Month: August 2025

NAMED AND SHAMED!!!(8/14/25)

Welcome to NAMED AND SHAMED, a vital platform addressing abuse in martial arts by revealing stories of practitioners misusing their authority in profound and alarming ways. We share personal accounts and expert interviews to highlight the urgent need for awareness, safe spaces, and supportive environments for those affected by these troubling experiences. Our mission is to expose injustices that often go unnoticed, while also aiming to empower victims by providing them with a voice and community. Inspired by the impactful work of the YouTube channel McDojo Life, we strive to promote transparency and accountability within the martial arts community, encouraging open discussions and fostering a culture that prioritizes safety and respect for all practitioners. Through our efforts, we hope to create an environment where individuals can train without fear and trust their instructors completely, facilitating personal growth and well-being in their martial arts journey.

Today, we check out a martial artist, Martin Amba, who has been accused of some pretty horrific things, including serious allegations of misconduct and unethical behavior, which have sparked a significant backlash within the martial arts community and beyond.

The ripple effect created by these accusations has led to intense discussions among fans, practitioners, and industry professionals, raising important questions about accountability and integrity in the sport. As more details come to light, many are left grappling with the implications of these claims, reflecting on how such controversies can impact not only the individuals involved but also the broader perception of martial arts as a whole. The diverse opinions being shared highlight the complexity of the situation, urging a reevaluation of how standards and ethics are upheld within the community. Furthermore, this discourse has sparked a deeper examination of the mechanisms in place that govern conduct and whistleblowing, shedding light on the potential need for reform to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants. As the conversations unfold, they not only serve to illuminate the darker corners of the sport but also advocate for a culture of transparency and respect, which is vital for the future of martial arts.

GOOD NEWS!!!

Well, something good has come from this. Martin Amba, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for sexual assault.

The martial arts community should focus on empowerment and confidence, addressing negative behaviors to foster trust and respect. Education on misbehavior and support among members enhance personal growth and shared values. Open discussions and mentorship promote unity, making members feel valued and fostering collaboration. This sense of belonging creates a resilient community where individuals share experiences and inspire each other towards excellence, while strong relationships and communication build collective strength to face challenges and celebrate successes.

What happens when we love our heroes too much?

This morning while getting ready for work, I came across this ingenious video, “The Boondocks Saw It Coming — We Just Didn’t Listen”. This video focuses on the episode, “The Trial of Robert Kelly”.

This episode serves as a cautionary tale, reflecting on Black America’s idolization of celebrities over truth and the implications of such reverence. This thought-provoking documentary not only showcases the complexities of our entertainment industry but also highlights how this adoration often blinds us to the flaws and wrongdoings of our idols. It compares its themes to the seismic shifts observed in the actual trials of R. Kelly and Sean “Diddy” Combs, thoroughly examining the complex issues of celebrity worship that permeate society, the sense of racial loyalty that complicates discussions around accountability, and the systemic failures within the justice system that often allow powerful figures to evade consequences.

Through powerful storytelling and incisive analysis, the documentary urges viewers to critically assess the cultural narratives surrounding these figures, probing deeper into how societal dynamics and historical precedents shape our responses to allegations of misconduct. The implications extend beyond individual cases, inviting a broader discourse on justice, moral responsibility, and the collective value we place on truth versus fame.

It poignantly touches on the cases of Tory Lanez and Jonathan Majors, highlighting a troubling trend of protecting influential men, often at the devastating cost of Black women, whose voices remain marginalized in these conversations. The film ultimately challenges viewers to grapple with the implications of supporting cultural icons while simultaneously seeking justice for the wronged, questioning whether it is truly possible to love the art while acknowledging the harm done by the artists behind it. Through this exploration, the documentary prompts a deeper reflection on our values and the narratives we choose to uphold.

Shoutout to the YouTube channel SPARKUP for creating and posting this incredible video, which showcases their unique approach to engaging and educational content. If you appreciate high-quality videos that inspire and inform, please click HERE to watch more amazing videos from this channel, where you can find a diverse range of topics that are sure to captivate your interest and expand your knowledge. Make sure to subscribe to stay updated with their latest releases and join a growing community of viewers who share a passion for learning and discovery!

