Billy Blanks: A Martial Arts Icon Celebrates a Lifetime of Movement and a New Triumph at 70

When you think of Billy Blanks, images of high-energy kickboxing sequences and the unmistakable rhythm of Tae Bo often come to mind. The martial arts star and fitness visionary rose to prominence in the late 20th century, captivating millions with his unique blend of martial arts, cardio, and accessible wellness. A force on the silver screen in the 1980s and 1990s, Blanks not only entertained audiences with his action prowess but also inspired a global movement toward healthier living. His influence extends far beyond the screen, anchoring itself in the daily routines of countless people who found strength, confidence, and joy through disciplined practice.

Age as a milestone, not a limit

On the eve of his milestone 70th birthday, Blanks demonstrated something that goes beyond victory in any ring or stage. He stepped onto the mat of a competitive karate tournament and walked away with first place—a moment that resonated far beyond the trophy and the applause. For many observers, this triumph is a vivid reminder that age, while a number, does not have to dictate the boundaries of what a person can achieve. For Blanks, the celebration was not merely about winning; it was about continuing a lifelong commitment to movement, skill, and self-improvement.

A career built on movement, discipline, and storytelling

Blanks’ journey began well before Tae Bo became a household name. His early years in martial arts were marked by focus, patience, and the understanding that technique and fitness reinforce one another. Tae Bo, the fusion of boxing, taekwondo, and cardio kickboxing, emerged as a revolutionary approach to fitness, turning rigorous training into an accessible, joyful practice. It wasn’t just about sweating through routines; it was about learning a language of movement that could be spoken by people of all ages and backgrounds. The Tae Bo philosophy—practice diligently, push with purpose, and maintain a positive spirit—has travelled across continents, leaving a lasting imprint on gyms, living rooms, and community centres.

The mindset behind the moment

What truly elevates a story like Blanks’ is the mindset that drives ongoing achievement. Consistency becomes a discipline, and discipline becomes a lifestyle. The narrative isn’t only about a one-time win; it’s about a lifetime of showing up—whether in a gym, on a training floor, or in front of a camera—ready to give the best effort possible. Blanks has always understood that growth is cumulative: small, meaningful steps taken day after day can culminate in breakthroughs that feel almost miraculous in hindsight.

Impact beyond the podium

Blanks’ 70th-birthday victory matters for more than the glory of a tournament. It sends a powerful message to communities around the world about aging with strength, vitality, and purpose. For aspiring athletes and everyday fitness enthusiasts, his example demonstrates:

A San Diego jury awarded $56 million to a former beginner jiu-jitsu student who was seriously injured during a sparring session with his black-belt instructor. The 2018 case at Del Mar Jiu-Jitsu Club centers on 30-year-old Jack Greener, who joined the gym as a white belt to learn the sport but instead endured a life-altering spinal cord injury and a gruelling seven-year recovery.

The incident occurred on November 29, 2018, during a routine class. Greener was paired with Francisco “Sinistro” Iturralde, a veteran second-degree black belt and IBJJF champion. While Greener was in the “turtle position”—knees and elbows on the mat, defensively tucked—Iturralde attempted a rolling back-take manoeuvre designed to flip the grounded opponent and secure control of the back. The court found that Iturralde did not provide any demonstration or active instruction before engaging in the move and treated the session as if he were sparring with a peer rather than training a novice.

CCTV footage circulated online as the case gained attention within martial arts communities. In the video, Iturralde aggressively flips Greener, who resists and twists his back under force. The result was catastrophic: Greener’s cervical vertebrae were crushed, he suffered a fractured neck and spinal cord damage, and he became paralyzed from the neck down, experiencing multiple strokes. He required immediate, extensive medical intervention, including a nine-hour emergency surgery to remove neck blood clots.

Greener filed suit against the gym and its owner, alleging that the facility bore responsibility for his injuries. In 2023, an California appellate court ruled in his favor, awarding $46 million to cover past and future medical expenses, potential lost earnings, and a substantial amount for pain and suffering.

 testified as an expert witness for the plaintiff, Rener Gracie noted that while he did not believe Iturralde’s actions were malicious, the move was performed improperly and had never been taught or practiced at the academy, leaving Greener as a “guinea pig” under a trainer’s care. The jury’s latest $56 million verdict reflects the court’s determination of the instructor’s duty of care and the consequences of breaching it.

