CARLAO SANTOS: ABU DHABI

He is the head instructor to the Emirates Jiu-Jitsu Team in Abu Dhabi and hails from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. Carlao Santos was kind enough to answer some questions regarding his current post and his plans to spread the word of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. -Luke

Could you tell us about yourself? Where you are originally from? How and when did you start to train BJJ? Under who did you start training under and who gave you your black-belt?

MY NAME IS CARLOS SANTOS I'M FROM BRAZIL, RIO DE JANEIRO. I'M START TRAINING BJJ IN CARLSON GRACIE ACADEMY IN COPACABANA, FIGUEIREDO MAGALHAES. I'M TAKE MY BLACK BELT FROM BRAZILIAN TOP TEAM, I'M STAY TO BROWN BELT IN CARLSON GRACIE AND AFTER BROWN I MOVE TO BTT.

Could you share with us your experience from white to black belt? What difficulties did you face and how would you encourage others who are just starting?

NO EASY MY FRIEND, VERY HARD TRAINING EVERY DAY, WHEN I START BJJ I HAVE 16 YEARS OLD, IN STUDYING, WORK AND TRAINING BJJ NIGHT. NO SUPPORT IN BRAZIL FOR BJJ . IF YOU WANT BECAME GOOD BJJ PLAYER AND COACH NO HAVE SECRET ONLY TRAINING SERIOUS EVERY DAY.

















Most recently, you've relocated to Abu Dhabi as head instructor to the Emirates Jiu-Jitsu Team. Could you share with us how this came about and what the experience has been like so far?

I'M COMING FIRST TIME TO EMIRATES IN 2002, ADCC CLUB MAKE CONNECTION IF ZE MARIO SPERRY AND START SEND COACHES TO ADCC FOR TRAINING, IN 2003 I COMING AND STUDENTS LIKE MY JOB AND MAKE ME STAY TO NOW.

How has this compared to your previous experience as the head BJJ instructor at BTT in Brazil?

VERY GOOD OPPORTUNITY TO SHOW MY JOB THERE, AFTER LIBORIO LEAVE TO MAKE ATT, BUSTAMANTE, SPERRY AND BEBEO GIVE ME THIS OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE CARE BJJ CLASS IN BTT, TOGETHER MY FRIEND OLAVO ABREU.

What have been the challenges so far as a teacher and ambassador of BJJ?

NO EASY JOB, NO ONLY NED BECAME GOOD COACH NED ALSO GOOD ADMINISTRATION, POLITICS TO MAKE THE SPORT GROWING, ALOT BAD PEOPLE WANT MAKE TROUBLE, ENVIOUS PEOPLES. MORE IM HAVE CLEAR WAY AND GOOD SUPPORT FROM H.H. SHEIKH MOHAMAD BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN TO MAKE THE BJJ SPORT BIG IN ALL REGION. NO IS THE BEGINNING HAVE ALOT JOB TO DO.

This May 9-10, the United Arab Emirates will be hosting the Abu Dhabi International Jiu-Jitsu Cup. Could you share with us your involvement and more about the event itself?

THIS EVENT IS THE BIGGEST EVENT IN THE ASIAN , MAYBE IN THE WORLD IF TALK ABOUT THE MONEY INVOLVE. MORE THEN 110.000 US$ TO MAKE THIS JIU-JITSU EVENT. I HOPE MORE ASIAN PEOPLE COMING TO PLAY THIS EVENT.

From this past weekend at the European Jiu-Jitsu Championships in Portugal, the Jordan Jiu-Jitsu Team had four members place. How do you see their success and what plans do you have for your team to compete in upcoming tournaments such as Mundials?

CONGRATULATION TO MY FRIEND ZAID MIRZA HEAD COACH FROM JORDAN, THIS IS GOOD FOR REGION NOW ALL TEAMS WANT SEND PEOPLE TO OUT FOR PLAY. NOW I HAVE PLANE TO SEND PLAYERS TO BRASIL, BTT, TO MAKE CAMP THERE AND FIGHT ALL THE COMPETITION IN BRAZIL. OFF COURSE AS HAVE DREAMS TO MAKE WORLD CHAMPIONS, MORE FOR THIS NED TIME.

What do you see as important aspects new/old students must understand to keep BJJ's positive for everyone?

BJJ IS THE NICE SPORT IN THE WORLD, IF YOU TRY 1 TIME THIS COMING INSEDE YOU BLOOD FOREVER. YOU WANT MAKE ALL THE TIME, ALSO MAKE FRIENDS ALL THE WORLD.

Any additional plans for yourself this coming year besides teaching?

OFF COURSE I HAVE 1 MAGAZINE IS THE FIRST ARAB FIGHT MAGAZINE, MAKE MORE BJJ EVENTS. MY BIG PROJECT IS MAKE THE BJJ IS SPORT PROFESSIONAL SAME SKATE OR SURFING. TO MAKE PEOPLE LEAVE ONLY FOR FIGHT BJJ SAME JUDO OR MMA.



















I want to thank you for taking the time to speak with us at BJJ-ASIA. Is there anything else you'd like to share with the readers?

