A Very Pointed Question!

[WTG]

Well, it is...

this is a "run off" from my other post about being too old ect..

Sifu Burton, I want to ask you a question, it is sharp, but I mean NO disrespect at all, it is just a cut to the chase question.

Do you think, that right now, with the skill you have through JKDU type training, you could win a duel with
some of the "master" teachers you have trained with in the past? Them being in their prime.

Of course, this is speculation. But just for now, lets speculate If you feel you would win or do well, then why do you belive so?

Your answer either way will bring me to my next question.


Please understand this is not intended to be a "who would win in a real fight question" which is impossible to know unless the fight happens... It is asked for training reasons, and I understand we would never really know, and all that...

Thanks for your answer.

Best,

-Rick

[Burton]

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.

[WTG]

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

[WTG]

That didn't sound clear...

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

[Burton]

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.

[WTG]

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

[Burton]

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".

[Rich Beaupit]

Hi Everyone,

This is just a little note in regard to Burton answering the question about how he would do against other masters or such.

Professor Wally Jay once told me "Richard, if you are telling the truth, then it is not conceit."

I truly believe this. Burton has always given honest answers of anything I have asked of him, and he does not duck the tough questions that others often do.

In a related topic, I also believe in the statement that you do not have to like someone to respect them.
There are a ton of "martial artists" in my area that hate my guts for what I do and say, but they sure as hell respect me. Not because I can beat them down, but because they know in their heart and soul that I can better them on a mental, emotional AND physical level.
And alot of my development has been through my involvment with Burton and JKDU.

I have a goal to help these people change their attitude, look at what we are doing, and just TRY IT! THen they can pass judgement with an educated mind.

Take care everyone,


Rich

P.S. : Sifu, I didn't know if I was suppose to contact you regarding things or wait till you contacted me. Let me know what you would like to do. Also, any seminars around my area coming up?

[ironchef]

hi,

almost all my stand up style of fighting is derived off of joe lewis's stratagies and theories. joe worked with bruce lee on the ideas.
when i learned the theories, it really opened my eyes
on how to fight stand-up.

thanks,
ironchef

[Burton]

It is always best to see for yourself!