   Jean-Claude Van Damme and Steven Seagal Bury the Hatchet, Tease Collaboration

For decades, the rivalry between action stars Jean-Claude Van Damme and Steven Seagal has been legendary among fans. Known for their martial arts skills and signature moves, the two actors have long maintained a tense, competitive relationship. Seagal once dismissed Van Damme’s martial arts achievements, claiming they were “a matter of opinion,” and their feud escalated with heated exchanges and even a reported altercation at Planet Hollywood during the ‘90s. Despite their shared fame, neither star was willing to back down, with rumors circulating about offers of $20 million for a fight—an offer Seagal reportedly declined.

However, recent developments suggest a shift. Van Damme recently celebrated Seagal’s 73rd birthday by posting a video on Instagram, where he expressed gratitude for a dinner with Seagal and his family. The post also contained a surprising tease: “Big announcement coming soon!” Fans immediately wondered what this could mean—an upcoming movie, a martial arts collaboration, or perhaps a project related to their past work.

This unexpected reconciliation hints at a possible new chapter in their relationship. Whether it’s a joint film, a promotional venture, or simply a friendly reunion, it marks a significant departure from their previously adversarial dynamic. Fans are eager to see if these action icons will finally team up or simply put their rivalry behind them.

In the world of ‘80s and ‘90s action movies, the rivalry between Van Damme and Seagal has become part of Hollywood lore. Now, with this recent gesture, it seems the long-standing feud may be coming to an end—opening the door to new collaborations and exciting surprises for fans of classic action cinema.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFNPqyeFUIk

Tributes have poured in from boxing legends and sports stars worldwide following the passing of heavyweight champion George Foreman at the age of 76.

Foreman's family announced his death on his Instagram account, describing him as a humanitarian, Olympian, and a two-time heavyweight champion. The post also highlighted his legacy as a man of discipline and conviction.

Fellow heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, who never faced Foreman in the ring, shared a touching tribute on social media. Tyson expressed his condolences to Foreman's family and acknowledged his lasting impact on boxing and beyond.

Foreman's contributions to the sport and his dedication to preserving his legacy were recognized by his peers, further cementing his status as a boxing great.

 Internal energy, also known as qi or chi, is a concept that is commonly used in martial arts and traditional Chinese medicine. While some people believe in the existence of internal energy and its role in martial arts, others consider it to be a pseudoscience or a placebo effect.

Proponents of internal energy argue that it is a real phenomenon that can be harnessed and used to improve martial arts techniques and combat effectiveness. They believe that through practicing specific breathing techniques, meditation, and physical movements, practitioners can develop their internal energy to increase their strength, speed, and overall performance in martial arts.

On the other hand, skeptics argue that there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of internal energy and that any perceived effects may be due to the placebo effect or psychological factors. They suggest that the benefits attributed to internal energy in martial arts are a result of physical training, mental focus, and skill development rather than any mystical or magical force.

Ultimately, whether internal energy is real or fake in martial arts is a matter of personal belief and interpretation. Some practitioners may find value in the concept of internal energy as a way to enhance their martial arts practice, while others may prefer to focus on more tangible and scientifically proven training methods.

 Bodybuilding and martial arts, including Taekwondo, are two seemingly contrasting disciplines that actually complement each other quite well. While bodybuilding focuses on building muscle mass and strength through resistance training, martial arts focus on developing speed, agility, and technique through skill-based training. 

In the context of Taekwondo, bodybuilding can be a beneficial supplement to one's training regimen. Building strength and muscle through bodybuilding exercises can enhance a Taekwondo practitioner's power and explosiveness in kicks and strikes. Additionally, having a strong and well-conditioned body can improve overall performance and endurance during intense training sessions or competitions.

