509 Budo International Martial Arts Magazine January 2025

In a street fight the confrontation almost always takes place at close
range, Trapping, the most dangerous and effective distance in
combat, where we fight body to body and there is
constant contact between our arms and those of our
opponent. In the OLIVA Combat System (O.C.S.),
the movements are fluid, not prescribed and
the position of the legs is constantly
changing freely. The objective is to
confront and overcome all the
difficulties and obstacles that we may
encounter in our line of attack by
combining elements such as Lap-
Sao, Pak-Sao, Gunting, Hubad,
chain punches, elbow strikes, knee
strikes, headbutts, eye strikes and
the development of Chi-Sao and
Lap-Sao sensitivity exercises....
Combat Trapping is an effective
combat system, aimed at law
enforcement officers, but also
adapted to civilian use. The
techniques, based on simplicity and
logic, result in a simple and effective
defense strategy. O.C.S. is a
professional system in constant
development, focused on pure and hard
street combat. This system teaches us to
deal with stress, to learn to control situations
under great psychological pressure. Never forget
that self-defense must be functional, simple and
effective. The goal is survival, so be direct, attack with
vigor and be as effective as possible, and always remember
rule number 1: “In the street there are no rules”.
Ref.: • OCS-4
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the
formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a
special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig
quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond
to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.

Avi Nardia presents a complete work on pistol disarming,
filmed during a workshop at Master John Machado's
BJJ Academy in Texas, USA. Starting from
extremely simple movements, Professor Nardia
shows in detail and in a progressive way
various methods of disarming against pistol
threats in many different situations, pistol
from the front, from behind, from the
side, from the knees or even while
driving our car. We will see the classic
“x” and its variants, the spoon, the
“Baseball Choke”, the assassin, the
magician, ... all of them very simple
movements based on the SPEC
concept (Secure, Position, Effect,
Distance), and of course, combined
with classic elements and
techniques of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
(Armbar, headlock, levers, sweeps,
etc). We must play with the
movements, try all situations and
know how to adjust our body, because
in the street nothing is written.
REF.: • KAPAP-14
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo
International, si provided and alone in the
formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX
or the like is however neves offered with
a special holograma sticker. Besides our
DVD is characteristed coverings by the
hig quality in pressure and material. If
this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not
corespond to the requirements specified
above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.

Join the greats!

Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025

Join the greats!

Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025
BUDO MASTERS 2025
The event:
As usual, (only stopped by the pandemic) Budo International magazine has the honor to gather periodically its friends
in a big international event.
The objective is to meet again, make new friends, exchange experiences, contacts, learn from each other, always in an
atmosphere of camaraderie, honor and respect.
The event consists of a great seminar on Saturday held together, where attendees will rotate to learn with all the
Masters.
That same night will take place the Grand Gala Dinner, with traditional Canarian food and special performances,
culminating with the presentation of diplomas to the Masters, photographs, etc ....
Being in this event means belonging (or entering) to an exclusive club governed by honor and good manners, directed
by our director Mr. Alfredo Tucci. It also implies, as it is logical, to appear in the special magazine that will be made about
the event, as it is customary.
A video will also be made about all the activities.
This time we have chosen the privileged environment of the Canary Islands, between Europe and America, with an
extraordinary climate and spectacular beauty, in front of the beach of Las Canteras.
The Canary Islands are a tourist destination with a wide service and magnificent international connections that
undoubtedly facilitate the meeting.
Price:
The price for participating in the event is 210 euros; this fee includes attendance to the Gala Dinner and participation
as a teacher together with the international Grand Masters in the Saturday seminar.
Attendees are requested to observe proper etiquette at the dinner: Women: long dress; men: tuxedo, tie, traditional
formal attire (kimono etc...) or Guayabera.
To appear on the poster of the event must confirm their attendance, and new participants must have paid their fee. To
do so contact Alfredo Tucci via email at: budo@budointernational.com
Extra activities:
The team of the friends of the Federation of Garrote Canario, is preparing a whole series of special parallel activities for
the attendees, provided and facilitated by the local authorities, which can be consulted later. (Surfing, local Martial Arts
exhibitions, garrote Canario, lucha Canaria, excursions, beach events, etc... etc...).
Methods of payment:
Transfer of 210 euros to the account of La Caixa
BUDO MASTER CANARIAS 2025
IBAN ES34 2100 6769 7202 0044 7308

Join the greats!
Hôtels
There are two hotels to choose to attend the event. The NH Imperial Playa ****
and the NH Playa Las Canteras *** offering a wide range of conditions and prices
to our participants.
To make your reservations with special prices for the BUDO MASTERS in one or
the other hotel and to confirm prices of stay, days, etc... use this link:
https://www.nh-hotels.com/es/event/budo-masters-2025
The Gala dinner will take place at the NH Imperial Playa. ****
Companion price: €75
N.B. (The registration in the hotel does not mean the registration in the event. This
must be done separately by bank transfer, as indicated on the previous page).

Dates: May 16, 17 and 18, 2025

Amunt Valencia!
Amunt Valencia!
(Long live Valencia)
T
he waters came down like a tsunami from the mountains, sweeping away lives, farms
and hopes, bringing stupor, pain, death and despair. We felt the blow here, but itzs echo
reverberated around the world.
In these fateful days, many have contacted me, some friends and people who have not
spoken to me for years, had a moment of concern and remembrance for which I am
grateful. Fortunately, for me and mine, nothing bad happened, but no one, humanly
sensitive, can remain unaware of the consequences of this disaster. As I write these lines the
atmosphere is unbreathable, wherever you go you perceive nervousness, anger, rage and a deaf
silence made of a mixture of pain and fear.
Natural disasters are a constant in the Spanish Levant, and even though the spokesmen of climate
change want to profit from this powerful wave of indignation, the Valencians know well that the
current “danas” are nothing more than the same “cold drops” of yesteryear.
Modern humans living in the garden, where we want to ignore that the real nature is the
surrounding jungle. “Climate change” is a pleonasm, because the climate never stops changing, but
with this statement they want to sell us a specific ideological discourse, behind which all kinds of
outrages, maneuvers and impositions are justified to limit the freedom, good judgment and fair
understanding of the impaired brains of our fellow citizens of the first world through the guilt of the
‘terminal sin’ (opposite and complementary to the ‘original’) of the new religion, environmentalism.
Every hundred years or so, in the Spanish Levant, the sky falls on the earth and the consequences
are never pleasant.
Then we look for the culprits, because anger requires raising scaffolds and it is better to hang
someone by the thumbs than to accept our eternal smallness in the face of forces that surpass us.
That said, the reaction to disasters has left us with two well-defined faces: First, the incompetence
of politicians to manage extraordinary situations. Second, the unquestionable wave of solidarity of
the citizens, who as always, in this country of quixotes, have rolled up their sleeves, put on their
boots and got down to work, while the institutions, astonished, were more concerned about their
seats and royalties than about the reality in the streets.
It has become clear what we already knew... politics is full of incompetents who dedicate
themselves to it, because in civil life they would have no choice; they are the Razzadannata who
place their friends and surround themselves with people, not for their value, but because they cannot
overshadow them; wretches who practice nepotism and squandering, encouraging projects that are
children of their personal life choices, with which they devastate the public expense account. They
are so “advised” and yet, when necessary, they do not know how to make a single correct decision.
The Valencian people, historically horticulturalists attached to the land, people with their feet on the
ground, and who like to party and make noise, still possess an exceptional vigor that distinguishes
them from other Spanish regions. When I arrived here, 14 years ago, I discovered that this character
makes him a strange mixture of anarchist and dictator, depending on where he applies his efforts.
The first thing that surprised me was that even back then they still owned the streets. You could see
it in the way they drove their cars, in the way they took their chairs out into the streets at dusk in the
summer and on 10 days a year, they took to the streets to even cook on them, and of course, burn
things in a big way, ostentatiously claiming their ownership of the public space. In any other place in
Spain all this was unthinkable just five years ago.
In spite of the fact that successive leftist local governments have been taming these feral citizens
with countless laws, bike lanes, pedestrianizations, etc. trying to teach them how to live their lives,
and the consequences of their decisions... creating traffic jams, when before there were none, and
prohibiting everything possible, the Valencian and his “fallas” were still there, against all odds.

Amunt Valencia!
Amunt Valencia!
(Long live Valencia)
The “sinister” (in every sense of the word) city councilors, aware that “Las Fallas” were
enemies of their discourse, took away days of revelry, froze subsidies, and limited the festive
spaces; However, in the end, every year, these anarchists of the public, armed with their
gunpowder and rockets, went out to break the limits of political correctness with their
statuesque satires, releasing the bulls in the streets, in this celebration, as pagan, as religious,
as horticultural, as luxurious, and that has not yet been born who can stop it.
With this character, I already warned my friends, “politicians be careful, you don't play with
these people...”. So, when the aforementioned, hiding behind the king and queen, poked their
heads out of ground zero of the disaster, they were greeted with sticks, mud balls and shouts
of murderers. Anger and indignation for the inefficiency, sliminess and cowardice of these
people, jumped through the air and those images went around the world.
Farmers, as an archetype, are people who stick to reality, hard people who are hard on
nature, people who do not “eat shit”; people of bread, bread, and wine, wine, people who,
although they clench their fists to withstand and overcome the forces of nature like no one
else, hate rhetoric and recognize the impostor who takes off his tie and his tight fashionable
suit for a day, to try to pass himself off as one of them.
They came for wool and left sheared!
Valencia comes from “Valentía” Careful with the Valencians!
“Farmers, as an archetype,
are people glued to reality,
hard people who faja with nature,
people who do not “eat shit”;
people of bread, bread, and wine, wine, people, who
while clenching his fist to endure and overcome the
forces of nature like no one else, hates rhetoric
and recognizes the impostor who takes off for a
day the tie and the tight little fashionable suit,
to try to pass himself off
as one more of them.”
They came for wool and left sheared!
Valencia comes from “Valentía”
Careful with the Valencians!”

Enrique de Vicente interview to
Shidoshi Alfredo Tucci on his youtube channel
about Ebunto Japanese Shamanism
of the indigenous people of Japan

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Avi Nardia Academy: Sharing the Swordsman's Way with the World
For decades, Avi Nardia has been synonymous with excellence in martial arts
and security training. Now, he embarks on a new journey to share his evolving
vision with the world. Through Avi Nardia Academy, Avi introduces a structured,
principle-based approach that draws on his experience across martial arts and
security sectors, offering a system designed to inspire, educate, and protect.

As a long-time student and collaborator of Avi Nardia, I have had the
privilege of helping refine how this unique system is taught and disseminated.
This article aims not only to showcase Avi's exceptional journey but also to
provide insight into the evolution of his system, including my role in making
these teachings accessible to a broader audience.

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Why Evolve? A Journey of
Growth and Adaptation
Avi Nardia's journey has not been
without challenges. When Avi first entered
the commercial self-defense market to
bring his ideas to the world, he was called
a fraud, despite his official appointments
as trainer and creator of the defense
tactics program used by the YAMAM. Avi
was selected from among many styles
and systems to teach Israel’s top counterterrorist
unit. Many keyboard warriors
refuted this, but Avi provided evidence of
his official appointments: he was a full
member of the team, part of the
intelligence unit, and the official trainer for
the unit. The truth eventually prevailed,
and his system of KAPAP gained
popularity.

From there, many opportunists jumped on the bandwagon. Some came with the devious intent of stealing his ideas
and passing them off as their own, while others created organizations with the name KAPAP in them. Many simply used
the name without actually training with Avi, which led to market confusion, keeping potential genuine students from being
exposed to his system.
The inability to secure a trademark for the name KAPAP further complicated matters, leading Avi to make the difficult
decision to rebrand what he teaches under his own name. This evolution allows Avi to ensure that the many styles and
systems he has developed reside under a unified banner that truly represents his vision and dedication.
The martial arts landscape is always changing, and practitioners must adapt to stay relevant. Avi Nardia's decision to
evolve his system is born from a deep understanding that martial arts are more than just techniques—they are a way of
life, guided by a swordsman's spirit of humility, courage, and dedication. The system that Avi now teaches has evolved
with more robust drills and ideas, continually adapting to modern needs.
This new direction embodies two core pillars: the Martial Arts Division and the Security Consulting & Training Division.
The purpose is clear—to bridge the traditional teachings of martial arts with practical modern-day applications, while
creating opportunities for personal growth and leadership both on and off the mats.
Avi wants to guide students and instructors to look beyond physical skills, helping them develop a deeper
understanding of how martial values apply in everyday life. The new structure is designed to be adaptable, whether one
is a beginner looking to develop confidence or a seasoned martial artist wanting to master integrated concepts.
I had the privilege of being with Avi in Belgrade recently, where we shared this vision of the new system with
practitioners and students of KAPAP from all over the world. The annual camp in Serbia was held in October 2024. Over
three days, we went over drills and concepts with participants, and more importantly, we emphasized that while we
welcome anyone with honor and integrity to join us, stressing that our organization is committed to being progressive,
transparent, and apolitical.
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What Can Students Expect?
Avi Nardia Academy offers a structured program divided into four levels of training, each building upon the previous:
Avi Nardia System (CDC - Close Distance Combat): Close Distance Combat focuses on hand-to-hand engagements.
Students of the Close Distance Combat System under Avi Nardia are taught to appreciate the impact of principles. The
eight principles that govern CDC are:
1. Right to Engage: Understanding the legal, moral, and ethical boundaries in dealing with an engagement. This is
something I term the ELM Test. All decisions for engagements must be supported ethically, legally, and morally.
Practitioners must rationalize these aspects in their training as part of a complete system of personal safety.

