“Karate’s back” shouted Lyoto Machida, following his 2nd round knock out of previously undefeated Rashad Evans, at UFC #98. The victory on May 23rd, 2009 earned him the UFC title of “Light Heavy Weight Champion“.
Born in Belem, Lyoto is the third son to Yoshizo Machida, the man responsible for introducing JKA (Japan Karate Association) Karate to Brazil. Lyoto was “born” into Traditional Shotokan Karate training, and uses this style very effectively for Mixed Martial Art (MMA) competition.
The use of Ashi Sabaki (foot movement) is a trademark of Lyoto’s style, which was passed on by his father. Yoshizo Machida’s small stature forced him to emphasize the use of Ashi Sabaki to be able to defeat larger and stronger opponents. In the world of MMA Lyoto’s style of fighting from a long distance with strong forward attacking body shift, is very frustrating to his opponents. Albeit some may consider this a “new” style of fighting, to the traditionalist this is the essence of Shotokan Karate. The founder of Shotokan Karate, Gichin Funakoshi often encouraged his students “to think of your opponents hands and feet as swords“.
The correct state of mind is paramount in order to develop our Karate. To overcome our opponent we must always mentally feel we are at a disadvantage (our opponents superior strength or use of a weapon).
“Karate’s back” was the well deserved victory statement of Lyoto Machida’s at UFC #98. Although the traditionalist would simply reply to Lyoto by saying “Karate has never left“.
Doryoku,
Scott
