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Oleg Zhokh: The Ukrainian Mutant Arm Wrestler

We don’t usually talk about arm wrestlers here on the website, but the story of Oleg Zhokh is an incredible one. The arm wrestler with the Popeye like, left arm defied the odds to become the youngest arm wrestling champion ever. Here is a bio on the “Ukrainian Mutant “, Oleg Zhokh. Going over how […]

Here is a bio on the “Ukrainian Mutant “, Oleg Zhokh. Going over how he overcame a birth defect to become one of the biggest stars in the sport of arm wrestling.

Oleg Zhokh Growing Up

Oleg Zhokh grew up in the small Ukranian village of Ozhenyn. He was born with a genetic order called congenital hypertrophy. Meaning that his right arm was bigger than his left arm, which had little to no muscle.

You would think someone with this type of birth defect would not become an arm wrestling champion. But it’s funny how the determination and grit inside a person like Oleg Zhokh would defy the odds.

Oleg Zhokh’s Entry Into Arm Wrestling

Zhokh didn’t venture into arm wrestling until he started taking classes at a university in his late teens in 2009. He would enter his first arm wrestling tournament, where he would use his functioning right hand.

Oleg would lose his first arm wrestling tournament rather quickly and came to a decision. He wanted to begin using his left hand that he was told wouldn’t grow muscle or be as strong.

But Zhokh was up for the challenge and wanted to prove everyone wrong that said it wasn’t possible.

Oleg Zhokh Begins Training His Left Arm

The young Ukranian would immerse himself in the sport of arm wrestling. Training his left arm day and night for it to gain strength to be able to arm wrestle.

His training focused solely on his left arm to force it to grow muscle. He would even build his own piece of exercise equipment. A pulley system connected to cement weights he made to mimic the movement of an arm wrestling match.

When Oleg first started using the machine, he could barely lift one of the cement weights. But Oleg Zhokh would persevere and continue.

Oleg would prove everyone wrong, overcoming his conditioning and forcing his arm to build muscle. After a year of hard training, Oleg’s left arm was twice the size of his right arm.

He was now conditioned and ready to try his hand in arm wrestling one more time.

Oleg Zhokh Wins Throughout Ukraine

After focusing on strengthening his left arm and developing proper technique, Oleg Zhokh would start competing in local tournaments. He would surprise everyone by easily winning arm wrestling tournaments throughout the Ukraine.

Working his way up the ranks until he became the best arm wrestling in all of his country.

Oleg Zhokh’s First International Tournaments

Oleg made his international debut in 2010 at the Nemiroff Cup. Competing with his now giant left hand.

In the same year that he made his debut in international competition, Zhokh would win his first world championship at 18. Becoming the youngest arm wrestling world champion in the history of the sport.

Defying the odds and proving to everyone that said he could not accomplish anything in sports.

The Ukrainian Mutant’s Reign of Dominance

Throughout the 2010s, Oleg Zhokh would be one of the most dominant arm wrestlers in the history of the sport. Starting in the 60 kg weight class before moving up to the 70 kg weight class.

His dominance in the sport would earn him the nickname “The Ukrainian Mutant.” Of course he earned this nickname from his absurdly large left arm that was destroying his competition.

He would travel the world competing in various arm wrestling tournaments. Winning the world and European championships multiple times during this decade of dominance.

Oleg would even do well in open class divisions, where he beat arm wrestlers that were double his size. The Ukrainian Mutant was on top of the arm wrestling world and looked like he would never be stopped.

Tragedy Strikes Zhokh

In 2018, tragedy will strike. Oleg would be in a tragic car accident that would take the life of his father and his friend Andriy Pushkar. Another high level arm wrestling champion.

Zokh was left severely injured and distraught from the tragedy that had occured. Due to the accident, he severely fractured his left hand and had multiple internal injuries, as well as brain damage.

Nobody knew if the Ukrainian Mutant would ever compete in arm wrestling again after the accident.

Oleg Zhokh’s Comeback

Just like Oleg Zhokh had done all of his life, he would persevere and begin a long road to recovery. He would go through intense rehab for the next three years.

Not only to rehab his arm, but also to be able to do normal functions once again. Then in 2001, Oleg would shock the world.

He would make his comeback to arm wrestling in 2021 at that year’s world championship event. Zhokh would compete a class up in the 80kg division, but it was like he never left the sport.

It was a vintage Ukrainian Mutant performance as Zhokh would clear out his division. Becoming a world champion for the ninth time in his career.

