LISTEN HERE: http://www.kqed.org/programs/radio/forum/
I had a great time at KQED radio today. Much thanks to Keven Guillory and Michael Krasny for their open minds and hearts. The callers were awesome!!! Good callers always rule.
-HHCF
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Adisa Banjoko & Josh Waitzkin on KQED Radio with Michael Krasny on Hip-Hop & Chess
LISTEN HERE: http://www.kqed.org/programs/radio/forum/
I had a great time at KQED radio today. Much thanks to Keven Guillory and Michael Krasny for their open minds and hearts. The callers were awesome!!! Good callers always rule.
-HHCF
Saturday, January 26, 2008
HHCF EXCLUSIVE: Adisa Banjoko interviews Josh Waitzkin on Martial Arts
At six years old, Josh Waitzkin was one of the toughest chess players on earth. His creative and aggressive style made him one of the most feared American chess players ever. His style was a fusion of his years being raised by chess hustlers in New York’s Washington Square Park and his classical guidance under Bruce Pandolfini. His early life was made into the cult classic film Searching For Bobby Fischer.
After leaving chess, he discovered the martial art of Tai Chi Chuan. After training in Tai Chi Chuan, he realized how much marital arts and chess are connected. On his path to becoming a two-time world champion in Tai Chi Chuan, he learned about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He wrote a book about his experience entitled The Art of Learning. It became a best seller and is used by CEO’s and fighters alike who seek a higher level of understanding.
I first met Josh at the second Hip-Hop Chess Federation event with the RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan. I remember how well he and RZA connected like old friends from the second they met. Josh is a living hieroglyph of the idea that chess and martial arts are one.
In this interview Josh Waitzkin talks about his path to learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the relationship between chess and martial arts and his philosophy about the lack of philosophy in BJJ.
OTM: How were you first introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and when did you begin training?
JW: I began training BJJ out in LA with John Machado about 5 years ago. But for the first two years, 90% of my energy was focused on stand up, getting ready for the 2004 Tai Chi Chuan Push Hands Worlds. For the past three years I’ve been focused exclusively on Jiu Jitsu, with John out west, then in New York City at NYBJJ with Marcos Santos. I also worked a lot with Marcelo Garcia while he was in New York, which was incredible.
OTM: You are a two time world champion in Tai Chi Chuan. Many BJJ practitioners write off styles like Tai Chi. Why do you think that is?
JW: I was fortunate enough to be introduced to Tai Chi Chuan by William CC Chen, who is humble, understated, very practical, a true master of body mechanics, and a fabulous teacher. He is well into his seventies and is still a demon in the boxing ring. If grapplers were exposed to William Chen’s Tai Chi, they wouldn’t write it off.
But to answer your question—honestly, a very large percentage of Tai Chi practitioners have their heads in the clouds…and they are the ones who make the most noise, stage the silly fake demonstrations, and create a cultish mindset that a practical fighter can just walk right through. I’d write them off too. Plus the system has little groundwork and most teachers are still closed minded about that element of the martial arts. Frankly, I think this problem is rampant in many traditional martial arts—teachers are terrified of looking bad and losing students so they create a world that denies what they don’t know.
On the other hand, if you travel to Taiwan and China and focus on the top competitors, the Tai Chi scene becomes incredibly dynamic. The rules of International Push Hands comptition are that you are in an 18 foot diameter ring and points are scored for throwing the guy on the floor or out of the ring. No frills. The fighters are superb athletes, training 6 and 8 hours a day since childhood, competing all the time. There is no fancy esoteric language—they just smash you on the floor with a speed and power that is breathtaking. They are open-minded, incredibly subtle, and of a very similar spirit to the top BJJ fighters.
The chess world made me practical, so I always challenged and rejected the elements of the Tai Chi scene that were overly idealized. If someone told me they could throw me without touching me, I asked them to do it. If they said they could kill me with a touch, I said I’d be willing to take the risk. This led to some pretty funny scenes and was an easy way to filter out the nonsense.
OTM: What benefits from Tai Chi do you bring to BJJ and vice versa?
JW: Well, the learning process begins from different places but arrives, ideally, at a similar feeling. In BJJ, you tend to begin with technique, and through repetition you come to a smooth, efficient, unobstructed body mechanics. In Tai Chi, you begin with body mechanics, get a certain internal feeling over months and years of moving meditative practice, and then you learn the martial application of what you’ve been doing all along.
The essence of Tai Chi is sensitivity to intention. Turning force against itself, overcoming power without meeting it head on. Of course these principles are at the heart Jiu Jitsu as well. In my mind, the arts are completely intertwined and to be honest, the purest Tai Chi I’ve ever felt has been getting my ass handed to me, over and over, by John Machado and Marcelo Garcia.
OTM: Your book The Art of Learning talks about your journey from chess to Tai Chi and BJJ. What would you say are the core similarities between chess and martial arts?
JW: People tend to answer that question with clichés. They talk about the need to think ahead, to combine strategy and tactics--those parallels are critical but obvious. To my mind, the interesting connections reside in the learning process. Both chess and the martial arts involve internalizing tremendously complex information into a sense of flow—I call this the study of numbers to leave numbers, or form to leave form. I love the play between the conscious and unconscious minds in the creative moment, and for me chess and the martial arts are both about developing a rich working relationship with your intuition. We are forced to be relentlessly introspective, to take on our weaknesses and build games around our specific nuances of character. If I learned anything from my life of competition in chess and Push Hands, it’s that if you’ve swept anything under the rug in your learning process—if you haven’t taken yourself on truly and deeply—it’ll come out and destroy you when the pressure is on.
In his translation of The Vimalakirti Sutra, Robert Thurman defines wisdom as “tolerance of cognitive dissonance.” That is chess and that is the martial arts. We are learning to cultivate a peace of mind, clarity of expression, and unstoppable growth curve in the most chaotic, wildly complex, and dangerous situations imaginable.
OTM: What rank do you currently hold in BJJ and who do you train under currently?
JW: I train under Marcos Santos in NYC and have been a purple belt for a couple years.
OTM: What is your ultimate goal in BJJ?
JW: I’m just a beginner in this art, but it’s my dream to win Mundials. I have a long way to go, but I’m committed.
OTM: Who are some of your favorite BJJ and MMA fighters today?
JW: Hands down my favorite BJJ fighter is Marcelo Garcia. The dude is amazing. Pure flow. He’s very similar to Tiger Woods in that he doesn’t hesitate to break down his game at the top, when it seems absolutely unnecessary. There’s a certain unstoppable mindset in his approach to learning. I also love how he hones in on one or two techniques and makes them manifest everywhere—this idea, of learning the macro through the micro, is at the core of my approach to everything. Most recently for Marcelo it was the omoplata and crucifix. He was catching his students in those two submissions from every conceivable position, and this was while his X-guard and back game looked unbeatable. Everyone prepped for the back attack and then he blew his weight class out of the water in Abu Dhabi with a brand new game. I can’t wait to see what he comes up with in MMA.