I HOPE ALL THE READERS HELP ME TO MAKE BJJ PROFESSIONAL IN THE WORLD, ALSO COMING TO MY EVENTS I TRY MY BEST TO GIVE MORE AND MORE SUPPORT TO PLAYERS. GIVE GOOD PRIZES AND SUPPORT. AND FOR SEE NEWS ABOUT MY LINKS GO TO www.emiratesone.blogspot.com

COPA KOWLOON RESULTS

submitted by: Kei Kita




































This past weekend, Kowloon BJJ held a local tournament for those in the Hong Kong area. On average, students get perhaps one to two opportunities to compete unless they are capable of traveling to neighboring countries. It's great to see efforts being made to produce smaller events that give more opportunity to comp experience and a chance to improve. Win or lose, competition is always an opportunity to learn and inspire you to train harder. -Luke

- Pluma Under
Blue Belt
Champ : Leo Lui (KLN BJJ)
2nd : Nuno Santos (Macau)

White Belt
Champ : kwong (GB HK)
2nd : Cyrus Yu (GB HK)

- Pena Blue Belt
Champ : Ryu Masao (KLN BJJ)
2nd : Henry Chan (GB HK)

White Belt
Champ : Daniel Thomas (Kylin BJJ)
2nd : Tom (KLN BJJ)

- Levi Blue Belt
Champ : Benny #2 (KLN BJJ)
2nd : Hoin (KLN BJJ)

White Belt
Champ : Steve (KLN BJJ)
2nd : Danilo Joctino (Macau)

- Medio Blue Belt
Champ : Justin (Kylin BJJ)

White Belt
Champ : Williams (Impakt)
2nd : Luis Serafim (Macau)

- Meio Pessado White Belt
Champ : Micheal Kwok (Kylin BJJ)
2nd : Victor (KLN BJJ)
- Pessado White Belt
Champ : Stan Seto (Kylin)

- Pesadisimo Blue Belt
Champ : Patric Goodwin (Macau)

- Abosolute Blue Belt
Champ : Patric Goodwin (Macau)
2nd : Justin (Kylin BJJ)

White Belt
Champ : Daniel Thomas (Kylin)
2nd : Stan Seto (Kylin)

Congrats chapms, good jobs!!

BLOG NEWS: SHOP

Just wanted to make an announcement for K-1 Extreme Sportshop based in the Philippines. They've been operating for over four years now and their link can be found HERE.

I've made note about prices for equipment so check them out, it may work out better for you than ordering directly from the US. In related news, KDT is also working on producing their own BJJ gi for commercial sales. Retail prices have yet to be confirmed but check out the pics from the forum. HERE

Again, the more feedback the better! Write me, comment on the blog or write a thread on the forum. Thanks

-Luke

BJJ-ASIA FORUM

BLOG NEWS

Away from the computer for a bit. Will have more to write this coming week. Then by next week I am off for another trip. Looking to take pictures of the places I get to visit and train at.

Also, I just posted a thread on the BJJ-ASIA forum, asking about what makes up your favorite gi. What about it do you like more so than other brands? Do you mix'n'match your tops and bottoms to get the perfect comba or fit? I want to know your opinion! These things aren't getting any cheaper so what's the deciding factor?

POST HERE

-Luke

UPDATED CALENDAR!!! 2008

I'm very pleased with the how the calendar has turned out. I am sure to confirm more dates for Southeast Asia but as it is now, I think it's a pretty full season. Always looking to post more seminars and events so e-mail me. Thanks to everyone who's already written in to help. -Luke

JANUARY
(27) Copa Kowloon/BJJ Jam Night (Sham Sui Po)
*for all local Hong Kong clubs and those interested in BJJ/grappling
info: HERE

(27) ADCC Japan Kyushu Championship (Fukuoka Dome, JP)
info: HERE

FEBRUARY
(8) Elan Santiago Seminar (Seoul, Korea)

(10) Copa Dumau Jiu-jitsu (Handa-Aichi, JP)

(17) Dumau De Eqiupe (Konosu-Saitama, JP)

(17) Setsuma Takeda Seminar (Singapore, Shitoryu Karate Singapore Assocation)
*hosted by Alive Singapore Academy and is open to the public @ $30 per person (3 hours)
info: HERE

(23) Copa De Marianas (Guam)
info: groundzerotumon@hotmail.com

MARCH
(TBA) Southeast Asian Grappling Games (Bangkok)

(2-3) Philippine Gi & NO-Gi Nationals (Manila)

(7-8) Pedro Sauer Seminar!!! (Beijing, Black Tiger Academy)
*Prof. Sauer recently received his black-red belt from Relson Gracie!!!
*rate: 1 day: 500RMB / 2 days: 800 RMB (open to all)

(30) Central Championship (Budokan in Aichi Prefecture, JP)

APRIL
(8) Leo Viera Seminar (Seoul, Korea)
*date still to be confirmed

(26) Copa De Hong Kong (Hong Kong)
* more to be anounced!