BASIC ELEMENTS OF CAPOEIRA: AU BATIDO

“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination, they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of
them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War“

Today, I will Introduce you to one of Capoeira’s Trademark kicks, the AU BATIDO.

Aú batido is a traditional capoeira cartwheel kick, known under various names in breakdancing, MMA and other disciplines. This dynamic and visually striking maneuver is characterized by the graceful arc of the body, utilizing momentum and strength to execute a seamless transition from standing to upside-down and back again. The cartwheel kick originated as a combat kick, primarily used to evade attacks while simultaneously delivering a powerful blow to an opponent, showcasing the versatility and effectiveness of capoeira as both an art form and a martial discipline. Over time, it has become very popular as an acrobatic decoration, often featured in performances and demonstrations that highlight the athleticism and skill of practitioners. Beyond its practical applications, the aú batido has also gained a place in popular culture, being frequently depicted in media and competitions, making this likely the most photographed capoeira move, admired not only for its technical execution but also for the fluidity and style it conveys.

This movement is a defensive move, used when attempting to perform a cartwheel and the opponent attacks. Generally with a cabeçada, a headbutt, the aú batido takes place, attacking the opponent by surprise before the attack is executed. The aú batido is a clever and strategic technique that not only showcases the agility of the practitioner but also serves as an effective counter to incoming strikes, making it a valuable addition to any martial artist’s arsenal. This move is sometimes also used in moments of doubt, allowing the practitioner to regain control of the situation, or simply as a trick move to confuse the opponent. The versatility of the aú batido is evident as it can adapt to various combat scenarios.

Names used in different Capoeira schools may also include Beija Flor (Humming Bird, literally Flower Kiss(er)), Leque (Fan), Aú Québrado (also “broken cartwheel”), Aú Malandro (wily cartwheel), Aú Amazonas (Amazon cartwheel) or Amazonica, reflecting the diverse cultural influences and interpretations surrounding this fascinating technique. Each name carries its own unique story, adding depth to the practice and connecting practitioners with their heritage and the community. Moreover, these names often symbolize the characteristics associated with the movements, resonating with the emotions and spirit of those who perform them.

For instance, the Aú Malandro not only highlights agility but also the cleverness required to execute it gracefully, while Aú Amazonas captures the essence of strength and resilience found in the majestic Amazon rainforest. Such rich nomenclature emphasizes Capoeira’s role as a living art form, continuously evolving while remaining deeply rooted in its historical and cultural foundations, thus fostering a sense of belonging among practitioners from various backgrounds.

In addition to its defensive applications, this move is also performed in tricking, where it emphasizes style and creativity, showcasing the athlete’s ability to blend athleticism with artistic expression. Furthermore, in the world of dance, particularly for quality performances, it is frequently utilized in BREAKDANCING, where it is known as the L-kick. This dynamic movement captivates audiences not only due to its technical difficulty but also because it highlights the dancer’s unique interpretation of rhythm and flow. Its popularity in breakdancing underscores the cross-disciplinary nature of movement arts, revealing how varied techniques can be embraced and adapted across different forms of physical expression, ultimately fostering a rich tapestry of creative possibilities in both performance and personal style.

BLACK MAN, YOU NEED TO CHECK THIS OUT!

I woke up, and this video popped up on my feed, and I knew I had to share this with you.

Rather than posting up some limited commentary, I’ve decided to just post the original YouTube description:

From a grainy 1954 filmstrip to the sharp wit of animated satire, from verses spoken in dim-lit poetry lounges to the piercing honesty of hip hop and candid interviews — this is the story of an unbroken thread.

Selling to the Negro. The Boondocks. Kanye West on Def Poetry Jam. Jay-Z’s The Story of O.J. Tupac Shakur speaking truth in 1992 about greed, power, and the American dream.