One of the Greatest Ever

The Ukrainian Mutant Oleg Zhokh will go down as one of the greatest arm wrestlers in the history of the sport. He proved everyone that said he couldn’t do it wrong to become a nine time world champion in arm wrestling.

Zhokh’s story is one of the most inspirational in the history of sports and proved that you can’t teach heart. Oleg is already considered one of the best arm wrestlers ever and will continue to compete and add to his legacy. Possibly becoming a 10 time world champion or even more if he decides to continue competing.

Georgian Wrestling – The Style Of Chidaoba

The small Eurasian country of Georgia has been a hotbed for producing some of the best wrestlers in the world. Georgian wrestling is an incredibly tough sport and we’re going to tell you a little about their style called Chidaoba wrestling. Here is a quick history lesson on Georgian wrestling and their style of wrestling […]

Here is a quick history lesson on Georgian wrestling and their style of wrestling known as Chidaoba. Going through when this style of Georgian wrestling was developed and the format of the matches.

We’ll also list of the best wrestlers that Georgia has ever produced, who won Olympic medals.

The History of Georgian Wrestling

For centuries, the people of Georgia have been wrestlers. They have been wrestling for thousands of years ever since there were knights in the land.

The type of wrestling that was developed in Georgia is known as Chidaoba.

What is Chidaoba?

Chidaoba is a blend of jacket wrestling and folk wrestling that dates back to the 9th century. Georgian knights would wrestle one another as a game and to develop their grappling skills.

This style of wrestling became ingrained into the culture of the region. For soldiers in the upper class, it was mandatory for them to go through training in this style of Georgian wrestling.

The name Chidaoba translates to meaning a struggle between a man and a beast. Many that train in Chidaoba jackets today are descendants of the knights that learned the style centuries ago.

It is part of the culture of Georgia and something that the people take pride in. Along with other forms of wrestling, weightlifting, and of course Judo.

The Match Format of Chidaoba Georgian Wrestling

Chidaoba Georgian wrestling generally takes place in an outdoor arena called a “krug.” Matches will either take place on grass, sand, or sawdust.

The match area is encircled by a group of spectators with some members that play a vital role in the match. Particularly the presence of musicians that play Chidaoba music as the match goes on.

There is actually reserved seating just for the musicians during the wrestling matches. They play traditional Georgian instruments like dolis(drums), zurnas(flutes), and chibonis (flutes).

The mochidave or wrestlers wrestle as the musicians play. They play at the intensity of the match. As the intensity of the match increases, so does the speed at which the musicians play. Creating an exciting atmosphere during the festivities.

The Rules of Chidaoba Wrestling

A Chidaoba match lasts for five minutes, where the wrestlers try to throw their opponents to their backs. Their opponents must land flat on their back in order to win the match. This is similar to an ippon in Judo.

Chidaoba wrestlers are permitted to use any part of the jacket or belt to throw their opponent. Grabbing the pants of an opponent is not permitted.

Mochidaves can do anything from trips, foot sweeps, to hip throws. Just as long as the techniques are done above the waste without grabbing below their opponent’s waist.

During the throws, wrestlers are not allowed to drop to their knees or turn their backs during techniques. Also striking or joint manipulation of any kind is strictly forbidden in Chidaoba.

When there is no winner in the five minute period, a half victory will be awarded to the better wrestler. The competitor, who showed better control and nearly completed their throws.

Chidaoba Wrestling Uniform

In Chidaoba, the uniform consists of a sleeveless jacket and pants(or shorts) with no shoes worn. The jacket in Chidaoba is referred to as a “chokha.”

Originally, the chokha was a long sleeve jacket throughout the history of the wrestling style. But after the 19th century, the sleeves of the chokha began being made shorter. By the 20th century, the chokha was a completely sleeveless jacket.

These sleeveless jackets would lead to the wrestlers developing their own unique grips called “mochidave.” Unique grips to Chidaoba that are used in throwing techniques.

A belt is also worn around the jacket, which is grabbed much like in Judo.

Georgian Wrestling Training

Georgian wrestling training is known for being incredibly hard. Since they were part of the Soviet Union, they took many of the principles to their training. Principle that has produced countless world champions in both countries.

They’re conditioning consists of everything from running, kettlebell circuits, pull-ups, and of course hours of technical training.

Chidaoaba’s Influence on Sambo and Judo

When Sambo was being developed, Chidaoba played a pivotal role in the Russian martial art’s creation. The creators of Sambo mixed the wrestling of Chidaoba along with the throws of Judo and the striking of boxing/kickboxing.

Many of the techniques of Chidaoba also translate very well into the art of Judo. Which is why Georgia produces some of the best Judokas along with their quality wrestlers.

