Links to Mr. Frank Trejo interviews

Frank Trejo interview #1

Frank Trejo interview #2 - part 1 of 3

Frank Trejo interview #2 - part 2 of 3

Frank Trejo interview #2 - part 3 of 3

Recent USSD 10th degree black belt promotions

(from the USSD Facebook page)

A Historic Moment for United Studios of Self Defense 

Some achievements are measured in years. Others are measured in lifetimes.

This weekend, Soke Jack Turner and Soke Richard Black were promoted to 10th Degree Black Belt (Judan) one of the rarest honors in martial arts.

For more than 35 years, they have walked this path together, carrying forward the legacy of their teacher, Senior Professor and Grandmaster Charles Mattera. His guidance shaped them into the leaders who have inspired generations throughout USSD.

Though different in personality, they have complemented one another like Yin and Yang one bringing calm and steady leadership, the other relentless passion and drive. Together, they have strengthened each other and everyone around them.

After successfully completing a rigorous multi day evaluation, they earned a rank that represents far more than technical mastery. Their greatest achievement is the countless students, instructors, and lives they have impacted.

This is more than a promotion it is the continuation of a legacy and a historic milestone for United Studios of Self Defense.

Congratulations, Grand Master Jack Turner and Grand Master Richard Black. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Dynamic Kenpo, Volume 1: Evolving Perspectives on the Art of Scientific Violence

(from Amazon)

by Jason Creel (Author)

Dynamic Kenpo, Volume 1: Evolving Perspectives on the Art of Scientific Violence

Kenpo was never meant to remain static; for decades, martial artists have focused on memorizing techniques, collecting belt ranks, and accumulating information. But information alone does not create skill—and it certainly does not prepare someone for the chaos of real violence.

Drawing on more than thirty years of training, teaching, research, and practical experience, Jason Creel explores the principles that transform Kenpo from a collection of techniques into a logical, adaptable system of self-preservation. Rather than presenting endless technique lists, this book examines the underlying concepts that allow practitioners to think, analyze, adapt, and continually refine their Kenpo into a living and functional Art.

Inside you'll explore topics including:

• Building the mindset and attitude necessary for effective self-preservation

• Developing speed, accuracy, power, timing, and intent

• Understanding body mechanics and functional movement

• Training methods that create transferable skill instead of rote memorization

• Decision-making under pressure and tactical problem solving

• Continuous refinement, critical thinking, and lifelong growth in the martial arts

• Practical drills and exercises to accelerate development

Whether you study American Kenpo, another striking art, or simply want to understand the principles behind effective martial training, Dynamic Kenpo, Volume 1 provides a framework for becoming a more capable, more thoughtful, and more adaptable martial artist.

This is not a book about collecting techniques; it is about learning how to think and grow.

(Link to Amazon)

Gathering of Eagles 2026 - schedule

 

Broken Rhythm - Bruce Lee's Game of Death

Yet another Bruce Lee documentary, however this one might have its place. Apparently not all of the Game of Death footage that exists has been shown, until now with Broken Rhythm.   

I suppose as long as there are interesting aspects of Bruce Lee's life and career that haven't been explored people are going to explore it. 

(description from the YouTube video)

Bruce Lee’s unfinished film 'Game of Death' has long captivated audiences. The footage he shot before his untimely passing – later reworked and incorporated into a film bearing the same title – carries a mysterious, almost mythic allure. Within these fragments lies a striking cinematic language and rich symbolic intent, revealing Lee’s ambitions not merely as a martial artist, but as a visionary actor, writer and director. What was he striving to express through this project, and what does it reveal about an artist too often reduced to the label of kung fu icon?

Alan Canvan's 'Broken Rhythm' is the first feature-length documentary to examine 'Game of Death' in depth, illuminating Lee’s aspirations as a filmmaker at the dawn of the New Hollywood movement and marking his earliest attempt to create what he described as “multi-level films.” The 1978 release – premiering five years after Lee’s death – contained only a fraction of what he filmed in 1972. Producer André Morgan, involved in both versions, guides us through the complex timeline behind the film’s completion, shedding light on the creative, financial, and logistical compromises that reshaped Lee’s original vision. By reassessing the commercial success of the 1978 version, 'Broken Rhythm' journeys backward to uncover a markedly different film than the one audiences ultimately saw.

Through exclusive interviews and rare archival material, 'Broken Rhythm' highlights an ensemble of voices offering firsthand insight into Lee’s life, work, and creative ambitions. Featured participants include those who worked closely with Lee on 'Game of Death', such as Andre Morgan, Dan Inosanto, and Ji Han Jae, alongside biographer Matthew Polly and playwright David Henry Hwang, who offer fresh perspectives on his artistic intent. Actress and producer Colleen Camp adds further dimension, reflecting on Lee’s enduring power as a cinematic icon. Together with additional voices, these accounts uncover revelatory details about the production of 'Game of Death', recontextualizing Lee’s legacy while exploring how his work grapples with enduring existential questions of life, death, identity, and the pursuit of artistic immortality.

For more information, visit cityonfire.com

1968 Karate Tournament of Champions - Hawaii tournament program

(Recently posted to Facebook by Mr. Rich Hale.)

An autographed official program signed by Mr. Parker given to Mr. Hale. 

Definitely a treasure.   

A couple of links to Larry Tatum interviews

In the past it seemed like Mr. Tatum didn't do any interviews, or if he did they weren't readily available.  

Lately however a couple of interviews with Mr. Tatum have come up on YouTube. 

Here are the links, enjoy.

link to My Empty Hands interview

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link to Whistlekick Martial Arts interview