Jeet Kune Do Expert, Actor and Stuntman - Kefi Abrikh

Kefi Abrikh - Actor and Stuntman

Kefi Abrikh is a french actor and stuntman. He is in expert in Jeet Kune Do and Freestyle Acrobatic Martial Arts. He's had a successful career in Europe and Japan. He's has also worked in international movie hits like Fast and Furious 6. 

What was the hardest part of fitting in with the Japanese stunt community?

My first difficulty was of course communication! Thankfully, I had studied Japanese for 2 years before I came to Japan. Nevertheless, I had to learn all the stunt vocabulary usually used on the set. Furthermore, I had to learn how to behave properly in the Japanese hierarchy. 

Which stunt in Resident Evil "The Nightmare Of Dante" was the hardest to pull off and how did you accomplish it?

There was a wire-work scene where Nero catches Dante's leg in the air and hits him violently to the ground. 

What was it like being on the set of Fast and Furious 6?

That was just amazing! It was very different from what I've done until now. When I was younger, playing in a US studio production was just unimaginable! I have very good memories of fighting with Vin Diesel and Paul Walker. 

One of your many skills is Hong Kong Style Fighting. How does one recognize this style?

Hong Kong style fighting is very recognizable because it's a very acrobatic fighting style with a lot of innovative stunts using improvised weapons. Sequences of fighting scenes are very quick and often have violent stunts. Nevertheless, my favorite skill remains Japanese style action because I like to give life to characters that can only communicate with gestures. 

What's the best way for a martial artist to get into professional stunt work?

I would love to have the answer of that question! I think that getting into the professional stunt work is a combination of hard working and luck.  You need to keep on training very hard so that you are ready when the opportunity comes.

What trick took you the longest to learn? What changed mentally to accomplish it?

It took me very long time before I mastered the "540 kick". Nowadays, it's a very simple kick but it's very powerful. I just kept on rehearsing till I managed it. 

What projects are you working on that we can look forward to seeing in the future?

Kefi Abrikh

I am working on different projects right now. One of them is a french live action series inspired by a Japanese sentai series. 

If you could change one thing in your life what would it be?

This is a difficult question to answer! There are so many aspects of my life, that looking back now, could have been improved. But, each and every of my failures have led me where I am now. 

Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

If you want to succeed in something, just give your best. Even if you fail many times, keep on believing in youself. If you are motivated enough to continue, then you've found your real path. 

Jeet Kune Do and Kali Expert - Ruben Rodriguez

Jeet Kune Do and Kali Expert - Ruben Rodriguez

Ruben is an expert in Jeet Kune Do and Kali with over 40 years experience in martial arts and is considered by Paul Vunak as one of the top experts in street fighting in the U.S. counting also with extensive experience in Kickboxing and Grappling.

Tell us about becoming part of Paul Vunak's organization.

I had read about Paul and seen his advertisements on Black Belt magazine. I found him and his system very interesting. We came from similar backgrounds as far as martial arts is concerned. I trained with him a few times in the early nineties, then I became part of his organization in 2005.

Why do most Jeet Kune Do instructors also know Kali?

The JKD guys that train Kali are usually the JKD concept group that come from Dan Inosanto lineage, Guru Dan is a very skilled kalista. Kali is the best weapons system around and I think that is why JKD concepts students are attracted to Kali.

It seems many Jeet Kune Do experts have a reputation for speed. Is this due to the type of training or the style itself?

Some people are born fast. I also believe you can work on speed with certain types of training.

What are 3 techniques you use that are not found in most martial arts schools?

Three techniques we use in our system that stand out for us are destructions, guntings and of course our straight blast.

Destructions and guntings come from Kali. Destructions are usually done with the elbow or knees and used against punches and kicks that are thrown at us. A gunting is like destructing but it is done in a scissoring motion with both hands usually used to attack on coming punches. The straight blast is a series of straight hand vertical punches from wing chun.

Is it true that a person who has a black belt in martial arts has to register themselves at the police station? Also, are martial artists held at a higher level of restraint when it comes to self-defense by the justice system?