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2. Relative Position: This refers to
maintaining advantageous positions. We
should work at fortifying our position in
relation to the person(s) we are engaging. This
advantage can be assessed from three
aspects, covered by the 3M—Mathematical
Advantage, Mechanical Advantage, and
Mapping Advantage.
3. Balance: Recognizing how our balance
and that of the person(s) we engage can
impact an outcome. Displacing the
opponent's balance while maintaining one's
own dynamic and static balance allows for
more effective deployment of tactics and
techniques. This principle also correlates with
the concept of Three Dimensionality.
4. Leverage: Using body mechanics to
create advantages that minimize the effort
needed to achieve control or apply
techniques and desirable outcomes.
5. Three Dimensionality: Considering the
physical, emotional, and psychological
domains during engagements is a must. Realworld
encounters are inherently threedimensional,
and training must reflect this.
Our proprietary drills and protocols help
create neuro-pathways that enhance
performance in engagements and develop
resilience and a fearless determination.
6. Functional Anatomy & Physiology:
Leveraging knowledge of human anatomy
and physiology to maximize technique
effectiveness and ensure efficient movement.
7. SPEC: SPEC stands for Strategy,
Position, Execution, and Control. These key
aspects guide a practitioner through planning,
positioning, executing techniques, and
maintaining control throughout an encounter.
8. Rule + 1: Always consider an additional
element—such as an unexpected move,
environmental factor, or unseen threat—to
stay adaptable and prepared in any situation.

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The four levels of training are as follows:
1. Avi Nardia System Level 1: Simple non-lethal combatives with the use of pressure points as an equalizer. This level
emphasizes control and the effective use of non-lethal techniques to manage conflicts.
2. Avi Nardia System Level 2: KAPAP Combatives. This level introduces a more comprehensive approach to hand-tohand
combat, combining foundational skills with tactical concepts for threat mitigation.

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3. Avi Nardia System Level 3: KAPAP Krav Maga - Israeli Jiu-Jitsu. This advanced level focuses on
integrating various combative techniques, incorporating elements from different disciplines such as
Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Kendo, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, under the banner of Israeli Jiu-
Jitsu. Practitioners at this level engage in practical mixed martial arts.
4. Avi Nardia System Level 4: Integrated Jiu-Jitsu. This level brings together all previous skills and
knowledge into a cohesive integrated practice, emphasizing adaptability and the seamless combination
of various techniques and disciplines. As Avi Nardia puts it: “To study the old, to understand the new.”

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A Comprehensive Journey for All
Students joining Avi Nardia Academy can expect
an enriching journey that goes beyond learning how
to fight. Here are some of the core experiences
awaiting them:
1. A Principle-Based Approach: Avi's system
isn't focused solely on techniques but on
understanding the principles that make those
techniques work. Whether it’s Judo, Brazilian Jiu-
Jitsu, Muay Thai, or swordsmanship, students learn
the underlying concepts that connect different
martial arts and how to apply them in varied
contexts.
2. Comprehensive Character Development: For
younger students, there is a strong focus on
character-building through martial arts. Classes
foster discipline, confidence, and respect—qualities
that are essential in both martial arts and life.

3. Martial Arts as Leadership Training: The academy offers programs such as
Corporate Training and Team Building to cultivate resilience, leadership, and the ability to
work effectively with others. These skills are valuable in personal relationships, corporate
environments, and community settings.
4. An Integrated Martial System: Avi Nardia’s martial arts philosophy integrates
different influences, including Japanese, Brazilian, and Israeli Jiu-Jitsu. This unique blend
ensures that students have a holistic experience—learning the best from each art in a
cohesive manner. Students are challenged to adapt and integrate different ideas, making
them more versatile martial artists.
5. Security Expertise with a Martial Foundation: Students interested in security work
will find specialized training in fields like Close Protection, VIP Protection, and Active
Shooter scenarios. The emphasis is on understanding real-world threats and responding
with the confidence and calm of a seasoned practitioner.
6. Instructor Apprenticeship and Mentoring: For those passionate about teaching, Avi
Nardia Academy provides mentorship and instructor training. Avi believes in passing on
not just skills but also the right mindset and teaching methodologies, creating a new
generation of instructors ready to lead with principle and purpose.

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The Path Forward
Avi Nardia's restructured system is a testament to the timelessness of martial arts values, while also ensuring they remain
relevant for modern challenges. It's an invitation to anyone seeking not only to strengthen their bodies but also their minds and
spirits. Whether you are a martial artist, a corporate professional, a security operative, or simply someone looking for a path of
growth, Avi Nardia Academy offers a comprehensive journey.
For Avi, this new structure is about sharing his lifelong dedication in a way that is accessible, impactful, and inclusive. By joining
this community, students will find themselves guided by the ideology of a swordsman—embracing discipline, skill, adaptability,
and ultimately, a journey toward becoming better human beings.
If you’re ready to explore the warrior within, the doors of Avi Nardia Academy are open to all individuals who share our values.

“Burn All the Ships!”
To fulfill one’s dreams, there is no path
forward without unwavering, 100%
commitment. Anything less than total
dedication is a mere diversion, an exercise
in futility that cannot be considered the
genuine pursuit of dream fulfillment.
Instead, it becomes a fleeting fantasy—a
realm where we imagine ourselves achieving
and becoming all that we desire, but
without the substance or resolve to make it
real. Such imaginings are an exercise in
creativity and the boundless expression of
our imagination, a beautiful but transient
escape. Yet, fantasy, by its nature, is not
meant to be taken seriously; it is an
ephemeral indulgence, untethered from the
demands of reality.

Dream fulfillment, however, is an entirely different
matter. It is not the ethereal dance of fantasy but a
synthesis of reality, hope, and boundless possibility.
It is the culmination of our deepest desires, forged
and refined during the innocence of youth, when our
hearts were untainted, and the horizon of our imagination
stretched infinitely. These dreams are embedded in the very
essence of our being, sculpted in the divine artistry of our souls,
and touched by the hand of God at the moment of our creation.
They are sacred remnants of our truest purpose—what we were
meant to pursue when we wandered in childhood wonder,
unburdened by the weight of existence, and when all things
seemed attainable.
These dreams are, in essence, a remembrance of the Garden of
Eden—a profound and subconscious connection to a primordial
past when we lived in harmony with the infinite. In those
moments, all things were possible, and our burdens were carried
not by us, but by God. We thrived in a state of carefree bliss,
immersed in the wonderment of creation, our hearts full of joy,
and our spirits soaring.
But as we grow, the purity of these dreams becomes clouded,
spoiled by the harsh realities of life. The pursuit of our dreams
begins to feel arduous, weighed down by struggle, sacrifice, and
the unrelenting challenges of existence. This awakening mirrors
the moment humanity tasted the forbidden fruit—the moment we
gained the knowledge of good and evil. With that knowledge
came the heavy burden of self-awareness, responsibility, and toil.
The ease and innocence of Eden were replaced by the labor of
survival and the complexities of human existence. In our pursuit
of dreams, we confront the full weight of this burden, and the
path forward demands everything we have to give.
It is fascinating, almost poetic, that the bitten apple—a symbol
of humanity’s fall from grace—has become the emblem of one of
the most influential modern cultural icons: the logo of the largest
technology brand. Does this parallel reflect an accidental
coincidence, or does it whisper deeper truths about our nature,
our struggles, and the stories we continue to live out as a
species?
Realizing the immense hardships and seemingly
insurmountable challenges that stand in the way of achieving our
deepest desires, most of us retreat. We quit the pursuit of our
dreams and instead redirect our efforts toward something more
manageable, more practical—something that offers security but
lacks the brilliance of what we once envisioned. The majority of
us—perhaps as much as 99% of humanity—end up settling for
less than what we truly desire. Yet, settling does not extinguish
the flame of our passion, nor does it fully quench the thirst of our
unfulfilled longings. These dreams do not disappear; they sink
deeper into the recesses of our souls, where they ferment, like
yeast in a sealed barrel, brewing into bitterness.
This buried passion, left to fester, can distort into something
darker. It manifests as discontent, resentment, jealousy, and a
host of destructive emotions—precisely the fertile soil upon which
evil thrives. These unfulfilled dreams, now tainted with despair,
become a source of spiritual vulnerability. Evil’s ultimate objective
is to dismantle humanity at its spiritual core, replacing hope with
despair, and light with oblivion.

The truth, however, is that the only way to truly fulfill our dreams—the only
way to reclaim that light and hope—is to confront, head-on, the hardships
and challenges that life inevitably throws in our path. These difficulties are not
arbitrary; they are proportional to the magnitude of the dream. The greater the
dream, the more formidable the obstacles. This is life’s way, or perhaps God’s
way, of testing our resolve. How deeply do we want this? How far are we
willing to go? How much of ourselves are we willing to sacrifice? Such trials
are not meant to deter us but to refine us. Nothing of value ever comes easily,
and it is the very effort, care, thought, and energy we pour into the pursuit that
gives our dreams their worth.
"Easy" holds no true value. In fact, the very concept of “easy” is an illusion;
even that which appears easy comes with hidden costs, unseen challenges,
and subtle sacrifices. To accomplish anything meaningful requires effort, and
that effort is what imbues the accomplishment with significance.
Therefore, the true key to fulfilling our dreams lies not in the breadth of our
imagination nor in the material advantages we may possess. It resides in our
character—our tenacity, perseverance, courage, strength, resilience, fortitude,
and discipline. These qualities are not innate but cultivated, often painfully,
through the struggles we face in life. They are forged in the fire of hardship,
tempered by failure, and polished by suffering. Each trial we endure is an
opportunity to grow stronger, braver, and more steadfast in our pursuit.
This philosophy is echoed in the teachings of Hwa Rang Do, where the
cultivation of noble human virtues is central to the practice. Through discipline
and commitment, practitioners aim to embody the very traits that enable the
fulfillment of dreams and the overcoming of adversity. These virtues—tenacity,
courage, and resilience—are not just human qualities but divine gifts, instilled
by God through the trials and tribulations we encounter. Hardship produces
strength. Failure fosters tenacity. Suffering yields courage.
In the end, it is not the absence of struggle but the ability to embrace and
overcome it that defines the pursuit of dreams. Our trials are not barriers; they
are steppingstones. Each challenge we face brings us closer to the fulfillment
of our purpose, to the realization of the life we were meant to live. And in
rising to meet these challenges, we honor not only ourselves but the divine
spark within us that refuses to settle, that dares to dream.
The concept of “Burn all the Ships” originates from epic battle legends,
where warriors, having sailed to enemy shores, faced insurmountable odds
and the grim prospect of defeat. In such dire moments, the commanding
general would issue a bold and irreversible order: “Burn all the ships.” With
their only means of retreat engulfed in flames, the warriors were left with no
choice but to press forward into battle with absolute resolve, fighting with
every ounce of their strength, for their survival depended entirely on their
success. This act was not just about removing the physical option of retreat—
it was about forging a mental state of unyielding commitment. The mantra
became clear: “Fight or die.”
This same spirit is the mindset we must adopt if we are ever to fulfill our
dreams. The pursuit of our dreams requires a level of commitment that leaves
no room for escape, no alternatives to fall back on, and absolutely no “Plan
B.” To truly succeed, there must be no safety net, no secondary option that
undermines our primary goal. Anything less than total, all-encompassing
commitment dilutes our effort and fractures our focus.

Many of us, however, create what we call a “Plan B”—a fallback strategy in case our primary goal doesn’t work out.
While this might seem pragmatic, it often reflects an underlying lack of confidence in our ability to succeed in Plan A. By
creating a Plan B, we are subtly telling ourselves that failure is not only a possibility but an expectation. This mental
reservation undermines our resolve, and in truth, our belief in achieving Plan A is compromised from the start.
What’s worse, Plan B often becomes a convenient illusion. It allows us to mask our doubts and insecurities while still
appearing ambitious and courageous to others. We tell ourselves that we’re reaching for the stars with Plan A, but deep
down, we’re already hedging our bets, placing more faith in the modest, achievable safety of Plan B. This self-deception
doesn’t just rob us of success—it also diminishes the authenticity of our ambition. We appear grand in our aspirations,
but in reality, we are quietly settling, all the while seeking the approval and admiration of others for a goal we’re not fully
committed to.
When you fail at any plan—whether you have one or a hundred—the truth remains the same: you failed. Yet, the illusion
of Plan B offers us a deceptive consolation prize. It allows us to frame failure as success because “at least we succeeded
in Plan B.” But this is a delusion. Plan B is not success; it is simply the shadow of what you were truly capable of
achieving. It is the compromise you’ve settled for because you were unwilling to fully commit to your highest aspiration.
In reality, Plan B is a monument to your doubt, not your success.