(26-27) All Japan Championship (Hikarigaoka Gymnasium)

(last week) John Will Seminar (Malaysia, KDT Academy)
*rate: KDT-members 300/550 RM, non-members 350/650 RM

(TBA) Prof. Frabicio Martins Seminar (Manila, Philippines)
info: HERE

MAY
(3-4) Pan Asians BJJ Gi & No-Gi International (PH)

(9-10) Abu Dhabi International Jiu-Jitsu Cup
info: HERE

(25) Dumau Kimonos BJJ International Cup (Nagoya-Aichi, JP)

JUNE
(TBA) Dela Riva Cup (JP)

(5-8) Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF World Championship (JP)

AUGUST
(17) Dumau Kimonos BJJ Championship (Kita-Kanto, JP)

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER
(TBA) Asia Pacific Champions Cup Gi & No-Gi

(25-26) Japan Open Championships (Budokan in Aichi Prefecture, JP)

NOV/DEC
(TBA) 4th Indonesian Submission Championship (Jakarta)

(29-30) Campeonato Asiatico (Tokyo, JP)

DECEMBER
(13-14) Philippine BJJ International Open Gi & No-Gi (PH)

(21) Dumau Kimonos BJJ Japan Cup (Saitama, JP)

COPA DE MARIANAS: GUAM

submitted by: Ralph Go
Another addition to the tournament calendar takes place February 23rd with registration closing by the 20th. This is a gi & no-gi event for belt levels white through purple. For more information, please contact the following: groundzerotumon@hotmail.com.

FRANSINO TIRTA

Fransino Tirta was nice enough to take some time to talk about his recent victory in Bali.
-Luke

First congratulations on your performance this past December. Could you give us a playback of the fight as you saw it?

I started the fight carefully, i followed what my coach has been telling me to do, "take him down, immediately", so immediately i setup my takedown with punches, as soon as i got the takedown i was too anxious to finish the fight by throwing punches without paying attention to my position. I hit him several times with punches and knees, but he managed to stand up. As we clinched i manage to hit him with a right hook, that moment i knew i was faster and hit harder than him, so i changed my gameplan to bang with him. When we banged i connected several times with my right and left hooks, then my combination of right uppercut and left hook knocked him down, immediately i followed with ground and pound, i hit him four times in the face before the referee stopped the fight.

What kind of preparation did you go through for the fight and how did you feel going into it?

At first i didnt do any special preparation, i train once a day after i get back from my day job, but then i realized that my current preparation is not enough, so i followed my coach to bali two weeks before the fight to do special preparation. This special preparation consisted of two times a day training, i dont have to do anything but training, so i can give my best at training.

Did this differ from your previous fight due to the size difference? Stylistically do you think this match up played to your favor?

Yes, its very different from my previous fight due to the size difference. I'm used to fight someone bigger and taller than me. Well the fact that i won means the match up played to my favor.

What are your plans for the coming year?

I don't have anything planned for the next year but Art Of War FC wants me to fight again, so we'll see.

Another congratulation is due for your performance at the Indonesian Submission Championship. Could you tell us how that was for you?

The Indonesian Submission Championships sponsored by Djarum Super are a great experience for me, i love submission grappling because it's more safe and fun than MMA. Thank goodness the Indonesian Submission Championship 2007 was a month away from Battle on Bali so i prepared my conditioning for both competitions at the same time.

Will you be just as active in the grappling circuit along with MMA?

I think i'll be more more active in the grappling circuit because right now i have students who wants to compete in submission grappling, so i have to prepare them. Also, MMA is very demanding for my time and energy but the payment is very low, so MMA is not my priority now.

What would you like to see happen in South-East Asia concerning MMA?

I would like to see more MMA competitions in SEA, and that MMA fighters here can have a decent salary.

Any comments you'd like to share with those out there?

I like to thank my coach Niko Han for giving me a hard time in training, the harder time he gave me, the easier the fight went. I also like to thanks Andreas Hesselback for accepting the fight and giving such a great show, i know he'll come back stronger and i wish him luck in the future.

*Fransino Tirta is a purple-belt in BJJ and represents Synergy Jiu-Jitsu (Indonesia). His current MMA record is 13-0-1.

ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL JIU-JITSU CUP

submitted by: Carlao Santos

ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL CUP

BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU
9 & 10 MAY 2008
ADCC CLUB

BLOG NEWS

I just wanted to give everyone a heads-up as to what I've been working on lately. If you haven't checked already, please take a look at the calendar post where you can find the new tournament and seminars dates. There will be more to come but so far this is where it's at: HERE. Please note, we've got some big names coming to Southeast Asia and if you have any opportunity to visit any of these locations, it's highly recommended. Pedro Sauer for example will be in Beijing this coming March. For those who aren't familiar, he is the only person to receive all his belts from Rickson Gracie, and just recently was awarded his red-black belt from Relson Gracie. This is an honor that is only give to a select few.

It may take a little time but I have two interviews along with an article on their way. Provided I can put everything together before my next trip, I hope to have at least one of these up by the end of the week, haha.

I will be out of town again but this time around I hope to get some mat time in. I won't say where I'm going but you'll have to wait for the post.