As for MMA fighters, all politics aside, I think Randy Couture’s mental understanding is off the charts, and Anderson Silva is the scariest dude out there.
OTM: What is your training regimen like these days?
JW: I train BJJ six days a week, twice a couple of those days if possible. My book has made things in my life more chaotic than I’d like and when I travel I inevitably miss some days. I’m trying to minimize that as much as possible.
OTM: Do you still practice Tai Chi?
JW: Internally, yes. Chess and Tai Chi are at the core of everything I do.
OTM: In the HHCF Chess Kings Invitational, RZA spoke about how Chessmaster 10 and getting coaching from you gave him a true edge in the tournament. Can you talk about what you taught him that enhanced his playing?
JW: RZA is an incredible man. He has a deep wisdom, and we have very similar approaches to creativity. He’s a very strong chess player, but he didn’t have a solid classical foundation. I suggested that he study the endgame. Instead of memorizing opening traps, I suggested he dive into the principles that govern all chess positions. That’s how I teach through Chessmaster—connecting chess to life—and maybe that approach helped translate his musical genius to the 64 squares. With a guy like RZA, who is a tremendously high level thinker, all you have to do is figure out how to open the floodgates so his understanding of Quality can transfer over. These arts are all the same, really. We just need to break down the walls in our minds.
OTM: What was your favorite memory from the HHCF Kings Invitational?
JW: Dude, the HHCF events have been amazing….I think the panel discussions with you, me, RZA, Rakaa, Qbert, and Kevvy Kev have been very dynamic. Bringing together role models from all these different disciplines to discuss the road to mastery is a brilliant way to inspire kids who might not otherwise be exposed to all the connections.
As for specific moments, two come to mind. Last event, it actually happened behind the scenes. RZA and I were waiting to go up for the panel, and we got into this intense conversation about creativity, going back and forth, discussing these wild connections between chess, hip hop, and the martial arts. We were speaking about improvisation, the role between the technical foundation and the creative leap, about where all these arts collide. I came out of the conversation on fire with new ideas—I wish others could have heard it.
The other moment happened on the street after our event at The Omega Boys Club. A young rapper approached RZA, Monk, and Reverend with a challenging vibe. He started freestyling and then a cipher broke out, with the Wu Tang crew blowing this guy out of the water. It all came to a head when RZA brought the house down with probably the most amazing improvised performance in anything that I’ve even seen. It was flat out awesome. After he was done, and without missing a beat, he said “Josh GO!” It was my turn. I laughed. I know when to keep my mouth shut.
OTM: What are the practical fighting limitations of tai chi?
JW: I think that depends on how literal you're being. If you come from my perspective, in which I rebound away from traditionalism and don't care much for labels, Tai Chi is in everything just as chess and Jiu Jitsu are in everything. The boundaries are very porous. From a slightly less irritatingly abstract perspective, the Tai Chi system, if cultivated in a no nonsense manner, can be quite powerful as a striking and throwing art. Despite what some might say, the ground element of the game is not terribly developed--and that's a big limitation.
OTM: What are the spiritual/internal limitations of brazilian jiu jitsu?
JW: I don't have any reason to believe that there are any.
OTM: Not any? I find this hard to conceive. Looking back into antiquity, the philosophies of Lao Tzu, Buddha, Jigoro Kano and even more recently Bruce Lee, gave each of the respective martial paths a sketch of spiritual structure. These sketches served as a loose road map to one's true self.
When I look at Rickson Gracie for example, the main thing I see that separates him from the rest of the jiu jitsu practitioners in the world is his philosophical approach to fighting. Many of his interviews highlight his respect for the traditional philosophical approaches of the past.
In America at least, there does not seem to be a philosophical methodology to Brazilian jiu jitsu. I have always felt this has created a vacuum of sorts that makes jiu jitsu more of a supremely effective fighting style- but not a martial art.
Do you agree? Also, could the absence of the philosophy in Brazilian jiu jitsu serve as the direct link to the blueprint of the essence of martial arts?
JW: That last point is deep, man. Alright, this is how I feel. I'm a student of philosophy and engage that element of my being in everything I do. As individuals, we have the choice to go down this road or not. I think the vast majority of people, in all disciplines, tend not to. You asked if there were any spiritual/internal limitations to BJJ. My feeling is that BJJ is a beautiful martial art that can take an individual as far as he or she is prepared to go.
I don't think that BJJ imposes any limitations—some practitioners might, but the art itself does not. I've met plenty of meat heads in the Jiu Jitsu world, but I've also known them in chess, tai chi, academia, science, religion…we can screw anything up. And there is no easy answer. If there is too much of a spiritual structure in an art, we may become dogmatic and not take responsibility for our beliefs. If too little, we can fail to even consider the critical questions.
I think there are countless paths to spirituality--meditation, surfing, running, climbing, music, sailing, archery, calligraphy, chess, martial arts, motorcycle maintenance, whatever. The vehicle is just the husk. It is a structure, a form, a channel to be penetrated with an understanding of its relativity. In my opinion, what matters isn't so much what art you pursue but how honestly, creatively and relentlessly you explore it. You brought up Lao Tzu, Buddha, and Bruce Lee. These were all sages who spoke about leaving form behind. Religious followers and devotees later took their ideas and made them much more static than they were ever intended to be. And that brings us to your last point which is very powerful.
OTM: Any last words?
JW: Yeah, one thing. I'm in the process of opening up a nonprofit foundation, designed to help disadvantaged children, teens, and young adults get their footing in the learning process. If anyone reading this works in this field and believes the educational philosophy of my book The Art of Learning can make an impact on their group, please contact me on my website www.joshwaitzkin.com and I'll do my best to help out by donating copies to teachers, families, and students. It's been a pleasure, man.
ORIGINAL LINK:
http://www.onthemat.com/articles/Josh_Waitzkin_Interview_01_25_2008.html
After leaving chess, he discovered the martial art of Tai Chi Chuan. After training in Tai Chi Chuan, he realized how much marital arts and chess are connected. On his path to becoming a two-time world champion in Tai Chi Chuan, he learned about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He wrote a book about his experience entitled The Art of Learning. It became a best seller and is used by CEO’s and fighters alike who seek a higher level of understanding.
I first met Josh at the second Hip-Hop Chess Federation event with the RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan. I remember how well he and RZA connected like old friends from the second they met. Josh is a living hieroglyph of the idea that chess and martial arts are one.