True achievement requires burning the ships, eliminating all alternatives, and investing yourself entirely in the pursuit of
your dreams. Success doesn’t come from hedging bets or half-hearted efforts; it comes from putting everything on the
line and daring to believe in your ability to make it happen. When there is no way out, no option to fall back, you are
forced to summon all your strength, resourcefulness, and resilience. You tap into reservoirs of potential you never knew
existed because success is now not just an option—it is the only option.
Dreams are not fulfilled by compromise. They are achieved through unshakable belief, relentless effort, and the
courage to embrace the risk of failure without distraction or dilution. To succeed in anything meaningful, you must
leave no path for retreat and no escape from the pursuit of your goals. The only plan worth having is Plan A. Burn the
ships and press onward.
For the ancient Hwarang warriors, the Fourth Code—“Im Jun Moo Twae” or “Courage Never to Retreat in the Face
of the Enemy”—was more than a call to bravery; it was a declaration of unyielding resolve. This principle demanded
absolute commitment to victory or death. In their eyes, retreat was not an option, for to return alive without victory
was not merely dishonorable—it was unthinkable. The essence of this code is profound: one does not step into
battle with a divided heart. Victory or death are the only outcomes, for the true warrior does not leave room for
surrender or compromise.

This principle applies to all aspects of life where great endeavors are pursued. In
modern times, we often dilute this warrior ethos by allowing ourselves the false comfort
of fallback options—"Plan B." While the intent of creating backup plans may seem
practical, in truth, it is rooted in the fear of failure and a subconscious expectation of
defeat. But how can we truly strive for greatness if we are already entertaining an
escape route? The soul knows the truth, and it cannot be deceived. When we hedge our
bets and split our focus, we compromise the purity of our commitment. True growth and
accomplishment are not born of half-hearted attempts but through relentless
dedication, even in the face of repeated failure.

It is essential to understand that failure is not the enemy—it is
the forge in which strength and wisdom are tempered. We may
fail a thousand times in the pursuit of a single goal, but each
failure teaches us, molds us, and brings us closer to mastery.
The fear of failure, however, paralyzes us and drives us to craft
backup plans that ultimately dilute our effort and resolve. To fully
commit is to recognize that failure is not a destination but a
necessary path toward success. In this way, a “Plan B” becomes
unnecessary—a product of fear that seeks to insulate us from
the sting of loss rather than propel us toward greatness.
Yet, when we fail to face the truth of our fears, the
consequences manifest within us. The subconscious—the
hidden self—knows when we are compromising and harboring
fear, and it will find ways to reveal this truth. For some, this truth
is buried under denial, where they refuse to confront their
mistakes. For others, it is cloaked in arrogance, where they
double down on ego and pride to mask their insecurities. Many
resign themselves to mediocrity, numbing their ambitions and
accepting a life of quiet desperation. Still, others live in a
perpetual haze, disoriented and aimless, unable to reconcile their
inner turmoil. These responses are all symptoms of a life lived
without full commitment, a life where fear has taken the reins.

The only way to live fully is to commit completely—100%, and if such a thing were possible, 110%. This commitment
comes with the inevitability of pain, loss, and suffering, for to live fully means to embrace every aspect of the human
experience, even its hardships. Avoiding pain is not living—it is merely existing. It is often only in moments of confronting
mortality, whether our own or that of others, that we realize we have not truly lived. Tragically, by then, the weight of time
often presses upon us, and the window for pursuing our dreams seems to have closed. In these moments of clarity, we
are left to choose how to spend the time we have left.
Some will allow themselves to be consumed by bitterness, living in solitude and resentment. Others will attempt to
recapture their youth, grasping at the fleeting sparks of what was once possible. Many will resign themselves to the
inevitable, counting their remaining days with quiet acceptance. But there are those who, even in the face of death,
choose to confront life with renewed courage. They understand that while time may be finite, the spirit is eternal, and the
way we live is defined not by how long we have but by the choices we make.
Ultimately, it is not the success or failure of achieving our dreams that defines us, but rather the spirit in which we lived.
Did we cower before the unknown, enslaved by fear? Or did we stand boldly, defying the tyranny of doubt and despair?
Life, like battle, requires courage not to retreat, not to waver in the face of adversity. It requires the strength to burn the
ships, to commit wholly and without reservation, knowing that in the pursuit of our dreams, we may fail, but we will have
truly lived.
For the Hwarang, and for us, living courageously in defiance of fear is the only true victory.

Drawing by Lydia De Novellis
Muay Thai Boran: learn to fight
like an elephant.
The description of the
relaxed power of elephants
appears in many tales of
Siamese tradition as a
symbol of functional
strength. In Thailand,
elephants have been used for
many decades for civilian and
military purposes. A typical
example of the latter category
are the famous war elephants
(yutthahatthi, ยุทธหัตถี). In fact, in
the past, war elephants were
trained and guided by humans for
military purposes. Special
military units employed troops
mounted on elephants.

The ancient Indian epics of
Ramayana and Mahabharata
describe in detail warfare with the
use of elephants. From the 15th
century, Thailand also adopted
the use of war elephants. In many
battles of the time, it was common practice
for leaders to fight while riding war
elephants. On January 25, 1592 (in the
Ayutthaya era), in the last battle during the
fifth Burmese invasion of Siam, from the
fighting position on his war elephant, King
Naresuan recognized the Burmese crown
prince MingyiSwa (who also rode a war
elephant) and killed him with a blow from his
lethal Ngaaw spear.
Old Muay masters have carefully analyzed
how elephants use their natural weapons to
attack and destroy: their trunk can be a
formidable weapon when used to crush,
grab or break. Similarly, tusks can be used to
pierce, tear or rip: a forward thrust can turn
tusks into giant spears that can penetrate
any barrier. When the elephant gores
upwards, it can cut through any kind of
material with the tip of its tusks. By striking
up and down with the tusks, an elephant can
hammer and destroy very easily. All these
actions have inspired Siamese masters: in
fact, over the centuries, they have developed
different strategies and combat techniques
that resemble a war elephant fighting on a
battlefield.

One of the most spectacular scenes that
Siamese soldiers probably witnessed during
field battles was the clash of two charging
elephants. When two war elephants charge at
each other, they cross their tusks (Chang
Prasan Nga) in a violent head-on collision.
Similarly, when a Muay Thai fighter is attacked,
he can defend and counterattack or, using the
strategy of a charging war elephant, he can
attack the attacker, blocking him in his position.
A well-known regional style called Muay Korat
included this fighting strategy as one of the five
main acts (Mae Mai) that its practitioners had
to master since they started training in that
style. For example, against a long hook (called
Wiang Kwai or buffalo swing in that style), the
Korat fighter is trained to step forward and
occupy the opponent's centerline. A
simultaneous block and non-stop vertical
punch are applied. The fist is held in a vertical
position as this is the technical rule of this
style. The ideal target of the strike is the throat
of the attacker: the damage inflicted by such a
counterattack is potentially very serious (next
page).
Counterattack is considered the peak of
the art of Muay: when a fighter is very adept at
countering opponents' attacks, he is said to
have reached the pinnacle of his martial art.
Among the many ways of applying the art of
counterattack, attacking the attack (also called
counter-striking) ranks first for its effectiveness
in combat. In fact, when a counter fighter is
able to strike “into” the opponent's strike, the
resulting counterattack will be more powerful
than any direct attack. Sometimes, the
counterattack is performed together with a
block or a deflection: in this case, both actions
must be performed in unison, to be more
effective.

The body weapons of Nak Muay that mimic the elephant's tusks are traditionally the elbows (sok) and the closed fists
(mahd). In the applications of the Chang Prasan Nga strategy, the tips of the elbows are used for piercing, cutting upward
and hammering downward.
1. Piercing. When the opponent charges and attempts to strike with a short or long hook to the head, do not back up.
Instead, use your leg strength to spring forward and thrust the tips of your elbows into the opponent's sternum, throat or
face. The first result will be that you will quickly close the distance, preventing your opponent's punch from reaching its
target. Second, your step forward will charge your elbow attack with great kinetic energy. This energy will add to the
force of your opponent's momentum, causing a very hard impact. The hardness of your natural weapon and the reduced
impact surface (the tips of your elbows) will make your counter strike an extremely effective counter attack.

2. Slash upward. Sometimes your opponent will approach with his arms outstretched in an attempt to grab you in the
neck or throat. While this is not advisable, it often happens in the heat of an all-out fight. When dealing with such an
attack, do not back down. Use the charging elephant strategy and move forward with both elbows raised in front of your
face. Follow immediately with a double upward elbow that will slide into your opponent's arms. Direct the tips of your
elbows toward your opponent's chin with a forceful upward slash. One of your elbows is likely to strike the tip of your
opponent's chin with explosive power. The neck grab will not be completed and the opponent could be knocked out
dramatically (previous pages).

3. Hammering. The elbows of a Nak Muay can also act like the elephant's tusks when they are heavily crushed from
above on an object. In this case, the double elbow attack can be performed in direct attack, in most cases combined
with a jump, or it can be applied after a defensive technique. For example, when attacked with a pushed front kick, the
Muay Boran practitioner can deflect the incoming kick with a low deflection to unbalance the opponent and prepare for
the counterattack. After the low deflection, the Nak Muay jumps and attacks the sides of the opponent's neck with the
point of the elbows. Alternatively, the target of the double elbow strike could be the top of the head, a potentially lethal
point of attack.

For information on IMBA:
I
MBA official website: www.muaythai.it
Europe: Dani Warnicki (IMBA Finland)
South America: Juan Carlos Duran (IMBA Colombia)
Oceania: Maria Quaglia (IMBA Australia)
General Secretariat: Marika Vallone (IMBA Italy)

The Academy of Martial Movement, fusion
of the knowledge of Kyusho Jitsu and Tuite
Jitsu of M° Frisan Gianluca together with
the knowledge of the Art of Movement of
M° Pascut Fulvio, continues the technical
progression in the training of high level
martial instructors and makes available to
all the universal principles hidden in the
movements of internal and external
martial arts, unifying them and
focusing them on precision, to
bring Kyusho to a new level. In
this 3rd volume, we will continue
with a detailed study of the
pressure points of the head,
exercises and technical
efficiency, ways to make the
force penetrate the opponent's
body ... but not only that, we
will understand that really
“stun” an attacker can be
simple and effective. Before the
analysis of the pressure points,
their location, the best angle to
strike, rub, manipulate ... we
continue with the principles of
martial movement, a unique feature
of our academy. The next step is to
understand how the transmission of this
force occurs, how to charge the “potential”
blow and unload it on the opponent. Block by
block, internal and external work on our body will
make our body structure and alignment a sharp tool
to utilize 'force multipliers' at the Kyusho points. The
devastating effectiveness of Kyusho is now further amplified,
with aspects that can be concretely enhanced and trained,
regardless of external and immutable aspects such as our
opponent's 'sensitivity' to Kyusho attacks!
Ref.: • KfRISAN-9
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and
alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is
however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our
DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and
material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the
requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
ORDERS:
Budo international.com

Ref.: • Malte5
“Larga Mano” (Long Hand) simply means long-distance combat, a
method that teaches you to stay away from your opponent and hurt him
without even entering the hand-to-hand distance. In a way, the Filipino
people were ahead of the times, perhaps because, little conditioned by
their traditions, they suffered many invasions and, frequently, their
habits and customs were altered. But they knew how to turn
their misfortune into advantage, and they learned to
absorb and integrate everything that could be useful
and increase effectiveness. Their Martial Arts are an
excellent example of this. Philippine Arts masters
did not pose the problem of remaining tied to
such or such custom, but without hesitation,
integrated into their own systems personal
experiences of Karate or Japanese Judo,
Western Boxing, Silat of neighboring
Indonesia and the ancient traditions
linked to Scrima, the art of self-defense
perfected in the Italian peninsula.
When the Philippine Arnis spread in the
West, to distinguish it from Fencing, it
was called "the living hand fencing",
because the hand that did not hold the
weapon, actively collaborated in the
actions of defense and offense. Thus, the
difference between the two systems, the East
and the West, is that in Olympic fencing, the
unarmed hand is kept safe and used at most to
balance the impulse in assaults; in Arnis the
unarmed hand is alive and active.
In this work, Professor Maltese shows us the basic
positions, defenses and fundamental attacks, guard exercises,
blocking, crossing and counterattack in Redondo, the fifth, seventh,
eighth and contras defenses, dynamic training and free combat exercises
with protections. We will also see the bag training (blows, blockades and
counterattacks) and a final chapter dedicated to Sword and Dagger, the
Italian art in the Philippine Kali, executed with authentic weapons.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the
formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with
a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the
hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not
corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
ORDERS:
Budo international.com

Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense

Martial arts and the knowledge in self- defense
The origins of self- defense have their roots in the most basic forms of
fighting which have developed throughout the world, independently from one
another. This hypothesis has been confirmed by archaeological research
which were done in various parts of the world. There almost isn't a country
that doesn't have its own authentic “folk“ form of fighting or some other
type of game which can fulfill man's instinctive need to fight as a means of
accustoming to the battle for survival.

