Tag: bjj

Fighting Matters: Addressing Racism, Exclusion, and Extremism in Martial Arts Culture

The practice of martial arts, often held up as a bastion of discipline, mutual respect, and community, exists within the broader tapestry of society and is, therefore, not immune to the pervasive, corrosive issues of racism, extremism, and exclusion. These are not merely academic or distant problems; they are concrete, tangible, and harmful realities that play out daily within the four walls of real-world training centers and gyms. Their presence deeply affects the psyche and physical safety of individuals, fundamentally shaping who is made to feel safe and welcome on the mats.

This particular episode of the “Fighting Matters” podcast initiates a crucial, deeply personal, and necessary conversation by deliberately shifting the focus to this critical intersection of combat sports and social justice. While using the immediate lens of Jiu-Jitsu culture as a framework, the hosts and guests seek to catalyze a discussion that is universal across all disciplines. Hosts Mike Mahaffey and Jesse Walker welcome guests Deon Thompson and Stephen Hall to candidly dissect and challenge how hate groups, racial bias, and discriminatory behavior permeate and undermine the core values of the martial arts community.

The Problem on the Mats: Visible and Subtle Exclusion

The core of the discussion revolves around the insidious, both overt and subtle, ways exclusion and racism manifest within the gym environment:

  • Real-World Impact: The conversation emphatically underscores a vital point: issues of racism, bigotry, and organized hate are not external forces that stop at the gym door; they are present within the community itself. They tangibly impact the daily training, personal growth, and emotional well-being of practitioners of color and those from other marginalized groups.
  • Safety and Welcome: The existence and tolerance of these ideologies are the direct determinants of a gym’s atmosphere. The resulting culture, whether defined by active, anti-racist inclusion or by passive, complicit tolerance, dictates who feels welcome, safe, and truly belongs enough to commit to training. This environment is not accidental; it is a direct consequence of leadership choices.
  • Beyond Jiu-Jitsu: The challenges and principles discussed are intentionally presented as universal. While the podcast specifically focuses on the experiences within Jiu-Jitsu, the ethical and cultural dilemmas apply to any martial art—be it the history-rich practice of Capoeira, the tradition of Karate, the dynamism of Taekwondo, or any other combat sport. The shared ethical dilemma for all coaches lies in the responsibility of teaching lethal or highly effective combat skills to individuals who harbor extremist, hate-driven views.

The Responsibility of Neutrality and the Danger of Silence

A major, confronting theme explored in the episode is the inherent fallacy and profound danger of attempting to maintain a position of “staying neutral” when confronted with undeniable prejudice and extremism:

  • Silence as Complicity: The guests and hosts articulate a strong, non-negotiable position: in the face of racism and hate, silence is not passive; it enables harm. A coach or gym owner who attempts to remain “apolitical” or “neutral” effectively creates a permissive environment. By refusing to take a stand, they grant tacit approval for harmful, discriminatory ideologies to fester and take root within their community, implicitly signaling that the safety and well-being of marginalized students are secondary to avoiding confrontation.
  • Accountability in Gym Culture: The episode stresses the absolute need for a clearly defined, accountable gym culture. It is not enough to simply not be racist; the coach or leader has an ethical responsibility to actively cultivate an anti-racist, inclusive environment and unequivocally reject any form of hate speech or behavior. This demands the setting and rigorous enforcement of clear standards of conduct that prioritize the safety, respect, and dignity of all students.
  • Ethical Responsibility of Coaches: When an instructor teaches a student how to fight, they are imparting a potent form of power and potential violence. The conversation raises profound and difficult questions about the ethical responsibility that accompanies this instruction. Coaches are morally obliged to consider the character, principles, and intentions of the individuals they are training. They must ensure that the formidable skills they teach are not weaponized by hate or used to reinforce extremist narratives.

