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Jamaican Martial Artists and their Disciplines
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By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer
Jamaica has a rich cultural heritage that includes various forms of combat and self-defence practices. While martial arts may not be as widely practised or as prevalent as in some other countries, there are still a few martial arts styles and disciplines that have a presence in Jamaica. Here are a few examples:
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- Capoeira: Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. It has gained popularity in Jamaica and can be found in some communities, particularly those with Afro-Caribbean roots.
- Karate: Karate has a small but dedicated following in Jamaica. There are several dojos and schools where individuals can learn various styles of karate, including Shotokan, Goju-Ryu, and Shito-Ryu.
- Taekwondo: Taekwondo, a Korean martial art known for its dynamic kicks, is also practised in Jamaica. There are several taekwondo schools and clubs across the country that offer training for both children and adults.
- Judo: Judo, a Japanese martial art that focuses on throws and grappling techniques, also has a presence in Jamaica. There are a few dojos and clubs where individuals can learn and practice judo.
- Boxing: Although not traditionally categorised as a martial art, boxing has a long history and strong following in Jamaica. The country has produced several world-class boxers, and boxing gyms can be found throughout Jamaica.
Here are some Jamaican Martial Artists:
Grandmaster Soke Newton James
One of the earliest karate practitioners in Jamaica, he began his martial arts training in 1968 with Kyokushin karate at the YMCA. He travelled the world for the following few years, representing Jamaica and the Kyokushin martial art. Most notably, he was the captain of the Jamaica full-contact fighting squad in 1975 in Japan at the inaugural World Tournament. Later, in 1976, he received an invitation to teach karate in New York City from Kaicho Tadashi Nakamura, the grandmaster of Seido Karate and a close friend of Mas Oyama.
Sheckema Cunningham
Cunningham, who shares the title of most internationally renowned female martial artist from Jamaica with Subrina Richards, won the ISKA double gold in continuous and points sparring in Greece (May 2017). She completed an undefeated season by taking home two gold medals at the US Open, where she also helped Jamaica's combined female martial arts team defeat Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Argentina to win the Caribbean Gold Cup.
Ebony Drysdale - Daley
She's a British- Jamaican martial artist. She competed for Great Britain and won a silver medal in the junior world in 2014. Since 2019, she has been representing Jamaica. Nicholi, her brother, has also represented Jamaica in judo competitions. She participated in the 2019 World Judo Championships, the 2020 Pan American Senior Championships, and the 2019 Commonwealth Games Judo Championships. She qualified for the 2020 Summer Olympics, making history as her nation's first Olympic contender in the sport. She took part in the women's 70 kg competition.
Randy Brown
Born on July 8, 1990, he is a mixed martial artist who competes in the Ultimate Fighting Championship as a welterweight. He began boxing in 2005 and switched to mixed martial arts at the age of 19. He fought six times as an amateur before going pro in 2014. He began competing professionally in 2014 and formerly represented Ring of Combat, where he won the welterweight Ring of Combat Championship in 2015.
Eddie Gordon
He is a Jamaican mixed martial artist, born July 22, 1983, who most recently competed in the Middleweight division of the Professional Fighters League. He has been a professional since 2011, and after winning The Ultimate Fighter: Team Edgar vs. Team Penn, he has also competed for the UFC.
Jason Jackson
He is a Jamaican mixed martial artist who competes in Bellator MMA's welterweight division. He was born on October 30, 1990. Jackson has participated in Titan FC and the Legacy Fighting Alliance as a professional since 2012. He also made an appearance on The Ultimate Fighter: American Top Team vs. Blackzilians, a reality television program produced by the UFC. He is ranked #10 in the Fight Matrix welterweight rankings as of October 2022. He is ranked third in the Bellator Welterweight Rankings as of October 4, 2022.
Jamaican martial artists embody the indomitable spirit and vibrant culture of their island home. They continue to push boundaries and promote their art on the global stage. Their unwavering determination and commitment to their craft serve as an inspiration for martial artists worldwide. As Jamaican martial arts gain recognition and appreciation, they contribute to the rich tapestry of the global martial arts community.
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References & Sources For Jamaican Martial Artists and their Disciplines
- History – Bas-I Kyokushin Karate Jamaica. (n.d.). History – Bas-I Kyokushin Karate Jamaica. https://basijamaica.com/history/
- Cunningham’s last hurrah - Top female fighter hopes to retire with double gold at home. (2018, August 21). Cunningham’s Last Hurrah - Top Female Fighter Hopes to Retire With Double Gold at Home | Sports | Jamaica Gleaner. https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/sports/20180821/cunninghams-last-hurrah-top-female-fighter-hopes-retire-double-gold-home
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