However, it's important to strike a balance between bodybuilding and martial arts training. Overemphasizing bodybuilding at the expense of martial arts techniques and skills can hinder a practitioner's progress in Taekwondo. It's crucial to prioritize technique and agility while incorporating bodybuilding exercises to support overall physical fitness.

Ultimately, incorporating bodybuilding into a Taekwondo training regimen can be beneficial for enhancing strength, power, and overall physical conditioning. By combining the two disciplines effectively, practitioners can achieve a well-rounded and balanced approach to improving their martial arts skills and physical fitness.

Vera delivered a devastating front kick to the face of former lightweight champion Edgar, knocking him out and securing one of the biggest wins of his career. Despite the incredible moment being captured by a photographer, Vera expressed discomfort with the image, deeming it "f***** up" and choosing not to post it or engage with it on social media. 

In an interview on The MMA Hour, Vera made it clear that his priority is providing for his family and loved ones, and he views his fights as a means to ensure a better future for them. While the knockout was a significant moment in his career, Vera emphasized that he does not dwell on past victories and is always looking ahead to his next challenge.

Showing respect for Edgar, Vera acknowledged that the former champion also has a family and a life outside of the Octagon. He expressed empathy for his opponent and emphasized the fleeting nature of success in the sport, cautioning against becoming complacent or arrogant based on one victory.

Ultimately, Vera distanced himself from the image of his knockout victory, choosing to focus on the future and the next steps in his career. He highlighted the importance of resilience and humility in the face of success, recognizing that the fight game is ever-changing and constantly evolving.

What is a front kick in martial arts??

Front kicks are powerful and effective techniques commonly used in various martial arts disciplines. They can be utilized for both offensive and defensive purposes, making them versatile tools for fighters of all levels. The key to generating power in a front kick lies in proper technique, flexibility, and strength.

To execute a powerful front kick, martial artists must first ensure they have a solid stance and balance. The kicking leg should be chambered properly, with the knee raised close to the chest before extending the leg to strike the target. This chambering motion allows for greater momentum and force behind the kick.

Flexibility plays a crucial role in increasing the power of a front kick. Martial artists should work on improving their hip and leg flexibility to enhance the range of motion and extension of the kick. This increased flexibility enables fighters to generate more force and speed in their kicks, making them more effective in combat situations.

Additionally, strength training is essential for developing the power of a front kick. Strengthening the leg muscles, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and core muscles, can significantly enhance the force behind the kick. Exercises like squats, lunges, and plyometrics can help improve leg strength and explosiveness, translating into more powerful front kicks.

Furthermore, proper technique and precision are crucial for maximizing the impact of a front kick. Martial artists should focus on striking with the ball of the foot or the heel, depending on the target and the style of martial art being practiced. Maintaining a strong, straight leg at the point of impact and following through with the kick can also increase the effectiveness and power of the technique.

Overall, front kicks are valuable assets in martial arts, capable of delivering significant power when executed correctly. By incorporating proper technique, flexibility, strength, and precision into their training regimen, martial artists can enhance the power of their front kicks and improve their overall fighting abilities.

Full fight:

UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov was removed from a Frontier Airlines flight for not complying with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, not because of his English fluency as he claimed. The incident occurred on Jan. 11, 2025, as the flight from Las Vegas to San Francisco was preparing for departure. A flight attendant asked Nurmagomedov, who was seated in an exit row, if he was willing and able to assist in case of an emergency.

 Despite multiple attempts, Nurmagomedov did not respond, which put him in non-compliance with FAA regulations. The flight attendant offered him a seat change or the option to leave the plane.

Nurmagomedov claimed that the flight attendant was rude and suggested the incident may have been based on racial or national bias. However, Frontier Airlines refuted these claims, stating that the decision to ask Nurmagomedov to deplane was solely based on his non-compliance with FAA requirements. The airline emphasized that the situation had nothing to do with Nurmagomedov's ethnicity, and they have refunded him and his companions for their flights.

Videos of the incident circulated on social media but did not capture the initial interaction between Nurmagomedov and the flight attendant. The footage only showed a subsequent interaction after a gate agent entered the plane and reiterated the option for Nurmagomedov to be reseated. Frontier Airlines maintained that their decision to remove Nurmagomedov was in accordance with airline and FAA policies regarding passenger compliance on flights.