Chidaoba vs. Judo

The Georgian wrestling style of Chidaoba meshes really well with Judo, but there are some differences. Here are the main similarities and differences between Chidaoba and Judo.

Similar Techniques

Many of the same throws and footsweeps are used in both styles of grappling. Everything from the o goshi, osoto gari, and uchi mata are all used within Chidaoba, but have different names.

No Takedowns Below The Hips

Judo has many takedowns below the hips like double leg takedowns, but are now not permitted in competitions. Now, just like with Chidaoba, no takedowns where you grab the legs are permitted in Judo competitions.

Finishing Throws

In Judo, you are permitted to turn your back to your opponent or drop to your knees. As previously mentioned in the rules of Chidaoba, these actions are not allowed in Chidaoba matches.

Submissions

Arm locks and chokes are permitted once the fight hits the ground in Judo. No submissions of any kind are allowed in Chidaoba.

Match Formats

Matches in both grappling styles consist of a five minute round. Although at the end of regulation in Judo, it goes to overtime where the golden score is enforced. Different from Chidaoba, where a half winner is awarded the match.

Georgian Wrestling Today

Today, the country of Georgia is still producing some of the best wrestlers in the world. Whether it’s Greco Roman, freestyle, or the Georgian wrestling style of Chidaoba.

Wrestling is in the blood of the Georgian people and they will continue to produce elite level wrestlers into the future.

Chidaoba Techniques

To give you more of an insight into this style of Georgian wrestling, we’re going to break down some Chidaoba techniques.

Georgian Wrestling Olympic Champions

Georgian wrestling is known for its illustrious history of producing the world’s best wrestlers. Here are some of the Olympians that Georgia has produced.

David Tsimakurdze

David Tsimakurdze is a Georgian wrestling legend that won the region’s very first Olympic medal. He won gold in freestyle wrestling at the 1952 Olympic games held in Helsinki, Finland. Tsimakurdze is still revered as a hero in Georgia to this day.

Levan Tediashvili

Levan Tediashvili was born in the small Georgian town of Sagarejo and is another legend in Georgian wrestling. Tediashvili would win gold medals at the ‘72 and ‘76 Olympic Games. He was also a 4 time world champion during the 1970s.

Leri Khabelovi

Leri Khabelovi was a two-time Olympian that won both a gold and silver medal. Winning silver in the 1988 Olympics in South Korea and then winning gold at the 1992 Games in Barcelona. Khabelovi was also a 5 time world champion in freestyle wrestling during the 1980s.

Vladimer Khinchegashvili

Valdimer Khinchegashvili is one of the best modern Georgian wrestlers. He won a gold medal at the 2016 Olympics and a silver medal at the 2012 Olympics. Khinchegashvili also won a world championship in freestyle wrestling in 2015.

The Half Nelson – Effective Grappling Technique

For those that have competed in wrestling, they are well aware of the power of the half nelson. This effective technique has translated very well to Jiu Jitsu, where it’s to advance to dominant positions and set up submissions. Let’s dive in and tell you everything you need to know about the half nelson. We’ll […]

Let’s dive in and tell you everything you need to know about the half nelson. We’ll go over how the technique works and important details you need to know for successfully using the move.

Who Invented The Half Nelson?

The half nelson has been an effective technique that has been used in wrestling for thousands of years. It has primarily been used as a way to control an opponent.

Hooking their arm and controlling their head to either force them to their back or just control them. The effectiveness has led to all forms of grappling like BJJ and MMA to adopt the technique.

It has evolved from just a controlling position in wrestling to a more diverse technique in the other forms of grappling.

Fighters now use the half nelson to do everything from advance to better positions, set up submissions, or land strikes.

How Does The Half Nelson Work?

The half nelson gives you control over your opponent by controlling their head and arm. In wrestling, it is predominantly used to force an opponent to their back to gain points and set up a pin.

Jiu Jitsu and MMA have adopted the move to do a wide variety of different tactics. You can use the move to do everything from set up submissions, back takes, advance to mount, or just strikes.

It is an incredibly effective move that all grapplers within BJJ, wrestling, and MMA learn to improve their ground games. They all use it, because it’s proven to be effective.

The Traditional Half Nelson

The traditional half nelson in wrestling is used to turn your opponent to their back and set up a pin. It starts when you already have your opponent flattened out on their stomach.

To start the half nelson, you gain wrist control on their far arm by reaching under their arm. Grab their wrist and pull it into their chest.

You then reach under their near arm to grab your half nelson hold. When you grab the half nelson, be sure to grab the back of their head. Grabbing the back of their head gives you better control.