The registering of black belt hands is a myth, no state in our country requires us to register our hands.  I do believe that some courts expect martial artists to show more restraint and they are probably harder on someone who is skilled with his hands and feet.

What's the best way to leave a martial arts school without hurting anyone's feeling? Conversely, how does one ask someone to leave?

Jeet Kune Do and Kali Expert - Ruben Rodriguez

I think honesty is the best way to leave your current school. Sometimes feelings get hurt but that's the nature of our business. As far as asking people to leave, that’s always tough, but again I believe honesty will work out best.

What part does rest and relaxation play in training to become a martial arts expert?

Rest and relaxation are very important in a martial artist’s career. Just recently, I learned through my experiences how important rest is. I have always been very hardcore with my training, but now I make time for rest and relaxation. As a martial artist, I am always on high alert; always ready to defend myself or friends and family. I have found that Christian music has always calmed me down.

Progressive Scientific Fighting

What has been the greatest reward to you for dedicating so many years to martial arts?

My greatest reward from the martial arts is that I am able to make a living doing what I love, not many martial artist get to do this.

Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Thanks for the opportunity to do this interview. I hope Brandon's martial art career goes well, and know that he is welcome at my school anytime.

Be sure to visit Progressive Scientific Fighting and on Facebook.

Interview with Monty Hendrix

TaeKwonDo

Master Monty Hendrix is the Founder and Owner of Essential Martial Arts.  Master Hendrix is a published author and his column "The Essentials" is currently featured in each issue of the international martial arts magazine, "TaeKwonDo Times," (sold at Barnes and Noble).  Master Hendrix holds the rank of 7th Dan Black Belt in TaeKwonDo, 4th Degree Master in HapKiDo and is a Full Instructor in Contemporary Jeet Kune Do. He also has 10 years of experience in Philippine Martial Arts and several years actively training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu/Submission grappling.

Which of your accomplishments means the most to you? Why?

I don't really think about life in terms of accomplishments as much as I enjoy the journey. I have a room full of major championships along with belts and certificates but I feel my greatest accomplishment is seeing a student make a personal improvement - on or off the mat - and then having them come back to me and say our martial arts program helped them make it possible. 

You hold a black belt or instructor level in numerous martial arts. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each? Which one do you recommend people start with?

All arts have strengths and weaknesses.  However, these strengths and weaknesses are different for each person.  I like the diversity of HapKiDo. I like the aggressive nature of Jeet Kune Do. I like the softness of Tai Chi. I like the extreme nature of the knife and stick and I like the simplicity and work out of traditional Taekwon-Do.  The weakness of any art is held within the personal limitations of the individual studying that art. 

When do you advocate for a child to fight back against a bully at school? Many schools have taken on the policy to suspend anyone participating in fighting even if it's self defense? 

When the other option is to be injured physically.  The rules are secondary if bodily harm becomes imminent. 

It seems systems like BJJ and Jeet June Do do not have forms. However, systems like Taekwondo feel they are instrumental? So, how important are forms if some awesome systems don't use them?

Forms are simply a set of combinations along with a method of solo training that is handed down from instructor to student in order to build: Technical ability along with physical fitness and mental discipline.  Nothing more and nothing less.  All legitimate fighting systems have combinations and solo training drills that build these attributes.  Some use formal "sets" and some use a hanging bag, while others simply use mat space.  It is up to the individual to find a system and training method that suits them physically and mentally.  

When we go to tournaments we see young kids with black belts. We also hear people speaking negatively about it. What is your take on young kids being awarded black belts?

I can not criticize how anyone trains their students. Each system has different emphasis. So, that system may or may not be appropriate or feasible for a young person to meet certain training goals and make milestone achievements.  I have styles such as HapKiDo, Knife Fighting, Jeet Kune Do and Tai Chi that children are not allowed to even participate.  In our Taekwon-Do program, an individual must be at least 16 years old to achieve a full ranking black belt. Below that age they can only earn a "junior" status black belt. I do this because I have no personal desire to train a child the same way we would train an adult.  Therefore the black belt designation must be different for us.  