In this interview Josh Waitzkin talks about his path to learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the relationship between chess and martial arts and his philosophy about the lack of philosophy in BJJ.
OTM: How were you first introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and when did you begin training?
JW: I began training BJJ out in LA with John Machado about 5 years ago. But for the first two years, 90% of my energy was focused on stand up, getting ready for the 2004 Tai Chi Chuan Push Hands Worlds. For the past three years I’ve been focused exclusively on Jiu Jitsu, with John out west, then in New York City at NYBJJ with Marcos Santos. I also worked a lot with Marcelo Garcia while he was in New York, which was incredible.
OTM: You are a two time world champion in Tai Chi Chuan. Many BJJ practitioners write off styles like Tai Chi. Why do you think that is?
JW: I was fortunate enough to be introduced to Tai Chi Chuan by William CC Chen, who is humble, understated, very practical, a true master of body mechanics, and a fabulous teacher. He is well into his seventies and is still a demon in the boxing ring. If grapplers were exposed to William Chen’s Tai Chi, they wouldn’t write it off.
But to answer your question—honestly, a very large percentage of Tai Chi practitioners have their heads in the clouds…and they are the ones who make the most noise, stage the silly fake demonstrations, and create a cultish mindset that a practical fighter can just walk right through. I’d write them off too. Plus the system has little groundwork and most teachers are still closed minded about that element of the martial arts. Frankly, I think this problem is rampant in many traditional martial arts—teachers are terrified of looking bad and losing students so they create a world that denies what they don’t know.
On the other hand, if you travel to Taiwan and China and focus on the top competitors, the Tai Chi scene becomes incredibly dynamic. The rules of International Push Hands comptition are that you are in an 18 foot diameter ring and points are scored for throwing the guy on the floor or out of the ring. No frills. The fighters are superb athletes, training 6 and 8 hours a day since childhood, competing all the time. There is no fancy esoteric language—they just smash you on the floor with a speed and power that is breathtaking. They are open-minded, incredibly subtle, and of a very similar spirit to the top BJJ fighters.
The chess world made me practical, so I always challenged and rejected the elements of the Tai Chi scene that were overly idealized. If someone told me they could throw me without touching me, I asked them to do it. If they said they could kill me with a touch, I said I’d be willing to take the risk. This led to some pretty funny scenes and was an easy way to filter out the nonsense.
OTM: What benefits from Tai Chi do you bring to BJJ and vice versa?
JW: Well, the learning process begins from different places but arrives, ideally, at a similar feeling. In BJJ, you tend to begin with technique, and through repetition you come to a smooth, efficient, unobstructed body mechanics. In Tai Chi, you begin with body mechanics, get a certain internal feeling over months and years of moving meditative practice, and then you learn the martial application of what you’ve been doing all along.
The essence of Tai Chi is sensitivity to intention. Turning force against itself, overcoming power without meeting it head on. Of course these principles are at the heart Jiu Jitsu as well. In my mind, the arts are completely intertwined and to be honest, the purest Tai Chi I’ve ever felt has been getting my ass handed to me, over and over, by John Machado and Marcelo Garcia.
OTM: Your book The Art of Learning talks about your journey from chess to Tai Chi and BJJ. What would you say are the core similarities between chess and martial arts?
JW: People tend to answer that question with clichés. They talk about the need to think ahead, to combine strategy and tactics--those parallels are critical but obvious. To my mind, the interesting connections reside in the learning process. Both chess and the martial arts involve internalizing tremendously complex information into a sense of flow—I call this the study of numbers to leave numbers, or form to leave form. I love the play between the conscious and unconscious minds in the creative moment, and for me chess and the martial arts are both about developing a rich working relationship with your intuition. We are forced to be relentlessly introspective, to take on our weaknesses and build games around our specific nuances of character. If I learned anything from my life of competition in chess and Push Hands, it’s that if you’ve swept anything under the rug in your learning process—if you haven’t taken yourself on truly and deeply—it’ll come out and destroy you when the pressure is on.
In his translation of The Vimalakirti Sutra, Robert Thurman defines wisdom as “tolerance of cognitive dissonance.” That is chess and that is the martial arts. We are learning to cultivate a peace of mind, clarity of expression, and unstoppable growth curve in the most chaotic, wildly complex, and dangerous situations imaginable.
OTM: What rank do you currently hold in BJJ and who do you train under currently?
JW: I train under Marcos Santos in NYC and have been a purple belt for a couple years.
OTM: What is your ultimate goal in BJJ?
JW: I’m just a beginner in this art, but it’s my dream to win Mundials. I have a long way to go, but I’m committed.
OTM: Who are some of your favorite BJJ and MMA fighters today?
JW: Hands down my favorite BJJ fighter is Marcelo Garcia. The dude is amazing. Pure flow. He’s very similar to Tiger Woods in that he doesn’t hesitate to break down his game at the top, when it seems absolutely unnecessary. There’s a certain unstoppable mindset in his approach to learning. I also love how he hones in on one or two techniques and makes them manifest everywhere—this idea, of learning the macro through the micro, is at the core of my approach to everything. Most recently for Marcelo it was the omoplata and crucifix. He was catching his students in those two submissions from every conceivable position, and this was while his X-guard and back game looked unbeatable. Everyone prepped for the back attack and then he blew his weight class out of the water in Abu Dhabi with a brand new game. I can’t wait to see what he comes up with in MMA.
As for MMA fighters, all politics aside, I think Randy Couture’s mental understanding is off the charts, and Anderson Silva is the scariest dude out there.
OTM: What is your training regimen like these days?
JW: I train BJJ six days a week, twice a couple of those days if possible. My book has made things in my life more chaotic than I’d like and when I travel I inevitably miss some days. I’m trying to minimize that as much as possible.
OTM: Do you still practice Tai Chi?
JW: Internally, yes. Chess and Tai Chi are at the core of everything I do.
OTM: In the HHCF Chess Kings Invitational, RZA spoke about how Chessmaster 10 and getting coaching from you gave him a true edge in the tournament. Can you talk about what you taught him that enhanced his playing?
JW: RZA is an incredible man. He has a deep wisdom, and we have very similar approaches to creativity. He’s a very strong chess player, but he didn’t have a solid classical foundation. I suggested that he study the endgame. Instead of memorizing opening traps, I suggested he dive into the principles that govern all chess positions. That’s how I teach through Chessmaster—connecting chess to life—and maybe that approach helped translate his musical genius to the 64 squares. With a guy like RZA, who is a tremendously high level thinker, all you have to do is figure out how to open the floodgates so his understanding of Quality can transfer over. These arts are all the same, really. We just need to break down the walls in our minds.
OTM: What was your favorite memory from the HHCF Kings Invitational?