Next, lift your chest up, and drive diagonally as you force your opponent to roll their head under their shoulder. Making them do a forward roll to their back.

In wrestling, you can now set up your pin or take the mount if you’re doing BJJ training.

Power Half Nelson

The power half nelson is a stronger version of the standard half nelson that’s done a variety of ways. This variation starts out where you have your opponent flattened out and a figure four on their leg.

Base your hand on the back of their head and reach under their arm with your other hand. Grabbing the blade of your opponent’s head and bringing it to their head.

Next, you can either lock in the half nelson by grabbing your wrist or your opponent’s wrist. It makes no difference as the control is the same.

To turn your opponent to their back, undo your figure four, step toward their head, and keep turning your arm. Do it slowly to keep pressure on their neck/back as they go to their back.

Gordon Ryan’s Half Nelson For Back Control

In Jiu Jitsu, Gordon Ryan has been using the half nelson in his back attack system for years. It creates optimal control over his opponent’s to set up submissions and make their lives miserable.

Ryan uses it in a variety of ways to make his opponents turn and set up his rear naked choke.

Half Nelson On Turtles Opponent

When Gordon is on his opponent’s back, he is able to make them turn on his side by using a half nelson. He switches from the traditional seatbelt grip, bringing his top arm behind his opponent’s head, and Gable grips his hands together.

The blade of his forearm presses into the back of his opponent’s neck to apply pressure as he makes them turn. It’s normal for an opponent to try to block the turn by basing out with their hand.

When they do this, Ryan anchors his back foot to the mat and forces them to turn. Once he addressed this counter, Gordon uses his half nelson to force his opponent’s head down and gets his hooks.

Half Nelson To Mount

Ryan has also been shown to use the technique to take the mount position. The use of this technique works similar to how it’s traditionally used in wrestling.

You have your opponent’s back with them flattened out, but you want to take mount. Lock on the half nelson to force them to turn and get the mount.

Another Back Attack Variation

There’s a nice back take that involves using the half nelson to open your opponent up when they’re turtled. Start by pulling your opponent off-base towards you on their side.

When they go to recover, hook your near leg onto their near leg to establish a point of control. Next, you’re going to go into lock on your half nelson on their far arm.

Hook one hand under their far arm and frame your arm on the back of their head. You can either lock your hands together with a Gable grip or S-grip.

As you lock in your half nelson, take your free foot and hook the inside of your opponent’s far foot. Use the half nelson grip along with the foot hook to pull your opponent into your back mount.

Half Nelson To Defend Guard Recovery

A lot of BJJ grapplers have begun using a pseudo form of the half nelson to counter their opponents’ recovering guard. From the side control, your opponent tries the traditional escape by turning in and doing an elbow escape.

When they turn in, you’re going to take semi half nelson on their near arm. Your arm overhooks your opponent’s arm and your other hand bases on the back of their head.

Use this semi half nelson to push your opponent’s head in as you transition around their head. Going to the other side control and controlling them from there.

Hammerlock Half Nelson

The half nelson can also be used as a submission, which in catch wrestling they call a hammerlock half nelson. A mix of the two techniques with numerous variations that are taught.

When your opponent is in turtle, hold their hip with one arm and take wrist control on their near arm. Next, flatten them out by driving forward as you push your forehead into their elbow.

Once they fall to their stomach, slide your wrist control up and grab your opponent’s tricep. From there, keep your weight down as you slide across their back to the other side of their body.

Take your half nelson on that side to establish full control over your opponent. Drive forward, lock your hands, together, and keep driving forward to put immense pressure on your opponent’s arms and neck.

Important Tips To Remember

A half nelson provides optimal control over your opponent, no matter what form of grappling you’re doing. Here are important tips and details to remember.

Palm The Head: Always palm the back of your opponent’s head when going for a half nelson. It provides better control than the back of the neck.
2 On 1 Grip: A two on one grip is always the best option when attempting a half nelson.
Turn Opponent’s Head In: When you do a half nelson technique, always try to force your opponent to turn their head inward. This makes them completely prone and open to any attacks you want to do.
Drive Diagonally: Always drive at an angle when finishing the half nelson. It puts pressure on their neck and forces them to turn to their back.

Watch | Danil Sharov suffers skull fracture in kickboxing debut from a knee strike

$Danil Sharov suffers skull fracture$ An unfortunate end to any fight is a fighter experiencing a skull fracture. In his professional debut, Russian kickboxer Danil Sharov suffered a fractured skull when he absorbed a knee from Danil Kirikov at WAKO’s FKR PRO 1 in a lightweight clash. The knee was landed during a clinch and visibly caused damage to the […]

$Danil Sharov suffers skull fracture$

An unfortunate end to any fight is a fighter experiencing a skull fracture. In his professional debut, Russian kickboxer Danil Sharov suffered a fractured skull when he absorbed a knee from Danil Kirikov at WAKO’s FKR PRO 1 in a lightweight clash.

