Barron Shepherd Judo: Progressive Grip Fighting

A lot of people who start judo want to start off in judo learning it's big and fancy looking throws. Trying to throw an experienced grappler or judoka is extremely difficult without knowing how to fight to get your grip. Grip fighting is an art in itself and most importantly a fundamental part of judo that is worth learning. It requires serious time in training and if you don’t put the time into this, you won’t progress very far with your throws.

Grip fighting is ultimately the act of grabbing your opponent's gi where YOU desire without letting the opponent get the grip(s) he wants in such a way that prevents you from attacking. The more effective your grip fighting the more you create opportunities to set up AND enter into your throws. 

Have a grip fighting strategy

Be aggressive in getting your grip. Always try to get your hands on your opponent first and get the dominant grip. Don’t fight on his terms and don’t let him have the better grip or tie up. Be specific with getting your grip it should lead to something. Your throw flows naturally from your grip. Make sure the grip you use works best for the throw you want to use.

Grip fighting means just that "grip fighting!" Don’t change your stance stand your ground and fight for the grip you want. Be fast - Be ballistic - Be explosive. Think boxing - punch in your grips like a boxer, you can use combinations, you can feint and you can even parry you opponent's grip attempts in the same manner a boxer parries punches.

If you can’t get the dominant grip, try to break his grip and counter with your own grip

Get the first grip

A judo throw requires the establishment of a strong grip. An offensive gripping strategy can help keep the opponent or adversary on their heels both literally and figuratively. Not having a solid plan for your grips can leave you vulnerable and at the mercy of your opponent.

Arm pit grip (waki)

Outside of Japan the arm pit grip is a pretty rare gripping method. Some of the great Japanese judo players have used this grip successfully in their offensive arsenal. Gripping the folds of the cloth at the area of arm pit is extremely versatile. It provides incredible defense and distance control.

Blue inserts the fingers of his left hand into the fold of the gi just above the opponent’s arm pit. Grip the gi with primarily the bottom three fingers of your left hand and drive the pinky finger into the opponents chest and turn the hand over slightly clockwise palm down.

The arm pit grip is very useful in blocking an opponent’s attacks, restricting his movements and keeping him at a safe distance. It is extremely effective in a right vs right situation or an opposite stance, right vs. left situation (Kenka Yotsu). It helps control his arm making it harder for him to put his hand down to block a throw, it also keeps him from reaching over the top of your shoulder. In the one-handed judo style you have the added benefit of the opponent not feeling threatened by only a single grip. Unlike a pull on the sleeve or the lapel pulling at the armpit is a much shorter pull.

Right vs Right – Punching in your grip

A right vs right situation refers to both players being right-handed meaning the majority of their throws will be to the right side. In a right vs. right situation (pictured) your right shoulder should be more toward your rear. The right hand is held further back and away from your opponent and not out front and easily accessible for your opponent to grip and attack.  Your left hand or the gripping hand is active and offensive. Your right hand or rear hand is ready and active as well to defend against your opponent’s gripping attacks and can be used for feints to set up your throw.

1.) Stand with the right foot forward. The knees should be bent and center of gravity low. Feet are shoulder width apart. Twist your upper body clockwise bringing your left hand and shoulder to the front closer to your opponent. Your left hand is primarily your attacking hand and should be positioned closer to your opponent. The right hand acts primarily as the defensive hand.

2.) Much like delivering a jab in boxing, punch in with your left hand and grip your opponent’s gi right above the armpit. Your right hand is up and defending any attempts by the opponent to get his grip.

Grip fighting is Boxing!!!

Grip fighting in judo is a fairly recent development. There is great value in getting and preventing grips. Grip fighting, used aggressively, creates multiple opportunities to set up your throws and takedowns. Some Modern Olympic elite level judo competitors look like boxers, circling each other while jabbing and probing their opponent's defenses, countering the opponent's grip attempts and punching their hands in for a perfect grip. 

Grip fighting represents the very highest levels of competition however, at the lower levels of competition judo and in judo clubs around the world grip fighting isn't  really seen or even practiced. The approach of a no grip fighting style of judo is still very, very much predominant. 

Dont let the opponent get his grip

Another important detail in grip fighting is don’t be so focused on getting your grip that you allow the opponent to get their grips. 

Parrying the opponent’s grip attempt and counter gripping

As stated earlier in a right on right situation your attacking hand is primarily your left hand and the right hand is primarily your defensive hand. Look to counter your opponent’s grip attempts with the right or rear hand.

Outside Parry

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his right hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the outside with his right hand as he shuffles forward slightly.

3.) As if throwing a lead straight punch or a jab in boxing blue shuffles forward and punches his in grip, rocking white backwards and gripping him at the front of white’s gi just above the arm pit.

Inside Parry

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his left hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his right hand as he shuffles forward slightly.

3.) As if throwing a lead straight punch or a jab in boxing blue shuffles forward and punches his in grip, rocking white backwards and gripping him at the front of white’s gi just above the arm pit.

Double Parry

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his left hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his right hand as he shuffles forward slightly.

3.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his right hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the outside with his right hand as he shuffles forward slightly. After the parry punch in counter grip as shown in inside and outside parries. 

 

Lead Hand Inside Parry to Lead Hand Counter Grip

Though the left or lead hand is primarily the attacking hand and the right or rear hand is primarily used defensively that doesn’t mean their roles cant be switched.

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his right hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his right as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his left hand.

3.) As if throwing a lead straight punch or a jab in boxing blue shuffles forward and punches his left hand in to grip, rocking white backwards and gripping him at the front of white’s gi just above the arm pit.

Lead Hand Inside Parry to Rear Hand Counter Grip

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand positioned closer to white.  White is standing right foot forward lead.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his right hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his right as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his left hand.

3.) As if throwing a lead straight punch or a jab in boxing blue shuffles forward and punches his left hand in to grip, rocking white backwards and gripping him at the front of white’s gi just above the arm pit.

BARRON SHEPHERD - SIXKILLER KAJUKENBO KSDI

The strength of Kajukenbo lies in how techniques from the different styles that made up Kajukenbo (Karate, Judo, Kenpo and Boxing) are combined. Taking the opponent out of the fight as quickly as possible by delivering techniques in combination, as BALLISTIC as possible, to cause as much damage possible, is the aim of Kajukenbo. The most effective of its techniques are ones that effectively dole out the principles of physics quickly and forcefully, coupled with a will to achieve the goal.

Punch Counter Against Double Jab

1.) Both Fighters are fighting out of right foot forward lead.  2.) The opponent throws a straight right lead punch (jab). Parry the punch with your right lead hand.  3.) The opponent doubles up on his jab and immediately throws another. Lean back slightly pivoting counter clockwise toward nine o'clock and rolling your right shoulder up to protect your chin. Your left stays up next to the left side of your chin and jaw. 