JW: Dude, the HHCF events have been amazing….I think the panel discussions with you, me, RZA, Rakaa, Qbert, and Kevvy Kev have been very dynamic. Bringing together role models from all these different disciplines to discuss the road to mastery is a brilliant way to inspire kids who might not otherwise be exposed to all the connections.
As for specific moments, two come to mind. Last event, it actually happened behind the scenes. RZA and I were waiting to go up for the panel, and we got into this intense conversation about creativity, going back and forth, discussing these wild connections between chess, hip hop, and the martial arts. We were speaking about improvisation, the role between the technical foundation and the creative leap, about where all these arts collide. I came out of the conversation on fire with new ideas—I wish others could have heard it.
The other moment happened on the street after our event at The Omega Boys Club. A young rapper approached RZA, Monk, and Reverend with a challenging vibe. He started freestyling and then a cipher broke out, with the Wu Tang crew blowing this guy out of the water. It all came to a head when RZA brought the house down with probably the most amazing improvised performance in anything that I’ve even seen. It was flat out awesome. After he was done, and without missing a beat, he said “Josh GO!” It was my turn. I laughed. I know when to keep my mouth shut.
OTM: What are the practical fighting limitations of tai chi?
JW: I think that depends on how literal you're being. If you come from my perspective, in which I rebound away from traditionalism and don't care much for labels, Tai Chi is in everything just as chess and Jiu Jitsu are in everything. The boundaries are very porous. From a slightly less irritatingly abstract perspective, the Tai Chi system, if cultivated in a no nonsense manner, can be quite powerful as a striking and throwing art. Despite what some might say, the ground element of the game is not terribly developed--and that's a big limitation.
OTM: What are the spiritual/internal limitations of brazilian jiu jitsu?
JW: I don't have any reason to believe that there are any.
OTM: Not any? I find this hard to conceive. Looking back into antiquity, the philosophies of Lao Tzu, Buddha, Jigoro Kano and even more recently Bruce Lee, gave each of the respective martial paths a sketch of spiritual structure. These sketches served as a loose road map to one's true self.
When I look at Rickson Gracie for example, the main thing I see that separates him from the rest of the jiu jitsu practitioners in the world is his philosophical approach to fighting. Many of his interviews highlight his respect for the traditional philosophical approaches of the past.
In America at least, there does not seem to be a philosophical methodology to Brazilian jiu jitsu. I have always felt this has created a vacuum of sorts that makes jiu jitsu more of a supremely effective fighting style- but not a martial art.
Do you agree? Also, could the absence of the philosophy in Brazilian jiu jitsu serve as the direct link to the blueprint of the essence of martial arts?
JW: That last point is deep, man. Alright, this is how I feel. I'm a student of philosophy and engage that element of my being in everything I do. As individuals, we have the choice to go down this road or not. I think the vast majority of people, in all disciplines, tend not to. You asked if there were any spiritual/internal limitations to BJJ. My feeling is that BJJ is a beautiful martial art that can take an individual as far as he or she is prepared to go.
I don't think that BJJ imposes any limitations—some practitioners might, but the art itself does not. I've met plenty of meat heads in the Jiu Jitsu world, but I've also known them in chess, tai chi, academia, science, religion…we can screw anything up. And there is no easy answer. If there is too much of a spiritual structure in an art, we may become dogmatic and not take responsibility for our beliefs. If too little, we can fail to even consider the critical questions.
I think there are countless paths to spirituality--meditation, surfing, running, climbing, music, sailing, archery, calligraphy, chess, martial arts, motorcycle maintenance, whatever. The vehicle is just the husk. It is a structure, a form, a channel to be penetrated with an understanding of its relativity. In my opinion, what matters isn't so much what art you pursue but how honestly, creatively and relentlessly you explore it. You brought up Lao Tzu, Buddha, and Bruce Lee. These were all sages who spoke about leaving form behind. Religious followers and devotees later took their ideas and made them much more static than they were ever intended to be. And that brings us to your last point which is very powerful.
OTM: Any last words?
JW: Yeah, one thing. I'm in the process of opening up a nonprofit foundation, designed to help disadvantaged children, teens, and young adults get their footing in the learning process. If anyone reading this works in this field and believes the educational philosophy of my book The Art of Learning can make an impact on their group, please contact me on my website www.joshwaitzkin.com and I'll do my best to help out by donating copies to teachers, families, and students. It's been a pleasure, man.
ORIGINAL LINK:
http://www.onthemat.com/articles/Josh_Waitzkin_Interview_01_25_2008.html
Thursday, January 24, 2008
HHCF EXCLUSIVE: Wu-Tang Clan's GZA On Tour in Orlando
We caught up with GZA today before the Wu-Tang Clan destroyed the stage in Orlando, Florida. In this interview, we talk about why everybody loves a Wu-Tang show, how O.D.B. used to be a wicked beatboxer and if GZA thinks he can beat 50 and Souljah Boy on the 64 Squares.
HHCF: OK, so- y’all are in Florida right now? What’s goin’ on?
GZA: Nothin’ much right now. The weather is nice. But its not t-shirt weather. But it beats some of the weather we just came from [laughs].
HHCF: How is the tour coming along?
GZA: It’s going good. Great response- as always. A couple of chess matches in between.
HHCF: You playin’ other cats in the Clan, or fans- who?
GZA: I been playin True Master, one of the engineers and one of the other brothers that’s been on the road with us.
HHCF: How good is True Master. Is anybody especially dominant?
GZA: I’ve been pretty dominant. But True Master has a good game when he’s concentrating.
HHCF: I think you and Public Enemy share the title as the Rolling Stones of rap. Everybody gets excited whenever you guys tour. What is the essence of passion that people have to see the Wu perform?
GZA: First of all, there is so much energy. When we we’re on stage, its like another world. We can be in a heated argument on the bus. But when we get to the show and walk on stage- you’ll never know. We love what we do.
Also, this is its rawest form. RZA once said it a long time ago “100% natural, No preservative, no additives”. People just love Wu.
We are like grandparents, that are outliving their grandchildren. Because we not only have our first fans- we have their children. That’s RARE in Hip-Hop.
HHCF: That’s true. What are some of the first shows that you remember attending as a fan? Not as a performer.
GZA: I can’t even remember. Maybe Harlem World. I been there once or twice. I don’t remember who was playin’. I don’t remember if it was Kool Moe Dee, or Busy Bee. There were quite a few artists performing that night.
We did not go to too many rap shows. We were at too many talent shows trying to get put on, to tell you the truth. It was more like block parties for us. Almost since the beginning of Hip-Hop. We had a chance to see people perform way before there were concerts.