Endorsements of Character: The Moral Weight of Belt Promotions

A particularly insightful and challenging point of discussion centers on the idea of belt promotions as public endorsements of character:

  • More Than Technical Skill: In many martial arts systems, especially Jiu-Jitsu, the symbolic act of a belt promotion signifies far more than the mere accumulation of technical proficiency. It is a profound, public recognition of a student’s dedication, discipline, positive attitude, and, critically, their character and comportment on and off the mat.
  • The Coach’s Statement: When a coach promotes a student to a higher rank, they are, in effect, issuing a public endorsement of that individual’s fitness to represent the art and the community. If a coach is aware that a student harbors or expresses racist, sexist, or extremist views, promoting them sends an unambiguous and deeply damaging message to the rest of the student body and the broader martial arts community. It signals that this hateful behavior is tolerated, compartmentalized, or simply ignored. The episode pushes coaches to engage in a rigorous and difficult self-assessment: Are they truly willing to endorse the whole character—including the moral and ethical foundation—of the person they are promoting?

Key Topics Driving the Discussion

The podcast episode drives home the following critical areas for honest reflection and action within the global martial arts community:

  • The Reality of Racism and Extremism in Gyms: Moving past denial and addressing the demonstrable, actual presence of these destructive issues.
  • Why This Isn’t “Just Politics”: Clearly framing the issue as one of fundamental human safety, ethical leadership, and moral responsibility, rather than merely a partisan debate.
  • Gym Culture and Accountability: Defining how the leadership actively shapes, enforces, and maintains a standard of conduct that is unequivocally anti-hate.
  • Belt Promotions as Character Endorsements: Highlighting the profound moral and ethical weight carried by the promotion process.
  • Representation, Safety, and Welcome: The proactive work required to create genuinely inclusive spaces where diverse practitioners not only train but truly feel they belong.
  • Why Silence Enables Harm: The necessity of adopting active, visible anti-racist and anti-extremist stances.
  • The Ethical Responsibility of Coaches: Reinforcing the moral duty of instructors who are tasked with teaching people how to utilize physical power.

A Crucial Message to Our Audience: Beyond the Mat

I want to stress to you with absolute clarity and conviction:

While the central case study and primary narrative focus of this particular podcast episode revolves around the complex issues present within the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) community, it is fundamentally vital to recognize that the systemic, toxic “disease” of racism, exclusion, and institutional bias is not exclusive to a single martial art.

This deep-seated problem, which manifests as microaggressions, overt discrimination, and the creation of hostile environments, can and tragically does apply to ANY and EVERY martial art and physical discipline. The dynamics of power, tradition, lineage, and community structure in any dojo, kwoon, academy, or roda can unfortunately become breeding grounds for these negative forces if left unchallenged.

Therefore, the insights, struggles, and proposed solutions discussed here must be viewed through a universal lens. The essential lessons regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion are wholly relevant to practitioners of:

  • Capoeira: Where issues of colorism, regional exclusion, or misappropriation of cultural heritage may arise.
  • Karate: Where traditional hierarchies, or the “old guard,” might resist inclusive modernization.
  • Taekwondo: Where nationalistic pride or institutional politics can sometimes overshadow accessibility.
  • And countless others, including Muay Thai, Kung Fu, Eskrima, Judo, Western Boxing, and various internal and external systems.

This critical episode has been highlighted and shared precisely because its core message transcends the boundaries of a single style or discipline. It serves as a necessary call to action, demanding self-reflection and proactive change from every instructor, student, and governing body dedicated to the true spirit of martial arts—a spirit that should embody respect, equality, and mutual growth for all people, regardless of their background or identity. We must all work together to dismantle the barriers that prevent martial arts from being truly welcoming, equitable, and safe spaces for everyone.

—–Links and Featuring Information

For those interested in exploring the work of the featured guests and hosts, the following resources were mentioned during the episode:

👥 Featuring:

  • Mike Mahaffey — @oldbastardbjj
  • Jesse Walker — @roughhandsbjj
  • Deon Thompson — @thompsonjiujitsu
  • Stephen Hall — @bioniqbrassband

BASIC ELEMENTS OF CAPOEIRA: ARRASTAO

“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 want to talk about the Arrastao.

The term “Arrastão” in Capoeira refers to a specific takedown technique. 

Here’s a closer look:

The Capoeira move “Arrastão” is a classic leg takedown that skillfully combines agility and strategy, where the practitioner closes in on the opponent with precision, sweeping their legs or pushing them to the ground using their shoulder or head. This dynamic maneuver can manifest as both a double or single-leg takedown, showcasing the versatility of Capoeira techniques, and may also involve a lateral technique that enhances its effectiveness in various combat scenarios.