Across seventy years, these moments echo each other — each one revealing how race, wealth, identity, and image are braided into the fabric of America’s imagination. We see how ads once courted Black consumers with a smile, how satire stripped fame to its bones, how music and poetry wrestled with the cost of success, and how artists have fought — and sometimes surrendered — to the very systems they question.

This isn’t just history. It’s the same story retold in different tongues, from the polished pitch of Madison Avenue to the raw beats of the block.

The past and present stand face to face here, leaving us with one lingering question: has anything truly changed?

You know what’s really scary? Some of the things that was taught in that old film about negro spending habits are some of the same things my mother would teach me about buying things.

BASIC ELEMENTS OF CAPOEIRA: THE MARTELO

“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination, they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of
them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War“

Today, I am showing you a basic kick that’s NOT NECESSARILY from Capoeira Angola, but is utilized by many Angoleiros.

The “Martelo” (Portuguese for “hammer”) is a dynamic and powerful roundhouse kick in Capoeira, often delivered with the instep or the lower part of the shin.

This striking technique is not only characterized by its speed and agility, but also by the fluidity and rhythm that are fundamental to Capoeira as a whole. Practitioners often utilize the Martelo to surprise their opponents, executing the kick with precision while maintaining an impressive level of balance and control. In addition to its offensive capabilities, the Martelo can also serve as a defensive maneuver, allowing the practitioner to deflect incoming attacks while simultaneously countering with their own strike. Moreover, mastering this kick requires extensive practice and strength training, as it engages multiple muscle groups and demands coordination and timing, ensuring that it remains an essential component of Capoeira training routines and sparring sessions.

The most common forms of the Martelo include:

Martelo em pé

This is the most common martelo seen in Regional and Contemporânea rodas. Its execution on the very basic level is identical to the sport version of the roundhouse kick commonly seen in Tae Kwon Do and kickboxing. Capoeira emphasizes using kicks anywhere at any time, which allows for a dynamic approach to combat. As practitioners advance, more intricate forms of the martelo em pé can emerge, often springing from feints to mislead opponents, skipping to create distance while launching the kick with the front leg, and employing evasive maneuvers like the esquiva diagonal to avoid strikes. This creative use of movement not only showcases the beauty of Capoeira but also emphasizes the strategic aspect of the art. Players must maintain their balance and awareness, continually calculating the best moments to strike while staying agile. Emphasis is placed on speed and deception rather than merely delivering a knockout blow. However, even with this precaution, knockouts still occur due to the weight and sheer force of the leg, reminding practitioners of the power behind each technique and the importance of control in practice. Such experiences contribute to a deeper understanding of the art’s physicality and underlying principles, fostering a respect for both the discipline and the unpredictability of a roda environment.

Martelo do chão

Martelo do chão or martelo de negativa is a martelo that starts from the negativa position, showcasing the elegant flow and complexity of capoeira techniques. The Martelo do chão is delivered from a lower position, usually right before a rolê, allowing for a seamless transition between movements while in esquiva baixa or downward going into a queda de rins. This kick, characterized by its deceptive angles and powerful execution, has a confusing amount of names, depending on the group, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of capoeira where different regions and schools impart their unique terminologies and styles. The variation in names not only adds to the intricacy of the art form but also illustrates the diverse approaches practitioners may take, often blending traditional methods with innovative interpretations during their practice.

Martelo rodado

A spinning martelo, similar to a 540 kick, is a dynamic and powerful movement often seen in martial arts and acrobatics. The martelo rodado combines the techniques of the 540 or parafuso with the classic martelo. While the parafuso is characterized by a spinning motion from the outside to the inside, producing a crescent kick that adds elegance to the maneuver, the martelo rodado focuses primarily on delivering force. Unlike its counterpart, the martelo rodado strikes with the instep of the foot, allowing for a more impactful contact with the target. In this execution, control is sacrificed for sheer power, as the leg does not stop abruptly but continues through the motion, following with an impressive full rotation of the hips. This fluidity in movement not only enhances the strength of the kick but also showcases the practitioner’s athleticism and skill, making the spinning martelo a visually captivating and effective technique in various combat sports.