We used to go to the South Bronx from Staten Island back in 1977-76. We would go to block parties- and get a lot of stuff for free [laughs]. Jams is what they called them back then.
HHCF: Outside of MC’ing, did you ever do any of the other elements of Hip-Hop?
GZA: Mostly MC’ing. I definitely used to break, around the time I started MCing. I was pretty good to. But that was before they stated spinning on heads and windmills.
HHCF: You was more of an uprock kinda dude?
GZA: Yes. I did sweeps and a little bit of floor stuff. But not once it actually became breakdancing. The windmills and spins and things of that nature. But I did that at an early age.
I wrote on walls and the halls. But it was nothing that stood out. I was just puttin’ my name up.
DJ’ing? I tried that. But I never had equipment at my house. Dirty and RZA were actually good at scratching and cutting. They were both human beatboxers also. I never did that. Dirty I must say he was one of the best.
HHCF: As a beatboxer or a DJ?
GZA: He was good as a DJ, and RZA was good as a DJ. But Dirty was one of the best human beatboxers. He was really good. This was in the 80’s. We called him the human beatbox specialist.
We had a crew called the All In Together Now Crew. It was myself, Dirty and RZA. Dirty was “The Professor”, RZA was “The Scientist” and I was “The Genius”. I didn’t want the title “Genius”. I really didn’t. It was too much to expect with that name. I wanted Professor. ‘Cause there were more words that rhymed with that word at the time.
We were MC’s, Dirty and RZA would beatbox and DJ- we just combined that all together.
HHCF: Tell me about your experience at the Chess Kings Invitational. What did you expect and what did you see?
GZA: I didn’t know what to expect. I mean, I expected people, and tables, chessboards and press. And it was all there. But I did not expect THAT any children involved. I mean, I knew it was for a good cause. I knew children would be involved- but it was a great event.
I enjoyed being there. I hope to be there over and over again and hopefully win. I also did not think that it would be that easy for us (GZA, RZA and Monk). They were quite easy. The only game I lost was to RZA- a stupid blunder! It was something that was just ridiculous.
HHCF: In late 2008 we gonna do it again for a new belt. You coming out or what?
GZA: Yes!
HHCF: When is it?
GZA: The Honor the Queens has just been moved to May. There will be lots of MMA fighters and a lot of the top ladies in chess and Hip-Hop there. After that, we’ll have the next battle for the belt in August 2008.
HHCF: What chess books and videos do you get into to help prepare you?
GZA: I had tapes a long time ago. I don’t remember their names. When I was at the Chess Kings Invitational, I bought a lot of books from Eric Schiller.
HHCF: I remember seeing you guys talking after the event.
GZA: I have not had a chance to read them because I’m touring. I’m on the road trying to write, so I got the at home for when I get off tour. I have about 15 chess books though. The book I have picked up the most is The Game of Chess by Tarasch- it’s a green book. I also have 101 Chess Combinations….I don’t know who wrote that. I’ve had The 200 Best Games by Kasparov. That’s a good book right there. The first game starts when he was ten years old. It’s a strong game.
There’s probably some really good chess players reading this and they’ll be like “Man, them books is whatever”. But they’re good for me though.
HHCF: What did you think of the passing of Bobby Fischer?
GZA: Its sad.[long pause] He’s done a lot for chess. I mean, he pretty much revolutionized the game- for his time.
HHCF: I can’t think of another American with such an impact. It was so immense.
GZA: I can’t either. He was one of the best. If not, the best.
HHCF: I saw a lot of chatter back and forth between you and 50 and you and Souljah Boy. Who do you think would win in a chess match if you played those two?
GZA: Well, of course I’m going to say myself. I don’t know if Souljah plays. I’ pretty sure 50 plays. He may be familiar with chess. Of course I’m gonna say myself. As far as dealing with the situation…If I compare it to chess…His method of playing chess, is as old as human thought. It needs some improvement.
HHCF: So the tour is about to end. What do you do at the end of a long tour?
GZA: Rest for a few days. Then it’s back to business. Then I’m back on the road.
HHCF: Will you ever do a sequel to Grandmasters?
GZA: Yes, definitely. I don’t know if we’ll call it a sequel. But, I’m gonna do another album with Muggs.
HHCF: I look forward to seeing you in 2008 when you come out to get that belt again. Do you have any last words?
GZA: Wu-Tang is Forever. 8 Diagrams.
© 2008 Hip-Hop Chess Federation
HHCF: OK, so- y’all are in Florida right now? What’s goin’ on?
GZA: Nothin’ much right now. The weather is nice. But its not t-shirt weather. But it beats some of the weather we just came from [laughs].
HHCF: How is the tour coming along?
GZA: It’s going good. Great response- as always. A couple of chess matches in between.
HHCF: You playin’ other cats in the Clan, or fans- who?
GZA: I been playin True Master, one of the engineers and one of the other brothers that’s been on the road with us.
HHCF: How good is True Master. Is anybody especially dominant?
GZA: I’ve been pretty dominant. But True Master has a good game when he’s concentrating.
HHCF: I think you and Public Enemy share the title as the Rolling Stones of rap. Everybody gets excited whenever you guys tour. What is the essence of passion that people have to see the Wu perform?
GZA: First of all, there is so much energy. When we we’re on stage, its like another world. We can be in a heated argument on the bus. But when we get to the show and walk on stage- you’ll never know. We love what we do.
Also, this is its rawest form. RZA once said it a long time ago “100% natural, No preservative, no additives”. People just love Wu.
We are like grandparents, that are outliving their grandchildren. Because we not only have our first fans- we have their children. That’s RARE in Hip-Hop.
HHCF: That’s true. What are some of the first shows that you remember attending as a fan? Not as a performer.
GZA: I can’t even remember. Maybe Harlem World. I been there once or twice. I don’t remember who was playin’. I don’t remember if it was Kool Moe Dee, or Busy Bee. There were quite a few artists performing that night.
We did not go to too many rap shows. We were at too many talent shows trying to get put on, to tell you the truth. It was more like block parties for us. Almost since the beginning of Hip-Hop. We had a chance to see people perform way before there were concerts.
We used to go to the South Bronx from Staten Island back in 1977-76. We would go to block parties- and get a lot of stuff for free [laughs]. Jams is what they called them back then.
HHCF: Outside of MC’ing, did you ever do any of the other elements of Hip-Hop?
GZA: Mostly MC’ing. I definitely used to break, around the time I started MCing. I was pretty good to. But that was before they stated spinning on heads and windmills.
HHCF: You was more of an uprock kinda dude?
GZA: Yes. I did sweeps and a little bit of floor stuff. But not once it actually became breakdancing. The windmills and spins and things of that nature. But I did that at an early age.