Critics claim there is little or no punching in TKD. Is this so? 

There is little punching seen in Olympic style TKD sparring b/c of the rules.  However, I have seen many Olympic TKD stylist perform incredible feats of breaking with the hands. Additionally I have seen their forms and they have a full arsenal of hand techniques.  However, we only teach traditional Taekwon-Do.  The system we teach has many more hand techniques than kick techniques and hands and feet are both often and regularly used to score in sparring both to the body and to the head.  The confusion for non TKD stylist is that both branches of TKD teach powerful kicks as well as spinning and jumping kicks.  These kicks are very dynamic visually so I believe some people outside of the TKD community believe TKD must only be kicking b/c kicks are the hallmarks of the style.  I could see this being an innocent mistake.  

Why do we see so many Jeet Kune Do experts also specialize in Kali or a type of Philippine Martial Arts?

You see this a lot b/c both systems involve hand traps at close quarters. Also, JKD does not actually use weapons so FMA is a great way to learn the stick and knife for any stylist.  

What changes do you see happening in modern martial arts? What are  your thoughts on them?

I think you will see martial arts continuing to spread. Some people will continue to love the traditional arts. Some will love the self defense systems. Some will love the diverse and mixed systems while others will enjoy the systems that teach fitness and relaxation. With the Internet being such a large part of our lives now, I see more people becoming aware that there is a martial art out there for everyone.  As a result of that you will also see more martial arts schools opening up and probably closing down. Just because you love something doesn't mean everyone will love it. Just because you can "do" something doesn't mean you can teach it. So buyer beware.  

How to do you insure all 3 of your schools get enough personal attention?

We have a full staff of professional certified black belts at each location.

Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Train hard and enjoy the journey no matter what art or arts you train.  All arts have something to offer. Don't let anyone tell you differently.  I believe there is no BEST art but there might be a best art for YOU !  Just remember not to disrespect what is the best for someone else on your path of discovery.  

Thank you Master Hendrix for your valuable time and well thought out answers.

Interview with Alan La from Invincible Worldwide

Alan La is the Founder & Executive Director at Invincible Worldwide. His organization helps people see their true strength within themselves through a combination of Martial Arts and showing individuals the greatness that is inside them.


BKO Kung Fu: Alan, Why did you start Invincible Worldwide and what makes it unique from other schools?

Invincible is an idea that began on the back of my lecture notes while studying at University. It’s an idea of possibility. It’s the idea that no matter who you are, what you look like, or where you come from, you can achieve extraordinary things in life. It is about empowering people to feel a true sense of inner power that enables them to achieve 3 things: 1. Perform at a higher level in life 2. Be loved and respected by those around them 3. Be able to influence and inspire others to become extraordinary. 

It took a few years to refine, and now Invincible Worldwide has 2 ways we achieve this: The Invincible Athletes Academy builds martial arts athletes with peak performance speed, power, strength, skills and the strongest mentality. And The Achieve Anything Academy empowers ordinary people to become extraordinary by showing them their inner greatness and potential to achieve success in life. 

BKO: Tell us about Alan La, before Invincible Worldwide.

For the past 13 years, I studied and trained in various Martial Arts, including Wu Chu Chuan, Shaolin Kung Fu, Wing Chun, Tae Kwon Do, Jeet Kune Do and Tricking. I’d also spent countless hours on seminars, books and audio tapes, studying and writing on the area of human potential and achievement. After years of martial arts training 3 hours every day and applying everything I’d learnt about the psychology of achievement, I began to notice the harmonizing effects of aligning our physical and mental potentials. I began to feel an empowering sense of inner power and physical power. During that period, the word ‘Invincible’ stood out to me, and it’d perfectly fitted this extraordinary feeling. I wanted to share this feeling with the world. 

BKO: Who had the greatest influence on your attitude in life? please explain.

The first person that comes to mind for any martial artist would be Bruce Lee. However, I’d like to mention someone else as well in my life. My dad. He’s not a martial artist himself, but he taught me the values of being a man, of being righteous, virtuous and striving for greatness – all of which are virtues of being a true martial artist. 