Overall, Frontier Airlines stands by their decision to remove Nurmagomedov from the flight and continues to refute claims of racial or national bias in the incident.

After recently facing a sexual assault civil suit that resulted in nearly $260,000 in damages (pending appeal), Conor McGregor is back in court in Dublin for a new lawsuit seeking $8 million in damages. The former UFC two-division champion, McGregor, is set to appear in Dublin's High Court in January to address questions surrounding his strained relationship with former UFC featherweight, Artem Lobov, who has been involved in legal disputes with McGregor in the past.

Kristopher van Varenberg, also known as Kris Van Damme, is the first son of martial arts and action superstar, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and fitness expert/actress Gladys Portugues. Born into a family deeply involved in the entertainment industry, Kris has always had a passion for acting, writing, and directing. He has a younger sister, Bianca Van Damme, and a brother, Nic, from his father's marriage to Darcy LaPier.

Kris made his debut in front of the camera in the movie "Universal Soldier" in 1992, playing the role of Young Luc Deveraux. He then appeared in "The Quest" in 1996, which was actually directed by his father, Jean-Claude Van Damme. While he took a break from acting for a few years, Kris returned to the screen in 2002 with a role in "Derailed." He continued to pursue his acting career, appearing in films such as "Universal Soldier: Regeneration" in 2009 and "The Eagle Path" in 2010, which was also directed by his father.

In an interview with the International JCVD Forum, Kris revealed that he has a passion for writing and directing in addition to acting. He was credited as a writer for the first time in the film "The Tower" in 2010, which was a martial arts epic starring his father, Jean-Claude Van Damme.

After studying 2D Animation in Vancouver, Canada, Kris decided to move back to Los Angeles to further his career in the entertainment industry. He is currently represented by The Gersh Agency and continues to work on various projects in film and animation. Kris Van Damme resides in Los Angeles, where he pursues his dreams of making a mark in the world of entertainment through his talents and creativity.

At the age of 84 years old, Chuck Norris is back to cinema with a new action movie. 

Alastair (Norris), the commander of a covert Earth security task force, calls upon super-powered rookie Jim (Ting) to go on a mission led by battle-hardened Colonel Green (Singer) and his seasoned marines to track a mysterious energy disturbance at a base in New Mexico suspected of experimenting on alien technology. When the team encounters an unknown being of not only extraordinary strength and speed, but the ability to control mindless warriors, the trio must fight through unstoppable hordes to uncover the truth behind the hostile alien fortress and prevent humanity's demise.

A covert military task force tracks a mysterious energy disturbance at a secret base in New Mexico that is suspected of experimenting on alien technology. Once there, the team encounters an unknown being of extraordinary strength and speed, and the ability to control an army of mindless warriors. The trio must fight through the unstoppable hordes to prevent humanity’s demise. 

Chuck Norris, a legendary martial artist and actor, rose to fame with his iconic roles in action films during the 1980s. Born on March 10, 1940, in the United States, Norris served in the Air Force before making a name for himself in the world of martial arts. With black belts in Tang Soo Do, Brazilian jiu jitsu, and judo, Norris went on to win numerous championships and even founded his own martial arts discipline called Chun Kuk Do.

His big break in Hollywood came when he appeared in a minor role in "The Wrecking Crew" in 1968. However, it was his collaboration with Bruce Lee in "The Way of the Dragon" in 1972 that truly launched his acting career. As Norris continued to train celebrities in martial arts, his friend Steve McQueen encouraged him to pursue acting seriously.

Norris quickly became a sought-after action star, starring in a string of successful independently made films such as "A Force of One" (1979), "The Octagon" (1980), and "An Eye for an Eye" (1981). These projects propelled him to international fame and he continued his success with studio films like "Silent Rage" (1982) and "Lone Wolf McQuade" (1983).

In the mid-1980s, Norris signed a multiple film deal with Cannon Films, leading to the creation of iconic action movies like "Invasion U.S.A" (1985), "The Delta Force" (1986), and "Firewalker" (1986). Additionally, he starred in the critically acclaimed "Code of Silence" (1985) during this time.

