The History of Fighting

A demonstration of the Vietnamese martial art, Vovinam.

This video demonstrates a training method used by Shaolin monks to strengthen or condition their legs. Known as Iron Body, by repeatedly hitting parts of their body over a period of years they make it gradually get stronger and stronger.

Sensei Chojun Miyagi (far right) teaching his students Goju Ryu karate c.1929 in Okinawa.

An illustration of James Figg, the first champion in modern pugilism history and an influential ambassador to the sport. His reign lasted from 1719 – 1730 when he retired undefeated after just under 300 fights. As a former fencer, he was able to bring new types of movement and technique to the art of boxing and after he quit the ring, he set up the world’s first boxing school to teach others.

A mural found at the Shaolin Temple in the province Henan, China that is believed to be around 500 years old.

Grandmaster Yip Man performing Siu Lim Tao, a basic form from Wing Chun.

Title:  San Salvador

Date:  1835

Artist:  Johann Moritz Rugendas

Infomation:  Illustration by German artist Johann Moritz Rugendas, inspired by his time on an expedition to Brazil.

An old sketch of Mestre Besouro Manganga fighting against a group of Brazilian police.