In competitive settings, it can catch opponents off guard, leading to quick transitions into follow-up moves or escapes. Counters to the “Arrastão” include a sprawl or guillotine choke, which require the opponent to be alert and responsive to avoid being taken down. This move not only reflects the athleticism inherent in Capoeira but also underscores its practicality beyond being merely a form of dance.

The term “arrastão” holds additional cultural significance; it also refers to flash robbery in Brazil and Portugal, derived from the verb “arrastar,” illustrating the term’s multifaceted nature within both martial arts and social contexts. Such connections highlight the rich tapestry of language and movement that Capoeira embodies, blending physical skill with deeper cultural narratives.

In essence, the Arrastão is a powerful and strategic takedown within the dynamic art of Capoeira.

MARTIAL ARTS THEATER (6/20/25)

Welcome to MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, a vibrant community hub for martial arts enthusiasts offering expert interviews, instructional videos, and a variety of events tailored for all skill levels. Here, you can dive deep into a wealth of information, exploring diverse insights across disciplines such as karate, judo, taekwondo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu in a supportive environment that not only encourages growth but also nurtures a sense of camaraderie among practitioners. We invite both seasoned practitioners and beginners alike to connect, share experiences, and embark on the transformative journey of self-discovery in the world of martial arts. By participating in our workshops, seminars, and discussion panels, you can hone your skills, learn from respected masters, and forge lasting friendships with fellow enthusiasts who share your passion and dedication to the art of combat.

In today’s installment…

“The Karate Nerd“, one of YouTube’s biggest martial artists, has stirred quite the pot lately by posting several controversial videos focused on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), including one particularly provocative installment where he joined a tournament to “prove it doesn’t work.” In a quest to challenge the status quo, he even traveled to Gracie University to engage with Ryron Gracie himself, attempting to disprove the effectiveness of sport jiu jitsu. This bold move caught the attention of the AMAZING YouTuber JOSH BEAM, who decided to take matters into his own hands.

Fueled by a desire to defend the honor of BJJ, he promptly booked a ticket straight to Stockholm with the intention of challenging Jesse at his dojo, Combat Academy! However, realizing that his Jiu Jitsu skills were not quite enough to take on such a formidable opponent, Josh committed himself to training in judo for an entire year, where he diligently honed his throws and ground game. After a grueling year of preparation, he returned to Stockholm, ready to reclaim his pride and seek revenge against Jesse. But what transpired next was completely unexpected and far from what he had initially anticipated.

He came for revenge but instead found himself experiencing a profound lesson in martial arts and humility, as well as an aspect of Karate that’s not often displayed or talked about. Through rigorous training and thoughtful reflection, he discovered that true strength lies not only in physical prowess but also in the cultivation of inner peace and respect for others. Each session brought new challenges that tested his resolve, pushing him to confront both his fears and preconceived notions about fighting and power.

Click HERE to watch the full Kata he learned, showcasing the incredible journey of growth and transformation that unfolded during his time training, capturing the essence of discipline and the deep connections formed with fellow practitioners on this unexpected path.

MARTIAL ARTS THEATER (5/2/25)

Welcome to MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, a community hub for martial arts enthusiasts featuring expert interviews, instructional videos, and events that inspire and educate all skill levels. Explore diverse insights across styles like karate, judo, taekwondo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu in a supportive environment. Join us to connect with others and embrace the rewarding journey of self-discovery in martial arts.

In today’s installment…

Jiu Jitsu is a unique combat sport that raises questions about the inclusion of women in training, their potential disadvantages, and the numerous benefits their presence brings to the sport. The dynamics of training with diverse partners foster a deeper understanding of technique and strategy, as both genders contribute differing strengths and perspectives to the learning process. Notable practitioners like Firas Zahabi, Ffion Davies, Mikey Musumeci, and Gordon Ryan share valuable insights and perspectives on these issues, inviting discussion and reflection about the evolving role of women in Jiu Jitsu.

