
Who invented Mixed Martial Arts MMA What do an NFL star, a United States Secret Service agent, Sylvester Stallone’s bodyguard, and Muhammad Ali’s sparring partner all have in common? They were all characters cast in America’s original “anything goes” reality fighting drama—an open call that led to the birth of a new sport: mixed martial...
Happy Birthday MMA: Celebrating 46 YEARS OF Mixed Martial Arts Evolution March 20th marks a powerful crossover moment in the world of combat sports—the celebration of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and the arrival of the first day of spring. Both symbolize renewal, growth, and transformation, making this the perfect time to reflect on how MMA...
Gabby Viola: Young IBD Advocate Turning Pain into Purpose Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can feel overwhelming—especially for children facing the daily challenges of chronic illness. But Gabby Viola is proving that adversity doesn’t define a life—it strengthens it. Through courage, determination, and advocacy, Gabby is emerging as an inspiring young voice for pediatric IBD awareness...
What is Kumite? In karate terms, Kumite (組手) literally means “grappling hands” or “meeting of hands.” In martial arts, especially karate, it refers to sparring, where practitioners apply techniques against a live opponent rather than rehearsing forms (kata). So, people often ask me why I named my company Kumite Classic, and the answer goes much...
Pittsburgh Power Schedule Saturday May 16th (forms) 🔗 Hall B Sunday May 17th (sparring) 🔗 Hall B Day Time Event Location Saturday 8:00 AM Registration Meeting Room #323 9:30 AM Black Belt Meeting (Kumite Tent) Hall B 10:00 AM Opening Ceremonies Hall B 10:15 AM Tournament Begins (All Underbelt Forms & Weapons), All Team Forms,...
Viola Karate: The Top Pittsburgh Karate School – A Legacy of Martial Arts Champions For over half a century, Viola Karate has stood as one of the most respected martial arts institutions in Western Pennsylvania. Known formally as Allegheny Shotokan Karate, the dojo has built a reputation for producing elite athletes, preserving traditional karate values,...
The Timeline and Evolution of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Historical Context Summary True American MMA Timeline: 648 BC – Pankration 1920s – Vale Tudo 1979 – CV Productions founded 1980 – Tough Guy Contest begins 1983 – Tough Guy Law enacted 1993 – UFC 1 2000 – Unified Rules adopted 2005 – Mainstream TV breakthrough...
Pittsburgh Power Karate Tournament Feel The Power May 16-17th at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center (1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222). Who Can Compete All ages — from young children to adults All skill levels — beginners to advanced black belts All styles — karate, tae kwon do, kung fu, tang soo do,...
Division Ages Gender Rank Forms Under Belt Forms 5 m/f all Forms Under Belt Forms 6 m/f first timers Forms Under Belt Forms 6 m/f novice Forms Under Belt Forms 7-8 m/f first timers Forms Under Belt Forms 7-8 m/f novice Forms Under Belt Forms 7-8 m/f intermediate Forms Under Belt Forms 7-8 m/f advanced...