Machida put on a great show last night, he made Rashad Evans look like a guy with no clue and more importantly, a fighter so far removed from the guy we saw dominate Forest Griffin for the LHW title and win TUF 2 it was unreal. Using better Maai (distance) and Tai Sabaki (body evasions) Machida was in control the whole fight, his elusiveness was something to behold. I feel a great sense of pride knowing that Shotokan Karate has taken a huge step back into the 'mix' of all things concerning functional combat.
There is nothing wrong with Shotokan Karate and its effectiveness, there never has been. You have to look no further than the likes of British Karateka such as Dave Hazard, Ronnie Christopher and Terry O'Neill to understand that. However, those individuals that practice the watered down variety of Karate [or any style of combat for that matter] where points and Kata are the only aim or the lining of their pockets through 'nice Karate' do nothing but add to the queue of criticisms. Although Machida's performance was first rate last night and his record is still unblemished (15-0-0), those now touting Karate's supremacy should remember whay he is so good: his Jiu Jitsu, his Karate, his Judo, his Muay Thai and his wrestling and the training partners that play such a vital role in his development and support don't do a bad job either...
Until next time!
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