We can surely say that the skill of self- defense is as old as
mankind. People have always intended to find and develop
this skill in order to defend themselves from the attacker.
Death is surely man's greatest fear. This fear and the will to
overcome it resulted in the fact that men obtained a strong
motive to perfect martial arts skills and to strengthen their
bodies as well as their spirits with the goal to defend their
own lives and survive. Humans have been acquired martial
arts experience over centuries and have accumulated it so
they could later use it in various conflicts and battles. Up until
recently, man was sure that other people would respect him if
he showed to be more powerful or skillful than they were.
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense

Today the life of a human community is
somewhat different and people do not resolve
their quarrels by fighting each other. There are
different institutions that exist in today's
contemporary society and their role is to
protect citizens as well as their civil rights.
However, martial arts knowledge is not redundant. A man
who can protect himself from an attack will know how to
keep his composure in such a situation. Such a man will
know how to talk with people who wish to attack him in a
fearless and peaceful manner. His calmness and
confidence are his best protection and can help him to be
rarely or never attacked. Self- defense includes the
preservation of one's own physical and mental integrity.
Although various experts that deal with the topic of
conflict exist, by analyzing the origin of conflict or finding
a suitable solution to the problem, its problem is still
present.
Of course, fights are more rare nowadays, but conflicts
are sometimes resolved with aggression which is often a
result of today's way of life. Sometimes the man is
exposed to sudden violence without a real reason. Using
force against the attacker is, in those cases, necessary.
Every person has the right to protect himself when
necessary so having the knowledge of how to use a
certain martial art can be of great help. Today's modern
self- defense techniques need to keep track of the time in
which we live in; they need to be efficient but always
defensive in their character because acting in self- defense
is not a felony.
A lack of understanding is the reason why most conflicts
happen. Many of them end in a physical fight between

Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
individuals or groups of people. People define violence as an application of force in the purpose of abuse.
Most people have an idea of who their friends and enemies are. We usually think of our enemy as a person
that we don't know, someone who is hostile and has evil intentions. This is usually found to be true, however,
abusers can be many other, different people. Conflicts between friends or peers sometimes happen, too. It
can happen among younger or older persons. Various conflicts may happen at work or school as well as
among family members which affects whole families.
The general opinion states that the victims of an attack or abuse were physically weaker persons, for
example, seniors, disabled people, people of a smaller build, children and usually female. All of those
stereotypical opinions are partially true. If we would take a look at today's statistics of victims of violence, we
would come to a surprising and somewhat shocking conclusions. According to them, the victims of violence

Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense
are almost evenly distributed between the male and female gender. However, it needs
to be emphasized that women are usually attacked with a different intention and motive
than men.
Women were always convinced that their fathers, brothers, husbands or protectors
would keep them safe from attackers. Women are usually smaller and physically weaker
than men and, hence, from the attacker. However, that won't bother a determined and
brave woman who knows martial arts and who wants to defend herself from an
attacker. This is why it is necessary to educate women in self- defense.
Children are exposed to both direct and indirect violence. Direct violence means the
application of physical force. Children are often bullied at school, on the school
playground or on the street. This is why it is good to motivate a child to take up a
martial art.
Ofttimes the victims of an attack are individuals of various professions who, thanks to
the nature of their job, need to step into contact with other people among which are
those who represent a certain threat or who might be a potential bully. There is a great

number of such “risky“ professions so those people who work in those areas of
expertise should train a martial art or at least know a self- defense technique.
Contemporary self - defense techniques are surely based on various martial arts.
Everybody is well aware of most of them. Each new period in history brought and
expanded new knowledge as well as some new techniques and self- defense strategies.
Today, many of them are improved based on personal experience. Certain techniques
were rejected because they showed to be ineffective, while others are modernized.
Some old techniques have become popular again as well as some grips that were not
emphasized enough before.
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense

Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense

Attack is an attack, not self–defense
The basic principle which is valid for self- defense is the following: less is more. The more simple the technique is, the
better. By respecting that principle the choice of self- defense techniques will always be appropriate and efficient for the
general population. This is why we need to pay special attention to the time and circumstances in which we live in when
choosing modern self- defense techniques. We need to pay attention to the broad and diverse population, their age and
gender. Also, we need to be aware of the diversity of the techniques which are appropriate for specific groups of people.
Techniques need to be modified and adjusted to a specific group or individual. Contemporary techniques need to be
effective, but not too complicated, especially if they are aimed at the general population. Special awareness need to be
directed to the fact that most people possess no knowledge in the field of martial arts as well as in self- defense.
Some experts will say that the modern self- defense skills are certainly based on Eastern martial arts techniques. Such
a claim is only partially true because up until today every country developed its own martial art and, consequently, its
own self- defense technique. Saying that a certain technique is better just because it originated in the East or the West is
not reasonable or correct. Many efficient self- defense techniques can be found in countries across the globe, some of
which are very suitable even for today's usage. Some techniques need to be modified or modernized a bit, but they are
essentially very good and useful for the general population.

It is certain that Eastern martial arts skills such as judo, karate, aikido, ju jutsu, kung fu or tae kwon do represent the
basis for most self- defense techniques. However, it should not be forgotten that many other martial arts originally
existed even before the aforementioned techniques and that their basic aim was to self- defend. Skill such as wrestling,
boxing or French boxing (savate) fall into this category. Other martial arts should not be neglected, for example, those
that originate from Brasil, such as capoeira or Brasilian ju jutsu (BJJ), or Russian self- defense skills incorporated into the
combat sport sambo (self- defense without weapons).
However, in order to possess a comprehensive knowledge in self- defense techniques, certain skills should be
highlighted, such as the Japanese ko- budo martial art or the French la canne skill. Asian skills such as kali, escrima,
bando, Vietnamese viet vo dao or the Burmese caliradman should also be mentioned. Certain skills are not as familiar or
even almost forgotten, such as the English skill of fighting with a stick- cudgelling.
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense

Some self- defense techniques also
include various handshaking techniques
with certain handy devices, such as a
fan, pencil, needle, something that could
amplify a blow (a kongo- yavara or a
boxer), a whip (belt), a sickle (or a sickleshaped
weapon), or objects such as an
umbrella, a broom, different sprays, keys,
clothes, shoes, bags, newspapers etc.
Today, other popular devices are used in
order to defend oneself. Those are
usually irritating sprays (tear gas) as well
as electro shockers (previously called
cattle beaters because of their primal
purpose).
One part of the self- defense
techniques is identical to several various
martial arts so it comes to no surprise
that the same grip is often claimed by
different martial arts. Numerous exist and
this article has mentioned only a smaller
number of those whose techniques are
applicable in self- defense. Of course,
many others can be found under the
same category.
Many grips are modified and
accustomed to today's circumstances in
which we live in. Each new era brings
new information and research as well as
new “modern“ techniques. Or, better to
say, old and modified techniques which
are shown as new and modern bearing a
new name or title. Such an example is
the Israeli Krav Maga or the Russian
Systema and so on.
The conclusion which says that the
attack is the best mode of defense could
be effective in a sports way of fighting
and sometimes between street groups of
bullies. However, this is not the case
when it comes to self- defense.
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense

The person who attacks first is surely in a certain
advantage, but an attack is not a way of defending oneself
and it never will be perceived as such, only a
counterattack. The one who attacks first will have a
problem when trying to prove that he was defending
himself. This is why he (as an attacker) takes the blame
and consequences. It is crucial to be ready for different
types of attack when defending yourself. Also, one should
prevent the attacker with an appropriate measure (various
ways of blocking or catching a punch) after which a
counterattack is possible.
If someone finds it easier to catch or push you, it is not
necessary to defend yourself in the same way. This is also
an advice in case he attacks you with a punch with the fist
or foot. The attacker will most likely be stronger than you
and this is why you will have to kick him as forcefully as
possible in order to defend yourself effectively. If you are
not the first to punch, but only to defend, do not be afraid
to cross the line of necessary defense, but rather defend
yourself bravely, strongly and fiercely. If you did not punch
the attacker strongly, his second attack will follow and it
could be even more powerful and disastrous. Never
underestimate the attacker.
Supposing you have estimated that the attacker is
overpowering, immediately try to find some sort of weapon
or tool which might come in handy for self- defense. It is
extremely difficult to simultaneously defend oneself from
two attackers. This is when you must follow the basic
advice in self- defense: defend yourself from one attacker
and then turn to the other. To clarify: the basic technique of

a man who is faced with an attack of two or more
assaulters is to convert his defense into two fights with
one man instead of leading one fight against two or more
attackers.
An attack with a tool or weapon is the most dangerous
type of an attack. Sometimes the tool can be as dangerous
as the weapon. There is no difference if an attacker is
holding a knife, scissors, scalpel, screwdriver, hammer,
axe, iron pipe or if he is attacking you with some other sort
of tool or weapon. This kind of an attack is extremely
perilous and it needs to be taken seriously. A man who is
attacking you with a tool or weapon surely has the desire
to seriously harm you or maybe even kill you. Do not think
of how determined the attacker is, but be prepared to
defend yourself.
If you are a witness to an attack on an elderly person,
woman, child or any person who is not capable of
defending him or herself on their own you may be forced
to help them. If there is no one who can or wants to help,
you will need to make the decision of how to help the
person on your own.
Most people do not know that tools can be used as
weapons for self- defense. Some tools- weapons can be
used by anyone at anytime, however, most people do not
even notice them and do not know how to use them in selfdefense.
An ordinary pencil, book, belt, hair pin, umbrella,
keys, shoulder bag, shoe, broom or some other handy tool
can be turned into an excellent device in self- defense.
Women's nails can also be turned into a great tool, as
well as rasp, brush, scalpel or small scissors. The choice is
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense

extremely big, but we need to know how
to use a certain object. Numerous
specialized shops that sell different
utensils exist. This is where you can find
different sorts of boxers, spreys, electro
shockers, bats and many more objects
which can be used in self- defense.
It is crucial that, in the moment of an
attack, you know how to use the things
and objects you are surrounded by and
not to think about what you could have
found in your car or at home. It is very
likely that you won't be able to pick the
tool for defending yourself and that you
will need to use that which is the closest
to your position and whereabouts. The
right choice of your tool and the right
moment in which to use it will have a
decisive role in the outcome. Some
weapons are better to use at a greater
distance, while others function better in
close combat. Make sure you use wisely
that which is in you vicinity because
sometimes, for example, a cup of hot tea
or coffee can make a great tool for selfdefense.
If you throw a hot liquid in the
face of an attacker, his reaction might
give you a desired advantage and might
confuse him.
Self- defense techniques are in most
cases the same for both men and
women, but are by no means identical.
The differences can be found in small, but
very important details. It is best that each
individual adjusts certain techniques to
himself and his own skills as well as his
current abilities to implement it in selfdefense.
David “Sensei“ Stainko
Prof. of kinesiology
Master 7th Dan
Mixed Martial Scientists
Martial arts and the Knowledge in Self- Defense

Two Knives

The art of the two knives
It is perhaps the least known and practiced specialty, both in the West and
in the East. After all, even the nobler art of fighting with two swords was not
widely practiced even though, when necessary, having developed this skill was
very useful, especially if one had to face multiple opponents. Maneuvering two
equal weapons, one wielded with the right hand and the other with the left,
requires great psychomotor coordination so that the two weapons become an
advantage for the one who wields them and not an obstacle.

Guards and grips
The guard position can vary greatly: “open”
That is, positions can be assumed with the
arms spread apart either in the horizontal
plane (with arms spread wide) or in the
vertical plane ( one hand up and the other
down). One can even hold the arms crossed,
and again, either with both arms at the same
height or with one arm lower and the other
higher. The key difference, however, is the
choice made in holding the arms. We have
four foundational combinations:
1. Both arms in a straight position, a
grip that the Americans call hammer
grip,
2. Both with the position reversed, in
the U.S. this is the grip called ice pick
grip.
3. The mixed position in which in the
right hand the knife is held straight and
in the left hand it is reversed instead
4. Completing the quatern is the
opposite combination in which in the left
hand the knife is held straight and in the
right is held upside down.
The choice of one of the above
combinations influences the tactics of
combat in both the offensive and
defensive aspects. This consideration is
very important because one can get a
general picture of the opponent precisely
by observing his choice both in wielding
the weapons and noting the position of his
arms: whether they are open or closed,
whether they are symmetrical or
asymmetrical, whether they are far or close
to his body, whether he moves his arms a
lot or stands predominantly still, whether
he moves his feet a lot or takes measured
steps, etc.
It is useful to remember that both the
position taken and the choice of grips can
change. This leads us to understand
whether the other person ( but also
ourselves) prefers stability or mobility.