BKO: How has leading Invincible Worldwide changed your life?

Since founding Invincible Worldwide, I’ve been able to live out my goal of empowering other young people to also feel this new sense of self-worth. This alone is WHY I do what I do. My vision is to empower everyone in the world to become extraordinary. 

It began when I inspired the guys in my team to rise above mediocrity in their lives. They are now my brothers, my family. At the beginning of each year we list out together the craziest things we want to achieve for that year. And it is always so amazing to see each goal get ticked off one by one. This year alone, we’ve done a national tour, been on TV, featured in newspaper articles, reached millions on Youtube, been honored to partner with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Hyper Martial Arts, performed on big stages, did motivational seminars for 200+ students, nominated for the Young Citizen of the Year Award, received the Australia Day Medallion – the list goes on. And there’s never a day that I don’t appreciate it all. I appreciate every student that walks into our class. I appreciate all the efforts and hard work that my team has put into the vision. I appreciate every worldwide fan that sends us daily encouraging messages. I guess leading Invincible Worldwide has changed my life in that it allows me to appreciate the possibilities of life and what we can achieve if we put in hard work, vision and heart. 

BKO: What do you believe holds the majority of people back from achieving their dreams? What do you recommend to overcome this?

You know when you’re running to the point of exhaustion, where your heart and lungs are trying hard to catch up, where your muscles are numb, and your body feels past its limits? Research has shown that at this point, you’ve only reached 70% of your body’s full potential. It is just like in life. Too many of us have never even tried pushing ourselves to that point of exhaustion in chasing our dreams. The reason why we don’t do this is because the vision is not great enough, and so the pain of trying and the possibility of failing or getting rejected are far greater than the pleasure and excitement of feeling worthy and competent. 

Try pushing yourself a little bit more in everything you do. It’s called releasing more latent ability. Just give it a little more than 110% in what you do, whether it in training, job or school. And when you begin to see big results, you start to develop self-confidence and the inner belief to take on the bigger goals. 

BKO: Can you tell us of your favorite success stories with one of your students?

There’s a success story with every student. Some of them will tell you in person with tears in their eyes, or through long heartwarming messages. Others will keep it to themselves. Whichever the case, you can always see it in their eyes and their presence. It is the moment they realize their true potential, the moment they realize they are truly Invincible. Every success story is unique and different. I appreciate every single one. 

BKO: You company goal states you want to have a worldwide impact? How do you plan on doing this? (World tours, Internet, Franchises?)

Yes we are planning to tour around the world. We’re also developing an online program for people in remote areas to access. The goal is to create a movement where people are living out the Invincible idea, becoming more of themselves every day, living with peak physicality and mentality, and inspiring others to do so. The world will be a better place. 

BKO: Let's say someone wanted to open one of your schools in another country? Is that an option? What would you require of them? 

We haven’t planned for that. But you never know. 

BKO: Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Awaken the Dream. If anyone is interested in joining the movement and helping us create a better world, connect with us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/InvincibleWorldwide 

Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions and give us such awesome photo's. 

Watch this amazing video with Invincible Worldwide.

Visit to Progressive Scientific Fighting

Thanks to Sifu Ruben Rodriguez at Progressive Scientific Fighting, Brandon was able to get in some Kung Fu sparring with a new partner. He also received some tips in the way Jeet Kune Do is used. Brandon's instructor has shown him some Jeet Kun Do and Wing Chung techniques in the past and he has always liked them. He really likes the explosiveness of the movements and the direct attacks. So, Brandon was extremely happy with adding to his knowledge base.

Friendly sparring at Progressive Scientific Fighting in Weslaco, Texas.

After watching Sifu Rodriguez teach, you can tell he has an in depth knowledge of martial arts and knows how to translate that knowledge to his students. He breaks down every move so not only do you know how to do a technique but the reason behind the technique as well. It's always a pleasure to see someone who has mastered their trade. 

