this is a taekwondo type of school (?)

Texas -- A 47-year-old former karate teacher who was arrested in Marble Falls in February 2008, has been given two separate jail sentences (99 years, plus life) after a jury found him guilty of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old former karate student of his.

The man was also convicted of burglary for breaking into the girl's home a few days before the assault, according to kxan.com.

Side note: The news brief mentions that the man taught at an ATA academy. If I'm not mistaken this is a taekwondo type of school (?)

Handy?

After practicing martial arts for about 17 years, 20-year-old Fan Congcong - which reportedly works as a lifeguard at a swim club - is able to handwalk for 60 metres within 30 seconds, according to whatsonxiamen.com.

The 20-year-old "handy man", who comes from the city Zhoukou in central China's Hunan Province, has practiced kung fu since the age of 3.

At the age of twelve, he was sent to the famed Shaolin Temple. After all this years' of practice, Fan is able to climb stairs and run quickly while standing on his hands.

After practicing martial arts for about 17 years, 20-year-old Fan Congcong - which reportedly works as a lifeguard at a swim club - is able to handwalk for 60 metres within 30 seconds, according to whatsonxiamen.com.

The 20-year-old "handy man", who comes from the city Zhoukou in central China's Hunan Province, has practiced kung fu since the age of 3.

At the age of twelve, he was sent to the famed Shaolin Temple. After all this years' of practice, Fan is able to climb stairs and run quickly while standing on his hands.

Filming students undressing

UK -- A 25-year-old teaching assistant was been jailed in Sussex for covertly filming children as young as five as they changed for sports lessons at school.

The former primary school assistant was charged on April 27 after a lengthy police investigation, according to bbc.co.uk.

Out of of the 34 offences the man admitted to, 23 related to filming of 23 children aged 5 to 10, whilst they were changing for karate lessons the man was running at four different schools in Mid-Sussex.

Also, 11 indecent images of children, ranging in seriousness from level one to level five had been downloaded to the man's computer.

UK -- A 25-year-old teaching assistant was been jailed in Sussex for covertly filming children as young as five as they changed for sports lessons at school.

The former primary school assistant was charged on April 27 after a lengthy police investigation, according to bbc.co.uk.

Out of of the 34 offences the man admitted to, 23 related to filming of 23 children aged 5 to 10, whilst they were changing for karate lessons the man was running at four different schools in Mid-Sussex.

Also, 11 indecent images of children, ranging in seriousness from level one to level five had been downloaded to the man's computer.

Firefighter fighting

New York -- Nypost.com reported about how NYC Fire Department pension board said they would look into how a 42-year-old firefighter, retired on a disability pension at three-quarters pay, is able to fight in Muay Thai matches.

The Post earlier reported how the former firefighter was collecting a $74,624-a-year disability pension while participating in Muay Thai bouts.

A spokesman for the NYC mayor said they would review the case. He added they would examine any case where they thought someone with a disability pension did not have the condition documented by the medical board.

New York -- Nypost.com reported about how NYC Fire Department pension board said they would look into how a 42-year-old firefighter, retired on a disability pension at three-quarters pay, is able to fight in Muay Thai matches.

The Post earlier reported how the former firefighter was collecting a $74,624-a-year disability pension while participating in Muay Thai bouts.

A spokesman for the NYC mayor said they would review the case. He added they would examine any case where they thought someone with a disability pension did not have the condition documented by the medical board.

70-year-old MMA fighter

Canada -- 70-year-old John Williams from New Brunswick, recently became the oldest person to ever compete in a professional MMA bout when he fought a 49-year-old former pro wrestler.

On paper this may sound like a novelty act, but the fight on July 24 in Moncton was serious business, according to Williams. It was done to prove a serious point, he said.

"I was trying to bring attention to the fact that when a person becomes a senior, society kind of pushes them out of the loop. The attitude toward them is that they're dumb, they can't do anything, physically they're just vegetables, and they're sort of shunned by society," Williams told MMA Fighting.

Canada -- 70-year-old John Williams from New Brunswick, recently became the oldest person to ever compete in a professional MMA bout when he fought a 49-year-old former pro wrestler.

On paper this may sound like a novelty act, but the fight on July 24 in Moncton was serious business, according to Williams. It was done to prove a serious point, he said.

"I was trying to bring attention to the fact that when a person becomes a senior, society kind of pushes them out of the loop. The attitude toward them is that they're dumb, they can't do anything, physically they're just vegetables, and they're sort of shunned by society," Williams told MMA Fighting.

Fighter chokes traffic enforcer

Philippines – A Manila traffic enforcer has reportedly filed charges against a 20-year-old amateur MMA fighter for choking him after the latter was cited for a traffic violation, according to abs-cbnnews.com.

The incident reportedly occurred around 10 a.m. Friday outside the Manila City Hall. when the fighter and his companions were criticized for blocking the front area of the city hall with their car.

Philippines – A Manila traffic enforcer has reportedly filed charges against a 20-year-old amateur MMA fighter for choking him after the latter was cited for a traffic violation, according to abs-cbnnews.com.

The incident reportedly occurred around 10 a.m. Friday outside the Manila City Hall. when the fighter and his companions were criticized for blocking the front area of the city hall with their car.

Hairy kung fu

China -- Meet Mr Wang Xiaoyu. He's from Changsha in Hunan Province, according to weirdasianews.com. This, dare we say, unorthodox kung fu trained hairdresser has acquired quite a bit of fame after he was been spotted styling hair upside down.

36-year-old Wang, has reportedly been in the hair styling business for 16 years. His head-turning technique makes use of his 18 years' of training in the art of kung fu.

Hairy stuff indeed :-)

China -- Meet Mr Wang Xiaoyu. He's from Changsha in Hunan Province, according to weirdasianews.com. This, dare we say, unorthodox kung fu trained hairdresser has acquired quite a bit of fame after he was been spotted styling hair upside down.

36-year-old Wang, has reportedly been in the hair styling business for 16 years. His head-turning technique makes use of his 18 years' of training in the art of kung fu.

Hairy stuff indeed :-)

Magnificent karate example

I would like to encourage you all to take a few moments to read this moving and inspirational article from thenational.ae.

The article is about the magnificent work done by Mr Hosam Ayyad. Ayyad sensei is the head of the Japan Karate Association in Jordan and a much respected teacher of martial arts.

You can not be anything but deeply impressed with and inspired by the work Mr Ayyad puts forward for helping children with disabilities.

Mr Ayyad has dedicated 18 years of his working life to teaching children karate, those suffering physical and mental disabilities in particular.

Over a period of 18, years, Mr Ayyad has taught more than 1,000 physically and mentally challenged kids, many of whom come from underprivileged families.

I have said it before and I'll gladly say it again: This, to me, is what martial arts really is all about. I respectfully salute you Ayyad sensei.

I would like to encourage you all to take a few moments to read this moving and inspirational article from thenational.ae.

The article is about the magnificent work done by Mr Hosam Ayyad. Ayyad sensei is the head of the Japan Karate Association in Jordan and a much respected teacher of martial arts.

You can not be anything but deeply impressed with and inspired by the work Mr Ayyad puts forward for helping children with disabilities.

Mr Ayyad has dedicated 18 years of his working life to teaching children karate, those suffering physical and mental disabilities in particular.

Over a period of 18, years, Mr Ayyad has taught more than 1,000 physically and mentally challenged kids, many of whom come from underprivileged families.

I have said it before and I'll gladly say it again: This, to me, is what martial arts really is all about. I respectfully salute you Ayyad sensei.