Fixed grip or mobile grip ?
Among Ionian peoples, the change of
grip is not an embellishment or a game of
skill but a strategy that, if used with the
right strategy, can surprise the opponent. In
many “military” systems on the contrary, a
firm and immovable grip is preferred, even
going so far as to tie the knife to the wrist.
It is not a question here of deciding what is
better or worse after all it is an individual
choice related also to the time one can
devote to the deadly art. Both systems
have advantages and disadvantages. In the
fixed weapon method, whether the knife is
held straight or inverted, the emphasis is
on a firm grip; the weapon must remain
firm in the hand even if the legs and arms
are shaking from adrenaline. In addition,
the firm grip can easily withstand the
pitfalls of sweat or even the viscosity of
blood. Knives suitable for “firm grip” are
immediately recognized by the
conformation of the handle where, often,
each finger finds its secure lodging and the
handle seems to fit the palm of the hand
giving the man a feeling of security, of
being at one with the knife. In contrast,
knives with a plain handle without special
grooves are made to facilitate mobility. The
basic movements that must be performed
smoothly for those who prefer dynamic grip
are three :
1. Change orientation of the edge
(obviously for knives that do not have
double edge). One rotates the weapon on
its longitudinal axis. With just the
movement of the fingers you bring the
edge, as desired, inward or outward as
needed. This maneuver is to be performed
either with the weapon held straight or
inverted.
2. Change of grip: change from straight
to inverted and vice versa. The action must
Two Knives

The advantages of
mobile grasping are
many as is
easy to see,
however,
the risks are
equally obvious.”
Two Knives

be performed naturally without hesitation
hesitation or delay.
3. Change of hand. Consists of switching the
weapon from one hand to the other this
movement can be performed in three ways :
1. On the hip
2. Behind the back
3. High above the head (raising both arms).
It is evident that the third point above does not
apply when holding two knives but only one.
The advantages of the moving grip are many as
is easy to see, however, the risks are equally
obvious. Lack of ability to control one's emotions,
environmental conditions, and being out of
practice could mean that a mobile maneuver with
the goal of gaining an advantage over the other
could turn out to be an own goal instead. From
what we have said, it can be deduced that in a
knife fight situation, the mobile grapple is suitable
for those who can keep a cool head and
especially who are in full technical shape derived
from constant training and practice.
This explains why in many systems the fixed,
safe grip is used because it is aimed primarily at
people who cannot spend much of their time
practicing with the weapon so the richness of
strategic choices is sacrificed in favor of a less
variety of but certainly safer movements.
To those who do not like the double weapon I
can say that training to use the two weapons
leads to a significant improvement in the use of
the single weapon but above all to take into
proper consideration the function of the “free
hand.” So we easily deduce that even if we are
predisposed to the use of the single weapon we
are better off gaining experience of combat
with the double weapon because by
doing so we will develop skills that we
could spend even when maneuvering a
single ar but managing to give proper
attention to the free hand.
Parry attacks
and counterattacks
with the double knife
It is self-evident that a parry made with an
armed rather than a “naked” hand turns out to be
an “active” parry, that is, one capable, in its
defensive action, of already inflicting damage on
the opponent. What we have just said adds an
additional advantage to the use of the double
weapon. However, not only parry but also attacks
are enhanced with the two knives. To give a very
simple clarifying example: the opponent will

easily succeed in intercepting the first weapon, however, easily the second
one can escape his control, which can thus reach the target undisturbed.
The two attacks carried point and simultaneously can also either descend
from above reaching the two subclaws, or rise from below to slip below the
rib cage. The most striking simultaneous attacks are the asymmetrical ones:
one knife descends while the other rises reaching, the first the subclavian, the
neck, or the eye; while the other, simultaneously, rises evading the rib cage to
strike an internal organ.

Two Knives

Interesting is the simultaneous pointing attack carried with two different grips for example, the knife is held upside
down in the right hand while it is straight in the left hand; the right forearm protects the neck, the face and prepares the
way for the knife that is in front of your chest threatening the opponent with the point.
More difficult to execute are simultaneous blows in which one knife cuts while the other attacks with the point. Mind
you, this is an action performed simultaneously, the point entering while the other cuts. The movement of the knife
cutting you can be either with the arm acting “opening” or with a closing movement. The pointing attack can, in turn be
carried over the cutting arm (forehand or backhand) or under the cutting arm.
We have taken it for granted that the two knives regardless of the chosen combination of handle or attachment are the
same, instead we should learn to pay attention to the simultaneous use of two weapons differing in weight shape and
size. For example a knife or dagger In one hand and a smaller one in the other or even better a knife and a kerambit, the
curved knife of Southeast Asia.
And finally, a note of color that I have had the opportunity to observe for myself: among the Gypsy communities, the
use of the slotted screwdriver
(sometimes made really sharp by
rubbing it against the sidewalk) has
become widespread in place of the
knife. This occasional weapon is
certainly easier to justify when checked by
public safety officers. Other times, however,
the screwdriver is used in tandem with the
knife, so we have a nice but deadly
combination in which there is the knife in one
hand and the screwdriver in the other.
In conclusion, man was born without claws or fangs,
but his ability to adapt and imitate nature has led him to artificially
create tools that compensate for and sometimes very effectively
overcome the natural deficit. We deduce that after all, man's secret
weapon is his formidable brain we just have to learn how to use it!
Two Knives

今 日 、 世 界 中 で 犯 罪 が 増 加 しているため、 自 衛 プログラムが 重 要 になっています。
スポーツ 武 道 のトレーニングよりも 包 括 的 なものです。
PFS プログラム Systey は、 創 設 者 であるマスター アーメド アルフーリの 監 督 の 下 、 戦 闘 分 野 の 軍 事 専 門 家 と 武 道 の 高 等 インスト
ラクターによって 作 成 され、 諜 報 活 動 や 実 際 の 対 決 と 歩 調 を 合 わせる 最 も 重 要 な 戦 闘 プログラムの 1 つと 考 えられています。 。
今 日 、それはいくつかの 国 で 広 まっています
軍 人 と 民 間 人 が 社 会 と 社 会 を 守 るための 重 要 なプログラム
Self-defense programs are very important nowadays due to the increase of crimes around the world and
are more comprehensive than martial arts sports training.
The PFS program has been developed by military experts in the field of combat and high-level martial
arts instructors under the supervision of its founder, Master Ahmed Al-Houli, and is now considered
one of the most important combat programs in the face of real confrontations. Its practice
has spread to several countries. An important program for both military and civilian personnel
to protect society.

Fundamental aspects
“For martial artists and security
professionals, the effectiveness of a
self-defense system is paramount,
especially when it is intended for
private security guards, law
enforcement officers, court officers
or special forces. Such a system
must be realistic, direct and, above
all, reliable to use.
With over 40 years of experience in
martial arts and more than 25 years
in the security industry, I have
developed a sound knowledge of
security, tactics and psychology,
which I apply in practice every day.
This expertise is incorporated into
the OLIVA Combat System (O.C.S.),
a specially developed self-defense
system that is characterized by
pragmatism, professionalism and
effectiveness. The aim is to ensure
maximum efficiency in self-defense
with compact and practical training.

The O.C.S. is more than just a combat system: it is a well-thought-out concept that meets the requirements of today's
security industry and provides the basis for confident and targeted operational capability.”
1) Primary aspects
2) The OLIVA Combat System is the result of years of experience in the security industry, as well as intensive
international training and research. My life has always been dedicated to martial arts and self-defense for individuals and
law enforcement officers, which has led me to the conviction: “Security forces, law enforcement officers, judicial officers
and special forces must be trained professionally and effectively!” This conviction must never be neglected or
underestimated.
3) This program represents a well-founded measure to address the actual judgment and offense at various levels of law
enforcement and to bring them into compliance with the legislation and the civil protection authority. It is a tailor-made
self-defense program for security forces.
4) First aspect: holistic self-defense
5) In private security or security forces, the topic of self-defense cannot be considered in isolation. Important topics
include the right mindset (“No violence!”), communication, de-escalation, self-protection, personal safety and selfprotection
skills, as well as legal principles. These aspects must be perfectly mastered in order to be able to apply them
effectively.
6) Second aspect: preparation for exceptional situations
7) It is of the utmost importance to prepare private security officers for dynamic security, the psychology of
8) Coping, stress management through combat, hazard prevention training, the 360° conflict cycle and the 4D strategy.
These topics can save lives or neutralize danger. An unprofessional approach is serious and counterproductive, as it can
cost lives.

1) Third aspect: Appropriate use of force
2) Be aware of the law and make sure that you comply with the
legal framework of the country in which you are located whenever
you use techniques. It is your sole responsibility to familiarize
yourself with the relevant laws and to comply with them. The
definition of “reasonable” and “excessive” force may vary from
country to country. If in doubt, contact the relevant authorities or
your local law enforcement agency. In particular, for police officers,
it is important to familiarize yourself with internal guidelines on the
use of force.
Fourth aspect: Realistic self-defense
1) Realistic self-defense is not beautiful to perform, but it is very
effective. Beautiful self-defense, on the other hand, is not realistic
and ineffective, although it is good to look at. Real confrontations
are not martial arts.
2) Fifth aspect: mindset
3) A 100% mindset paralyzes attackers or perpetrators of
violence in most cases by acting within their observation,
orientation, decision and action loop. With this mindset, we are
ahead and can bring the situation under control.
4) Sixth aspect: levels of aggression
5) Never underestimate the different levels of aggression. The
degree of aggressiveness of a criminal can be crucial. Our reaction
must be prompt and appropriate, as we never know whether
resistance will turn into deadly aggression. Therefore, we must be
extremely well prepared to survive a deadly aggression with a
perfect defense technique.
6) Seventh aspect: drug-related aggression.

7) Self-defense when dealing with drug-influenced persons
is a common scenario. Drug addiction can be divided into four
main groups: hallucinogens, stimulants, depressants and
inhalants. Recognizing and understanding these groups is
crucial to responding appropriately.
8) Eighth aspect: reality awareness
9) The awareness that an altercation in the line of duty or in
private life can be fatal or even deadly makes the entire
training concept more effective. It increases perception,
understanding of reality and emotional control. True reality
must be understood 100%. Preparation for physically and
psychologically dangerous close encounters increases the
chances of survival.
10) Ninth aspect: Less is more
11) A basic principle of realistic and effective self-defense is:
less is more.
Responsibility and legal awareness in
action
Every action should always be in line with the laws and
regulations of the country in which it takes place. This is
essential to maintain one's own integrity and to strengthen
trust in the legal system. It is important to act lawfully,
correctly and properly in order to protect both yourself and the
integrity of the community.
As an individual, you bear full responsibility for your
decisions and the resulting consequences. A thorough
understanding of the legal framework within which you
operate is essential to ensure that your actions are not only
ethically sound but legally sound as well.
Responsible behavior means being aware that every action
can have far-reaching effects. It is up to you to shape these
effects in a positive way and to ensure that they are in line with
the law. By making your decisions wisely and always
considering the legal and moral foundation, you actively
contribute to a stable and just environment.

Proportionality: the key to the balanced application of measures
“Proportionality represents the balance between power
and measure, where justice acts as a balancing
element and regulates the unforeseeable.”
In an urban environment, where chaos often reigns, law enforcement officers play a crucial role. They are
responsible for maintaining the balance between right and wrong, and between duties and individual freedoms.
Their presence and authority are a symbol of security, and their job is to keep an eye on what is happening in public
spaces. In this context, proportionality is a central principle.
This principle is not just a theoretical concept, but an essential basis for the daily work and training of security
forces. In particular, in situations of self-defense, each measure must be proportionate to the threat. The force used
must not exceed what is necessary to ensure that the principle of proportionality is respected.
Two core principles guide action in such situations: subsidiarity and proportionality. Subsidiarity requires the use
of the minimum necessary means to avert a danger. The aim is to avoid escalating the situation, which requires a
thorough assessment of the situation and precise coordination of the means used.
Proportionality, on the other hand, refers to the consideration of the legal interest to be protected. Various
legal interests must be prioritized in their importance:
1. Life
2. Physical integrity
3. Freedom
4. Honor
5. Property and assets
These legal interests do not stand alone, but must always be weighed against each other in the context of the
respective situation. Proportionality requires the security forces to counter threats with appropriate means, without
using unnecessary force. When using force, whether it be handcuffs or firearms, the principle of proportionality
must always be taken into account in order to avoid the escalation of violence and to defuse the situation.
A practical example illustrates this: security officers encountering a potentially dangerous situation should only
use force if there is no milder way to avert the threat. The use of force must always be in line with the severity of the
danger. This means that force must never be an end in itself, but must always serve to protect higher legal
interests.
For me personally, it is of utmost importance that both private security officers and law enforcement officers
develop a thorough understanding of proportionality. Only in this way can they act responsibly and effectively in
emergency situations to minimize danger while ensuring the protection of citizens. Sound training in this area is
therefore essential to put the principle of proportionality into practice.