Tonight he covered ways to explode from one's current position to the opponent's position before an average person has the time to react. He also covered countering the jab brilliantly. Brandon plans on incorporating "The Repost" move in his next sparring session.

Sifu Rodriguez was kind enough to allow us to post Brandon's sparring before class started. If your in the Weslaco area, I would recommend stopping by for a visit. You can also visit their website at Progressive Scientific Fighting.

2nd 3 minutes

Interview with Emil Martirossian

Emil has been studying martial arts since he was 3 years old. He has been requested to demonstrate all over the world. He has even played a part in one of the Batman movies which we think is awesome. 

I understand you have learned both western boxing and Thai boxing. What is the difference between the two?


Well, Western Boxing works only the hands and in my book Boxers have the best hands in the business.  You should know how to Box. I believe it is a very important tool. Thai Boxing uses powerful elbows and Knees. They are very deadly. They are a very good tool to have with you. But all in all for street self defense I think Thai boxing is pretty good.

Out of all the martial arts you do which one do you focus on the most?

I focus on Jeet Kune Do and I also focus on developing my own style of unarmed Combat called "Urban Combat” which has been featured in Martial arts illustrated magazine many times.

What does it take to become a 5th degree black belt in Taekwondo?

Hard work and lot's of dedication. You have to know your forms inside and out, breaking tests and written exams.

What was it like giving a demonstration in Hong Kong?

It was an absolute honor to be invited out by Bruce Lee sister Phoebe and the Chair man of Hong Kong Bruce Lee Fan Club W. Wong to demonstrate for his anniversary I loved every minute. Hong Kong is a magical city full of mystery.

What inspired you to right a book about Jeet Kune Do?

I was inspired after my Uncle Armen who passed away in 2003. He was a 7th Degree Black Belt in WTF Tae Kwon Do. He died of ALS when he was 47. He was also my teacher. So, I felt I needed to write a book to keep his legacy alive and so he can also be remembered for his brilliance.

What are your favorite things about martial arts?

I love everything about the martial arts. How it gives one focus and energy in life and gives you that positive outlook on life. So, you can deal with people and society in a certain way and help the up and coming generation to realize there is more to life than X-Box. I also love the sparring and I really enjoy the close quarter combat tactics. Also, I really love to meditate.

Out of the movies you have played in, which is your favorite and why?

I enjoyed all of them but the most fun we had was when I worked on Batman Begins. I met several great martial artists on set. We became like Brothers and we had a chance to work out on and off the set. I learnt a lot about the film industry. At this time I have just finished working on a TV series and I am due to fly out to Hong Kong to start my career as an Actor - Martial Artist which I'm very excited about.

We wish you luck Emil and can't wait to see you on the big screen again.

Interview with Chris Smith - Jeet Kune Do and Kali

Chris Smith with Richard Bustillo 

Chris Smith has decades of Martial Arts Experience. He has trained with some of Bruce Lee's best students and is a Certified Master Instructor in Jeet Kune Do. He also specializes in Kali; a true all around complete system of fighting. He has very successful fighting record across a multitude of styles and fight types.

I understand you have had to use your martial arts background in real life. Can you tell us about one of those situations?

People get good at fighting in a controlled environment. There is no element of control in street fighting. If there was an element of control, the fight would not have occurred in the first place.  Sometimes I use my martial arts in unconventional ways. I have used the physical side lots of times. There was a time when you could say I was a veteran bar room brawlers. That was when I was a knucklehead in my twenties... actually up until about 35. But, the coolest thing I have ever done was when six guys were going to jump one of my roommates at a bar. I verbally punked them when i challenged them as a group to a fight knowing that i would probably loose to six people. I projected the attitude of confidence and my resolve sold it. Punked six guys without throwing a punch! The martial arts are more than just about fighting. It is a lifestyle where confidence, honor and inner strength are practiced daily. 

You are undefeated in no holds barred challenge fights. What are these? How many of these have you had? How did you win them?