The knee was landed during a clinch and visibly caused damage to the forehead of Sharov, slightly up and between his eyes. His opponent, Kirikov, was quick to point out the injury to the referee. The fight nearly continued as Danil Sharov was game, and remained in his fight stance. The doctor inspected the visible fracture by putting his thumb in it and the fight was quickly called off.

See below for the video:

Horrific injury at a kickboxing event in Russia (headlined by Vladimir Mineev) 4 days ago. Knee to the head broke one of the fighters skull à la MVP vs Evangelista Santos. pic.twitter.com/k5c28PGvSz

— Fedor’s nephew (@FdrNphw) November 22, 2022

It was a lightweight kickboxing fight with both men making their debut. This was an undercard bout in Moscow, Russia on WAKO’s FKR PRO 1.

Reactions to Danil Sharov’s skull fracture

On Twitter, fans were very impressed with the fortitude of Danil Sharov. User ‘Fedor’s Nephew’ commented:

“PS: toughness of this kid is insane. Acted like he got a cut or something.”

Twitter user ‘OkayDFS’ was happy that Kirikov refused to continue knowing his opponent was injured. This user said:

“Yeah another blow would’ve been bad. Opponent knew it too it seemed. I wonder if his skull will heal fully.”

‘Vinny_Napalm’ added that many fighters, Danil Sharov included, are too tough for their own safety. He added:

“Jesus what a great referee. That was hard to notice and that kid is too damn tough for his own good. Would have needed up very bad if it continued.”

Many combat sports fans have also pointed out the similarity of this situation to Michael ‘Venom’ Page fracturing the skull of Evangelista ‘Cyborg’ Santos at Bellator 158. After this gruesome injury, took some time to rest and recover. The Brazilian fighter has not returned to action since this fight in 2016.

In an interview with MMA Junkie, ‘Cyborg’ explained:

“Right after, I was vocal about my wishes to get back to fighting as soon as possible, but it’s better to act with good sense. I took time to think about it, and I want to recover. That’s what I’m doing in Brazil. I’m living with my daughter. I’m teaching fighters here at Chute Boxe in Curitiba, at our professional branch. It’s a great opportunity to share my knowledge with a new generation of fighters, both amateur and professional. Chute Boxe is a true stable of champions, and when one of us stops, we teach what we’ve learned. And that’s what I’m doing now.”

Kenpo Karate – Everything You Need To Know

Kenpo Karate is one of the most effective offshoots of Karate that has been developed. Known for its practicality and adaptability to be used in self-defense Here is everything you need to know about Kenpo Karate. Going over all of the forms of Kenpo Karate, their history, the training, and the rules of Kenpo Karate […]

Kenpo Karate is one of the most effective offshoots of Karate that has been developed. Known for its practicality and adaptability to be used in self-defense

Here is everything you need to know about Kenpo Karate. Going over all of the forms of Kenpo Karate, their history, the training, and the rules of Kenpo Karate competitions.

The History

The martial art of Kenpo Karate is the merging of two different martial arts into one. Japanese martial artists took principles from different Chinese martial arts and merged them together to create Kenpo Karate.

Kenpo means fist law or fist method. The story of Kenpo Karate starts with an American martial artist named James Mitose. Master Mitose grew up in Japan and spent his childhood learning Yoshida Kenpo.

After mastering this style of Kenpo, he came to the US and settled in Hawaii. Once Mitose returned, he would open a martial arts school and call his style Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu.

Mitose would retire and give the school to two of his top students, Thomas Young and William Kwai Sun Chow. Sun Chow is considered by many to be the true founder of Kenpo Karate.

He would teach Ed Parker, who would get credit for creating, spreading, and popularizing Kenpo Karate.

Ed Parker

Ed Parker was a Hawaiian native that grew up practicing boxing. In college, he served in the Coast Guard and was stationed in Hawaii.

While serving, he was introduced to Chow and began learning Kenpo Karate under him for six years. After this time, Parker returned to Brigham Young University in Utah, where he began teaching.

This was actually met with controversy because his instructor Chow claims that he never awarded Parker his black belt. Parker claims he was awarded his black belt in 1953, but Chow claimed he only made it to purple belt.