I wrote on walls and the halls. But it was nothing that stood out. I was just puttin’ my name up.
DJ’ing? I tried that. But I never had equipment at my house. Dirty and RZA were actually good at scratching and cutting. They were both human beatboxers also. I never did that. Dirty I must say he was one of the best.
HHCF: As a beatboxer or a DJ?
GZA: He was good as a DJ, and RZA was good as a DJ. But Dirty was one of the best human beatboxers. He was really good. This was in the 80’s. We called him the human beatbox specialist.
We had a crew called the All In Together Now Crew. It was myself, Dirty and RZA. Dirty was “The Professor”, RZA was “The Scientist” and I was “The Genius”. I didn’t want the title “Genius”. I really didn’t. It was too much to expect with that name. I wanted Professor. ‘Cause there were more words that rhymed with that word at the time.
We were MC’s, Dirty and RZA would beatbox and DJ- we just combined that all together.
HHCF: Tell me about your experience at the Chess Kings Invitational. What did you expect and what did you see?
GZA: I didn’t know what to expect. I mean, I expected people, and tables, chessboards and press. And it was all there. But I did not expect THAT any children involved. I mean, I knew it was for a good cause. I knew children would be involved- but it was a great event.
I enjoyed being there. I hope to be there over and over again and hopefully win. I also did not think that it would be that easy for us (GZA, RZA and Monk). They were quite easy. The only game I lost was to RZA- a stupid blunder! It was something that was just ridiculous.
HHCF: In late 2008 we gonna do it again for a new belt. You coming out or what?
GZA: Yes!
HHCF: When is it?
GZA: The Honor the Queens has just been moved to May. There will be lots of MMA fighters and a lot of the top ladies in chess and Hip-Hop there. After that, we’ll have the next battle for the belt in August 2008.
HHCF: What chess books and videos do you get into to help prepare you?
GZA: I had tapes a long time ago. I don’t remember their names. When I was at the Chess Kings Invitational, I bought a lot of books from Eric Schiller.
HHCF: I remember seeing you guys talking after the event.
GZA: I have not had a chance to read them because I’m touring. I’m on the road trying to write, so I got the at home for when I get off tour. I have about 15 chess books though. The book I have picked up the most is The Game of Chess by Tarasch- it’s a green book. I also have 101 Chess Combinations….I don’t know who wrote that. I’ve had The 200 Best Games by Kasparov. That’s a good book right there. The first game starts when he was ten years old. It’s a strong game.
There’s probably some really good chess players reading this and they’ll be like “Man, them books is whatever”. But they’re good for me though.
HHCF: What did you think of the passing of Bobby Fischer?
GZA: Its sad.[long pause] He’s done a lot for chess. I mean, he pretty much revolutionized the game- for his time.
HHCF: I can’t think of another American with such an impact. It was so immense.
GZA: I can’t either. He was one of the best. If not, the best.
HHCF: I saw a lot of chatter back and forth between you and 50 and you and Souljah Boy. Who do you think would win in a chess match if you played those two?
GZA: Well, of course I’m going to say myself. I don’t know if Souljah plays. I’ pretty sure 50 plays. He may be familiar with chess. Of course I’m gonna say myself. As far as dealing with the situation…If I compare it to chess…His method of playing chess, is as old as human thought. It needs some improvement.
HHCF: So the tour is about to end. What do you do at the end of a long tour?
GZA: Rest for a few days. Then it’s back to business. Then I’m back on the road.
HHCF: Will you ever do a sequel to Grandmasters?
GZA: Yes, definitely. I don’t know if we’ll call it a sequel. But, I’m gonna do another album with Muggs.
HHCF: I look forward to seeing you in 2008 when you come out to get that belt again. Do you have any last words?
GZA: Wu-Tang is Forever. 8 Diagrams.
© 2008 Hip-Hop Chess Federation
Monday, January 21, 2008
FREE DOWNLOAD: Okwerdz Rush Hour 3 Mixtape
What happens when one of the hottest battle MCs gets possessed by his fascination with Jackie Chan? You get The Rush Hour Mixtape. Based out of the dusty, hot, crime-ridden streets of Stockton California, lives a rapper by the name of Okwerdz. He is a pioneer within the West Coast battle scene. Okwerdz has ripped ciphers and stages from New York to Los Angeles to Australia .
Kung-Fu films have had a huge impact on every element of Hip-Hop. Some say it's the competitive spirit that the films showcase. Others say it's the Eastern Philosophy embedded into the films that have the greatest impact. But most believe that watching someone deliver a well-planned butt-kicking soothes the soul.
For Okwerdz, the release of Rush Hour 3 had to meet with a new mixtape. AllHipHop.com sat down with the mastermind behind The Rush Hour Mixtape, his love for Jackie Chan and why he likes Jackie over Bruce or Jet Li.
AllHipHop.com : For those who don't know tell them who Okwerdz is.
Okwerdz: I always hate this question. [Laughs] Long story short, [I’m a] former MC battle-champion from Stockton California, been doin’ my thing for about eight years. Worked with cats like E-40, Kool G Rap, Mistah F.A.B., DJ Green Lantern, Tech N9ne, Rahzel, Capadonna, Casual, Sean Price.
AllHipHop.com: What was the first martial arts movie you ever saw?
Okwerdz: To be honest I really couldn't even tell you. I grew up watchin' all the obvious stuff that came from America...All your Steven Segal, Chuck Norris, Enter The Dragon type stuff. I got interested in more, and I started watching the Hong Kong films with my uncle Randy when I was little. He thought Chuck Norris could beat up Bruce Lee.
AllHipHop.com: What was the first Jackie Chan film you ever watched?
Okwerdz: I believe it was Police Story when I was real little. But what really sparked my interested was when I first saw Rumble in the Bronx. I was completely blown the f**k away. Then my mother took me to Chinatown in San Francisco for my birthday one year. I just bought every Jackie Chan movie I could find. I kept ordering them all through like sixth and eithh grade till I had ‘em all.
AllHipHop.com: How many Jackie Chan films have you seen?
Okwerdz: I own something like 50 or 70 Jackie Chan movies- dubbed, subtitled, VHS, DVD, VCD, etc.
AllHipHop.com: Why do you think you like Jackie more than Bruce or Jet Li?
Okwerdz: I mean they are all extremely talented. But from a film standpoint, Jackie Chan is just a lot more fun/interesting/creative to watch. In my opinion, he's one of the best fight choreographers in the world. Bruce Lee movies are a bit far-fetched for me, that one man can beat up so many people without gettin' even touched. He still has time to sit there and make crazy noises after each move. There still fun to watch though; Return of the Dragon is amazing. As far as Jet Li goes, I don't like too many special effects and wires and flying around and whatnot, Jackie's films are more real.