I've been surfing a number of the sites out there and see information that would be great to post on the site here. Again, please don't hesitate to contact me to help promote an event or whatever. As long as it relates to the interest of the blog, which is BJJ and related sports in Asia, then it's cool.

Hope you're all well.

-Luke

SHOUT OUT: NEW PURPLE-BELT @ KLN BJJ

Congratulations to Lawrence for receiving his purple-belt this past week.

MMA: THAILAND (JAN 14, 2008)

Koh Lanta, Thailand witnesses their first MMA fight!!!
submitted by: Ray Elbe

After suffering a devastating flash knockdown loss to South East Asian MMA icon Franscino Tirta, Andreas Hesselback quickly accepts a fight offer from K-1 prospect, Allan Bernstein. A veteran with over 15 muay thai fights Allan was making his third MMA appearance. This fight was featured as a super fight on a "Lion's Club" Charity fundraising event. With the victory Andreas improves his record to 2 wins, 1 lose in professional MMA.

INTERVIEW: DANIEL OTERO

I had the recent pleasure of interviewing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black-belt Daniel Otero. A decorated BJJ competitor, Daniel has already made his way into the MMA circuit and is looking to showcase his abilities outside of Brazil. Special thanks goes to Stephen Kamphius for making this interview possible. -Luke

Not everyone out there may be familiar with your history and accomplishments in both BJJ & MMA. Could you tell us how you got started in BJJ? How old were you and who you studied under?

I started to practice Jiu-Jitsu at the age of 13 years in 1995 at Fabricio Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Even at a young age I loved to compete and from there I was fortunate to have good results in most championships.

I have been the Brazilian Champion 8 times in all belts (Yellow, Blue (twice),Purple,Brown(twice) and black(twice); World Black Belt Champion in 2006 and also Vice World Black Belt Champion in 2003, 2nd place as a Brown belt, 3rd place as a Purple and Blue belt.

In 2003 I had my first MMA fight at Shooto Brazil doing 2 fights at the same event. I am currently fighting in both, Jiu-jitsu and MMA and nowadays my history in MMA is 9 fights in total and 1 lost at Japan Shooto in 2007 where I was disqualified.

How old were you when you received your black-belt and from who?

I was with 19 to 20 years. I received the Black-belt from Fabrício Martins. It took 8 years of training to get the black belt and I think I was very young for that but the fact that I was always at championships helped me to develop my Jiu-Jitsu faster.

As BJJ grows in popularity in Southeast Asia, new students are curious to know what it takes to progress and for some, ultimately earn the black-belt. What was your training schedule per week? Seminars and privates a regular thing for you?

I practice every day. Work out with professor Alexandre Barcelos, Muay Thai with professor Sandro at New Generation Academy and Jiu-Jitsu and MMA with my Master Fabricio Martins, All this happens from monday to Friday and Saturday only when it´s close to compete. I have law college in the morning so the training is during afternoon and night.

About seminars: I hope seminars will become more frequent now, I'm negotiating some seminaras in U.S.A. and maybe on February I can stay some days in U.S.A to realize it.

Is there any particular position or submission that you feel is uniquely yours? Do you have a favorite?

I don't have a specific favorite position. I'm always trying to develop my Jiu-Jitsu game to be complete and to feel comfortable in all situations. The BJJ does not stop to grow, so you need to be always studying new techniques.

Any advice to those just starting their BJJ journey?

My advice is a lot of dedication. There are no secrets. As any kind of sports or martial arts the way to success is dedication, discipline and love what you do.

This past year, the Mundials was held in Los Angeles, California. How do you see this move from Brazil to the US effect BJJ as a whole? Do you see this effecting the level/quality of competition?

I think that in future could affects because here is very very difficult to have sponsors to pay the costs that are very high for us from Brazil, so maybe many good fighters don´t fight and I think we all loose with that. But also it is important to promove the world championship in other countries to be more democratic and to develop the sport arround the world.













A couple of weeks ago you won the Copa America de Jiu Jitsu Black belt super fight, can you tell us about this. Could you share with us some of your hardest experiences in competition?

I did one of the superfights of the event and I had as opponent Fernando Silva from UGF academy. I won by advantages (5x0). It was a very hard fight; I didn´t know him, so I didn´t know his game but thank God I won and could finish the year with this victory.

About my hardest experiences in competition: It was a lot. I had real battles inside ring and mat, not always with victory. There is more value winning with difficult and thank God I had many important titles also in Jiu-Jitsu than in MMA and losses that teach you alot about yuourself.

When did you make the transition to competing in MMA? How did you come to that decision?

In certain time I felt the need for new challenge. The human being is always trying to overcome himself. I was already black belt and got many important titles, so MMA, was like this to me, a way to overcome
myself and succeed also in MMA and because of this I started to dedicate myself to conquer this purpose. My first performance in MMA was in 2003 Shooto Brazil.

With 7 MMA fights, you recently had an incident in Japan. Could you elaborate on what happened?

I did a mistake shooting my opponent at his head when I was on the ground and this is not aloud at the Shooto rules so they disqualified me. It was not my intention, never. I never been disqualified in any fight for any reason. It was only my mistake because I misunderstood the rules. But I think that Japanese public understood that and saw that was not my intention. People there was very very kind with me and after this fight many of them came to talk to me and this was very good to my self including the fact that I was very sad with this mistake and this comforted me alot.