Conclusion: the essential role of proportionality
“In the labyrinth of proportionality, law
and reason dance a fascinating tango,
to build the foundation of a just order
in the bold rhythm of balance.”
Proportionality is the key to effective and responsible action by security forces.
By internalizing this principle and incorporating it into their training, they not only
create a safe environment but also foster citizens' trust in the rule of law. At a
time when the challenges for law enforcement officers are constantly increasing,
it is essential that they strike the right balance between authoritarian action and
respect for people's rights. Proportionality is thus an indispensable guiding
principle in the service of everyone's security.
Self-defense: the limits of defense
“Do we have a right to defend
ourselves?
Yes, the right to defend ourselves in
an immediate emergency,
as long as the defense is appropriate
and proportionate.”

In the world of self-defense, the concepts of self-defense and emergency assistance are of
crucial importance. But under what circumstances are we allowed to intervene to defend
ourselves? Where are the limits of self-defense? These questions are not only important for
security experts, but for every individual, because they directly affect our legal actions in crisis
situations.
Self-defense is when a person who is present and is being unlawfully attacked can defend
themselves. But what does that mean in concrete terms? Are you allowed to use weapons or
even kill an attacker? The proportionality of the defense plays a central role here. An excessive
reaction can have legal consequences. Therefore, it is crucial to know the legal provisions and
the respective paragraphs in the country in which you are staying.
Self-defence is a fundamental right that every human being has. In the case of an act of selfdefence,
the right to self-defence usually applies, which means that no
criminal consequences are to be expected for the defender. This principle
not only protects the individual, but also supports the entire legal system.
Understanding these legal principles is important for private security
officers and for all citizens. By knowing the laws and legal frameworks, we
are better able to protect ourselves and others in critical situations. Selfdefense
is not an abstract concept; it has real-world implications for our daily
lives and for the safety of our society.
“No penalty will be imposed in the face of selfdefense.
Self-defense is the inalienable right
of every human being and forms
a foundation of our legal system
that affords protection and defense.”

www.shaolin.ch
My latest book “The Iron
Mind” is all about Noah
Bentley, a young man who is
put to the test by life. Noah
has to overcome unexpected
hurdles and is confronted with
challenges that repeatedly
push his inner strength to its
limits. It begins with a series
of seemingly insignificant
setbacks that develop into a
complex test of his character.
He is faced with decisions that
could change his view of
himself and the world around
him forever.
Each twist and turn forces
Noah to look deeper into his
own inner self and fathom the
essence of his spirit -
something I had to experience
myself.
NEW BOOK!

Noah's struggle is not just
about physical strength, but also
about mental clarity, confidence
and discipline. His journey
reveals how important it is to
train not only the body but also
the mind in the art of Kung Fu.
With “The Iron Mind” I want to
give back to the world a piece of
my decades of experience as a
Kung Fu master and teacher. It
is not just an adventure, but an
inspirational guide on how to
break through inner boundaries
and find the strength to
overcome any challenge - in the
spirit of Kung Fu.
www.shaolin.ch

The Iron Mind Sifu Martin Sewer
NEW BOOK!

Ref.: • KeYSI-4
In this fourth work, Justo Dieguez, creator of the Keysi
Fighting Method, focuses on the area of grabs and traps.
We will see 10 technical sequences in which the grab,
the trap, are the objective, although it will be treated
as a consequence. At KEYSI we do not think
beforehand about performing a grab, it is
something that will be the
consequence of a certain situation.
In a risk situation, your senses
connect you with your
environment, you are pure
instinct, auditory, visual and
contact. This ability allows
you to focus your
concentration, recognize
your surroundings and
decide what actions to
take. It is you with your
mental capacity that makes
everything a weapon, a wall,
a corner, a step, etc. On the
street, in a real situation, the
rules don't work. With
technique you are not going to
achieve your goals. Technique is
that bridge that will get you to the
target, but it is not the target. In a risky
situation, instinctive responsiveness has
to prevail over technique. When you train with
this mentality you know that a millisecond can be
vital. You understand that you don't have the possibility
to extend the time, that you can't play on your
opponent's patience or ability to manipulate him. You
understand that you are at a complete disadvantage,
that your response must be explosive and that you have
to get out of there.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo
International, si provided and alone in the
formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the
like is however neves offered with a special
holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is
characteristed coverings by the hig quality in
pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the
DVD covering do not corespond to the
requirements specified above, it concerns illegal
pirat copy.
ORDERS:
Budo international.com

This second work on knife is primarily aimed at those
who already have an idea of the biomechanics of close
combat movement. Master Skogorev explains in detail
some techniques of knife work, such as the basic motor
function in defense and attack, the proper position to
move and react to the enemy's actions, ways of
grasping a knife (hidden and open) and the
quick and instantaneous response of
defense and attack. Everything is
performed according to the
principles based on the methods of
elimination of the opponent, such
as physical balance and
knowledge of the strike zones
on body and limbs. In the
section of knife against knife,
these options should not be
considered as options of
knife fighting, it is only a
variant of the use of one's
own weapon against the
opponent's knife, everything
is built exclusively in the
environment of self-defense.
Also shown is the work of
knife against stick, as a
method to obtain a real
representation of the impact
force and speed in a real action. All
this in an easy and simple way if you
have previously studied the previous
lessons. With thanks to all, D. Skogorev,
Systemа SV. 76 Min.
Ref.: • SKOGOReV-32
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in the formats
DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a special
holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in
pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the
requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
ORDERS:
Budo international.com

Japanese Honor beyond the Dojo
(By Shidoshi Jordan Augusto and Juiz Amador
Daniel)
As the ancients used to say: “the older the bull,
the harder the horn”.
I'm constantly approached by students or even
teachers of other arts who politely want to know
more about Japanese honor. More than
controversial, it's a subject that can be evaluated
and analyzed from many different perspectives,
depending on its central point.
In this first section, I'll look at Japanese thinking
from a constructive point of view, and then move
on to the reflective aspect, since it's important to
emphasize that it's from this point of view that the
actions of the Japanese people prevail. Although
folklore and the media exploit this concept
immeasurably, we can analyze coherently and
appropriately what Japanese honor is all about.
An ethnic group is usually characterized by a
people who developed from the same ancient
group; often neighbouring ethnic groups have the
same physical characteristics, but are called
differently because of their historical,
archaeological and anthropological roots.
According to most people's thinking, the only
ethnic group that exists in Japan is yellow.
However, this is not entirely true. Like reds, yellows
generally have little or no facial hair and very little
on their bodies. In addition, there are some
differences in skin tones between yellows from
Japan and those from the continent, for example.
On this basis, we can see that part of the Japanese
population (a very small part, by the way) has
different physical characteristics from the rest.
These individuals, who today number no more
than 30,000, are descendants of a people who
inhabited the island of Hokkaido from a very remote
time. It seems that the ethnic group is very similar
to those from the Caucasus and may come from
the Ural Mountains in Russia. This ethnic group is
known as the “Ainu”. The Ainu were incorporated
into the Japanese population when the Empire,
which developed in the southeast, began to occupy
the entire archipelago.
The vast majority of Japanese characteristics
were deeply influenced by Japanese relations with
China and Korea, where civilization (as we

understand it, i.e. with a central government
structure) was much older.
If we are going to take a deep and correct
approach, we should adopt the idea that one in
every 200 men alive is a descendant of the Mongol
conqueror Genghis Khan, known for his sexual
urges and for founding the largest empire in history
in the 13th century, according to a genetic study
released today.
If we travel a little way back in time and remember
our childhood, the heroes and all the good things
that filled our eyes, we'll find a pleasant adventure
that, with the passage of time and the arrival of
responsibility, has made us stop nurturing our
dreams which, in the adult phase of our lives, no
longer seem so magical.
Good times, when everything was romantic and
filled with the immeasurable wisdom of our
teachers, who always had a mythical and cinematic
air. However, as we come to understand and mature
a little more, we begin to see that they are normal
men who have nothing special about them.
With the arrival of the study of philosophy (to
which you only have access in more advanced
degrees - at least in my day that was the case), we
begin to see that there are no special men, but
rather men who perform special deeds.
With the arrival of the teaching profession, we
often come up against the inevitable personality of
the Human Being who, in one way or another, builds
our personality, be it good or bad. I have always
understood that in the life of any professional there
are always two major stages:
- Becoming competent.
- Showing the world your competence.
This second stage is somewhat complicated.
As children, we all aspire to achieve our goals,
which are revealed in the form of dreams and
desires, but only when we are older do we
understand that the secret to any achievement is
the simplest thing in the world: knowing what to do
with it.
Modernity has brought us so many interesting
things that we sometimes lose our way in the face
of evolution. Perhaps fear of our questions makes

us isolate ourselves, or even prefer to remain upright, closed off. “Confidence, like art, does not derive from having
the answer to everything, but from being open to all questions.”
Researching, training hard, creating ways to gain experience and making mistakes many, many times, is
undoubtedly still the best way to acquire a respected technique. A great American president once said that “we
must never allow ourselves to be applauded, because we will also have to allow ourselves to be booed”. Rising
and falling are part of the same coin, and there is no other way to improve ourselves.
“Words remain meaningless until they become habits.”
“Half of what you are is down to what you think of yourself.”
If we want to understand something, we have to look at its origins. According to historians, both the Chinese and
the Japanese have their origins in Mongolian culture.

According to my teachers, Japanese honor can be understood from two perspectives:
1) Giri ( 義 理 ) / Ninjō ( 人 情 )
- Giri ( 義 理 ) refers to the obligation to act in accordance with the dictates of society towards other people. It applies,
however, only to specific people with whom one has certain social relationships and is therefore a particular rather than a
universal norm.

- Ninjō ( 人 情 ) broadly refers to universal human feelings of love, affection, pity, sympathy, sadness and the like, which
one “naturally” feels towards others, such as in relationships between parents and children or between lovers. Giri
implies a moral force that compels members of society to engage in socially expected reciprocal activities, even when
their natural inclination (ninjō) might be to do otherwise.

2) Honne ( 本 音 ) and Tatemae ( 建 前 )
These are Japanese terms related to a person's external feelings and behavior. Honne ( 本 音 ) refers to a person's true
feelings and desires ( 本 音 , Hon'ne, “true sound”), Tatemae ( 建 前 ) contrastingly refers to the behavior and opinions
someone displays in public ( 建 前 , tatemae, “built on the front”, “façade”). This distinction began to be made in the postwar
era. A person's honne may be contrary to what is expected by society or what is required according to their position
and circumstances, and they are often kept hidden, except from their closest friends. Tatemae is what is expected by
society and required according to one's position and circumstances, and these may or may not correspond to one's
honne.
In many cases, tatemae leads to telling blatant lies to avoid exposing one's true inner feelings.

Causes
I
n Japanese culture, public failure and the disapproval of others are seen as particular sources of shame and reduced
social standing. This is why it is common to avoid direct confrontation or disagreement in most social contexts.
Traditionally, social norms dictate that one should try to minimize disagreement; failing to do so can be seen as insulting
or aggressive. For this reason, the Japanese tend to make great efforts to avoid conflict, especially within the context of
large groups. By upholding this social norm, one is socially protected from such transgressions by others.

Japan started to become a nation in the Yamato Era, which began at the end of the 3rd century AD. The ancestors of
the current Emperor began ruling a small number of states with the same rules, today these are the provinces of Nara
and Osaka.
Prince Shotoku ( 聖 徳 太 子 ) implemented Japan's first constitution in the year 604. This period also saw the introduction
of Buddhism from the Eurasian continent.
The Nara Era began in the early 8th century with the establishment of the first capital in Nara. The capital was moved
to Kyoto, beginning the Heian Era ( 平 安 時 代 ), when the influence of the noble families was predominant.
In the last two periods, the government had centered on the Emperor and was administered by the nobility. This was
the beginning of seven centuries of feudal rule under a succession of shoguns or military rulers.
After his triumph over the Taira ( 平 ), Minamoto-no-Yoritomo ( 源 頼 朝 ) established the headquarters of his shogunate
(military “Party” government) in Kamakura ( 鎌 倉 ), in the Kanto region ( 関 東 ) - close to Tokyo. This place became the
administrative and political capital and Yoritomo assumed certain administrative powers, which had previously been
exercised by the emperors in reaction to what he considered the decadence of Kyoto (where the imperial court was held).
Minamoto placed samurai as police and tax collectors throughout the country and in every district. He encouraged the
austerity, martial arts and discipline needed to restore effective control throughout the country, especially over rebellious
clans in the more distant provinces. During this period, the influence of the samurai on Japanese culture gave rise to the
introduction of elements of strength and practical order. This is when Bushido ( 武 士 道 ) (the samurai code of conduct) was
established and the first Harakiri ( 腹 切 り) took place.
Harakiri is one of the most intriguing and fascinating aspects of the samurai code of honor: it consists of the samurai's
obligation or duty to commit suicide in certain situations, or when he thinks he has lost his honor. It literally means
“stomach cutting”. This ritual suicide is also called seppuku ( 切 腹 ), which is a more elegant way of saying the same thing.