 4.) Immediately counter the opponent's second jab with a left cock screw punch as you pivot both feet clockwise to twelve o'clock. Your left foot raises off the heel as you deliver the punch. Your right hand chambers at the right side of your chin  5.) Pivot on the lead foot as you step your rear foot toward nine o'clock and execute a right upper cut to the chin of the opponent.  6.) Shuffle forward slightly by pushing off the left foot and stepping forward with the right foot. Strike your opponent’s right shoulder with a straight left heel of palm strike and grab his clothing at the area struck. This strike should be hard enough to disrupt his posture and rock him back on his heels.  

7.) With a short quick jerk with the left hand, pull the opponent into you. This should rock him to his front and off of his heels. As you pull step your left foot toward your right foot, your knees should be bent and your belt line should be lower than his belt line.  8.) Bring your right hand up under the opponent’s right armpit. Your right foot steps forward between the opponent’s feet pivot counter clockwise on your left foot and continue to pull with the left hand. As the right foot lands between deep between the opponent’s feet the toes of both feet should be pointing straight in the direction of the throw. Pinch the opponent’s right arm at his arm pit between your right forearm and bicep. Rotate the palm of the right hand toward your head (this creates a tighter clamp on the opponent’s arm).   9.)  Step back with your left foot next to the opponent’s left foot (as you step back with the left foot between your opponent’s feet they should start to raise up off the mat).

10.) Straighten your legs quickly and pop your hips upward into the opponent.  11.) Continue to pull and twist your torso to the left, taking your right elbow toward your left knee and drive the opponent to the ground.   

Immediately after the throw you can follow up with ground and pound see steps 13,14 and 15 in previous article.       

DYNAMIC KAJUKENBO BY BARRON SHEPHERD COMING IN 2024

  

 

COMING FEB/MARCH 2024

 FOREWORD

 TRAVELLING THE PATH

 Colonel G.H. Bristol USMC (retired) Creator and  Developer of the MCMAP , the U.S. Marine Corps Martial Art Program.

 Martial artist travel along a path. Some find the beginning of that path in a dojo and remain for a lifetime. Others have a shorter experience and move on to other endeavors. Some remain with one discipline for their entire length of the path. Others travel multiple paths and experiment with that of weapons, grappling, striking, and other aspects of the combative spectrum.

But a few exponents choose a different walk. They absorb multiple aspects of well-established disciplines and patiently – yet relentlessly – fuse them into their own unique personal fighting philosophy. Barron Shepherd is one of those martial artists. A lifetime journey of dedicated training, learning, absorbing, fusing, and teaching – and training again.

A man of considerable physical capability and capacity, a keen eye for technique, and a humble yet disciplined pursuit, he has walked a long winding road in JUDO and KAJUKENBO – first as a student and now as a teacher and advocate for both. Those who know him agree that he seeks to find the best within the training continuum and then pass it along to others for their benefit.

Talking with him regarding his latest book "Dynamic Kajukenbo", he is – as always – passionate, well-informed, and trains himself and others in what has become a lifetime of learning and DOING. As you read and see the in-depth technical and explosive application of a martial discipline that is at its core a FIGHTING art, you will better know the author.

I know him, so I will give you a thought as you begin to read. The author is a man who can execute – at a high and lethal level – every technique and application he describes. He is a lifelong learner and exponent. But more importantly, he is a man who – to those he knows and trains – would answer the call to those oppressed of the beginner who desires to learn. That combination is at the heart of a fighting man with a pure love of what he does.

Get to know Barron Shepherd in this book. I believe that you will find it informative, motivating, and strikes at the heart of what martial arts is all about. - SEMPER FIDELIS! GH Bristol

             ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The original concept of Kajukenbo was to build a fighting system that worked in the street. Kajukenbo was NOT the peaceful way, nor was it the way of de-escalation.  Kajukenbo’s mindset was and is one of approaching or attacking violence with greater overwhelming violence. Hit first, hit fast, hit hard and finish the guy! Kajukenbo was never about avoidance. Engagement and destruction were the strategy and tactics of Kajukenbo.

1.) Both you and the attacker are in a right foot forward fighting stance. Your knees bent and your rear foot is slightly raised off the ground.  2.) The attacker shuffles forward and executes a lead round house punch. Pivot on the right foot counter clockwise toward nine o’clock and strike the attacker’s right arm with the boney area of both of your forearms.  3.) From the point of contact, bend the knees and drop into right hammer fist and left forearm strike knocking the attacker’s arm downward. 

4.) Immediately turn clockwise toward twelve o’clock and execute a right hammer fist to the attacker’s jaw or neck. Your left hand chambers at your right shoulder  5.) Pivot on the rear foot clockwise toward ten o’clock and deliver a straight left punch to the attacker’s jaw. You right hand chambers at the right side of the head.   6.) Pivot counter clockwise toward nine o’clock and strike the left side of the attacker’s jaw with an left outward hand sword turning his head to this right. 

7.) Dropping the hips, deliver a right hammer fist to the left side of the attacker’s jaw. The right left hand rechambers at your right shoulder.  8.) Pivot clockwise toward twelve o’clock and strike the front of the attacker’s right shoulder with a hard left open hand check and grab his shirt at the area struck.  9.) Pull with the attacker toward you as you shift your right foot back slightly and push off it to move toward eleven o’clock.

10.) When you drive of the left foot step your right foot to eleven o’clock and to the outside of the attacker’s right foot  11.) Pulling with your left hand bring your right knee forward and up in between your left leg and the outside of your opponent’s right leg. Swing your right leg downward and back without letting your right foot touch the ground. The back of your calf should make contact with the back of your opponent’s calf. Continue your pull with your left hand bringing your left elbow to your left hip.  Continue with the sweep taking your opponent’s leg upward. Sweep his leg high. While sweeping your opponent’s leg drive his shoulder downward to the ground by continuing to pull your left elbow to your left hip.   12.)  The attacker lands on his left side and is turned away from you. Keeping control of his right arm, immediately place your right knee and shin against the attacker’s ribs and back. 

13.) Drop your hips pivoting counter clockwise on the ball of your right foot and deliver a right straight punch downward to the side of the attacker’s head. Your left hand chambers at your right shoulder.  14.) Twisting your hips back clockwise immediately follow up with a open hand check or a left outward edge of hand strike to the attackers jaw or side of head.  As your left hand checks or strikes your right hand chambers.  15.) Pivot again counter clockwise on the ball of your right foot and drop your hips downward as you deliver a straight punch to the attackers jaw, rechambering your left hand at your right shoulder.

DYNAMIC KAJUKENBO BY BARRON SHEPHERD

AVAILABLE 2024

If Boxing is called the sweet science then Kajukenbo should definitely be referred to as the savage science of street fighting.  Kajukenbo was developed as a brutally effective street fighting system, the reader should take notice that I didn’t say self-defense system. 