About this fight I think was doing very well. I took him on the ground and there I was develop very well swiping him and mount. Beside my mistake I did a good fight and I hope that japanese public like it.

At this point, who do you receive instruction and training for either BJJ or MMA? Could you tell us about the team you represent?

Fabricio Martins is my master and responsable for my Jiu-Jitsu and also Sandro who cares of my Muay Thai and MMA. Both are responsible for my training. The team I represent calls intself in english Team Fabricio .

How do you balance your focus between MMA and BJJ? I've heard for many it's hard to train both at the same time with equal success.

It´s not easy to practice for both. What I do is always keep training, and when the events are for example at the same time, me with my master decide witch competition are more important whereas wich one give me better returns.The Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai already do part of my routine and I practice every day. In case of Jiu-Jitsu are many years of traning so is more easy because when there is any competition I am ready, but MMA when happen to have a fight I priorize the training for this specific fight. So, with discipline and dedication I think it´s possible to conciliate the two styles.

What are you plans for the future? Any upcoming MMA fights?

I'm negotiating with some Brazilian events, but I would like a lot to fight abroad again and make an international career. I think Ásia could be a great place to fight. MMA is growing in Ásia and I think that there are many fighters from my weight class.

Any interest in the MMA scene here in Southeast Asia? The sport has grown quite significantly in China, Philippine and Indonesia.

Yes, I have interest in Asian MMA. I try to be informed and I know that the sport are growing fast everywhere, so I´m very interested to fight there and to participate with this growth.

I want to thank you for your time and wish you the best in the new year. Do you have anything you'd like to share to the readers out there?

Thank you very much to BJJ-Asia for the opportunity and to show a little bit of my self to the lovers of BJJ and MMA in Asia. I would like to thank first to God, than to my family that is the most important thing in my life and finally to my teachers, Fabrico Martins and all my training partners from Fabricio Team who also helps me to be what I am. Sandro, my Muai Thai coach, Alexandre Barcelos, my personal trainer and to my great friend from Philippines Stephen Kamphius.

Anyone who wants to know more or any question it will be a pleasure to answer. My e-mails are: danielpitmo@yahoo.com.br / danielpit@gmail.com

Thank you very much.

Daniel, thank you for taking the time to speak with us and sharing a bit of who you are. Looking forward to seeing more of you on the mat and in the ring.

WANTED: BLACK-BELT (INDIA MMA SCHOOL)

With the new year I was introduced to presence of MMA in India. Hailing from Tiger's Gym, several of its fighters have already competed in China's AOW MMA show. Located in Nasik, India their program includes wrestling, Muay Thai, boxing and MMA. They are now in search of a black-belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to instruct for a trial basis of three months.

Travel, lodging and food will be taken care of along with a monthly allowance. For details, please contact Daniel: tigersgym@gmail.com

The gyms link can be found: HERE

Below, is footage of it's fighters and location.



-Luke

TRAVEL ETIQUETTE

I would say that I'm fortunate in that I get to travel for work and do my best to travel with my gi or at least my belt. With each visit I make new friends that add to the network of exchange and mutual respect. Living in Bangkok also provides me opportunity to host a number of visitors that share the same practice of traveling with their gi. While each school will have their own practices and may differ in approach, I've always made conscious effort to be open-minded and to do 'when in Rome...'. It's not my intention to impose my opinions to the mat of another school nor is it my intention to keep from learning what new ideas or attitudes the school has to offer. Training BJJ is an exercise in humility as I am reminded of how much I don't know and that makes me even more hungry to learn. Being that I am away on business now, I thought I'd might share some of the small things that I do when visiting a new school. While this may be nothing new and mostly common sense, I would hope that visitors to my school would have the same respect and appreciation when being welcomed to a new place. -Luke

1.CONTACT SCHOOL
-When I can, I like to contact the school in advance to introduce myself and the days I will be in town. In this introduction, I tell where I am visiting from (Bangkok) and who I study under. The years of experience I have in BJJ and what belt I currently hold. This is also good to know if the schedule is accurate and which classes are good to attend for your level.

2. PAYMENT
-Some schools will insist on a mat fee and this can vary according to where it is and whether it's a single drop-in or a week's worth of classes. On some occasions, I've been given a quote but upon arrival, the drop-in fee was waived. So you never know but I would never intentionally avoid paying if that is the school's policy.

*In addition to the mat-fee, I've also been asked to sign a form that forbids me from sharing techniques learned from this school to anyone else. Now I won't get into whether I support this concept or not, but it is something to think about when considering the environment. While BJJ is quite informal in comparison to other martial arts, it has not lost it's sense of loyalty and family ties. (There is a clear difference between visiting schools when traveling and floating between schools)

3. LESSON PLAN
-At my main school in Bangkok, a hard warm-up is a fixture in our routine but this is not the case in other places. While training in Japan, there was no cardio or plyos done but a quick stretching session and right into technique. My comparison is not to argue which is better but to share that the difference in experience. Keep your mouth shut and do as you're told. Don't cut yourself short and object to something because you're not familiar with it. Decide that when you've completed the class and you have time to yourself to decide either way, 'Yes, I really like the drill they did today and would like to share it with my teammates.' You never know, you may learn something that is completely new. Save yourself from saying, 'But we don't do it that way at my school.'