By addressing topics such as equality, mentorship, and the importance of supportive environments, these athletes encourage a culture that not only recognizes women’s capabilities but also actively promotes their growth and success within the sport. Through workshops, seminars, and community outreach, they create platforms where aspiring female practitioners can engage, learn, and feel empowered to pursue their goals. This inclusive approach fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie, where women are not just participants but leaders, inspiring others to join in and break down barriers that have historically limited access to martial arts.

As more individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to learn and compete, they bring unique perspectives and experiences that enrich the training environment. Ultimately, this vibrant community cultivates a deeper appreciation for the art of Jiu Jitsu, leading to enhanced standards and practices that benefit athletes at every level, and ensuring that the sport continues to evolve and thrive in a more equitable landscape.

BASIC ELEMENTS OF CAPOEIRA: THE RASTEIRA

“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“

Capoeira Angola is a defensive martial art known for its intricate trap-like defenses designed to catch opponents off guard and provide fluidity in movement. It encompasses 8 basic defenses, each with unique unexpected attacks and counter-attacks based on the opponent’s positioning, which are essential for creating opportunities during a confrontation. Mastery of these movements enables capoeiristas to defend against individuals carrying various weapons, including sticks, clubs, knives, and potentially even firearms with the appropriate skills; by understanding the principles of anatomy, timing, and rhythm, practitioners can enhance their ability to react swiftly and effectively. Furthermore, the art form emphasizes not only physical technique but also the mental aspects of strategy and awareness, allowing capoeiristas to anticipate an opponent’s actions and respond accordingly, making it a holistic approach to self-defense that integrates body and mind.

Today, I’m gonna “type” about one of the most fundamental techniques, one of the “trademarks” if you will, of Capoeira Angola, the RASTEIRA.

“When you understand the rasteira you are very close to understanding the philosophy behind the art form known as capoeira. […] The rasteira represents the victory of knowledge over brute force, of shrewdness over strength. It is the weapon of the weak against the strong, of the oppressed against the oppressor.”

— Nestor Capoeira

Rasteira is a foot sweep technique in capoeira that typically counters high kicks and disrupts the opponent’s balance by using their own force against them. It is fundamental in traditional capoeira and is a hallmark of an exceptional capoeirista, alongside the meia lua de compasso. Developed from the Angolan martial art engolo, rasteira can be executed from various positions.

The rasteira takedown is a defensive move performed by capoeiristas to counter an opponent’s attack, typically targeting their support leg during kicks. It involves instinctively evading the strike while sweeping the leg, often causing the attacker to fall on their back, which can be dangerous if they’re untrained. Mastering the rasteira enables one to effectively deal with aggressive opponents, and it is said, “The harder they come, the harder they fall.”

In friendly contexts, one can feign the move without actual contact, but targeting hands during handstands or cartwheels can result in serious injuries and should be avoided. Engaging in such playful interactions might seem harmless, yet the risk of causing an accident remains significant, especially if the individual performing the maneuver is not fully aware of their surroundings. It is crucial to emphasize safety and proper technique, as even a slight miscalculation during these activities can lead to falls or strains. Therefore, participants should exercise caution and communicate effectively about their intentions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The rasteira can be performed with one, two, or no hands on the ground. The variations of rasteira include:

  • crouching sweep (rasteira do chão)
  • back crouching sweep (rasteira de costas)
  • standing sweep (banda or rasteira em pé)
  • back standing sweep (banda de costas)

Crouching sweep (rasteira)

The Crouching sweep, known as rasteira or rasteira do chão, is a fundamental move in capoeira. To execute it, the capoeirista drops to one leg, balancing with their arms, and bends their trunk close to their thigh. They then extend the opposite leg and make a circular motion to sweep the opponent’s foot, aiming to hook their ankle or leg and topple them if they do not react quickly enough.

Back crouching sweep (rasteira de costas)

Rasteira de costas (back sweep) is a quick crouching sweep executed from a backward rotation, aiming at the back of the opponent’s ankle in less than a second. This maneuver resembles a low Rabo de arraia and is referred to as encruzilhada (crossroads) by some authors, found in the game of batuque, while others recognize it in ngolo.

Standing sweep (rasteira em pé)

The standing sweep is primarily used against direct kicks like martelo (roundhouse kick), and is effective when the opponent’s weight is on one leg, though it’s rarely successful. To execute it, position your foot behind their supporting leg and twist to sweep their foot off the ground. This technique is also referred to as banda or banda de frente, with the latter sometimes indicating a different method that involves using the knee of the attacking leg to push the opponent’s legs forward.