The creators of Kajukenbo literally brought the street into the dojo. Those who brought about the concepts and creation of Kajukenbo trained like they were fighting in the streets and knew if they didn’t get it right, they would likely end up cut, beaten, stabbed, shot and even dead.

Kajukenbo is NOT the peaceful way! It is NOT the way of de-escalation! Kajukenbo’s mindset is one of approaching or attacking violence with greater overwhelming violence. Hit first, hit fast, hit hard and finish the guy! Kajukenbo’s history shows us that Kajukenbo was never about the avoidance of violence. Engagement and destruction were the strategy and tactics of Kajukenbo.

The strength of Kajukenbo lies in how techniques from the different styles that made up Kajukenbo (Karate, Judo, Kenpo and Boxing) are combined. Taking the opponent out of the fight as quickly as possible by delivering techniques in combination as BALLISTIC as possible to cause as much damage possible is the aim of Kajukenbo. You cannot do these things if you don’t ground yourself in the principles of physics. The only way for optimal performance in Kajukenbo is to understand the forces at work, by the numbers, then work on increasing the value of those numbers though repetition.

Kajukenbo is literally opening the whole can of “whup ass”. The most effective of Kajukenbo techniques are ones that effectively dole out the principles of physics, quickly and forcefully coupled with a will to achieve the goal. Physics in Kajukenbo might not seem like the most obvious subject to consider, but for a science that seeks to understand everything about the elements of motion, energy and force, the connection to Kajukenbo is clear. The six principles of physics that are important in Kajukenbo are acceleration, force, momentum, energy, speed and velocity. Their  interdependence is a key factor in Kajukenbo's combination attacks.  

Kajukenbo is a fighting style geared for the streets. The test of truth regarding your fighting skills is whether they work or not. The basics of applying any successful technique be it a punch, a kick or a throw can be broken down into a few factors:

Acceleration – Without acceleration there is little or no power. Acceleration determines whether your technique hits or misses or if you can be countered or not. If honed by practice for control acceleration can become an over whelming factor in a street fight.  

Force – Force is a factor that results in the acceleration of an object. You will want to make sure that over time you develop a sense of how much force is being generated by your acceleration, so you can improve your acceleration.

Momentum – Momentum is defined as the product of an objects mass multiplied by its velocity. An effective technique is usually going to be very quick and strong. The goal is to generate maximum velocity allowable by time and space.

Energy – Energy plays an important role in the physics of Kajukenbo, the more energy your tecniques and combinations possess the more damage you can do.

Velocity – Velocity is a term often used interchangeably with Speed, however, their physical definitions are quite different. Speed is a quantity that only has magnitude not direction. It refers to how fast an object is moving. Velocity is a vector quantity and it refers to the rate at which an object changes its direction. The difference being that is Velocity has direction and magnitude. If one wants to punch harder or develop a bone breaking throw training may need to focus in the torsional vector. Meaning improving the velocity of rotation where these forces are often applied in punching striking kicking and throwing. 

Physics as well as the kind of physical and mental toughness built through hard training is the way to win street altercations. A study of physics in relation to such a diverse fighting method like Kajukenbo can help us better understand how to use our bodies more efficiently to deliver ballistic movements and techniques. Breaking down the way energy is harnessed into our mass and our speed, physics gives us a clear view of where we can improve. It provides a road map to how we can become better punchers, kickers, throwers etc. Improve in all areas and ranges of motion, so we can hit harder and faster. It will give one the competitive edge and the advantage in the street! The place Kajukenbo was designed in mind for.

As an older Kajukenbo practitioner and athlete (yes, serious KJKB practitioners are in my opinion combat athletes), while being tough and being in shape are necessities, I have come to understand that knowledge of bio mechanics and understanding the elements of motion save wear and tear on the body. Proper biomechanical execution and knowledge of what makes our techniques sound and can function the most efficiently can increase your longevity. Giving us the ability to keep training strong so that we can remain strong!

Lastly, Kajukenbo is a brutally extreme fighting method which more than potentially revolves around a life or death scenario….not a ring. One may take punishment but one also has to be tough enough withstand and then dole it out. There are no rounds in the street, no time outs, no rest periods.  Your own style of fighting is a personal thing. This only develops through diligent training. Only then will the moves which you will depend on become automatic, reflexive and instinctive. The best style then is a versatile collection of moves, striking, punching, kicking, throws and takedowns that works well for you that are and can be performed at the level of optimal performance.

Limb destruction, Trap, Elbow strike to Split Entry Shoulder Throw

1.) The attacker is standing in a left foot forward lead and the defender is standing in a right foot forward lead.  2.) The attacker moves forward and throws a right rear hand straight punch. The defender parries the punch to the inside and toward the right as he pushes of the back foot and shuffles slightly toward 11 o’clock to the outside of the attacker’s punch.  3.) The defender simultaneously brings his right arm up and parries the punch with the outside of his forearm. His left is up at the chin and the right side of his head is covered with his bicep and forearm.

4.) The defender immediately pivots toward one o’clock. Bending his knees and dropping his center of gravity he grabs the opponent’s right wrist with his right hand and strikes the back of the opponent’s right arm just above the elbow with a left upward elbow. (Steps 3 and 4 shown opposite angle on next page).  5.) The defender checks/traps the opponent’s right arm with his left hand.  6.) Pivot on the back foot counter clockwise and drop step toward eleven o’clock with the right foot and deliver a roundhouse elbow. The elbow strikes the front of the opponent’s right shoulder at the area just above the armpit and turns the opponent’s upper body back toward the defender.   

Steps 3.) and 4.) shown from opposite angle

3.) The defender simultaneously brings his right arm up and parries the punch with the outside of his forearm. His left is up at the chin and the right side of his head is covered with his bicep and forearm.  4.) The defender immediately pivots toward one o’clock. Bending his knees and dropping his center of gravity he grabs the opponent’s right wrist with his right hand and strikes the back of the opponent’s right arm just above the elbow with a left upward elbow. 

7.) Keeping your knees bent drop your center of gravity and immediately strike your opponent’s right shoulder with a left heel of palm strike and grab his clothing at the area struck. This strike should be hard enough to disrupt his posture and rock him back on his heels. 8.) With a short quick jerk with the left hand, pull the opponent into you. Simultaneously begin to pivot counter clockwise into a split entry throw on the left foot. As you begin the pivot bring your right knee up toward your chest. 9.) The right hand moves up under the opponent’s right armpit. The right foot drops back between the opponent’s feet and to the inside of his right foot. The toes of both feet should be pointing toward seven o’clock.