-That's not say you can't ask questions but they should be in a tone that is asking for clarity or better understanding, not in opposition. Again, get all the information you can before you decide whether it is for you or not. Make an informed decision and get the best you can from each experience.

4. ROLLING/SPARRING
-I have never visited a school where the local guys (especially same belt level) didn't bring their 'A' game when rolling with me. So it would be naive of me to assume that I can relax as if I were at my home academy. But regardless of where you are, respect for your sparring partner should always be present. There are way too many meat-head-jerks so why would you want to be one when visiting another school? You're only asking for a major ass-kicking from a higher belt at the academy.

-Admit it when you've been beat and tap. You'll learn a lot more getting back to the action then wasting your time fighting an armbar as if it were the Mundials.

-If the guy you're sparring is refusing to tap, don't power through, transition and alternate your attacks. Keep things moving so that you learn and try not to play too tight of a game.

-I would also wait for an invitation to roll with a higher belt and ask either same belt-level or lower myself. Be respectful of what the belt represents in each school. Some places are really informal and it doesn't matter but until you know for sure what the vibe is, I'd play it safe.

-Unless you're hurt or have to leave at that very moment, it's rude to say no when someone asks you to roll. Granted, use your common sense when with each situation.

5. TIPS
-I started the practice of buying a t-shirt from the schools I visit. Some have them and some don't but it's a nice souvenir of where you've been and I'm sure they school appreciates the support. If you have t-shirts from your club, you can always offer a trade.

-Be sure to thank the resident black-belt/instructor and all those you've rolled with.

-Help clean up when appropriate.

-If I know I will be back, I try to keep in touch with the head instructor or office manager. This way you can thank them for their hospitality and will be remembered the next time you're around.

SCHOOLS I'VE VISITED/TRAINED AT:
AKA (Dave Camarillo)
Alliance NYC (Fabio Clemente)
Axis Jiu-Jitsu Tokyo
Bangkok Fight Club
EMAC (Adam Kayoom/Pedro Schmall)
Kowloon BJJ
Lotus Jiu-Jitsu WA (Tony Smith)
Micheal Jen CA (private)
Ralph Gracie SF (Kurt Osiander)
Renzo Gracie NYC ( John Danaher)
Tinguinha Academy LA (Mauricio Mariano)

TAKEN FROM CLAUDIO FRANCA'S SITE:

1. Always show respect to your instructors, training partners, and fellow human beings. Respect in training means: do not seek to harm fellow students physically (e.g., by cranking a submission harder than necessary to make them tap) or emotionally (i.e., by calling them names or making jokes about hurting them). Respect also means that you must train seriously and hard enough for you and your partner to improve his or her skills, conditioning, and fighting spirit. Not giving your best during training detracts from both you and your partner’s experience.

2. Maintain good hygiene (i.e., shower and brush your teeth regularly). As you can imagine, it is difficult to concentrate on technique when you find your partner’s smells distracting!

3. Keep finger and toe nails short and clean to prevent injury to yourself and others.

4. Bring a clean, dry gi to each class. Also, always keep a rash guard or T-shirt in your gym bag for no-gi classes.

5. Keep shoes off the mat, so that we can keep the mats clean and sanitary.

6. Do not walk outside with bare feet. If you have to go outside, wear sandals or shoes. Items (5) and (6) are especially important to prevent the spread of skin conditions such as ringworm.

7. Do not shout loudly or use profanity in the dojo. This should go without saying.

8. Do not talk while the instructor is talking. It distracts those who are trying to learn and is disrespectful to the teacher, as well as other students.

9. Stand, sit with your legs crossed, or kneel during class. No lounging. Studies show that people learn more effectively when seated in upright postures.

10. Please wear your gi, a T-shirt, or a tank top while in public areas of the Dojo. No bare backs!

11. Do not leave the mat during class without the instructor’s permission.

12. Keep cell phones off during class. Again, they distract those who are trying to learn.

13. If the instructor has not changed the task, then continue doing the task he or she has given (i.e., don’t sit around talking because you feel you have done a technique enough times). You can NEVER do a technique too many times.