Either way, Parker would popularize Kenpo Karate and spread it throughout the US mainland. He opened his first Kenpo Karate school in Provo, Utah, in 1954. Shortly after, Parker opened his second school in Pasadena, California, in 1956.

He would begin altering the techniques that he learned while training under Chow. Originally, the movements of Kenpo Karate were more brisk and linear, but Parker added more circular movements. Adopting elements from Chinese martial arts and roundhouse kicks.

Along with popularizing Kenpo Karate, Parker would make a name for himself in Hollywood. Becoming Elvis Pressley’s bodyguard, teaching stuntmen, and introducing Bruce Lee at the International Karate Championship.

Other Styles Of Kenpo

There are various forms of Kenpo that are practiced throughout the world. To separate them from American Kenpo, here are descriptions of the most practiced Kenpo styles.

Okinawa-Kenpo

Okinawa-Kenpo is a variation that was developed a little after Kenpo Karate. It was developed by Shigeru Nakamura in 1960 and is a mix of Karate, Kenpo, and Ti.

Nakamura wanted to create a style that was closer to the Okinawan style of Karate. He felt too many styles were branching off of Karate and wanted to create a unified school.

Master Shigeru was able to found the Okinawa Kobudo Kyokai before he died, but it dissolved after his passing. Okinawa-Kenpo is still practiced today, but the technique has changed along with many off-shoots formed.

Kosho-Kyo Kenpo

Koso-Kyo Kenpo may arguably be one of the very first styles of Kenpo that were developed. It is said that this martial art was formed during the 15th century, well before even Karate was created.

It combines the classic JuJutsu, Kyodu, and Shaolin Chaun Fa that’s taught under the Rinzai Zen philosophy. Numerous other methods were added to the style in its 600 years of existence.

This was the style that James Mitose learned while living in Japan and refined once he moved back to Karate. If Kosho-Kyo Kenpo hadn’t existed first, there would be no Kenpo Karate.

Shorinji Kempo

Shorinji Kempo was a Kempo style developed by Doshin So in the early 1940s. This style of Kempo added to the earlier teaching by adding mental preparation and Japanese Zen Buddhism.

The fighting side of Shorinji Kempo is generally taught separately from the pseudo-religious side and then brought together.

Today, there are many variations of this style taught, but one thing separates the styles. Styles of Shorinji Kempo that are developed in Japan can be called “doing” temples, while elsewhere, they’re called dojos.

Kajukenbo

Kajukenbo was created in Hawaii at the exact same time as when Kenpo Karate was developed and coined. Another student of William Chow named Adriano Emperado would go on to create Kajukenbo.

Emperado would credit the styles of five different martial arts masters that inspired him to create his martial art. Chow, Peter Choo, Frank Ordonez, Joe Holck, and Clarence Chang.

Along with the techniques, Emperado also took parts of each name to create the name Kajukenbo.

Ka: Karate
Ju: JuJutsu/Judo
Ken: Kenpo
Bo: Boxing

One of the most famous practitioners of Kajukenbo is MMA legend Chuck “The Iceman: Liddell. After his head tattoo, the other tattoo that Liddell is known for is the Kempo tattoo on his arm.

The Techniques Of Kenpo Karate

Ed Parker’s techniques are much different than what his teacher Chow learned from James Mitose. What Mitose and Chow taught was more Karate based on linear movements that Karate was founded upon.

Ed Parker’s style of Kenpo Karate was more popularized Kenpo Karate altered the style. Adding more circular movements from different Chinese martial arts and more types of kicks.

Some of the techniques that are taught include:

Kicks
Open Hand Strikes
Punches
Throwing Techniques
Joint Locks
Finger Strikes

Are Weapons Used In Kenpo Karate?

The use of small weapons is also practiced within Kenpo Karate. Some of the weapons that are practiced within Kenpo Karate are short staffs, knives, and clubs.

One special knife style practiced within Ed Parker’s Kenpo Karate is Kenpo Long Form 7. Techniques developed used a specialty knife that Parker had made for his style.

Kenpo Karate Belt System

Ed Parker’s style of Kenpo Karate has 18 different belts that students go through within the system. The eighteen belts are separated into six different belt groups.

Yellow Belts
Orange Belts
Purple Belts
Green Belt
Brown Belt
Black Belt

Is Kenpo A Form Of Karate?

Even though Kenpo Karate has Karate in the name, many of the techniques taught in its modern form are not Karate. What James Mitose and William Chow taught is more aligned with Karate than what Ed Parker developed later on.

Mitose would call his style Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu but never used the word Karate when describing his style. If Kenpo Karate

Is The Origin Of Kenpo Chinese Or Japanese?

