Mestre Preto Velho, aka Dennis Newsome, is renowned for his outstanding skills in Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. His expertise and contributions to the art form have garnered attention from media outlets around the world, leading to numerous features in national and international martial arts magazines, newspapers, and books. With a rich background in various forms of martial arts, Mr. Newsome continues to inspire and influence enthusiasts and practitioners within the martial arts community. But punching, grappling and kicking are not the most important aspects of the disciplines. For Newsome, culture and pride are.
Newsome’s exposure to a diverse range of martial arts and combat styles began in his formative years, as his father initiated his training at the age of 11. Raised in the vibrant and culturally rich environment of the Skyline neighborhood in San Diego, Newsome’s martial arts journey was shaped by a fusion of influences. Alongside his initial grounding in traditional wrestling, he delved into martial arts rooted in various African cultural traditions. His exploration led him to embrace the dynamic and rhythmic art of Laamb, a Senegalese wrestling style, and the striking and kicking techniques prevalent in the southern U.S.A.. Embracing a commitment to continuous learning, Newsome expanded his repertoire to include the art of stick-fighting with the Dula Meketa and Kalenda systems, under the tutelage of esteemed masters. His pursuit of martial excellence also led him to master the art of Testa, an Eritrean head-butting style, under the guidance of Master Joseph Tewolde. However, it was the mesmerizing and powerful allure of Capoeira that truly captivated Newsome’s spirit more than four decades ago. Introduced to this distinctive fighting art through the captivating portrayal in the movie Black Orpheus, Newsome found himself drawn to the seamless blend of martial prowess, dance-like movements, and acrobatic displays. In Capoeira, he discovered a harmonious convergence of artistry and combat, with its aesthetic appeal and formidable fighting capabilities leaving an indelible impression on him.
His skills even got him a job on the set of the movie Lethal Weapon, where he helped choreograph the climatic fight between police officer Mel Gibson and bad guy Gary Busey. His role as a technical advisor and fight choreographer for “Lethal Weapon” and other major film productions has further solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the realm of martial arts.
Eventually he became a Capoeira Mestre, the first African Americans to achieve such a level.
He said the Capoeira he learned from the legendary Antonio Oliveira Bemvindo, known as Mestre Touro, teaches his students patience (with oneself and others); humility (balanced ego); persistence (one can’t give up); loyalty (to family and community); and wisdom (there is a time for fight and another for flight).
The instruction carries the added dimension of culture, impacting various aspects of the community. The individual in question perceives himself as not only a proponent of education, but also as a guardian of traditional African culture and sensibilities, with a deep-rooted dedication to preserving and promoting its rich heritage. “Culture,” he emphasized, “defines the parameters of people’s behavior, shaping their interactions and shaping their worldview. It reflects the creative genius of a people, enveloping their arts, music, folklore, and customs, and fostering a sense of unity and pride among its members.” His commitment to cultural preservation is evident in his efforts to integrate cultural education into the broader curriculum, fostering an environment where students can appreciate and learn from their heritage, thereby ensuring its continuity for future generations.
He wants people to reconnect with the African culture “for the betterment of themselves and the community.” Newsome expressed his strong belief in the transformative power of embracing one’s roots, emphasizing the profound impact it can have on personal growth and the well-being of society as a whole. In his view, this cultural reconnection represents a holistic journey towards completeness, far beyond mere superficial gestures or fleeting actions. For Newsome, the essence lies in fostering a sense of unity and interdependence among individuals, placing the collective welfare above individual interests. “People can be better by following the values of their ancestors, before we were enslaved,” he emphasized, highlighting the enduring wisdom and principles that can guide people towards a more enriched and purposeful existence.
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