AllHipHop.com: What gave you the idea for the mixtape?
Okwerdz: As in most Hip-Hop records these days, we've had some delays in getting out my next mixtape The Off-Season. So I kinda juts needed somethin' to keep me busy, and I'd always wanted to do somethin’ Jackie Chan-oriented. I'm such a big fan I just never knew what, then it hit me. After that, I just tried to think of a producer down to get his hands dirty to make some low quality kung fu s**t. My homie The Wrist just popped in my head and we went from there.
AllHipHop.com: How hard was it to put this together lyrically?
Okwerdz: Lyrically, it’s the easiest project I've ever written. I've spent like no more than 5 or 7 minutes on each verse. All the Jackie Chan references just leaked out of me, combined with a whole lot of swagger. I just breezed through the whole thing. For those that are familiar with my work its a bit more unorthodox as far as rhyme patterns and what not go I just kinda let personality take over on this one and had fun with it.
AllHipHop.com: If you knew Jackie would hear this mixtape, what would you want him to feel from it?
Okwerdz: Well I dunno if he's into Hip-Hop at all or anything. But I'd hope he'd be able to appreciate it for what it is, and not get mad that we sampled all his s**t to make a record. 'Cause he's the last cat I want pissed off at me, believe me. It'd be nice if he felt it and I could write a song for one of his next movies…eh?
AllHipHop.com: What’s up with the next LP?
Okwerdz: I'm slowly working on it, thus far I have like 12 beats for it from Domingo, Bosko, M-Phazes, and E-40 and Kool G Rap were kind enough to bless me with some ridiculous verses. Also, I just finished the new mixtape coming out before the album entitled The Off-Season...20 tracks or so all on original beats; the s**t is ridiculous and by far the best music I've ever made thus far in my life.
AllHipJop.com: There are so many Jackie Chan fans out there...The potential for this is just amazing. What are your thoughts?
Okwerdz: Honestly, when I first started writing it I didn’t think much of it I was just passin' time with a passion project. But a lot of people are taking it a lot more seriously than I planned. I'm not quite sure what's gonna happen with it from here but I'm definitely excited about it.
AllHipHop.com: I know you’re a really big Jackie Chan fan. But which movies aren’t you feeling? Tell the truth, ‘cause Shanghai Knights sucked.
Okwerdz: This is a great question. I actually don't care too much for the American films Jackie has been in, and none of it is his fault. He's been great in them all. What I don't like is how American films shoot their fight scenes...The camera angles are always bad and they just need to take some advice from Hong Kong films. On top of that, they won't let Jackie do crazy stunts due to big budget insurance crap. So they use a lot of wire and blue screen s**t which kinda takes the fun out of a Jackie Chan movie...But hey, he's gettin paid and I'm glad he's gettin' a lot of exposure in America, so I'll continue to support.
AllHipHop.com: Any last words?
Okwerdz: Yeah, if you can’t relate to this record- don't judge me on it. Make sure you go pick up a more serious CD of mine to get the full feel for what I do. I just wanna make sure that its really known to the public that this record is jus me havin' fun and messin' around. I do things on all sides of the spectrum so check me out.
FREE DOWNLOAD HERE: (kids get your parents permission!!!!)
http://www.myspace.com/okwerdz
Adisa Banjoko is cofounder of the Hip-Hop Chess Federation.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Dr. King always saw a beauty in us, that we have yet to acknowledge
The beauty of our humanity...
-HHCF
Friday, January 18, 2008
Bobby Fischer dies at 64...
This is the Fischer we knew and loved...
The icon is gone. Bobby Fischer is dead. He is the reason most Americans take pride in chess. He's the reason so many have aspired to be great on these boards. Just saying his name made you want to play better.
However, at the hight of his game, he just dissapeared. He became a recluse and said many things that were negative about America and about the Jewish people.
People say that sometimes, chess can become an obsession that makes a person lose their mind. It appears that Bobby Fischer may have been one of those people.
I was always in hope of him snapping out of it. I envisioned him one day just walking into Washington Square Park and putting the smackdown on any takers. I thought he'd hop up and challenge Kasparov or invite Josh Waitzkin to a game (he was always searching).
But this? For me, this is a tragic death. Not just because of of who he was, but how he died- alone and apparently confused. Some would argue that he died without excercising his full potential (despite all the amazing things he did). Others might say he had done what he came to do. Its all so odd.
I also think its ironic that he lived one year for each square on the board. I wonder if he wanted it that way?
I don't know which Bobby Fischer the world will remember. The clean cut champion or the the buckwild, hateful, lunatic. I will try to remember the best he gave to the boards. I think when someone dies, you should hold onto the best, and let God handle the rest.
I just hope he is able to find the peace through death, that he never found on the chessboard of life.
-Adisa Banjoko, CEO HHCF
The icon is gone. Bobby Fischer is dead. He is the reason most Americans take pride in chess. He's the reason so many have aspired to be great on these boards. Just saying his name made you want to play better.
However, at the hight of his game, he just dissapeared. He became a recluse and said many things that were negative about America and about the Jewish people.
People say that sometimes, chess can become an obsession that makes a person lose their mind. It appears that Bobby Fischer may have been one of those people.
I was always in hope of him snapping out of it. I envisioned him one day just walking into Washington Square Park and putting the smackdown on any takers. I thought he'd hop up and challenge Kasparov or invite Josh Waitzkin to a game (he was always searching).
But this? For me, this is a tragic death. Not just because of of who he was, but how he died- alone and apparently confused. Some would argue that he died without excercising his full potential (despite all the amazing things he did). Others might say he had done what he came to do. Its all so odd.
I also think its ironic that he lived one year for each square on the board. I wonder if he wanted it that way?
I don't know which Bobby Fischer the world will remember. The clean cut champion or the the buckwild, hateful, lunatic. I will try to remember the best he gave to the boards. I think when someone dies, you should hold onto the best, and let God handle the rest.
I just hope he is able to find the peace through death, that he never found on the chessboard of life.
-Adisa Banjoko, CEO HHCF
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
HHCF EXCLUSIVE: World Champion Grappler Denny "300" Prokopos
Denny "300" Prokopos is one of the newest rising stars in the grappling world. When I first met him (at the age about about 14) Denny Prokopos was that kid on the mat with a ton of skill and a heart that would not quit. Today, Denny Prokopos represents America's new breed of grappling elite. Recently, he won the No Gi Mundials in Los Angeles. It features the best of breed grapplers from around the globe.
Before he had this title, I interivewed him in Lyrical Swords Vol. 2: Westside Rebellion. I have no doubt, that he has a magnificent destiny in the grappling and MMA arenas.
Denny Prokopos in his final match at the no gi Mundials!