In the 1990s, Norris transitioned to television, starring in the long-running CBS series "Walker, Texas Ranger" from 1993 to 2001. Despite his TV success, he also continued to take on lead roles in action movies such as "The Hitman" (1991), "Sidekicks" (1992), and "The President's Man" (2000) and its sequel (2002).

Aside from his acting career, Norris is a prolific writer, having penned books on martial arts, exercise, philosophy, politics, Christianity, Western fiction, and biography. He also became an internet sensation with the creation of "Chuck Norris facts", a meme that humorously exaggerated his strength and abilities.

Throughout his career, Chuck Norris has left an indelible mark on the world of action films and martial arts, solidifying his legacy as a cultural icon.

An unusual event occurred in boxing when a boxer knocked out his opponent with a roundhouse kick to the head. While knockouts and knockdowns are common in boxing, they are typically caused by punches, making this incident particularly strange. The kick was executed skillfully, but using such a move in a boxing match is considered dirty and goes against the rules of the sport.

It raises questions about the boxer's intentions and sportsmanship, as employing a move from a different fighting discipline suggests that he may be better suited for a sport like kickboxing or other martial arts. The boxer's actions may result in severe consequences and penalties for his unsportsmanlike behavior.

In the world of boxing, where the use of punches is the only form of combat allowed, this event stands out as one of the weirdest occurrences in the sport's history. It serves as a reminder of the importance of playing by the rules and showing respect for the integrity of the sport. This boxer's decision to use a roundhouse kick highlights the need for discipline and adherence to the established guidelines of boxing.

https://youtube.com/shorts/qcMsAN0nIig?si=ETjSHctzoY46JQDL

We came across this video of the star Sharukh Khan, his wife and daughter Suhana attending his son fights in the nationals in India.

The Muju Taekwondowon 2024 International Open Virtual Taekwondo Championships began on #TaekwondoDay with athletes from Singapore dominating the individual categories. Justin Peh and Jia Wei Tan claimed the gold in the male and female individual events, respectively. Singapore's Zi Wei Lim and Xin Jie Janelle secured silver and bronze in the women's competition, while Rwanda's Mucyo Iradukunda and Individual Neutral Athlete (AIN) Batradz Khubaev took home silver and bronze in the men's division.

Approximately 50 athletes from Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Rwanda, and AIN participated in this two-day tournament that showcases Virtual Taekwondo. Participants wear a headset and AXIS system to compete in a virtual space, replicating the movements of Taekwondo regardless of age or gender.

The Championships featured matches in Individual Male, Individual Female, and Individual Mixed categories. Special event matches included a Junior Mixed Team, Senior Mixed Team, and a contest between Olympic medallists and Poomsae Legends. Bronze medallist Dabin Lee defeated nine-time Poomsae World Champion Youngae Seo in a special showdown.

Tomorrow, the individual mixed events will take place, with matches drawn irrespective of gender, creating opportunities for male-female or same-gender matchups. A ceremony commemorating Taekwondo Day was held at the Taekwondowon in Muju to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Taekwondo becoming an official Olympic sport. World Taekwondo President Choue highlighted Taekwondo's success at the recent Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, where medals were distributed among numerous nations.

Renowned actor Jackie Chan captivates Paris crowd as he carries Paralympic torch

In an exciting moment for fans in Paris, legendary actor Jackie Chan delighted the crowd on Wednesday, August 28 by carrying the Paralympic flame through the streets of the French capital. Welcomed by thousands of supporters, Chan took selfies with fans and enjoyed the prelude to the star-studded opening ceremony.

The Paralympic Games kicked off with a spectacular three-hour opening ceremony, with Chan's involvement adding to the buzz in the city that had recently hosted the Olympics. This was a special occasion for the 70-year-old martial arts icon, who has long been a supporter of the Olympic and Paralympic movements.

As part of the Paralympic Torch Relay, Chan was joined by other notable personalities such as French actress Elsa Zylberstein, dancer Benjamin Millepied, and rapper Georgio. The relay featured 12 torches making their way through Paris, concluding with the lighting of the final cauldron at Paris City Hall.

