It is regarded as a variant of Karate Jutsu, or a complete Budo martial art form. Meaning it is structured to emulate traditional forms of Japanese Karate. Rhino Ryus belt system provides levels of achievement, and markers for progress. This allows the maintenance of focus, and upholds the values of honor, discipline, and respect. Martial arts is a study of patience, diligence, and consistency. They are intended to develop a strong and moral character. More closely, Rhino Ryu’s fundamental outlook and strategy towards combat for both sport and real life situations, is that of traditional Okinawa Karate.
Many regard original forms of Okinawan Karate styles as early MMA. It incorporated grappling and striking, with techniques shared from Kung Fu, and from Ju Jutsu. The strking was less stylized and simplified for more direct and powerful efficiency. The grappling also shared many attributes similar to western forms of wrestling. Many of the training methods were very innovative for its time, using early examples of pads and mitts, and sparing gear. It was paired with strength and conditioning practices, using weights similar to kettle bells. Rhino Ryu, maintains the modern refined versions of these practices.
Systematically, like many of the grappling Budo of the era, fighting on the ground was not ideal. As it is today, in real life situations, fighting on the ground is not ideal. Wrestling systems are sports evolved out of hand to hand combat. Where the objective is taking down an opponent, immobilizing them, opening vulnerable areas to end the opponent. In all forms of grappling it is crucial to be the fighter on top, and stay there. Where in Rhino Ryu has a uniqueness to other MMA systems.
The grappling focus is derived from American wrestling systems, like folk style. Our objective for grappling is to maintain top position to deliver damage by way of ground and pound. Creating the opportunity to stay on the feet. If found on bottom the objective is to get off the ground and to the feet, or at minimum reverse the position. While the submission game is limited to chokes, being an indefinite way to incapacitate your opponent. Submission is viewed as a final result or used only when found naturally. The intent behind it is to use energy wisely. Deliver damage continuously with minimal struggle. Where submission attempts can often be low percentage and performed at a slower pace of fighting. In other words, ending a fight via KO is priority.
The striking system is based in Japanese and American Kickboxing, displaying a vast variety of Kicks and Punches. It also encompasses many clinching and elbow techniques found in Muay Thai, also the head movement and footwork of International Boxing. Another uniqueness is the emphasis of fighting from both stances, orthodox and southpaw, attributes from Karate. All strikes and head butting are allowed to all areas of the body. This would also include hammer fists and palm strikes. Any sweeps, trips, throws, or takedowns are also allowed. This gives Rhino Ryu a very complete and intensive curriculum.
Such variety takes a lifetime of mastery. For Rhino Ryu can only evolve with the generations of its disciples and practitioners, whom add and refine skills. There is a minimum of 2000 training hours to black belt. Once achieved one is considered a journeyman martial arts practitioner. There are no degrees following, simply freedom of expression. Does Rhino Ryu sound interesting to you? What are your thoughts around a traditional martial arts system designed for MMA? We are interested to hear your thoughts. Thanks for reading.