A hotly debated topic of Kenpo styles is whether they’re a Chinese or Japanese martial art. The truth is that styles of Kenpo, like Kenpo Karate are both Chinese and Japanese martial arts.

These styles of Kenpo took styles from both Chinese and Japanese martial arts. Some styles of Kenpo are closer aligned to Karate, while others look more like styles of Kung Fu.

Kenpo vs. Kempo

It’s common to see the words Kenpo or Kempo used for different martial arts styles. Some wonder if there is a difference between Kenpo and Kempo; honestly, there isn’t one.

Both words come from the same Kanji word that numerous martial arts use. The difference in spelling is due to attempts of transliteration that resulted in the different spelling.

Is Kenpo Karate An Effective Martial Art?

From the teachings, it would seem that Kenpo Karate is a rather effective martial art. Within the martial art, striking techniques are taught, as well as grappling and weapons training.

Which Martial Arts Are In The Olympics?

Every four years, the Olympics put on the biggest spectacle in sports. Tens of millions from around the globe watch the games, and some of the most popular is martial arts events. Do you know which martial arts are in the Olympics? There are quite a few, and below we’ve listed all the martial arts […]

Every four years, the Olympics put on the biggest spectacle in sports. Tens of millions from around the globe watch the games, and some of the most popular is martial arts events.

Do you know which martial arts are in the Olympics? There are quite a few, and below we’ve listed all the martial arts that are Olympic sports. Read about all the martial arts that are Olympic events and their histories below.

Which Martial Arts Are In The Olympics?

As of now, six martial arts are official sports in the Olympics. The martial arts that are Olympic sports are as follows.

Greco Roman Wrestling
Freestyle Wrestling
Boxing
Judo
Taekwondo
Karate

(Disclaimer) We understand that many don’t consider wrestling or boxing martial arts. However, they do play a vital part in mixed martial arts and are a form of self-defense. For those reasons, we considered both boxing and wrestling martial arts.

Greco Roman Wrestling

Greco-Roman wrestling was one of the first official Olympic sports when the Olympics were reintroduced. This form of wrestling debuted in the first Olympic Games in 1896.

When the first Olympic event was being organized, Greco-Roman wrestling was an easy choice for being included. The original Olympics had wrestling events, and at the time, Greco-Roman wrestling was the most popular style of wrestling.

In the 100+ years in the Olympics, there have been numerous Olympic champions in Greco-Roman wrestling. Without this form of wrestling first being introduced, the other martial arts in the Olympics may have not gotten a chance.

The Rules Of Olympic Greco-Roman Wrestling

2 Periods(3 Minutes Each)
Uniforms: Wrestling Singlets and Shoes
Only Takedowns Above The Waist Are Permitted
Methods Of Victory: Pin, Points, or DQ
8 Point Lead = Automatic Win
Takedowns: 2-5 Points
Reversal: 1 Point
Exposure: 2-3 Points
Penalties: 1-2 Points
Out Of Bounds: 1 Point

Freestyle Wrestling

Freestyle wrestling was the second form of wrestling accepted as an Olympic sport after Greco-Roman wrestling. The story behind freestyle wrestling becoming an Olympic sport is an interesting one.

Initially, catch wrestling was supposed to be the second form of wrestling to become an Olympic sport. Unfortunately for catch wrestling, the Olympic committee canceled the event at the last minute.

The cancellation was due to submissions being permitted in catch wrestling, and the committee did not want injuries from submissions. Instead, they would adopt freestyle wrestling, which was a newer form of wrestling that was being practiced in the United States.

This form of wrestling would debut in the Olympics in 1904, where only American wrestlers participated. As time went on, freestyle wrestling caught on internationally and even surpassed Greco-Roman wrestling’s popularity.

Today, freestyle wrestling is the world’s most practiced form of wrestling.

The Rules Of Olympic Freestyle Wrestling

The rules of freestyle wrestling in the Olympics are very similar to Greco-Roman style wrestling. The big difference is that takedowns and throws above the waist are permitted in freestyle wrestling.

Boxing

During the late 1800s, the sport of boxing began to become more popular throughout the world. Much in part thanks to the introduction of the Queensberry Rules that organizers adopted.

Since an early form of pugilism was in the ancient Olympics, it was an obvious choice to be included. Boxing became an official Olympic sport in 1904, the same year freestyle wrestling made its debut.

Since its debut in the Olympics, boxing has undergone various changes. Everything from the rule sets, adding different weight classes, adding headgear, and then removing headgear.

