Latest news with #MartialArts
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Museum Announces Official Grand Opening June 7
( NewMediaWire ) - June 01, 2025 - GLENDALE, CA – The wait is over! After months of anticipation, the Martial Arts History Museum is thrilled to announce its official Grand Opening at its new, expansive location in Glendale. This momentous occasion marks a new chapter for the internationally recognized institution, inviting the community to a vibrant celebration of Asian art, culture, and the enduring impact of martial arts on the world on June 7, 2025. The grand festivities are scheduled for this upcoming kicking off at 11:00 am with a dazzling display of traditional Chinese lion dancing. The energetic performance will begin in the Olive Garden courtyard and majestically lead the way across the street into the museum itself. Attendees will be treated to captivating kung fu demonstrations, inspiring speeches from esteemed city dignitaries and special speakers, and a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Martial Arts History Museum's journey has been one of passionate dedication, spanning over 26 years. From its humble beginnings as a traveling exhibit, to its previous homes in Santa Clarita and Burbank (where it thrived for over 16 years), the museum has now found its magnificent new home at the prominent intersection of Brand Blvd. and Wilson in Glendale. This move to a significantly larger facility allows for an even more immersive and comprehensive visitor experience. Inside, visitors will discover a treasure trove of hundreds of authentic artifacts, priceless gis from the martial arts' greatest pioneers, iconic movie props, and a cutting-edge 122-seat theater for film screenings and book signings. The museum offers a unique educational journey, exploring how Asian history and tradition have intricately woven themselves into the fabric of American culture through the martial arts. As a non-profit charity, the museum extends its impact beyond historical preservation. It actively hosts a variety of humanitarian events, providing solace and engagement for patients suffering from dementia, and offering uplifting opportunities for individuals with physical and mental challenges. These initiatives reflect the core values of martial arts: discipline, respect, and community empowerment. Michael Matsuda, the visionary founder and president of the museum since 1999, expresses his profound excitement: 'Our Grand Opening in Glendale is a testament to the power of perseverance and the universal appeal of martial arts. My goal has always been to not only highlight the incredible benefits of these arts but to meticulously preserve their history and showcase the profound influence they continue to wield globally. The museum is a unique gateway to understanding diverse cultures, traditions, art, and music – it truly offers so much more than just the punch and kick.' Join us in celebrating the dawn of a new era for the Martial Arts History Museum, a place where history comes alive and the spirit of martial arts inspires all. Event Details: About the Martial Arts History Museum: The Martial Arts History Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history, culture, and traditions of martial arts worldwide. Through its extensive collection of artifacts, engaging exhibits, and diverse community programs, the museum aims to educate and inspire audiences of all ages about the profound influence of martial arts on global society and culture. For more info, email [email protected].
West Australian
3 days ago
- Politics
- West Australian
Premier Roger Cook issues fresh defence against Government's handling of proposed bare-knuckle fight in Perth
Premier Roger Cook has issued a fresh defence of his government's handling of a proposed bare-knuckle fight in Perth next month, saying it was better to have a controlled event, rather than it going underground. Mr Cook said he 'appreciated community concern' about the championship event — a spin-off of the UFC — earmarked for RAC Arena in July. But he said there was a greater risk if bare-knuckle fighting occurred in an unregulated environment. 'I appreciate community concern around bare-knuckle boxing and understand that combat sports are not for everyone, myself included,' Mr Cook said. 'While we understand there is risk to be balanced with any sports, there is an anticipated greater risk in serious harm to people who participate if it's not conducted in a controlled, permitted and regulated environment. 'Let me be clear: This is not an event the WA Government is sponsoring financially.' WA's boxing regulations were amended by former Sport Minister David Templeman in February to recognise the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship as a sanctioning body. The Combat Sports Commission has said additional conditions would be put in place — if the fight went ahead. But the Australian Medical Association WA says the event should not proceed — and if it did, it would send the wrong message to the community in the face of domestic violence and other vicious crimes committed in the community. 'The fact that the State Government has paved the way for this activity to occur in Western Australia is baffling,' AMA WA boss Dr Michael Page said. 'We are dismayed. 'What was the rationale? Did they consider this in light of family and domestic violence?' Mr Cook says Sports Minister Rita Saffioti has taken fresh advice on the proposed event from the Combat Sports Commission, which was made up of experts in the field. 'It advised bare-knuckle boxing is another emerging discipline, alongside kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts, that has started to grow here in Australia, since its following in the US and the UK,' Mr Cook said. 'The advice from the Combat Sports Commission is that it requires stringent rules and regulations so it isn't driven underground. 'With the Commission regulating this sport and events associated with it, it means there are strict rules applied and carried through such as having multiple ringside medical practitioners and a threshold to the minimum experience for participants.'