10.) Pinch the attacker’s right arm at his arm pit between your right forearm and bicep. The defender Steps back with the left foot next to the opponent’s left foot.  11.) Straighten your legs quickly and pop your hips upward into the opponent.  12.) Continue to pull and twist your torso to the left, taking your right elbow toward your left knee to finish the throw.  

Explaining the Split Step Entry (Kodokan Judo)

Footwork entries into judo throws include the Split-Step entry and the Back-Step entry. Both allow you to step deeper in between your opponent’s feet allowing for maximum leverage. The Split entries can be utilized in different scenarios addressing different types of attacks from different angles. It will also allow you to make adjustments during the course of the execution of a throw if your opponent tries to step back or away from a throw either incidentally or purposefully. Of the three entries into throws the step pivot, the split step and the back step. The split step methods are the most effective they allow you to enter at different angles and allow for greater execution of force. 

Split Step Entry Shoulder Throw 

1.) As you step forward with the right foot to the top of the triangle punch in your grip with your left hand.  2.) Grab the gi and pull with your left hand at he same time bring your left foot up next to your right foot.  3.) Step forward between the opponent’s feet with your right foot through the triangle and pivot on the left foot. Your right arm moves under his right arm and pinches his arm between your bicep and forearm at his arm pit. The toes of both feet should be pointing in the direction of the top of the triangle.  4.) The left foot moves in between the opponent’s feet. The toes of your left foot should be in line with the base line of the triangle. As the left foot moves back his feet should lift up off the ground. To finsh the throw twist your upper body bring your right elbow to your left hip. 

JUDO GRIP FIGHTING AND JEET KUNE DO CONCEPTS: CHANNELING MY INNER BRUCE LEE PT 1

The following is the first in a series of articles on “Channeling my inner Bruce Lee.”

Grip or hand fighting in judo is a fairly new development. It is an art in itself, and represents the very highest levels of competition. Modern Olympic judo competitors look almost like boxers, circling each other while jabbing and probing their opponent’s defenses, parrying the opponent’s grip attempts and countering by punching in their grip like a punch. Grip fighting is an important aspect of Judo and it requires some serious time in training.

I look at my particular style of judo from the perspective that if judo is my chosen fighting system, then how do I implement it ballistically and efficiently in every possible situation or scenario.

The Way of the Intercepting Fist

Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do, meaning  “Way of the intercepting Fist”, often referred to as JKD, is a hybrid martial art that incorporates various techniques from different fighting styles, primarily Wing Chun, Boxing and Fencing. Jeet Kune Do’s emphasis is on practicality, adaptability, and efficiency. Bruce Lee looked heavily at boxing in his formulation of JKD, studying the great legendary boxers like Jack Dempsey, Sugar ray Robinson and Muhammad Ali. 

Bruce Lee’s system of Jeet Kune do was similar to judo in the sense that both were born of innovation. However, that wasn’t the only similarity! To be able to fight effectively with judo be it competition or self defense, Jigoro Kano the founder of Judo, maintained that judoka should stand upright, in the style of a “western boxer! To remain relaxed and loose in this posture so that Judoka could move more fluidly in attack and defense.

Bruce Lee literally took the very same perspective with Jeet Kune Do. Bruce’s On Guard stance was a strong side forward stance similar to that of a boxer.  “The on-guard position is that position most favorable to the mechanical execution of all the total techniques and skills. It allows complete relaxation, yet, at the same time, gives a muscle the tension most favorable to quick reaction time.”

Recently a friend of mine, Prof. Tony Pacenski who holds Black belts in both BJJ and Judo, stated that atemi is a form of Kuzushi, it takes uke’s balance and his mind. Atemi-waza (striking methods) is indeed a form of kuzushi (off Balancing) and can be combined with Judo nage-waza (throwing techniques). Atemi before nage for kuzushi! Strike before throwing to off balance can be in a number of forms:

a) physically knocking uke out of balance,

b) making uke evade or flinch from the atemi and by doing so unbalances himself,

c) creating a distraction – a mental kuzushi,

d) a combination of two or more of the above.

Keeping the perspective that Judo grip fighting is likened to that of a boxer who parries and then counters a punch and a punch can be used as form of off balancing both physically and mentally. What about combining it with Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do concepts and not only for the purpose of fighting and self defense but can some of the concepts of “The Way of the Intercepting Fist” be used for grip fighting in the sport of Judo?

Lead Hand Parry to lead hand straight punch to Osoto Gari

Osoto Gari is typically the first Judo technique I teach anyone. Predominately because most of the mechanics and body movement needed to execute most throws can be found in this basic throw.

Bruce Lee believed that his “On guard” position (strong side forward) was the most favorable for the initiation and execution of action. Ask yourself what is the stance for you? Find the stance that gives you a feeling of centeredness, knowingness, and confidence, that would allow you to move with ease, speed and power! In other words find the stance in which allows you to initiate and be the most BALLASTIC in movement in any direction needed….not just one.

1.) Blue is in a Jeet Kune Do strong side forward position (On Guard), white has taken a boxer’s stance. 2.) White throws a left hand straight punch. Blue parries the punch to the inside with his right hand. 3.) From the point of contact with the parry and without any initial draw back, Blue delivers a right straight punch (commonly referred to in JKD as the Straight Lead).

4.) As the right hand punch retracts, 5.) pivoting clock wise on both feet punch in your grip with the left hand and drive off the heel of your left foot, striking the pocket of the opponent’s shoulder. The impact of punching in your grip should be hard enough to rock the opponent on his heels. 6.) Grab the jacket at the area struck and pull with the left hand bringing your left elbow down toward your left hip. As you begin the pull with the left hand and keeping your knees bent drive of your right foot and step toward 11 O’clock with the left foot. As you enter into the throw your belt line should be lower than your opponent’s belt line and your axis should be forward.

7.) Your right foot kicks through the space between you left leg and the opponent’s right leg. 8.) continue to pull with your left hand and swing the right foot back sweeping your opponent’s right leg to his front. 9.) twist your upper body to the left to finish taking the opponent to the mat.

"Coming up in the Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu Style under Rafa Santos that encompassed all of traditional teachings of BJJ. One thing many Carlson Black Belts throughout the years also boasted were Judo Black Belts and or High Level Wrestling. As I continued my own training I always sought to enhance my own standup and found no better solution than Judo. Judo has many styles and variations in its application but none as progressive as Barron Shepherd Judo. I’ve proudly trained under Barron for the better part of 7 years. Learning to aggressively grip, dynamic entries and a unique one handed style of Judo has added many new options and facets to my game. I am happy to now get to continue to work with Barron ensuring the beautiful dynamic Judo style he teaches with the blended style of BJJ for ground work for a truly unique offering at Winter Haven Freestyle Judo." – Andrew Kinchen, 1st Degree BJJ Black Belt, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructor, Carlson Gracie Winter Haven.