2008 CALENDAR UPDATE!

Although it's early in the year, I am still looking to update the tournament schedule as best I can. A few dates have been confirmed but for the most part, things won't be locked down until a few months prior. I would like to point out a few additions to the dates with seminars. -Luke

CURRENT SCHEDULE (2008):

JANUARY
(19) Gracie Barra Taiwan, local bjj-grappling tournament (Kaohshiung City)
info: HERE

(27) Copa Kowloon/BJJ Jam Night (Sham Sui Po)
*for all local Hong Kong clubs and those interested in BJJ/grappling
info: HERE

(27) ADCC Japan Kyushu Championship (Fukuoka Dome, JP)
info: HERE

FEBRUARY
(10) Copa Dumau Jiu-jitsu (Handa-Aichi, JP)

(17) Dumau De Eqiupe (Konosu-Saitama, JP)

(17) Setsuma Takeda Seminar (Singapore, Shitoryu Karate Singapore Assocation)
*hosted by Alive Singapore Academy and is open to the public @ $30 per person (3 hours)
info: HERE

(23) Copa De Marianas (Guam)
info: groundzerotumon@hotmail.com

MARCH
(TBA) Southeast Asian Grappling Games (Bangkok)

(7-8) Pedro Sauer Seminar!!! (Beijing, Black Tiger Academy)
*Prof. Sauer recently received his black-red belt from Relson Gracie!!!
*rate: 1 day: 500RMB / 2 days: 800 RMB (open to all)

(30) Central Championship (Budokan in Aichi Prefecture, JP)

APRIL
(26) Copa De Hong Kong (Hong Kong)
* more to be anounced!

(26-27) All Japan Championship (Hikarigaoka Gymnasium)

(last week) John Will Seminar (Malaysia, KDT Academy)
*rate: KDT-members 300/550 RM, non-members 350/650 RM

(TBA) Prof. Frabicio Martins Seminar (Manila, Philippines)
info: HERE

MAY
(3) Pan Asian BJJ International (Manila)
(4) Pan Asian International Grappling Challenge (Manila)

(9-10) Abu Dhabi International Jiu-Jitsu Cup
info: HERE

(25) Dumau Kimonos BJJ International Cup (Nagoya-Aichi, JP)

JUNE
(TBA) Dela Riva Cup (JP)

(5-8) Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF World Championship (JP)

AUGUST
(17) Dumau Kimonos BJJ Championship (Kita-Kanto, JP)

SEPTEMBER
(TBA) Asia Pacific Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Champions Cup (PH)
(TBA) Asia Pacific Grapplers Champions Cup (PH)

OCTOBER
(25-26) Japan Open Championships (Budokan in Aichi Prefecture, JP)

NOV/DEC
(TBA) 4th Indonesian Submission Championship (Jakarta)

(29-30) Campeonato Asiatico (Tokyo, JP)

DECEMBER
(6) Philippine Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu International Open (PH)
(7) Philippine International Grappling Challenge (PH)

(21) Dumau Kimonos BJJ Japan Cup (Saitama, JP)

BJJ TERMINOLOGY (PORTUGUESE)

(01.20.2008)
Update for list at: The Fightworks Podcast

Portuguese is as foreign to me as when I first started training outside of the occasional word like 'omoplata'. Even so, I have to come across two sources that recently deal with this language gap in BJJ terminology. As mentioned in Stephen Kamphius' article on training/competing in Brazil, an understanding of the basics is a must.

While I know there are multiple names of the same move, I thought I'd share these two references and hopefully start a log of terminology we can all share. Whether you find it applicable or not, I believe it to be a part of BJJ culture. One that I am guilty of not knowing better.

Taken from Bill Koplitz's blog, "words words words" is a list he's compiled. Bill resides in Porto Alegre, Brazil having moved from London.

Parts of the Body:
Hips: Quadril (!)
Throat: Garganta
Neck: Pescoço
Foot: Pé
Head: Cabeça
Shoulder: Ombro
Knees: Joelhos
Toes: Dedos do pé
Calf (The muscle not the baby cow):
Arm: Braço
Belly: Barriga
Hand: Mão
Costas: Back
Elbow: Cotovelo
Shoulder Blade: Omo plata (I’ve done some searching on this but am not 100%)

Postional Stuff:
Posture: Postura (!)
Escape the Hips: Fugir de Quadril
All Fours: Vira De Quatro
Arm Bar: Arm(y) Lock(y)
Knee Bar: Leg(y) Lock(y)
Foot Lock: Chave de pe.
Americana: Americana
Kimura: Kimura
Side Control: Cem kilos
Guard: Guarda
Mount: Montada
Choke: Estrangulamento
Triangle: Triângulo
Rear Naked Choke: Mata-Leão
To Roll: Roll (Pronounced “Hole”)
Pushup: Flexão
Situp: Abdominal (?)
Grips: Pegadas
Queda: A throw
Hook: Gancho
Puxe: Pull. This one is a bit tricky, it sounds like “poo-shay” , so you would think it means push. It doesn’t.
Empurre: Push. “em poo hey” Like Spanish.
Saida: Escape
Sweep: Raspar
Clock: Relogio
Wristlock: Mäo de Vaca
Half-Guard: Meia Guarda
Encinma: Above, on top of
Debaixo: Below, beneath.

Colors and Kit:
Belt: Faixa
Sleeve: Manga
Collar: Gola
Lapel:
Mat: Tatame
White: Branco
Blue: Azul
Purple: Roxa
Brown: Marron
Black: Preta

The second source that I've come across recently is from the podcast show, The Fightworks Podcast. Alex Brandao, a Fabio Santos black-belt, is interviewed and gives several examples of phrases and terminology you'll likely hear from the sidelines during competition.