THE WARRIOR CLASS (8/9/25)

Welcome to the WARRIOR CLASS podcast, the dopest, most unique self-protection, self-defense, martial arts, and prepping podcast in the universe! Here, we delve into the essential skills and knowledge you need to empower yourself and navigate the world safely. With each episode comes engaging discussions, expert interviews, and practical tips designed to enhance your personal safety and self-defense prowess. Self-protection with Black Power! Tune in every Saturday at 1pm EST and be empoered to become the strongest version of yourself, physically and mentally, while exploring the rich cultural heritage of martial arts and the importance of community resilience in everyday life. Don’t miss out on the journey to becoming a warrior!

This week…

It is easier to defend against physical punches or kicks than to handle verbal attacks, yet many individuals, including martial artists, often lack the necessary skills to effectively address these insidious threats. Verbal attacks can take many forms, from subtle insults to outright aggression, and they can leave lasting emotional scars that are sometimes more damaging than physical blows. In this episode of Warrior Class, the Instructors will delve deep into the dynamics of verbal assaults, analyzing their psychological impact, and will share practical techniques for verbal self-protection that empower individuals to maintain their confidence and composure. By learning how to navigate these challenging situations, participants will equip themselves with the tools needed to deflect negativity and uphold their self-esteem in the face of confrontation.

I hope you liked this week’s episode of THE WARRIOR CLASS, which brings together incredible storytelling, engaging characters, and breathtaking action sequences that keep you at the edge of your seat. If you missed any of the thrilling moments or wish to revisit your favorite scenes, click HERE to watch past episodes, where you can catch up on all the excitement and drama that makes this series a must-watch.

THE MOMENT OF TRUTH FRIDAY CRIME REPORT (8/8/25)

Every Friday morning, PROFESSOR BLACK TRUTH hosts “The Friday Crime Report,” focusing on systemic racism, economic inequality, and police brutality in the black community. The program promotes advocacy, fostering dialogue, policy change, and community engagement to support marginalized voices and encourage social justice. Each episode includes community members and experts to inspire actionable steps towards a fairer society.

In Today’s installment…

News reports confirm a racially-charged attack occurred in Simi Valley, California, where a black teenager, Michael Robinson, was assaulted by a group of white teenagers outside a movie theater on August 2, 2025. The attackers, four of whom have been arrested for battery, were reportedly heard yelling racial slurs at Robinson during the incident.

 Further details from the news indicate that one of the arrested teenagers is the son of a Simi Valley police officer. The Simi Valley Police Department has confirmed this information and stated that the involved officer will not be part of the investigation. This aspect of the case has generated concerns about impartiality, leading some to advocate for an independent investigation.

 The attack has ignited outrage within the community, with residents attending a Simi Valley City Council meeting on August 4, 2025, to demand justice and hate crime charges be filed against the assailants. The Simi Valley Police Department’s investigation is ongoing, and they are reviewing whether the incident constitutes a hate crime. The case will be presented to the Ventura County District Attorney’s office for review, where a decision will be made on whether to add hate crime charges to the existing battery charges. 

DID YOU NOTICE THE STALKER?

Because at first, I didn’t. I had to watch the video several times to get it.

And yes. I know this was staged.

Now I hate mysteries sometimes, so I’m gonna spoil it for you.

Now, you’d think the guy that laid his phone on the floor is the one you should be worried about. However, the phone camera wasn’t even under her skirt, which raises questions about the real threat in the scenario. But the dude in yellow was already in the elevator, casually moving about without any urgency. If he was going to that floor, then the button would have already been pressed, suggesting he had no intention of getting off soon.

Secondly, the guy who could have been videoing up her skirt was in the same party as her, entering the elevator at the same time, which complicates the situation further. It’s evident that the atmosphere was filled with tension, yet he felt comfortable enough to stick with his group.

Thirdly, her expression changed after the misdirect to the guy with the phone. This indicated that she recognized him in that time, making her uncomfortable, which highlights an ongoing issue that perhaps the onlookers were oblivious to.

Such encounters can create a lingering sense of vulnerability, especially in cramped spaces like an elevator where personal boundaries are easily crossed.