Double Parry counter grip to Spinning Ippon Seoi Nage

There is a world of difference between doing judo and actually being able to fight with judo whether it be sport or self defense. Grip fighting represents the very highest levels of competition however, at the lower levels of competition judo and in judo clubs around the world the approach of no grip fighting style still very much persists. A common mistake made when seeking grips is to be so focused on getting your grip that you allow the opponent to get the same grips. These 'mirror gripping tactics' (sleeve  and lapel grip) are what every judoka learns throws from but in actuality it is one of the worst places to attempt to fight from! 

To be able to fight effectively with judo be it competition or self defense, Kano maintained that judoka should stand upright, in the style of a “western boxer! To remain relaxed and loose in this posture so that Judoka could move more fluidly in attack and defense. This coincides with what every boxer and athlete knows today, that a stiff muscle is a slow muscle and a relaxed muscle offers faster action and reaction.

Grip or hand fighting in judo is a fairly recent development. There is great value in getting and preventing grips. Grip fighting, used aggressively, creates multiple opportunities to set up your throws and takedowns. Modern Olympic judo competitors look almost like boxers, circling each other while jabbing and probing their opponent's defenses, punching their hands in for a perfect grip. The perfect grip being the one that allows one to immediately initiate a successful throw or takedown. 

Double Parry counter grip to Spinning Ippon Seoi Nage

1.) Blue is standing in a right foot forward. Both of his arms are bent and both hands are held at chest level. The left hand is held slightly in front of his right hand.  White is standing left foot forward lead with his left hand held slightly in front.

2.) White attempts to get a lapel or collar grip with his left (lead) hand. Blue turns his upper body slightly to his left as he parries white’s attacking hand to the inside with his left hand.

3.) White immediately follows up with his right hand and tries to establish a right hand grip. Blue turns his upper body slightly more to his left as he parries white’s right hand to the outside with his right hand.

4.) Blue pushes off his left foot and turns his upper body back clockwise to the right creating torque and punches in his left hand in and gets a arm pit or lapel grip on White’s right side.

5.) Blue pulls white forward with his left hand keeping his elbow high. Simultaneously, Blue checks white’s left hand with his right hand as he slides/shifts his right foot back pushing off of it and steps forward with his left foot toward white’s left foot.

6.) As soon as Blue’s left foot touches the mat he pivots counter clockwise on the ball of the left foot. Blue’s right hand pushes White’s right hand into white’s body.

7.) Pivoting 180 degrees on his left foot, Blue brings his right knee up toward his chest his as he continues a high pull with his left hand. Blue’s right arm moves under the aggressor’s right armpit.

8.) At the completion of the pivot, Blue drops his right foot back deep between White’s t just to the inside of white’s right foot. The toes of both feet should be pointing in the direction of the throw. Blue pinches white’s right arm at his arm pit between Blue’s right forearm and bicep. Blue rotates the palm of the right hand toward your head (this creates a tighter clamp on the opponent’s arm).

9.)  Blue steps back with left foot to the inside of white’s left foot and pulls downward with his left hand.  Blue then begins to straighten his legs quickly by driving upward off his heels, popping his hips upward into the opponent. Blue continues to pull and twist his torso by turning his right elbow toward his left knee and  the opponent to the ground to finish the throw. 

"I have been working one on one with Barron, both of us trading knowledge of the different aspects of our particular styles, BJJ and Judo. When it comes to judo, I appreciate Barron’s style of teaching, not only with the specific drills that he utilizes to supplement and reinforce his judo techniques, but his overall approach of how to properly execute the techniques. One of the things that I especially like about Barron’s style of Judo is his approach to grip fighting and his one-handed style gripping attack. I have implemented this into my game. It has not only helped me with my stand up, but also with my ground game." - Eddie Sebastia 2^nd stripe Black belt, IBJJF Competitor, 62-2 In competition. Purple Belt World Champion, Brown Belt World Champion, 2x Black Belt Pan American Champion.

Shoulder Throw vs Rear Hand Straight Punch

“THE STOP” can be found in the US Army combatives Field Manuals 21-150 from 1954 through to 1971. It can also be found in earlier works such as Willaim Jacomb’s 1918 book on Practical self defense where it is referred to as “THE STOP”. It is also used in the 1905 book, The Complete Kano Jiujitsu/Judo. Simple, gross motor driven direct and effective, it takes our natural survival instincts into consideration and allows those survival instincts to work as a foundation for a very rapidly delivered technique. Turning this instinctive reaction into a hit, thrown much like a straight punch in boxing as opposed to a push, you can stop the rotation of the attacker’s torso at his shoulder. This tactic is incorporated into my boxing skills and combinations. It can be utilized as a preemptive strike or when the attack is recognized early or late.

Preemptively, “THE STOP” is used just before the adversary is within striking distance and when your intention is to take him to the ground. When delivered it stops the forward motion of the attacker and brings his arms up toward the front(1st picture below).

When it is used to intercept a punch early, striking the pocket of the shoulder stops the rotation of the adversary’s torso at his shoulder (2nd picture above). “THE STOP” is also effective when you pick up on the attacker throwing a punch late. For example, if the attacker throws a right haymaker, step off line of the punch and at an angle to your right and deliver the strike with your left hand to the attacker’s right shoulder (3rd picture above). This tactic basically short-circuits the power of your attacker’s punch at the root of its motion.

“THE STOP” is not a push, it is a strike, delivered much like a straight punch in boxing either with the lead hand like a jab or the rear hand. Targets the area where the shoulder meets the chest and immediately follow up by grabbing the adversary’s shirt at the area struck. Once the adversary has been rocked backwards, immediately follow – up with a pull bringing up off his heels  and toward you for more strikes or a throw or take down.

Shoulder Throw vs Rear Hand Punch

1.) From a ready position, you see the aggressor start to throw a rear hand punch. Push off the left foot and step forward with your right foot at a slight angle along the right side of the triangle slipping to the inside of the punch. Simultaneously strike the aggressor’s shoulder right above the armpit jamming his attempted punch. Immediately grip his shirt at the area struck.

2.) Pull the aggressor toward you with the left hand rocking him forward up off his heels. At the same time that you start your pull with the left hand, your left foot moves up toward the top of the triangle.

3.) Then Immediately step your right foot to his right foot. The toes of your right foot should be almost touching the inside of his right foot, next to his big toe. Your right arm moves under the aggressor’s right armpit.

4.) Pivot counter clockwise on the ball of your right foot and continue to pull with the left hand. Your left foot steps back all the way through the triangle between the opponent’s feet. The toes of both feet should be pointing in the direction of the apex of the triangle. Pinch the opponent’s right arm at his arm pit between your right forearm and bicep. Rotate the palm of the right hand toward your head (this creates a tighter clamp on the opponent’s arm).

