Systema can also be called by another name, “ponzai sebia” which means “know yourself”. This principle incorporates what Systema is all about. One of its core values is “non-destruction”, and like many other martial arts, it’s not just a workout, it’s a lifestyle.

Throughout Russia’s history, invaders would appear from all possible directions, perpetually trying to conquer the land and people. In constant conflict with Russians, these attackers would have distinctively different strategies, weaponry, and styles of combat. Over time, the Russian warriors were able to develop a versatile and innovative set of combat tactics that were not only practical, but they worked.

With the onset of Communism, which began in 1917, many of Russia’s traditions were suppressed. The way of fighting developed by the Russian warriors of old became not only prohibited, but people caught practicing it were severally punished. As the authorities noticed how efficient this way of fighting was, they reserved the right for one small group to be allowed to practice such techniques. Within the Spetsnaz or Voiska Spetsialnogo Naznachenia — which stands for the Russian Special Forces — there are a few Special Operations Units that would be assigned high risk tasks. Those soldiers went under a tough, arduous and intense training, and would become the modern masters of this traditional style of fighting.

For more information on this style of fighting, check out their website.

Royce Gracie, MMA fighter and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion, captured the eyes of the world in the mid 90’s, during the first UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). The international fighting arena had never before seen such a large scale MMA competition, and Royce swept the first UFC, second and fourth!

During the first two championships (UFC 1 and UFC2), Royce won 11 fights by submission against the odds, and against much bigger opponents. During the UFC 5, Royce fought Ken Shamrock and tied in a super fight!

Royce revolutionized the world of MMA as the fighting communities around the world saw that there was finally a clear example of how “size does not matter”. Grappling, cross-training and MMA became paramount for all UFC fighters.

When you are watching the video below, notice how crazy things were during the first UFC. “Boxer v.s. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu“… and the boxer was actually wearing boxing gloves! It took a few years for people to start realizing that when you mix martial arts, some are just better designed for real fighting than others. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu became very popular world wide around that time, and soon other martial arts started to interest athletes serious about becoming UFC champions.

Enjoy this old school video of Royce Gracie’s path on the first UFC!

It may have been the biggest fight of Williams career, and also one of the last exciting appearances from Mike Tyson.

This bout was highly anticipated when it took place in 2004. After a 17 month long break, Tyson started out strong, giving the 17,273 live expectators what they had come for, an unforgettable match. On the fourth round things turned sour for Tyson as he took several overhand shots and next thing he knew he was hitting the canvas floor.

Here’s the #1 video on YouTube for the “best fight” search, enjoy!