Back standing sweep (banda de costas)

Banda de costas (back band) is a takedown technique where the player thrusts forward to land on one foot and performs a back sweep using their heel to trip the opponent, leading to a loss of balance and a fall. It is most effective when sweeping both legs but is challenging against experienced opponents. This technique often serves as a counter against kicks like queixada and armada or during unexpected moments in a game.

Grass cutter (corta-capim)

Corta-capim (grass cutter) is a specific foot sweep technique often used in uneven fights, where one person confronts multiple opponents. The capoeirista lowers their body to one leg and violently extends the other leg to sweep the opponent. From queda de quatro, the fighter sweeps one leg in a semi-circle to target the opponent’s planted foot, similar to a rasteira, also aiming to lock onto the opponent’s foot for effective takedowns.

As a child, Mestre João Grande saw some guys doing corta capim in the street, and heard: “Do that movement to a person and the person will fall.” That sparked his lifelong interest in capoeira.

This very special takedown of old capoeira is used mostly as a floreo today.

Rasteiras de Mao

Rasteira is a simple yet effective capoeira move that involves placing your hands firmly on the ground while using your legs to create momentum. As you rotate your leg at a 180º angle, the objective is to strategically knock down the opponent, creating an opening for follow-up maneuvers. This move not only showcases agility but also requires precise timing and body control, making it a fundamental technique in the capoeira practitioner’s repertoire. Mastering the rasteira can greatly enhance one’s ability to fluidly transition between offensive and defensive postures during a match.

MARTIAL ARTS THEATER (10/2/24)

Welcome to MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, a platform for martial arts enthusiasts to explore a wide range of disciplines. From traditional styles like karate and taekwondo to lesser-known techniques such as Krav Maga and Muay Thai, we offer diverse content for seasoned martial artists and those intrigued by combat. Delving into the history, philosophy, and techniques of each martial art, we celebrate the discipline, dedication, and diversity embodied in these practices. Join us on this captivating journey through the world of martial arts.

In this installment, We have this amazing video, Ties That Bind, Lazos Que Unen: Afro-Diasporic Stick Fighting, Luchas de Palo en las Américas.

 

A couple of years ago, a rich and engaging conversation took place between Mestre DENNIS NEWSOME from San Diego, Maestro Carlos Padilla from Puerto Rico, and Maestro Doctor Detroit. This dynamic discussion was part of the SO-CAL Kokobale tour, which aimed to explore and celebrate the cultural significance of Afro-Diasporic traditions.

During this extraordinary tour, Hector Luis Rivera, the esteemed director of Taller Bula and Peace Inside Out, hosted a bilingual virtual conversation that dives deep into the fascinating world of Afro-Diasporic Stick Fighting. This event provided an insightful exchange of ideas, shared unique perspectives, and educated participants about the historical roots and contemporary practices of this martial art form, fostering a greater understanding of its cultural heritage and significance in today’s society.

At first, I wasn’t gonna post this here on my blog, because one of the speakers, Maestro Carlos Padilla, has been outed as someone who doesn’t know as much about the art he teaches (Cocobale) as he claims to (Read all about it HERE).

As educators and mentors, it is crucial that we hold ourselves accountable and ensure that what we impart is rooted in genuine knowledge and experience.

However, the reason I decided to post this video here was because it conveys a huge amount of wisdom about the martial arts and culture from the African Diaspora. Such wisdom must be preserved and perpetuated, as it offers profound insights into the rich history and traditions that have shaped not only martial practices but also the identity of communities across the globe.

Understanding these arts goes beyond physical techniques; it encompasses values, respect, and a sense of belonging that connect us all, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural expression that speaks to the essence of our shared humanity. By sharing this video, I hope to inspire others to explore, learn about, and appreciate the depth and significance of these cultural elements, which are not merely art forms but rather important vehicles for storytelling and community bonding. Through this exploration, we can foster a deeper understanding of our roots and those of others, ensuring that they are passed on to future generations, allowing young minds to connect with their heritage while also appreciating the diversity that surrounds them in an ever-changing world.