5.) Pull downward with your right hand as you straighten your legs quickly by driving upward off your heels, popping your hips upward into the opponent.

6.) To finish the throw, continue to pull and twist your torso by turning your right elbow toward your left knee and drive the opponent to the ground.

The Issue with Bret Gordon

No adult should ever threaten a child or use someone’s child against them online. However, Bret Gordon did this very thing to a 13 year old girl, the daughter of someone I know. Anyone who knows me, even those who hate me, will tell you one thing….. I don’t suffer grief from anyone in any form. Back in 2020  Gordon who at the time was claiming to be a 5th degree black belt in judo tried to defame and slander me in an online article. Long story short Gordon's article was debunked by the very people that Gordon himself tried to get after me, a blogger by the name of Greysmith.

Gordon hates my guts quite literally because I am an authority in my field and a legitimate black belt in judo and he isn’t. I have a verifiable background in judo and Gordon doesn't. Gordon has no affiliations or connections to any legitimate Kodokan recognized judo organizations or even the Kodokan. What he does have is a lot of hate for me or anyone affiliated with me apparently…. and this incident proves it. 

It seems Gordon and a colleague of his threatened the 13-year-old daughter of one of my long-distance students to harass him. Gordon had dropped the little girl’s name online less than 24 hours after Randy received a death threat toward his daughter over the phone. It seems both Gordon and the caller knew Randy's daughter's name and where she was that particular weekend. According to Randy, he reported it to the Ohatchee police and filed a complaint. 

The Ohatchee police, took the threats extremely seriously but had to verify that this wasn't a false report. The officer contacted Gordon by phone. During the call with the Ohatchee Police, Gordon incriminated himself along with others involved with making the threats. Gordon went so far as to try and justify threatening the little girl to the police by telling the police that Randy was Graysmith, the blogger I mentioned earlier in this article. The Police were able to determine that Randy was NOT Graysmith and that Gordon was indeed involved or behind the threat or at the least he knew who did it and why. Gordon had dropped the little girl’s name online the day after Randy received the death threat toward his daughter. According to Randy, the police have also supposedly identified the other party (person) involved.

SIDE NOTE: Gordon has accused me being Graysmith back in 2020, Gordon was mad that I was able to verify my back ground to anyone who asked. Gordon then wrote another article online and demanded that I show him a picture of my arms. Apparently Graysmith has a arm tattoo(s). I don't have any arm tattoos.  https://combatjudo.blogspot.com/2023/07/the-shit-that-spews-from-bret-gordons.html

Gordon was advised by the Ohatchee Police that making terroristic threats against a minor is a felony in the state of Alabama. The investigators came to the conclusion that the real reason Gordon had targeted Randy and his daughter was because Gordon holds a grudge against me. Police advised Gordon if Randy received any more calls, or threats from anyone, they would hold Gordon personally responsible and he would face more charges. The threats and harassing calls then stopped. 

THE COMPLAINT BECOMES A CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION

Three months later, in May, Randy started receiving more threatening calls and harassment via social media, Gordon was once again contacted by the Ohatchee Police and Gordon again incriminated himself during the officer’s interview by actually naming the person helping him. Gordon also told the police that he had told “his people” (apparently pussy ass cowardly fucks have side kicks) to leave Randy alone.

According to Randy, Gordon was informed by the investigators of the Ohatchee Police Department that he is under an open criminal investigation and likely facing multiple felony charges. After Gordon’s phone call with the police the social media accounts that some of the threats emanated from started disappearing, taken down by its users, Gordon or the person(s) helping him. Needless to say Randy is pursuing this and wants them punished to the full extent of the law for targeting his daughter, as well as he should. He has also obtained help from attorneys.

If anyone has questions or ANY information regarding this matter please feel free to contact the Ohatcheee Police Department, 7801 Al-77, Ohatchee, AL 36271  Phone: (256) 892-3156 https://www.facebook.com/OhatcheePolice

HERE YA GO BRET A CHANCE TO ACTUALLY BE LEGIT!

Regardless of Gordon’s current problems with the Ohatchee Police, Gordon is obviously targeting me behind my back by targeting the daughter of one of my long-distance students that lives in another state. This little girl's life was threatened and her name used online just to get at me! Gordon is only 40 minutes away from me! Seriously, how cowardly can someone be? I am not gonna let this thing slide. 

Gordon’s fat cowardly ass can come to me and get on the mat and fucking randori then. Again, this is not a threat! I don’t plan on hurting or injuring Gordon or anyone. I do intend to embarrass Gordon on the mats.....in randori. Gordon isn’t a real judoka and he knows it. I expect he will pass on the following opportunity to actually earn a legitimate rank in judo. Gordon, claims to be a judoka teaching “Kuntei Judo". I’m gonna give Gordon a chance to not only get face to face with me, if he is actually man enough, but also a chance to actually get promoted solely based on his performance in judo randori.... if he can beat me.

"JUDO THE WAY KANO INTENDED"

SHIAI is the testing of oneself. The time when a student must put his skills to actual use in contest or randori.

RANDORI means free sparring it is practiced under conditions of actual contest/competition/shiai.

BATSUGEN is a special contest/shiai, where one is awarded an instant promotion for defeating opponents of equal or greater rank in competition, by Ippon (perfect score).

Gordon shouldn’t have a problem at all with a special Batsugen shiai/randori session with me. Yeah, like the founder of Judo, Jigoro Kano, did it back in the day. If Gordon can beat me in randori, I will instantly promote him to his next rank. Since Gordon seems to put stock in the certificates that are currently adorn his dojo walls that actually aren't worth a fuck, I will give him a legitimate one signed by me… suitable for framing of course.

Gordon is less than an hour away and can easily come to me, sign a fucking waiver, get on the fucking mat and randori. Everything will be videoed so none of it can get Gordon in any kind of trouble with the law….unlike the hot water that running his meat sucker has gotten him into with the Ohatachee, Alabama Police department. 

I don't have any intention to harm or hurt anyone. Gordon is just being asked to do what all Judoka do....Randori. Gordon does claim to randori, though I highly doubt that he really does. I highly doubt Gordon will show up, he isn't man enough and certainly isn't any kind of a judoka. Gordon knows getting on the mat with me would expose that he isn’t a legitimate judoka of ANY LEVEL not even that of a white belt.

UNVERFIABLE INSTRUCTORS EQUATE TO SUBSTANDARD JUDO SKILLS

I am addressing two articles that were written by Bret Gordon and Steven Hatfield, "The Myth of the National Governing Bodies" and "Fantasy, Narcissism and lack of honor in the NGBs". I want to point out that both Gordon and Hatfield spread only disinformation when it comes to the inner workings of judo and how organizational and Kodokan ranking procedures really work. These articles were an attempt to rewrite the actual procedures of the Judo ranking system and to cover up Gordon's and Hatfield's own judo claims and backgrounds are non existent and UNVERIFIABLE. 