Various circumstances could lead a samurai to perform harakiri. Among them:
- As a punishment and a way of recovering his personal honor, once it had been lost in some attitude unworthy of the
name of his family and his ancestors;
- In order to avoid being taken prisoner on battlefields, as it was considered immense dishonor among samurai to
surrender to the adversary, so they preferred to give up their lives rather than surrender to enemy hands. Surrendering
wasn't a good choice either, as prisoners were almost always tortured and mistreated;
- In an act of pure loyalty, the samurai would even kill himself in order to draw the attention of his lord Daimiô ( 大 名 ) to
something wrong he was doing and warn him.
Some samurai also committed suicide when they saw their masters declining, or even when they died, as a way of
accompanying them forever and following the precept that a samurai should not serve more than one daimyo in his
lifetime.
The harakiri ritual was practiced as follows:
First, he would bathe, in order to purify his body and soul, and head to the place of execution, where he would sit
down in the oriental manner. He would then take his wakizashi ( 脇 差 ) short sword, or a sharp dagger, and drive the
weapon into the left side of his abdomen, cutting through the middle of his body and ending by pulling the blade
upwards. It was important for the cut to be in the abdomen, as it was considered the center of the body, emotions and
spirit for the Japanese people. In this way, the samurai was literally cutting into his “soul”.
It was also important for the samurai to write a death poem, which was a short poetic composition in which the warrior
recorded his last impressions of the world, some hidden wish or simply a formal farewell.
Death by evisceration was slow and painful, and could take hours. In spite of this, the samurai had to show absolute
control over himself and could not show any signs of pain or fear.

Next to the suicide stood a friend or relative, the kaishakunin ( 介 錯 人 ), who carried a sword. He was a kind of
assistant in the ritual; if the samurai showed that he could no longer bear the pain, the kaishakunin would give
him the coup de grace by cutting off his head.
It would be considered extremely disrespectful if the samurai's head rolled off in front of his relatives, who
were usually also watching the execution. Because of this, the kaishakunin had to hit the samurai's neck in
such a way as to leave his head hanging down, so that it wouldn't be beheaded. Thus, the kaishakunin had to
be an excellent swordsman, because he could not fail in his role. It was considered an honorable position.
It became customary among samurai families to teach their male children, on the eve of their entry into
adulthood, exactly how to perform seppuku.
The ritual was not always followed to the letter in every detail. In some extreme cases, such as on battlefields
where there was no time for such preparations, the samurai would give up his life simply by sticking the sword
in his belly.
The first harakiri recorded in history dates back to 1170, when Minamoto Tametomo ( 源 為 朝 ), an almost
legendary figure from the Minamoto clan, committed suicide after losing a battle against the also famous Taira
clan.
Ritual suicide had great significance for the Japanese people. By overcoming the fear of death, the samurai
also overcame this great enigma of humanity and stood out from the other classes existing at the time. It was
this same samurai spirit that led suicide pilots (kamikazes) to blow themselves up in their planes during the
Second World War.
Unfortunately, even today, suicide is seen by some Japanese as the best way to recover lost honor. This
explains the constant suicides of bankrupt businessmen, students who haven't achieved good results, etc.
The military class, the samurai, ruled Japan from the Kamakura era (late 12th century) until the end of the Edo
era in the second half of the 19th century.
We hear a lot about the Bushido and its fantastic parables of honor, which enchant Westerners.
Bushidô ( 武 士 道 ) means “Way of the Warrior” Bushi ( 武 士 ) = Warrior, military, samurai; and Dô ( 道 ) or Michi =
road, method, discipline), and is an (unwritten) code of honor followed by the samurai (who constituted a caste
from 1192 to 1867).
To become a true warrior, what path should you follow? Can martial practice become a path that leads to
ethics, to wisdom? Such questions have been raised since the warrior class became predominant in Japan in
the 12th century. The efforts of the bushi (warrior) were already developing on three levels:
- Technically: they had to practice the arts of war in order to achieve maximum skill;
- Morally: they had to show devotion to their service and limitless loyalty;
- Spiritually: they had to rise to impassivity and self-sacrifice in the face of death.
But it wasn't until the peace of the Edo period (1615 to 1868) that the term bushido was used to designate
the exaltation of martial virtues. As such, bushido was founded in the 17th century by Yamaga Sokō ( 山 鹿 素 行 ),
whose thinking was influenced by Confucian rationalism.
The Hagakure ( 葉 隠 ) (book hidden between the leaves, written by Yamamoto Tsunetomo ( 山 本 常 朝 ) in 1716)
gives bushidô a more radical, uncompromising version. The ruling class atoned for its domination: death was
present at the slightest deviation in behavior, easy death was the solution to all conflicts. In order to escape the
contradictions of martial peace, two lines were being outlined: exalting the values of subordination, order and
discipline, and interpreting the ethics of service in the sense of useful and fruitful work. Under the influence of
Confucianism, the warrior was transformed into a meticulous official, attentive to managing the interests
entrusted to his care. This bureaucratic ideology reigned in circles close to central power.
However, as one moved further away from Edo (today's Tokyo), as one descended from the talented and
disciplined spirits to the rougher milieus, where the warriors (sometimes simple ronin without a job) had nothing

but their lives to give, one encountered other sentiments: honor became rougher, a
redoubling of loyalty showed a contempt for fine talents that were simply useful, and
the spirit of war awakened companionship, recklessness, carelessness and
prodigality.
Yamamoto Tsunetomo, whose words are compiled in Hagakure, became, from his
corner of the province, the interpreter of the most radical aspects of bushido. His
gaze goes straight to extreme conclusions:
- Let the warrior be confused with death;
- Others, whether peasants or city dwellers, can get rich, work, make plans - but
the warrior lives without tomorrow, constantly striving to be everything he has to be.
Who lives as if he were already dead: he will have nothing more to fear;
- In an experience of the unity of opposites close to Zen, he will rise to freedom, to
serenity. His violence, which is extremely tense, will then be able to bear the same
fruit as “Buddhic non-violence”;
- Such a man does not allow himself to be enslaved by the ends he pursues, by
the duties he fulfills. Nothing he does binds him if he exercises himself in keeping his
will at the height of death.
It is understood that bushidô is death. Alternatively, you can only choose death.
That's it. You go ahead calmly. To say that to die after a defeat is to die foolishly is a
frivolous opinion of people from the capital. When you're faced with the choice
between life and death, you shouldn't consider the end: everyone prefers to live,
and that's undoubtedly what reason wants too; but to go on living without having
reached the desired end is cowardice.
We are thus on shaky ground. To die after a defeat is to die completely, it's
madness, but it's not dishonorable. This is the safe ground of bushido. When, every
morning and every night, one dies without ceasing, when one is everywhere and
always anchored in death, then, necessarily, one obtains the freedom of bushido
and, protected from any dishonor, one fulfills one's vocation.
Never has the relationship between the will and death been expressed with such
force and simplicity, freeing man from everything else, opening up the space of an
essential emptiness beyond his particular tasks and awakening him to the impossible
that he must recognize in himself. These sentiments, expressed at the beginning of
the 18th century, show that, without fear, without taint and without hope, the samurai
lives indifferent to the future, to projects, successes and profits. In his contempt for
reason, his intimacy with death is enough for him, as it is the only principle of all
virtue.
The privileges of the warrior aristocracy were abolished years later, but not their
values. During the Second World War, the reading of the Hagakure was encouraged.
Finally, it was to the revival of bushido, compromised by defeat, that the novelist
Yukio Mishima wanted to devote and sacrifice his life.
In fact, until 1853, Japan had no influence from Western human values.
“Personal dignity and honor cannot be protected by others, but must be
safeguarded by the individual in particular.”
(Mahatma Gandhi)

Ref.: • GARRO-4
"... Fifty canarians of the best swimmers to be found, each
equipped with a cabarco and a dragon tree tablachina".
In this way, indigenous Canary Islanders were used
as elite troops in the assault on Tenochtitlan,
Mexico, early 16th century. This new work of
the Federación de Lucha del Garrote
Canario, focuses on the traditional Tolete,
its characteristic grip with one hand in
the center, the guards (right, troquiada,
...) and the basic techniques
(correderas, vueltas, lazos,
molinetes...), as well as its
application in combat
combinations. In the traditional
Tolete canario the objective is to
break the armed hand of the
attacker and to finish off in a
forceful way with a definitive blow.
There are no controls or
reductions. The opposite happens
with its police application, where
the proportionality to the
aggression and even the aggressor's
own integrity is protected by law. The
military application does not have
these limitations, but its use as defense
by the military police does. The
characteristics of the Tactical Operational
Tolete for the operations of civilian and
military police forces favor these aspects as it is
an extremely versatile implement. Its dimensions
and central grip with effective wrist turns facilitate
rapid and repeated striking movements to the armed hand,
enabling both its cancellation and the consequent control
for an effective reduction, thus preserving the life of the
agent and eliminating the threat with the minimum of injury.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and alone in
the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is however neves
offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is characteristed
coverings by the hig quality in pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the
DVD covering do not corespond to the requirements specified above, it
concerns illegal pirat copy.
ORDERS:
Budo international.com

Grand Master Martin Sewer presents in this work a complete
course of Bak Hok Pai, the style of the white crane. The crane
is an elegant animal. With its white feathered robe, one
moment it stands like a ruler, guarding its territory. The next
moment, it flaps its wings and moves forward at lightning
speed. Although everyone has a clear picture of this
graceful creature in their mind, most find it
difficult to imagine this great bird in a fight.
How does a crane actually fight when
threatened? Like all animal styles, the
crane style was created by studying
the animal's strategies and tactics
during a fight and transferring
them to humans. This also gave
rise to the five animal styles that
have stood the test of time and
are taught in my school today:
Tiger, Crane, Snake, Leopard
and Dragon. Mastering all
these animal styles and the
elements that go with them
makes one a perfect human
being, say the legends of Kung
Fu, and it is naturally part of the
philosophy of a true warrior to
want to constantly improve and
achieve perfection. Although the
knowledge/skill of the five animals
belongs to advanced levels, four of
the mentioned styles are even
accessible to beginners in the form of
seminars. In them, eager students not only
get a deeper insight into our Hung Gar, but also
learn the first fighting techniques of the respective
animal style, and the most common comment is: "I
would not have thought that these techniques could be so
efficient...!".
Ref.: • seweR-6
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo
International, si provided and alone in the
formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the
like is however neves offered with a special
holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is
characteristed coverings by the hig quality in
pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the
DVD covering do not corespond to the
requirements specified above, it concerns illegal
pirat copy.
ORDERS:
Budo international.com

Ref.: • HUNG-4
Sifu Paolo Cangelosi presents a true pearl of the traditional
programs of the Hung Gar style, according to the lineage of
the Grand Master and hero Wong Fei Hung, considered the
father of modern Hung Gar. It is the form “Loon Ying - the
Shadow of the Dragon", extracted from the forms Ng Ying
Kune and Sap Ying Kune. The beginning of this set involves
the study of Dragon techniques, through a very
sophisticated and complex system based on
psychocorporal techniques, breathing,
dynamic tension of the tendon and
muscle fasciae, isotonic techniques
flanked by emissions of guttural
sounds that refer to the emotions
and moods of the individual, as
well as vibrations that
correspond to the energetic
tone of the vital organs. All
this has a great association
with the canons of
traditional Chinese
medicine and technically in
its practice can be seen
expressed in the form of
the dragon where we will
find a succession of
combinations of sounds
and movements that create
this energetic and emotional
dance in a chronological
order to free the human being
of his mental blockages, his
physical and psychological
weakness and reactivate the vital
functions of the organs and viscera
connected to each other. This is the
main essence of this wonderful exercise
that has taken its place in the most important
forms of the Hung Gar style. You will surely get the
most out of it by going on to study the "Tit Sin Kune"
form, where you will specialize and complete this cultural
technical panorama, treasure of the great studies carried out
and transmitted by the great master Tit Kiu San.
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo
International, si provided and alone in the
formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the
like is however neves offered with a special
holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is
characteristed coverings by the hig quality in
pressure and material. If this DVD and/or the
DVD covering do not corespond to the
requirements specified above, it concerns illegal
pirat copy.
ORDERS:
Budo international.com

Grandmaster Joe Moreira visits Zurich again
The Belt Graduation of the Vacirca Brothers, Franco and Demetrio in the
month of December 2024
The following is a tribute to a special personality: Grand Master Joe
Moreira paid another visit to the city of Zurich. On Sunday, December 1,
2024, the brothers Franco and Demetrio Vacirca were awarded the
degree. A true master of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Like no other BJJ expert, he
strives to spread his knowledge and vision through numerous trips
around the world.
His extraordinary commitment to the spread of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and
his down-to-earth attitude are equally appreciated by all his students. I
am not aware that he has never said or done anything negative, and
I have known him for many years. The first time was at a training
session at the Rickson Gracie school in Santa Monica, and later
again when I was in contact with Grandmaster Reylson Gracie
before he left for Las Vegas.
Grandmaster Reylson, son of former Grandmaster Carlos
Gracie, had recently moved from Rio de Janeiro to the United
States to establish his school in California. Subsequently,
Master Joe Moreira was invited to California by Grandmaster
Reylson to participate in leading the lessons.

