HOW DID KIPURA/CAPOEIRA KNIFE FIGHTING SKILLS START

 

Title: Knives in Kongo: The Legendary Skills of Kipura Warriors Retained and Modernized by Mwalimu Mtaalam Ras Fletcher

Introduction

In the heart of Africa, nestled within the lush landscapes of Kongo, a rich tradition of knife combat has thrived for centuries. The Kipura warriors of Kongo are celebrated for their exceptional skills in wielding knives, demonstrating agility, fluidity, grace, rhythm, acrobatics, deadliness, swiftness, and undeniable beauty in their martial arts practice. These ancient skills have been researched, retained, modernized, and brought into the modern international world by the visionary martial artist, Mwalimu Mtaalam Ras Fletcher. Through his ATACX GYM, Ras Fletcher has preserved the essence of Kipura warrior techniques, providing a bridge between the past and the present. As we explore this remarkable journey, we will also shed light on the unfortunate loss of the historical imperative for training in Cardio Capoeira in Brazil, particularly in a world where violence disproportionately targets Black individuals, poor women, and marginalized communities.

The Legacy of Kipura Warriors in Kongo

The history of Kongo is steeped in rich cultural traditions, with the Kipura warriors serving as living legends within the region. These warriors were revered for their unparalleled knife-fighting skills, which combined artistry and deadly precision. The term "Kipura" is a Kikongo word, a term used to describe a rooster's movements in a fight and meaning to flutter, flit from place to place, struggle batter  fly low and high off the ground with swift surprise ingenuity and ferocity", a name in the language of the Kongo people...Kikongo... that aptly captures the essence of their martial prowess.

1. Agile and Fluid Movements

Kipura warriors are renowned for their agility and fluidity in combat. Their movements are graceful, reminiscent of a dance, as they seamlessly transition between defensive and offensive maneuvers. These skills have been passed down through generations, making Kipura warriors some of the most agile combatants in the world.

2. Grace and Rhythm

The artistry of Kipura knife fighting lies in the grace and rhythm with which each strike and parry is executed. Every motion is deliberate and harmonious, transforming combat into a mesmerizing spectacle. The rhythm of their movements is not only a testament to their skills but also a reflection of the cultural significance attached to their practice.

3. Acrobatic Techniques

Kipura warriors incorporate acrobatic techniques into their combat repertoire, adding an element of surprise and unpredictability to their fights. Backflips, somersaults, and quick maneuvers are seamlessly integrated into their knife-fighting routines, leaving opponents astonished and vulnerable.

4. Deadliness and Swiftness

The Kipura warriors' reputation for deadliness and swiftness precedes them. Their knife strikes are precise and lethal, and their ability to incapacitate opponents swiftly is unparalleled. In the heat of battle, Kipura warriors strike with speed and accuracy that often leaves adversaries with little chance of defending themselves.

5. The Undeniable Beauty of Kipura

Beyond their combat prowess, Kipura warriors epitomize beauty in motion. Their movements are not just functional but also aesthetically captivating. The intricate choreography of their fights has inspired awe and admiration for generations, making them cultural icons in Kongo.

Mwalimu Mtaalam Ras Fletcher: Preserving and Modernizing Kipura Skills

Mwalimu Mtaalam Ras Fletcher, a martial artist with a deep passion for preserving and modernizing Kipura skills, has dedicated his life to this noble cause. His journey began with an unwavering commitment to research and study the traditional techniques of Kipura warriors. Ras Fletcher immersed himself in Kongo's culture, history, and martial arts traditions, seeking to unravel the secrets of the Kipura.

Through years of dedication and collaboration with Kongo's elder masters, Ras Fletcher unearthed hidden gems of knowledge. He meticulously documented techniques, forms, and principles, ensuring that the legacy of the Kipura warriors would continue to thrive.

Modernization of Kipura Skills

Recognizing the need to adapt these ancient skills to the modern world, Ras Fletcher embarked on a journey of modernization. He incorporated elements of contemporary self-defense, fitness, and martial arts into the traditional Kipura techniques, making them accessible and relevant to a global audience.

ATACX GYM: The Hub of Kipura Revival

ATACX GYM, founded by Ras Fletcher, has become the epicenter for the revival and modernization of Kipura skills. Located in a vibrant cultural hub, ATACX GYM serves as a haven for martial artists, fitness enthusiasts, and those seeking to embrace the legacy of Kongo's warriors.

1. Training Kipura Techniques

At ATACX GYM, individuals of all backgrounds can immerse themselves in the art of Kipura knife fighting. Ras Fletcher and his team of dedicated instructors offer comprehensive training in traditional Kipura techniques, ensuring that the core essence of this martial art remains intact.