Associated Press
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Martial Arts History Museum to Host
( NewMediaWire ) - May 27, 2025 - GLENDALE, CA – In a continuing tradition of celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month with unique and impactful events, the Martial Arts History Museum is proud to announce a special screening of 'The Real Miyagi.' This compelling documentary written by Kevin Derek, delves into the life of Fumio Demura, the legendary martial artist who served as the inspiration for Pat Morita's iconic Mr. Miyagi character in The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai series. The event will take place on Friday, May 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the museum, with complimentary entrance for the public. The evening will be hosted by Museum Hall of Famer, celebrity personality and talk show host, author, and one of the most prominent figures in the Hawaiian Lua art, Michelle Manu. Joining her will be special guest William Christopher Ford, an actor from both The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai series, offering unique insights into the beloved franchise. 'Each year we attempt to do something different to pay our respect to the Asian American community,' says Michael Matsuda, President of the Martial Arts History Museum. 'The previous year we handed out free stun devices in our combat against Asian-Hate. The following year we hosted self-defense workshops, and this year I think it is appropriate to take a glimpse of the positive contributions of the Asian American community through film.' Michelle Manu, who also serves as an advisory board member of the museum, will provide an in-depth look at the creation of 'The Real Miyagi' documentary, shedding light on its origins and the significance of AAPI Month to her personally. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the film's production and its powerful message within the context of Asian American heritage. 'This documentary was a project to not only feature the role of the Miyagi character, but it provides a wonderful look at one of the great icons in martial arts history, Fumio Demura. This is a man who helped usher in karate in America and changed the world forever,' adds Matsuda. This event offers a rare chance to honor the contributions of the Asian American community through the inspiring story of Fumio Demura, whose influence extends far beyond the realm of martial arts into popular culture. Event Details: Join us for an evening of inspiration, education, and celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander heritage. About the Martial Arts History Museum: The Martial Arts History Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of martial arts and showcasing its impact on art, culture, and society. Through exhibits, events, and educational programs, the museum strives to promote understanding and appreciation of martial arts traditions worldwide. For more information, visit or email [email protected]
Globe and Mail
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Martial Arts History Museum to Host
(NewMediaWire) - May 27, 2025 - GLENDALE, CA – In a continuing tradition of celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month with unique and impactful events, the Martial Arts History Museum is proud to announce a special screening of 'The Real Miyagi.' This compelling documentary written by Kevin Derek, delves into the life of Fumio Demura, the legendary martial artist who served as the inspiration for Pat Morita's iconic Mr. Miyagi character in The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai series. The event will take place on Friday, May 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the museum, with complimentary entrance for the public. The evening will be hosted by Museum Hall of Famer, celebrity personality and talk show host, author, and one of the most prominent figures in the Hawaiian Lua art, Michelle Manu. Joining her will be special guest William Christopher Ford, an actor from both The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai series, offering unique insights into the beloved franchise. 'Each year we attempt to do something different to pay our respect to the Asian American community,' says Michael Matsuda, President of the Martial Arts History Museum. 'The previous year we handed out free stun devices in our combat against Asian-Hate. The following year we hosted self-defense workshops, and this year I think it is appropriate to take a glimpse of the positive contributions of the Asian American community through film.' Michelle Manu, who also serves as an advisory board member of the museum, will provide an in-depth look at the creation of "The Real Miyagi" documentary, shedding light on its origins and the significance of AAPI Month to her personally. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the film's production and its powerful message within the context of Asian American heritage. "This documentary was a project to not only feature the role of the Miyagi character, but it provides a wonderful look at one of the great icons in martial arts history, Fumio Demura. This is a man who helped usher in karate in America and changed the world forever," adds Matsuda. This event offers a rare chance to honor the contributions of the Asian American community through the inspiring story of Fumio Demura, whose influence extends far beyond the realm of martial arts into popular culture. Event Details: Join us for an evening of inspiration, education, and celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander heritage.