A lot of effort and hard work is put into learning judo in legitimate judo organizations and the Kodokan recognized national Governing bodies for judo. Judo is regulated and those who claim judo ranks can easily be verified. Judo keeps a clear record via the Kodokan and all its international and National governing bodies. Because of this it is easy to vet who are legitimate judo instructors and who arent. 

Be warned it is buyer beware when dealing with judo instructors with unverifiable back grounds. You are not getting Kodokan Judo by any standards, you are getting garbage!

The cold hard facts are that Neither Gordon or Hatfield are certified teachers, coaches or certified or endorsed instructors from any Kodokan regulated organization. The judo ranks both Gordon and Hatfield claim are not the result of actual Kodokan judo training of any kind.  They're self proclaimed judo instructors who literally garnered their ranks overnight, fabricated them and then bought rank from a non recognized organization, the USA TKJ. Only pussies buy a rank in this manner instead of earning it the right way.  

The article pictured above was written by Bret Gordon. He claims the NGBs are all about sport and nothing else. Gordon is purposely misleading because there are things he just doesn't want his students to know. First off the three NGBs (USA judo, USJA, USJF) that Gordon speaks of follow standards that were set by the Kodokan. These three NGBs in the US are the only ones the Kodokan recognizes. The Kodokan does not recognize USA Traditional Kodokan Judo (USA TKJ). The USA TKJ is not affiliated in any way to the Kodokan in Japan. 

Statement from Bruce Bethers, President of USA TKJ circled in red.

For any American Judoka the only path to the Kodokan is thru the NGBs then to the US Kodokan Committee then to the Kodokan in japan. THIS IS THE ONLY PATH! The Kodokan vets American judoka through the NGBs (USJA, USJF USA Judo) only. There is no skirting the NGBs in any country. The NGBs are who the Kodokan uses to vet all foreign Judoka around the world who want their ranks registered through the Kodokan.

The three NGBs themselves are represented by a US based Kodokan Committee. Anyone who has earned a shodan in the NGBs can submit their rank to the US Kodokan committee, if they qualify it will get passed on to the Kodokan in Japan. The Kodokan in japan will vet the application and check on all verified experience. If, involvement in the sport of judo is minimal you will not be granted a rank from the Kodokan. If a higher rank like a sandan wants that rank recognized and has not applied for rank recognition from the Kodokan before. The applicant will not be recognized at sandan, he will be recognized at shodan provided he has the commensurate amount of tournament experience. His time in grade will start on the day his shodan was recognized by the Kodokan. Basically starting over to earn his higher ranks. 

Secondly, what Gordon doesn't say is that the NGBs do cater to non competitive judoka. The NGBs have different sets of standards for judoka involved with the sport and those who aren't. There are four classifications. These four classifications range from the very competitive judoka, lessor competitive judoka to the Non competitive judoka. The competitive judoka make up only a small percentage of judo practitioners. There are not enough competitive judoka to sustain a NGB let alone the three NGBs in the US. Most of the people in the NGBs are non competitive judoka. The bigger numbers of non Competitive Judoka are who really sustain the NGBs. The NGBs recognize that not everyone has a desire to compete. Those who are more involved with Judo like sport judoka will garner ranks about 30 to 40 percent faster than those who don't compete.

Gordon goes on to state in his article that the NGBs aren't the real authority or influence on governing anything related to the traditional arts (judo). This is an out and out lie, the NGBs are the authority, no question. The Kodokan is the birthplace of Judo.  Judo is regulated and it is structured in a very specific way. The structure was indeed established and set forth by the Kodokan through its National Governing bodies all over the world. Because of this structure there is a distinct difference between verifiable judo rank which is capable of being proven true or real and a fabricated or unverifiable rank that is not objective and can't be proven.

I don't expect Gordon to speak knowledgeably about the workings of the NGBs he has never been involved in judo outside his own imagination. Gordon is being purposely misleading about what the NGBs true functions are. Gordon doesn't want his students to know that the NGBs true purpose reflects that of the Kodokan's. 

Fabricating ranks or buying them from non qualified organizations or sources is NOT a practice that the Kodokan or the NGBs engage in and seriously look down on. Gordon's and Hatfield's issues are really about the standards the Kodokan and its international Governing bodies ALL have. Neither Gordon or Hatfield meet those standards and requirements.  

UNVERFIABLE INSTRUCTORS EQUATE TO SUBSTANDARD JUDO SKILLS

What one gets from an unverifiable instructors is very sub standard at best..... meaning black belts who can easily be beaten by even a legitimate white belt. What Gordon tries to teach in the way of judo is very very substandard in comparison to the NGBs and the Kodokan. For the non competitive judoka or the judoka who does very little in the sport to achieve green belt level would typically be three years. To give an idea about how substandard Gordon is he promotes students to green belt in less than a year. it would take more than a year for a competitive judoka to reach that rank. Neither Gordon or his instructor have exemplary skills by any stretch of the imagination and sadly pass their non existent to substandard skills to their students. Their so called judo class/program is a literal joke. 

Gordon's method of fast tracking students thru judo ranks is disastrous for the student. It is generally the students of these types of instructors who pay the price. The instructors themselves would not dare step on the mat with legitimate judoka. They know what the poor skills that they are passing on aren't good or effective. This why Gordon will never step foot on the mat with someone like me. His piss poor skills would be no match, he would lose and lose badly.  

Some of Gordon's former students, believing they were the ranks Gordon had promoted them to, visited other judo schools. The poor level of training they received from Gordon became quickly apparent and they were embarrassed in front of everyone. The white belts with less than six months training were beating Gordon's green and brown belt students it spoke volumes of Gordon's lack of  judo skills. 

With that being said I want to stress this was one hundred percent Gordon's fault NOT his former students. Gordon is not a judo instructor, he teaches garbage. He has never been a judoka. He convinced his students that they didn't need years of training but only months and they would be ranked judoka. It was unfortunate that they found out the hard way that they were taught garbage that wouldn't work nor was it even remotely effective.

 Like Gordon's article, Hatfield attempts to put out false and misleading information (pictured above) to hide that the fact he is not even remotely qualified to teach or coach Judo. Hatfield sports a red white belt in judo, laughingly he isn't even old enough to have such a rank in judo. To say it is inflated is an under statement. He claims he started training in judo roughly in 2012. To obtain a 5th - 6th degree black belt in judo would require 35 plus years of judo training and experience. Hatfield's whole article gears around what he calls the uselessness of certifications and that they aren't really needed.   