2. Fusion of Fitness and Self-Defense

Ras Fletcher understands the importance of functional fitness in the modern world. To that end, ATACX GYM offers a unique blend of Kipura-inspired fitness routines and self-defense training. This approach not only hones physical strength but also equips individuals with practical skills for personal safety.

3. Cultural Education

Beyond physical training, ATACX GYM provides cultural education about Kongo's history and traditions. Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the roots of Kipura and its significance in Kongo's heritage.

Kipura and the Modern International World

The modern international world is vastly different from the ancient traditions of Kongo, but the essence of Kipura remains relevant. In an era where self-defense, fitness, and cultural preservation are paramount, the Kipura skills revitalized by Ras Fletcher find resonance.

1. Self-Defense and Personal Safety

In a world where violence persists, especially against marginalized communities, self-defense is not a luxury but a necessity. Kipura techniques, with their emphasis on swiftness and precision, empower individuals to protect themselves and their loved ones.

2. Cultural Exchange and Understanding

The global reach of Kipura, thanks to Ras Fletcher and ATACX GYM, fosters cultural exchange and understanding. People from diverse backgrounds come together to learn, appreciate, and embrace Kongo's rich heritage.

3. Empowerment and Resilience

Training in Kipura instills a sense of empowerment and resilience. It transcends physical skills and becomes a mindset that encourages individuals to overcome challenges and obstacles in their lives.

The Lost History and Imperative of Cardio Capoeira

While Kipura thrives under the dedicated guidance of Ras Fletcher, it is crucial to acknowledge the unfortunate loss of history and imperative in the realm of Cardio Capoeira in Brazil.

1. Historical Context

Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art with African roots, has evolved over centuries. It combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and self-defense. Cardio Capoeira, a contemporary variation, places a strong emphasis on fitness and cardiovascular health while preserving the essence of Capoeira's movements.

2. Loss of Historical Roots

In the pursuit of fitness and commercialization, some modern Cardio Capoeira practices have detached themselves from the historical and cultural significance of the art. This separation from its African roots and history is a loss that cannot be understated.

3. Imperative of Training

The historical imperative of training in Cardio Capoeira lies in its ability to connect individuals with their heritage and promote

 physical fitness. Capoeira, like Kipura, has roots in resilience and empowerment, making it a valuable tool for self-improvement and cultural preservation.

4. Addressing Violence and Inequality

Cardio Capoeira, with its roots in Afro-Brazilian culture, can play a vital role in addressing violence and inequality. By reconnecting with its history and imperative, Cardio Capoeira has the potential to empower marginalized communities and promote social change.

Conclusion

The legendary skills of the Kipura warriors in Kongo, preserved and modernized by Mwalimu Mtaalam Ras Fletcher through ATACX GYM, stand as a testament to the enduring power of martial arts and cultural heritage. These skills, characterized by agility, fluidity, grace, rhythm, acrobatics, deadliness, swiftness, and beauty, continue to inspire and empower individuals in the modern international world.

While Kipura thrives, it is essential to recognize the loss of historical roots and imperative in Cardio Capoeira, particularly in Brazil, where violence disproportionately targets Black individuals, poor women, and marginalized communities. Reconnecting with the historical and cultural significance of Cardio Capoeira can serve as a powerful tool for empowerment, resilience, and social change.

In a world marked by diversity and interconnectedness, the preservation of cultural traditions and martial arts serves as a bridge between the past and the present, offering valuable insights and skills to navigate the challenges of the modern world. Through the dedication of individuals like Ras Fletcher, these traditions continue to thrive, reminding us of the beauty and strength inherent in our shared human heritage.

Please follow all my socials below: 

#blackmartialartistoninstagram #alwaysbetonblack #blackmartialartist #blackmartialartists
#blackmartialarts #africanmartialarts #52blocks #atacxgymcapoeira #headcoachras #atacxgym #atacxgymnation #atacxgymstreetwarriorcapoeira #atacxgymkenpo #attacklife #streetwarriornation #kipura #njiauhurukipura #capoeiraselfdefense #capoeiraselfdefensetechniques #streetwarrior #capoeiramma #atacxgymstreetwarriors
#blackunity #capoeiraweapons #pretocapoeira #smaitawi #daily #blackandimproud #instadaily


WEBSITE/SITE: https://sites.google.com/view/atacxgymcapoeira/home
YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/c/ATACXGYMCAPOEIRA
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/atacxgymcapoeira/,
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/atacxgym,
BLOG: atacxgymcapoeira.blogspot.com
:FACEBOOK GROUP PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/capoeiraselfdefensethatworks/
FACEBOOK PERSONAL ATACX GYM PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/AtacxGymStreetWarriorCapoeira