From Judo to (Gracie) Jiu-Jitsu...
Master Joe had started Judo as a kid, but in 1967 he met his first Jiu-Jitsu teacher,
Grandmaster Reylson Gracie, in Rio de Janeiro. Three years later, because of his passion
for Judo competition, he studied with the renowned Judo master George Medhi, where
he continued to develop in this discipline. Today, he holds the 3rd Dan degree in Judo, of
which he is very proud.
However, it is former grandmaster Francisco Mansur who impresses him the most and
makes him what he is today. Mansur was one of the first red belt holders to be instructed
and graduated directly by former Grandmaster Hélio Gracie. In 1984, Master Joe was
awarded a black belt by Grandmaster Mansur, and two years later he was also awarded a
black belt in Judo.

For Master Joe, Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art or sport. In a conversation, however, he said that Judo had also
brought him numerous benefits. “At that time, there were only a limited number of Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, which is why I
also took part in Judo championships,” Master Joe told me. I then went on to take part in MMA competitions, although
again this was only in the USA.
“Jiu-Jitsu is the solution to a better life. It will give you the confidence to live in this world, in which the future is
undefined. It will not only improve your physical health, but also your mental well-being, and the ability to live in
tranquility with yourself. If these are your goals, you also have the capacity, and your life will be long and
prosperous”. –Master Joe Moreira, 9th degree red belt
The Judo model for the realization of Jiu-Jitsu competitions
Master Joe was one of the first Brazilians to travel to Japan to train in Judo and compete
with the best Judokas in the Kodokan. These pioneers also included masters Marcelo
Behring and Edson Carvalho. The then young Brazilian talents were viewed with great
skepticism by everyone, even the Japanese experts took them seriously, as they were
known to be outstanding “Newaza” (ground specialists) fighters.
Moreira reached such a high level that he won a silver medal at the World Judo
Championships. Back in his home country, he dedicated himself to spreading his Jiu-Jitsu
vision. In a short time, he became the most important organizer of Jiu-Jitsu competitions in
Brazil, including the very first “Copa Atlantico Sul”. Some of the most famous athletes of all

time took part in this tournament, including the famous Renzo
Gracie. All this happened before the IBJJF World
Championships were established.
When the International BJJ Federation (IBJJF for short)
was still being established, Master Joe was asked by
Master Carlos Gracie Junior, the founder of the IBJJF, to
support him in organizing and running the IBJJF
tournaments in the USA, which Moreira was also happy to
do as President of the US BJJ Federation. In 1996, when
the IBJJF organized the first World Championships in Rio de
Janeiro, it was again Master Joe who put together the first
American BJJ team and brought it to Brazil.
The first Black belt holders in the USA
In 1989, at the personal invitation of Grand Master Reylson
Gracie, Master Joe was invited to California, where he was
initially only supposed to work as a teacher, but things turned
out differently than planned. Master Reylson decided to seek
his fortune in Las Vegas, where I also met Master Reylson for
the first time. I had also heard from my teacher from São
Paulo at the time, Professor Waldomiro Perez Junior, who was
also visiting Zurich at the time, that Master Joe was now in
California.
His stay in the USA was characterized by numerous
challenges. But with his knowledge of Jiu-Jitsu, he knew, as he
always said, how to master the situation and make the best of
it. Master Joe told me that he was in a precarious situation
during his time in the USA and was about to return to Brazil.
However, friends and acquaintances advised him against it
and emphasized that he had an important task to fulfill in the
USA. This gave him the motivation to continue working
towards his vision. To achieve this goal, however, he was often
forced to take on other activities and work hard. But with
patience and perseverance, success eventually came.

He met a person who at the time was a blue belt under
Master Rickson Gracie at his schools in Santa Monica and
trained there regularly. He said that Master Joe should
introduce himself to Master Rickson on the mat. The
student asked Rickson for permission to introduce Moreira.
Rickson was generous and said: “Of course, Macaco, he
can come any time!”. Master Joe subsequently visited
Master Rickson's school in Santa Monica.
This was also my very first encounter with Master Joe on
Master Rickson's tatami. I still have vivid memories of this
encounter, as Rickson was very complimentary about
Master Joe's footwork from the guard position. Although I
still had little knowledge of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu at that time,
Rickson's explanations were immediately comprehensible
and clear to me. Jiu-Jitsu with Rickson, at least during the
time I spent there, was characterized by the top positions
(mount and 100-kilo position). Master Joe, on the other
hand, had a special technique for working out of the guard
position. He used his legs with remarkable consistency,
reminiscent of the fighting style of an octopus.

Following this meeting, Joe was asked by a group of interested parties
if he would also teach. Joe was open to the idea of teaching himself, and
after a short time he was able to pursue his vision of BJJ in a small
location. The price for a lesson back then was 20.00 US dollars, which
was paid in cash on site. That was good money, Master Joe told me.
Initially, two lessons were given per day, but the demand for more
lessons was greater than the supply. As a result of this development,
new top instructors established themselves under the direction of Master
Joe, which opened numerous new opportunities to present Brazilian Jiu-
Jitsu to a wide audience.

During this time, Grandmaster Rorion Gracie had published a video series entitled “Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Basics”, which led to
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gaining increasing interest. Some practitioners underwent serious training and completed training sessions
with the Machado brothers, Gracie or even Master Joe. However, most trainers in the martial arts sector showed no affinity
for Brazilian fighting techniques. However, a growing interest in grappling could be observed. This led to some trainers
attempting to acquire the necessary knowledge to quickly gain a certain level of expertise and generate a reasonable
income. As a result, grappling schools were established in a wide variety of places. At that time, the motto was:
“Less is more” and “...the one-eyed man is king among the blind!”, which is still valid today.
I lived in Hermosa Beach, a town located between Santa Monica and Redondo Beach. My main
training still was at the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Torrance. Due to the short distance between
my home and Redondo Beach, which I could cover on foot in just a few minutes, I attended
both private and group training sessions with Rigan and John Machado. I had only just met
the oldest of them, Carlos Machado, and had taken a few private lessons with him. However,
he left California to be in Texas alongside the movie star and karate master Chuck Norris.
There he founded his own Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school.
From the very beginning, Joe Moreira endeavored to convey his vision of Brazilian Jiu-
Jitsu, and his excellent reputation as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor opened numerous
opportunities. One of the most active black belt holders was Roy Harris, who, like the
author of these lines, had also come to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from the Jeet Kune Do (JKD) of
Sifu/Guro Dan Inosanto.

Although Master Joe spent much of his time as a teacher at this time, he
soon became a professional MMA athlete with two fights in two UFC events.
The relevance of this period in Master Joe's life cannot be determined with
certainty, but it can be assumed that it played a significant role. At the MMA
fights, he could now be seen fighting alongside MMA athletes such as Marco
Ruas and Renzo Gracie, so Master Royce Gracie was no longer the only
“Brazilian” in the Octagon.
This was followed by the release of Master Joe's complete video series,
which was produced and marketed by Panther Productions. As a result,
thousands of interested people had the opportunity to learn a variety of
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques. This was especially true for people like me
and my brother, who had to travel a considerable amount of time and budget
for private and group lessons.
“I am inviting the entire family to continue to train and evolve with me. Let’s
build our community to become better, stronger, and lastly to guarantee our
legacy for the future”. –Master Joe Moreira, 9th degree red belt

GM Joe's first and not last visit to Zurich
Master Joe visit was around 2014, when I just decided to get my own place after the loss of our Dojo, because the
location was request by the house owner for the building of his own new commercial space. The simple and relaxed way
in which Master Joe teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu also makes it possible for beginners to take part in one of his seminars.
His Jiu-Jitsu includes all aspects of (Gracie) Jiu-Jitsu, from standing, throwing and ground fighting. Self-defense is also
an important part of his teaching, as developed by former grandmaster Hélio Gracie.
I am often asked, especially by Judokas, whether Moreira's Jiu-Jitsu also contains elements of other martial arts,
especially Judo. I can answer this question with a “yes-no!”, as his Jiu-Jitsu is largely influenced by the training of his
master Francisco Mansur. However, as he states himself, Judo played an important role in his personal development. It is
strongly recommended that you obtain the instructional video series by former grandmaster Francisco Mansur from Budo
International. This includes not only a range of Jiu-Jitsu techniques, but also a comprehensive introduction to the
Mansur-Gracie teaching method. Although each grandmaster has made his own experiences and further developments,
the original concept of Grandmaster Hélio is recognizable in every technique.
In December of this year, we were visited again by Grandmaster Joe Moreira. In addition to participating in a training
session of the Vacirca Brothers Jiu-Jitsu team in Zurich, we graduated. It is an extraordinary honor for us to be graduated
by this outstanding person and grandmaster and to continue to promote excellent Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Europe with him
at our side. Our intention is to promote Jiu-Jitsu to help it become more widely recognized. Thank you, Grandmaster Joe
Moreira, for this honor and hopefully we will meet again very soon.
Keep it Real!

What comes after you have mastered the
fundamentals and intermediates? What is the next
step in your journey of learning Gracie Jiu-Jitsu?
The Vacirca Brothers' Gracie Concepts program
structure defines three main levels of
student development: GC Fundamentals,
GC Intermediate, and finally (in two
separate parts), GC Advanced
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. These levels
indicate different levels of
maturity for Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
students to eventually
achieve the Faixa Preta
(Black Belt). By this stage,
most Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
practitioners have spent
several years practicing
with us and can
demonstrate a high level of
experience, a deep
understanding of the Gracie
Concepts philosophy, and a
strong bond and passion to
train and share Jiu-Jitsu with
other training partners,
regardless of their belt level or
physical attributes. Welcome to the
GC Advanced Gracie Jiu-Jitsu program
to take you to the next level of flow.
Remember, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is much more than
just self-defense, it is a positive way of life. 47 min.
Ref.: • VACIR-9
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si provided and
alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in VCD, DivX or the like is
however neves offered with a special holograma sticker. Besides our
DVD is characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and
material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not corespond to the
requirements specified above, it concerns illegal pirat copy.
ORDERS:
Budo international.com

L'Okichitaw est un art martial indigène basé sur les méthodes de
combat des guerriers des nations indiennes Assiniboine et Cri des
Plaines. Dans cette compilation, le chef George J. Lépine nous initie à
l'utilisation de trois des armes les plus redoutées des guerriers indiens
: la massue Gunstock, le Tomahawk et le couteau. Le Gunstock
Warclub était l'une des armes d'impact les plus puissantes,
car en plus de frapper avec une force incroyable, il
pouvait aussi couper ou poignarder. En raison de sa
ressemblance avec un fusil, le Gunstock Warclub
était également utilisé pour faire croire à
l'ennemi qu'il était en possession d'armes à
feu. Le Tomahawk de combat était l'une
des armes les plus prisées des guerriers,
un instrument que l'histoire a inscrit
dans nos esprits comme étant agressif
et impitoyable. Le chef Lépine explique
en détail les concepts de base du
Tomahawk, l'entraînement, le lancer,
les 20 mouvements, les applications
de défense et d'attaque, et les
contre-techniques. Enfin, nous
découvrirons la méthode
traditionnelle d'entraînement au
maniement du couteau « Mokiman »,
seul, en profitant de ce que la nature
nous offre, les arbres, le sol, l'eau, ... afin
de développer une mécanique corporelle
optimale pour offrir le maximum d'impact à
l'adversaire. Avec ce travail, Okichitaw
continue d'honorer les traditions indigènes
pour s'assurer non seulement que ces
connaissances demeurent, mais aussi que nous
continuons à nous déplacer de la même manière que
nos ancêtres.
Ref.: • OKICHITAW-3
All DVDs, wichi is produced by Budo International, si
provided and alone in the formats DVD-5 or MPEG-2, in
VCD, DivX or the like is however neves offered with a
special holograma sticker. Besides our DVD is
characteristed coverings by the hig quality in pressure and
material. If this DVD and/or the DVD covering do not
corespond to the requirements specified above, it concerns
illegal pirat copy.