That is a pointed question! Here is my honest answer.

I am sure that I would do well. I would never predict a win over anyone, because we know that there are too many factors. But since I have a great deal of sparring experience against top combat athletes, I know that I would do well. I would be very aggressive, and play my game to the best of my ability. This does not ensure a win, but a skilled opponent would have a handful. It is as simple as that.
I considered not answering this, as it may sound like arrogance or conceit. It isn't, it is just that I have put in my time sparring with many very good fighters.

Now don't go printing this somewhere!!! I would hope that all of the JKDU Apprentice Instructors and instructors feel the same way. Put in enough sparring and training, and you can give nearly anyone a hard time.

Thank you Sifu for taking the tough questions head on like that. I am sorry, I know and knew, that that question would be uncomfortable all around, and I considered not asking it.

But, since it is a members forum, I thought you might answer here or e-mail me. SO thanks again!


Now, part two, Sifu I has called Pendeker Paul, the "deadliest" man he has met did he not? I think I seen that in print somewhere could be wrong. And the other fellows I mentioned have at one time or another been spoken of in similar language. Even you have said in print and I think on tape (could be wrong) similar things about Pendeker paul I am sorry if I am mistaken.

Now, you have trained with so many of these men, you have that experience that we were talking about in the other thread. And I believe you in what you say regarding these matters.

So, when did it change for you? Was it a slow process, or was it an event? When and how did you leap to this new level of function you are at now. And do you think the silat and various kali techniques are still useable under pressure?

Again thanks for that answer, I am sorry maybe I should have asked in private...

-Rick

What I tried to say in my last reply, is, at one time you held certain views regarding certain people, and regarding certain training methods and techniques.

At this point on your path, some of these views have changed some drastically! Can you tell us about that process?

I am going through it myself right now...

best,

-Rick

First, in actuality Sifu I never actually made that quote, even though it was on the cover of IKF. Sifu I said something very complementary, and the writer embellished a bit.
The realization was slow, but the truth is that you need to fight to be good at it. Most martial arts instructors have not put in much sparring time, unless they are kickboxers (Bill Wallace, Chai Sirisute, etc.) or into some other realistic sport aspect, such as Judo or Jiu-Jitsu. The real problem was that the students didn't spar much either in most of my previous training, and when they did, it was usually very isolated. This is good at first while the student progresses, but not after 5 years! You can spar lightly, but it should be all-inclusive.
Keep questioning, Rick. There is a time to let go of those things that seem to provide comfort, but that are actually holding you back.

That does not suprise me about IKF or any Rag out there Thanks for clearing that up.

Do you know Blaise Loong? He said that the Kali Academy, was a real fighting school, lots of sparring ect... You were there for some time before it closed right? Do you agree with him? One guy that I always thought would be or simply IS a good fighter was Rich Bustillo, I went to a Seminar of his, and it was mostly Boxing, Thai Boxing and Stick Fighting. What about the old Guard, why do you think it changed?

Any comment on Joe Lewis saying he was the only fighter from Sigung Lee's original people?

Thanks,

-Rick

The old Kali Academy, where I began my training, did have a lot of sparring. Over time, sparring was emphasized less, I believe due to the belief that good drilling is as good or better than sparring. Since there was little testing, this idea flourished, and still remains amongst many "JKD" instructors.
However, no clinch, and almost no ground fighting was sparred at the old academy. Basically kickboxing, and light, half-speed stick sparring occasionally. Again, we do better now.
Most "JKD" people hate Joe Lewis, often due to comments such as you mentioned. I suggest that each individual make up his or her own mind, and I do the same regardless of the prevailing politics. So, I went to a Joe Lewis workshop a few years ago, and it was fantastic! He talked about timing, distance, etc. He was just talking and demonstrating things that will make someone a better fighter. Excellent kickboxing techniques and good drills. If I had listened to the hype, I would not have enjoyed this workshop.
About Lewis being the only fighter, he was the only professional fighter, although Hartsell had done some boxing. It depends upon the definintion of "fighter".

It is always best to see for yourself!