Between the ages of 19 and 23 I was the gym enforcer and hitman, lol, but it’s the truth. The academy I trained at during this time had an open door challenge and policy. If you had something that worked or had something better than what was offered,  you were encouraged to bring it and test it. Back then the model was if you got through or past the top student you had an opportunity to fight the head instructor. No one ever made it to the head instructor. In retrospect when I look back I am not really proud of it but it was real. Back then all sparring sessions consisted of boxing kickboxing throwing take-downs and  submission holds we just didn't call it MMA. I have had 27. I was able to come out on top by never giving up. I was able to beat people mentally and punch then until they quit. Most people are mistaken when they think Martial Arts is all physical. The mentally strong individual will always come out on top. I was able to win by submission, TKO and TKO's due to strikes. 

You trained directly with one of Bruce Lee’s students. I’m sure he must have told stories about Bruce. Can you tell about your favorite one?

Chris Smith training his class

I have trained with several of Bruce Lee's students but mainly Sifu Richard Bustillo who is currently at this moment in my gym holding a seminar lol. One of my favorite stories about Bruce Lee comes from Sifu Bustillo. When I first began my Jeet Kune Do studies, all of the original students seemed like superheroes or like Jedi Knights to me. Sifu would tell us stories that brought them back down to Earth, these guys would make jokes, had lives, had wives, make mistakes, they were HUMAN. Those are my favorite stories  

You stated previously that you  “…did a lot of research on body language so I could actually learn how to intercept better.” Can you give us an example we could use?

Often before initiating an attack people have tells. If you learn what these tells are, intercepting is easy. For example, if someone is trying to sucker punch you they will adjust their stance subtly, so that they have a firm base to deliver from. They will also adjust their distance to put themselves at a range they feel comfortable at to deliver the punch. If they have a weapon they will almost always do a "weapons check" no one wants to reach for a knife thinking it’s there and it actually is NOT there. Some will get louder to work up the confidence to strike.  These are some of the tells.... 

What is Kali and how do you incorporate it into your training?

Kali is the fighting art(s) of the Philippines. Arguably the world’s only fully complete martial arts system. Kali teaches every aspect of fighting. All striking, (empty hand and weapons) ground combat, and projectile weapons are in the curriculum.  There is a dedicated Kali class that meets twice a week at the gym. However, we use Kali training methods in every class to enhance the effectiveness of our curriculum. We improvise equipment to add to the realism of our weapons sparring like using hockey gloves as hand protection and fencing masks for your face. Sometimes we make padded sticks to spar full contact or wear ski goggles to work finger jabs. We also use Kali full contact sparring equipment, so that way we can use ACTUAL AUTHENTIC KALI STICKS and hit each other. 

What is your favorite Martial Arts movie and why? To make it more interesting chose one without Bruce Lee?

My favorite movie is Roadhouse and the Matrix Reloaded. Roadhouse because a lot of martial artists at some point pursue bouncing at a bar. The Matrix Reloaded because a lot of work went into the fight choreography and it shows. Also, Rapid Fire because it stars Brandon Lee and is one of the best displays of Jeet Kune Do in recent years. The last one I have to admit would be Never Back Down because it showed more training sequences than the Ultimate Fighter TV show does lol. 

If someone wanted just a basic knowledge of martial arts for self defense and did not want to make a long term dedication, what style would you suggest and why?

Become a Monk LOL. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is good however unless strikes are incorporated in the rolling it is insufficient for self defense. If they kicked and wrestled in boxing it would be ideal ... but they don't. If in kickboxing class you learned how to defend against a knife that would be ideal for the street.  The best art would be Kali. It has curriculum for everything.  

Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Yes, LIVE THE LIFESTYLE, THE MARTIAL ARTS LIFESTYLE. Enjoy your training, research your Art and research your training. Make your martial arts journey a lifestyle! Train with the only goal of wanting to grow and improve! Training for just the purpose of competitive fighting or street fighting is ok but very limited in scope. When we live the Martial Way we will find opportunities to grow in knowledge and gain spiritual and emotional inner strength. Let your Martial Arts training and lifestyle transform and expand you.


Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Chris. We enjoyed the experience immensely.

Please be sure to visit Chris' school at IMBCT

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