I will post this list to the BJJ-ASIA FORUM so that is can grow and improve.

Thanks to both Bill and Caleb for the references.

Luke

TENTATIVE TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

MARCH SOUTHEAST ASIAN GRAPPLING GAMES (BANGKOK)

APRIL 26-27 COPA DE HONG KONG (HONG KONG)
info: www.kln-bjj.com

MAY 3 PAN ASIAN BJJ INTERNATIONAL (MANILA)
MAY 4 PAN ASIAN INTERNATIONAL GRAPPLING CHALLENGE (MANILA)

LATE NOV/EARLY DEC 4TH INDONESIAN SUBMISSION CHAMPIONSHIP (JAKARTA)
------------------------------------------------------------
GREEN=CONFIRMED
RED= TBA

BLOG NEWS: 2007-2008

Hello,

I've now gotten myself settled back home and am eager to get to training. The holidays have really taken a toll on my body as I have barely touched the mat in recent weeks and emptied more than my share of pint glasses. It's always great to see family and friends but it's now time to get back to work...sigh.

A lot has happened this past year in 2007 and I am very proud to have started this blog. I'd like to see this project as an extension of my own journey in BJJ. It's been a real pleasure to connect with so many people that share a passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/Grappling/MMA. I want to thank everyone who has submitted info and updates for me to post. I'm pretty much out of patches to give which I guess is a good thing, haha. I will just have to make more but will work on a new design.

I would like to extend a special thanks to a few people that were there to support this thing from the get go. Pedro 'Bebe' Schmall, Mark 'Vesuvius' Simmerman, Niko Han, Nicolai 'The Geeza' Holt, Stephen Kamphius, and Kei Kita. Ultimately, it's everyone who's taken part and interest that makes this blog a success, thanks.

BACK TO BUSINESS!!!
With that said, I would like to share with you another Geeza installment to inspire you for a new year.

by: The Geeza

I am scared.
I am not ready.
I competed last year.
My wife will not let me.
I got promoted too early.
I do not trust the referees.
I need to work on my cardio.
I cannot afford to get injured.
I am not as good as those guys.
I do not want to let the team down.
I am still working on my game-plan.
Everyone will remember if I do badly.
I have not been training much recently.
I am just not in the right mindset right now.
I retired from competing once I got this belt.
I cannot get down to my weight-class that quickly.
And so the slippery slope of excuses for not competing goes.
Bar one excuse I have never heard; I only have one leg.

Here is something that will inspire you; a video of a lady with one leg competing.

The match will give you a tremendous insight into guard passing. It is clear that if you go against a one-legged player, you should pass on their leg side. The general principle this match emphasizes is: pass on the side over which your opponent has greatest control.

What is your 2008 New Year’s resolution?

I EXTEND THIS QUESTION TO ALL OF YOU AND POST ON THE BJJ-ASIA FORUM. WHAT IS YOUR 2008 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION?

MMA: BATTLE ON BALI- DEC 27, 2007

submitted by: Niko Han
Fransino "THE PITBULL" Tirta (Synergy) vs. Andreas Hesselbeck (Tiger Muay Thai)

Winner: Fransino Tirta via TKO, Round 1 - 2:18 minutes

Fransino Tirta (Indonesia) defeated his much larger opponent, Andreas Hesselbeck (Sweden), via TKO!! The fight started off with Tirta executing a straight left setup to a double leg takedown where he proceeded to ground n' pound his opponent from the mount and half guard position. Hesselbeck ended up getting back to his feet where they briefly clinched up against the ropes, then disengaged and squared off again. Fransino Tirta connected with an overhand right, countered a low kick with a flush straight right, then connected with two more hard rights, two lefts, another overhand right, and then dropped Hesselbeck with a big right uppercut and overhand left combo where "The Pitbull" quickly jumped on his opponent to finished him off with a flurry of right hooks from the side control position until the referee jumped in to stop the contest at the 2:18 minutes mark of the 1st round!

FULL RESULTS!!!

Fight#1 (MMA) - Alexander Sumardi def. Heriyadi by triangle choke, round 2.

Fight#2 (Muay Thai) - Masood Isadi def. Amnatsak by KO, round 2.

Fight#3 (MMA) - Mustadi drew with Zulhaidir.

Fight#4 (Muay Thai) - Piyaphong drew with Rudolf Durica.

Fight#5 (MMA) - Antoni Romulo def. Jimmy Yan Herry by TKO (strikes), round 1.

Fight#6 (Muay Thai) - David Tuwaidan drew with Denny Wibowo.

Fight#7 (Muay Thai) - Sithanonchai def. Rothang by decision.

Fight#8 (MMA) - Wade Henderson def. Ade Indra by TKO (strikes), round 1.

Fight#9 (Muay Thai) - Joe Bernard drew with Sigit Santoso.

Fight#10 (Muay Thai) - Ramazan Ramzanov def. Yoann Gouaida by TKO (strikes), round 5.

Fight#11 (MMA) - Fransino Tirta def. Andreas Hesselbeck by TKO (strikes), round 1.

BLOG NEWS: RETURNING FROM HOLIDAY