Despite what Hatfield tries to say in his article, certifications show a specialty that goes beyond just an individual achieving a black belt rank in judo. Earning a Black belt rank isn't any indication of ones teaching or coaching ability. The NGBs, the Kodokan, even the founder Jigoro Kano all recognized this. Kano himself wanted qualified teachers and instructors. Simply getting your black belt in judo wasnt enough even back in Kano's era. This is why there are teaching/coaching programs and certifications today within the NGBs as well as educational programs within the Kodokan itself.  

Coaching certifications and accreditations are specific in that it shows an area of a judoka's expertise....TEACHING AND COACHING. It indicates that not only can the instructor do judo himself but he is a credential instructor and coach in other words, he is a professional. It cannot be stressed enough that coaching education doesn't stop with gaining a certification it is continuing education program. Personally I have coaching credentials and do continuing coaching education programs in three different legit Judo organizations as each hae their own coaching education programs. 

YOU ARE EITHER VERFIED OR YOU ARENT SHIT

The unverified uncredentialled instructor is substandard in comparison to the person who has specialized in judo by taking and garnering his certifications. Likewise when going to a school that is run by a instructor who is unverified....you are just getting a sub standard level of instruction. Substandard instruction can leave these types of schools and instructors wide open to civil litigation. Failure to provide adequate instruction is when a teacher instructor or coach has not adequately or properly instructed students in any or all phases of judo. It is the instructor's/ coaches duty and responsibility to adequately and properly instruct all students in correct technical and safety skills of judo. 

From a legal stand point it is never a good idea to lie about or exaggerate your expertise for several reasons. If you have to bull shit people it means you are hiding your lack of knowledge. It also means you aren't even confident in your own abilities if you have to make them out to be more than what they are. Judges see right through practices like a play on words. Those kinds of BS tactics certainly wont help you in legal proceedings. In court you will be required to prove every last one of your claims. Unverifiable claims will not be considered evidence. 1000 unverifiable claims doe not equate to a single truth or fact.

Hatfield's school ad on left - Kodokan member card on right

It is never a good idea to advertise or represent yourself as something as something that you are not. Hatfield has claimed to be a licensed and or endorsed with the Kodokan (pictured above on left). The truth is Hatfield doesn't hold a single rank through the NGBs. According to the Kodokan them selves he holds no rank with the Kodokan either. Hatfield's Kodokan judo rank and instructor claims were false. He isn't licensed nor is his school, his Kontei Judo or Sieken Judo Jiujitsu Association. Also if Hatfield's rank was recognized by the Kodokan the rank would be on his card. It clearly isn't (pictured above on right). 

According to an email from the Kodokan in Japan (pictured left), Hatfield isnt an instructor of any rank or of any licensed status with the Kodokan. ALL Hatfield did was buy a Kodokan member card. Anyone even non judoka can purchase a Kodokan member card. Kodokan member cards are easy to get.  Tourists can purchase them from a vending machine at the Kodokan with ever stepping on the mats to do judo. They can be purchased online without ever training in judo or physically stepping foot in the Kodokan. 

The Kodokan member card is not  proof of a license, rank or endorsement. The card's only function is as a gym card, you show it to get in. Trying to say its proof of endorsement or a license as Gordon and Hatfield implies is misrepresentative of the card's actual purpose. The way Gordon and Hatfield attempt to word things and imply on their websites and other public media is quite misleading. 

It is not a good idea from a legal standpoint to claim to be something that you are not. Neither Hatfield or Gordon should make things out to be more than what they really are but they do. They both have implied an affiliation with the Kodokan that isn't there. This quite literally leaves them open and vulnerable to litigation. It gives their students grounds to break any and all contracts they may have signed with Gordon or Hatfield schools immediately and even start litigation to regain the monies the students paid to them. Uncredentialled instructors can also be held liable for committing fraud. Claiming to be a judo instructor when you are not a verified judo instructor opens many doors for civil legal litigation. They can be held liable for any and all injuries that occur in their classes. 

Hatfield has no understanding of the certification process or even what it means and blatantly attempts to say in his article that standards, certification training and requirements that all legitimate judoka must meet means nothing. 

Being a credentialed, certified or accredited instructor is considered a professional and goes a long way in the eyes of the legal system. Attorneys do call instructors who are recognized by the NGBs into court proceedings for professional assessments, evaluations and testimony as they are noted credentialed experts. An instructor that is trained and certified through the NGBs could be called to testify against an instructor who isn't credentialed or certified. Example, I am an authority in my field, I am credentialed and certified in multiple legitimate Judo organizations. My testimony in court would hold more weight than that of Hatfield's or Gordon's. I would literally be there worst nightmare in a litigation. How important does being certified sound now?

The more educated you stay the better. It shows everyone that you are just not another instructor, it shows you are not an amateur or self proclaimed expert or self promoted instructor. Certifications from National recognized institutes and organizations shows that you are a capable professional Judo teacher, instructor and coach. Teaching judo cannot be taken lightly nor should it be, the more credentialed a judo instructor is, the more it helps protect the instructors themselves from legal litigation. If one isn't qualified to do CPR and offers assistance anyway and the subject dies as a result. Even if  their intentions were good, legally they would and could be held responsible for the death.  

Whether Gordon and Hatfield and others of their ilk like it or not,  Judo IS regulated, with the standards and requirements being set by the Kodokan. The three NGBs in the US are ALL comprised of professional teachers, instructors, coaches and athletes ALL who have met certain standards and criteria to be such.

Hatfield's skills are very substandard, a beginner level of white belt.  His poor level of skill and knowledge is evident in the videos he has on social media attempting to demonstrate judo techniques. He is clearly not a ranked judoka with any legitimate judo organization nor is he ranked with the Kodokan. He didn't go through the hard training or the effort that comes with judo and it shows. Calling  himself a 5th degree black belt master....now that's a joke. Like Gordon, he's a pretender and a candy ass. Hatfield cant and doesn't meet any standards in judo not even at a beginner rank. Hatfield calling himself a judo instructor is like someone trying to claim they're a attorney without having to go to law school and pass the bar. Lastly, only a pussy would buy a judo rank from a joke organization instead of actually training in it to earn it. 

PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM UNVERIFIED JUDO INSTRUCTORS 

I would like to point out to readers that unverifiable judo instructors or instructors who fast track you through judo ranks are practices not recognized and that these type practices are looked down upon by the Kodokan and its NGBs! There is no skirting the NGBs in any country. The NGBs are who the Kodokan uses to vet all foreign Judoka who want their ranks registered through the Kodokan. 

There is nothing wrong with a student or potential student independently verifying an instructor's information for themselves. Only those with stuff to hide will take it as an affront. If your instructor is claiming things like he is a Kodokan black belt and that he will get your rank registered with the Kodokan my advice is to CONTACT THE NGBs and THE KODOKAN DIRECTLY!  Website: http://www.kodokanjudoinstitute.org/  Email: int@kodokan.org