The Rules Of Olympic Boxing

3 Rounds(3 Minutes Each)
Ways To Win: KO/TKO, Decision, Or DQ(No Draws)
Only Punches Above The Waist
Punches Only Permitted To Front Of Opponent’s Body

Judo

The grappling art of Judo became an official Olympic sport in 1964. The creator of Judo, Grandmaster Jigoro Kano, was actually on the original Olympic Committee.

He was the first Asian committee member and held the position until his death in 1938. Kano’s martial art would debut in the Olympics in 1964 but was excluded from the 1968 games.

In 1972, Judo returned as an Olympic sport and has kept its status as an official event for 50 years. As time went on, the Olympics added more weight classes and women’s divisions in 1992.

Judo is still one of the most popular events viewed by spectators and one of the biggest championships within the sport.

The Rules Of Olympic Judo

Match Length: 5 Minutes(Men) 4 Minutes(Women)
Ways To Win: Ippon, 2 Waza Aris, Hansoku Penalty, 4 Shido Penalties
Golden Score: Any point landed in during the overtime round that is an automatic win.

Taekwondo

Taekwondo made its debut as a demo event at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. After twelve years of bureaucracy, Taekwondo was made an official Olympic sport in 2000.

An astounding feat for the Korean martial art, which had officially formed around 40 years beforehand. In that time, Taekwondo became internationally practiced by over 70 million practitioners.

The Rules Of Olympic Taekwondo

3 Rounds(2 Minutes Each)
Uniforms: Headgear, Chest Protector, TKD Gloves, Shin Guards, Foot Guards
Punches: 1 Point
Kicks To The Body: 2 Points
Head Kicks: 3 Points
Turn Kicks To The Head: 5 Points
Minor Penalties: 1 Point
Ways To Win: TKO, Points 20 Points Lead
Gold Point: The first point scored during sudden death wins the match

Karate

Karate is the latest martial art to receive the honor of becoming an official Olympic sport. It was added to the 2020 Olympic Games that were to be held in Japan. The birth country of the martial art.

Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, the Tokyo Olympics were postponed for over a year. In 2021, Karate would be one of the four new sports that would debut in the Tokyo Olympics.

It was met with positive reviews and will return in 2024 for the Olympics Games in Paris, France.

The Rules Of Olympic Karate

1 Round Of 3 Minutes
Uniform: Karate Gi, Headgear, Shin Guards, Chest Protector, Shin Guards, Foot Guards
Yuko: 1 Point Body Punches
Waza-Ari: 2 Point Body Kicks
Ippon: 3 Point Head Kicks(Also any technique where an opponent falls)
Ways To Win: KO/TKO, Points, Golden Score, DQ

What Martial Arts Could Be Future Olympic Sports

There are always rumors and conversations about which martial arts could be future Olympic sports. Here are three martial arts that are constantly brought up in conversation.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the martial arts that is brought up most about potentially becoming an Olympic sport. It seems like it would be a perfect addition along with Judo and wrestling.

The one big thing that is holding BJJ back from becoming an Olympic sport is the IOC. They don’t recognize any of the major Jiu Jitsu federations as the official governing body of the martial art.

Until the IOC recognizes one of the federations like the IBJJF, BJJ will never become an Olympic sport.

Muay Thai

Muay Thai may actually be the next martial art to become an official Olympic event. After over thirty years of trying, the IOC fully certified Olympic sport.

The IOC granted the International Federation of Muay Thai Associates (IFMA) permanent membership on the committee. This decision was made at the 138th IOC session in Tokyo on July 20th, 2021.

Even though Muay Thai has been approved as an Olympic sport, it has no set debut date. We most likely won’t see Muay Thai in the Olympics any time soon due to IOC bureaucracy. Read more on this story here.

MMA

The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has been the main MMA federation pushing for MMA to become an Olympic sport. This federation was also granted WADA status for athletes within the federation to be drug tested.

For MMA to get a better chance at becoming an Olympic sport, the IMMAF must be recognized by the IOC. UFC President Dana White supported the IMMAF and believes if the Olympics wants viewers, they must add MMA.

Sambo and Kickboxing

The IOC has granted sambo and kickboxing provisional recognition along with Muay Thai. Although, it is unknown when we might see these martial arts in the Olympics.

We could see them in the 2024 Olympics in Paris or another event in the future.

Summary

Martial arts are perfect sports for the Olympic Games. If you were wondering which martial arts are in the Olympics, there are already six martial arts that are official Olympic Sports, and we may see three more added in the coming years.

This is great news for fight fans and gives these martial arts the opportunity to grow. If the Olympics does add Muay Thai, Sambo, and kickboxing, more fight fans will definitely be tuning in.