The Parade of Nations took place at La Concorde, a popular public square, marking the beginning of the Paralympic festivities in the city. Chan's connection with the Olympics goes back to the 2008 Beijing Games when he participated in the torch relay alongside other Chinese celebrities.

Chan's presence was met with great enthusiasm in Paris, where his films, particularly the "Rush Hour" series, have been celebrated. His famous fight scene on the Eiffel Tower in "Rush Hour 3" has left a lasting impact on the French capital. Known for performing his own stunts, Chan holds the Guinness World Record for "Most stunts by a living actor" and has achieved widespread success in the entertainment industry.

With an estimated net worth of USD 350 million and accolades like the Honorary Oscar Lifetime Achievement Award, Jackie Chan continues to be a beloved and admired figure in the world of entertainment.

 This footage of Kyorugi training was recorded in 1997, It's been 27 years ago.

In this period of time, Taekwondo has changed completely!

Boxing's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is uncertain, as it is not currently on the program and the International Olympic Committee has made it clear that the sport must find a new governing body by early 2025 to be reinstated. World Boxing, led by Albert Van Der Vorst, is aiming to become that governing body and save the sport.

The International Boxing Association (IBA), previously barred from the Olympics, made headlines in Paris by claiming that boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting failed eligibility tests at the world championships. Despite the controversy, both boxers went on to win gold medals. The IBA's president, Umar Kremlev, held a contentious news conference in Paris, where he criticized IOC president Thomas Bach but failed to provide evidence supporting the claims against the boxers.

Van Der Vorst, who was barred from running for the IBA presidency in 2022, remains focused on World Boxing's mission to keep boxing in the Olympic movement. He emphasized that the organization's goal is not to compete with the IBA, but to prioritize the well-being of the boxers and national federations.

In light of the controversy surrounding Khelif and Lin, World Boxing is working on establishing eligibility rules with the help of a medical committee. The organization is also organizing major tournaments and events while expanding its staff and developing a long-term plan to demonstrate its capability as the sport's governing body.

Despite the complexities surrounding the situation, Van Der Vorst is committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of the sport. World Boxing is determined to gain approval from the IOC to oversee the next Olympic cycle and prove its ability to lead the sport forward. The organization's efforts to establish itself as a credible governing body for boxing are crucial for the sport's future in the Olympic Games.

Angela Carini, an Italian boxer, was left in tears after her bout against Algerian Imane Khelif at the Paris Olympics came to a premature end. The fight lasted just 46 seconds before Carini walked out, unable to continue. It was a controversial win for Khelif, who had failed a gender eligibility test in the past.

Carini was visibly upset as she left the ring, with her headgear dislodged and blood on her trunks. She later revealed that she had felt a severe pain in her nose after taking a few punches from Khelif, suspecting that she may have suffered a broken nose. Unable to continue, she made the decision to quit the fight, collapsing to her knees and sobbing uncontrollably.

The situation was made even more controversial by Khelif's history of failing a gender eligibility test. Despite claiming a silver medal at the 2022 World Championships, Khelif was disqualified from last year's championships before the gold-medal match. This raised questions about her eligibility to compete in the Paris Olympics, sparking a major debate in the boxing world.

Carini, on the other hand, showed grace and maturity in her response to the situation. “I am not here to judge or pass judgment. If an athlete is this way, and in that sense it’s not right or it is right, it’s not up to me to decide," she said. Despite her disappointment at not being able to finish the fight, she held her head high and accepted the outcome with a broken heart.

The incident at the Paris Olympics has shone a light on the complexities of gender eligibility in sports, especially in boxing. It serves as a reminder of the challenges and controversies that can arise when dealing with such sensitive issues. Carini's emotional reaction and Khelif's past history have added layers of complexity to an already tense situation.

In the end, it was a disappointing and heartbreaking moment for both boxers, with Carini forced to abandon the bout and Khelif facing scrutiny over her eligibility. The aftermath of this encounter will likely continue to be debated and discussed in the boxing world, raising important questions about fairness, inclusion, and integrity in sports.