Time of India
05-05-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
'No help from government, no awards, no support': MMA in Asian Games 2026 sparks serious concern
MMA to make debut in Asian Games 2026 NEW DELHI: Last week, a landmark announcement confirmed that Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) will make its debut at the 2026 Asian Games . The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) revealed that six medal events will be contested in MMA, which will take place in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4 next year. India clinched 107 medals, its best-ever, during the Hangzhou Asian Games. It put them in fourth place on the medals tally, behind China (383 medals), Japan (188), and South Korea (190). Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! MMA, with its growing popularity and competitive potential, could play a role in reducing that gap. But, as of now, it's far from a level playing field. "It feels really good that MMA is finally in the Asian Games. But now the government needs to step in, and sponsors must come forward. Currently, there are no awards for Indian athletes, no government support, we fund our own training," Indian MMA star Ritu Phogat said. The issue goes far beyond just money, awards, or support. Currently, India lacks a federation to govern MMA, a sport that blends multiple combat disciplines. While several bodies exist, such as MMA India, the Mixed Martial Arts Federation of India (MMAFI), and the Federation of MMA India (FMMAI), none are officially recognised by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). "I really hope the government takes quick action to form a proper federation that supports athletes. And they should begin the selection process quickly so that selected athletes can get proper training," Ritu added. "Right now, India doesn't have a proper training centre or good coaches. So they should be sent abroad where there are better facilities to prepare for the Asian Games." Coming from a family with deep wrestling roots, Ritu Phogat, the youngest daughter of Mahavir Singh Phogat and a gold medallist at the 2016 Commonwealth Wrestling Championship, switched to MMA after being inspired by videos of legendary fighter Khabib Nurmagomedov. But her journey in the hexagon has not been easy. "It's been full of ups and downs, struggles, and it still is because there's no proper centre for MMA in India. Now I have a one-year-old baby, so I have to think about where to train, how to manage time, and the expenses of living, eating, and training," the 31-year-old said. Her wrestling background, nevertheless, has been an asset. "Wrestling gives you an advantage in MMA, controlling your opponent on the ground, takedowns, etc. That really helped me," she explained. Bombay Sport Exchange Ep 4: Prof. Ratnakar Shetty on BCCI, cricket politics & Indian cricket's growth Echoing Ritu's concerns is Puja Tomar , the first Indian to win a fight in the UFC. A top-level athlete may need to spend Rs 1.5-2 lakh per month to stay competitive. "MMA really requires a lot of money. For example, when I was doing Wushu, the government covered all my expenses," she said. "So if you have a background in boxing or something similar, then it's manageable. But if you're starting MMA directly from zero, then financially it becomes very difficult. However, if you have a background in boxing, Wushu, or wrestling, then somehow you manage to survive." ALSO READ: 'My parents didn't want another girl, they left me to die': First Indian to win UFC fight Puja Tomar With just over a year to go for the 2026 Asian Games, the ticking of the clock has begun. Without a structured support system in place, India's MMA athletes risk being left behind, potentially costing the country's medal hopes.
