A few decades ago, the UFC was founded on the premise of determining the best fighting style. Now the sport has developed into a finely-tuned machine wrought with homogenized martial arts that have blended simply into what can be called “MMA.” Sure, some fighters absolutely rely on their wrestling or striking, but we don’t truly see a battle of styles anymore, at least on a mainstream scale. But, a burgeoning underground fight scene is delivering those special fights in small corners of the world.
The latest battle was a friendly fight offer from Vietnamese karate black belt Doan Bao Chau to Canadian Wing Chun artist Pierre Francois Flores, who flew to Hanoi to test his style vs Chau’s style. As you can see, the much bigger Flores won via head kick knockout.
Still, the men were friendly after and went out to eat after their work was done.
These pictures represent the essence of a true martial art spirit. I was really impressed by Master Đoàn Bảo Chau’s noble attitude and great courage, two character traits in which he surpasses most of the practitioners that I have crossed path with. Before and after the fight, I had the chance to converse with other Masters who accompanied Master Đoàn Bảo Chau and I was equally impressed by them because of their profound understanding of martial arts. Through this exchange, I have gained new brothers and I have a great admiration for the martial art community in Hanoi. I would like to express my gratitude to all who were present on this memorable day.
Here are a few more street fights that he’s been involved in over the years:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCMxHrKXQa8
(Via Bloody Elbow)