HHCF: When did you begin training jiu jitsu and how old were you?
DP: I began training in jiu-jitsu on February 12, 2001. I was twelve years old. I remember when I was about eleven years old I was at suncoast videos looking for pro wrestling movies and I came across UFC's 3 and 4 and my mom bought me the videos. I watched those videos almost everyday. I loved watching Royce Gracie submit everyone using Jiu-Jitsu. Then I asked my parents to let me do jiu-jitsu and they said no. I continued to beg them everyday and knew that sooner or later they would give in. I ended up being right, I made them tap out from all my nagging.
HHCF: At a certain point, you began to focus more on no-gi, why is that?
DP: Well for some reason no-gi always had more appeal to me. I also began to take private lessons with Eddie Bravo when I was fifteen and he began to open my eyes and show me the truth about jiu-jitsu. But what really did it was when my former trainer tried to beat me up. I decided to take the no gi path because at the time no gi didn't have the politics that the gi jiu-jitsu did.
HHCF: How did you prepare mentally for this event?
DP: I have always believed that I had what it took to win a world title or to be the best, regardless of what some negative people have told me throughout my years of training. When I was 15 I lost to Kron Gracie, and after that loss I went back and analyzed my performance and figured out that he didn't beat me because he was a better grappler but because he was better prepared mentally. Ever since then I have been on a path to master my mind and my emotions. But as far as mental training for this event, I made sure that I rolled hard at least 10 minutes a day with Jake Shields, that always keeps my ego in check. I visualized my hand getting raised. I also did "shadow grappling" about ten to fifteen minutes a day. And dialoged on a daily basis with all the people I look up to, in order to keep me in check. I also watched grappling footage and tried to stay as positive as I could.
Jiu Jitsu champions Paul Schreiner (L) and Denny Prokopos (R) hit the boards at the first Hip-Hop, Chess & Life Strategies event in San Jose.
HHCF: How did you train physically?
DP: I trained six days a week anywhere between four to six hours a day. The training session include rolling, drilling, and conditioning. I went to 10Th Planet for about four days and trained there with Eddie Bravo when I was six weeks out and went back to 10Th Planet to train for two days again when I was four weeks out. Most of my preparation was done at fairtex with Jake Shields and our crew. But I controlled my whole training routine. I also taught about two private lessons a day, which is a form of training. What was also pretty cool is that this was the first time I didn't have to cut weight because when im in shape I walk around at about 155-157lbs. and the weight limit was at 162lbs. I weighted in with all my gear 158lbs.
HHCF: I know you have battled through knee injuries to get to where you are today. How did you keep faith through your rehab that you could still win at the top levels?
DP: In my almost seven years of training I have had about seven serious injuries or possible career threatening injuries whatever you want to call them. Throughout the years I have just learned to deal with them. I really believe in myself and I refuse to put limits to what is possible. I remember when I had my second serious knee injury and my doctor told me that I might never be the same or be able to compete at the level I was once at. I turned around and told him watch im going to win a world title one day and no one is going stop me. But about a year and a half ago I meet Dr Peter Goldman who is also Bj Penn's and Eddie Bravo's and the who's who of the fight game doctor and he has kept me healthy. That man is a magician. He's the best I would refer that man to anyone he heals people with all kinds of injuries and diseases.
HHCF: What is your most memorable moment of that day?
DP: There were a lot but there are a couple that really stick out. Eddie Bravo was supposed to corner me originally but he had a seminar booked in Toronto. He had booked it a while in advance to leave at like 10 pm so he could still do the seminar and still be able to corner me, but there ended up being a snow storm and he had to leave at 3, which are what time, my divisions started at. So Joe Rogan corned me instead. I remember getting my named call over the microphone and I went and I got Joe to walk over with me to weigh in right before the match. I remember saying to him "Dude, remember when I got my brown and you told me that I could be the best in the world and that I could be as good as Marcelo Garcia, I never forgot that". He was like "Yeah, you can. Today is your first big step toward that. You're going to win the world title today."
HHCF: Do you have any MMA aspirations?
DP: I do I'm supposed to fight this year. But im taking my time with it. I think that there are way too many people fighting too soon in MMA. MMA is no joke and when I fight I really want to be ready. Plus im still 19 there is a really good chance that if I put in the same amount of effort into my striking that I did to my Jiu-jitsu I'll dominate. But im really enjoying Jiu-Jitsu right now. I love training, teaching, and competing it's my passion. People always ask me what I do for fun. And im like dude I do Jiu-jitsu for fun. I mean think about it Jiu-Jitsu is like a real video game you get to choke people out for fun haha. And then you have to master different levels of offense and defense. It's so cool because you always learn and evolve as long as you keep an open mind.
HHCF: Any last words?
DP: Of course I've always got something to say haha. I'm really happy that Jiu-jitsu is blowing up right now. I believe that right now the second explosion is happening since Royce Gracie came out in the old school UFC days. I would like to thank god, my family, my grandmaster Eddie Bravo (his new book Mastering The Twister and Mastering the Rubber Guard dvds are out), Joe Rogan (the best comedian in the world), Jake Sheilds(most under rated welterweight in mma), Gilbert Melendez(the toughest guy I know),Dr Peter Goldman(goldmanhealing.com),Darren Uyenoyama(he's going to be the next big thing in mma), and to all the other people that have ever supported me. Also special thanks to my sponsor's meleefightgear.com they got some of the coolest gear in the industry. Philz Coffee the best coffee not only in San Francisco but the world "one cup at a time baby" check them out at philzcoffee.com. Also Eternal Unltd they have some of the coolest shirts in mma check them out at eternalunltd.com. If anyone is interested in Jiu-jitsu Private lessons or seminars contact me Prokopos300@gmail.com I got some really good rates.
Peace Out!!
© 2008 Hip-Hop Chess Federation
Before he had this title, I interivewed him in Lyrical Swords Vol. 2: Westside Rebellion. I have no doubt, that he has a magnificent destiny in the grappling and MMA arenas.
Denny Prokopos in his final match at the no gi Mundials!
HHCF: When did you begin training jiu jitsu and how old were you?
DP: I began training in jiu-jitsu on February 12, 2001. I was twelve years old. I remember when I was about eleven years old I was at suncoast videos looking for pro wrestling movies and I came across UFC's 3 and 4 and my mom bought me the videos. I watched those videos almost everyday. I loved watching Royce Gracie submit everyone using Jiu-Jitsu. Then I asked my parents to let me do jiu-jitsu and they said no. I continued to beg them everyday and knew that sooner or later they would give in. I ended up being right, I made them tap out from all my nagging.
HHCF: At a certain point, you began to focus more on no-gi, why is that?
DP: Well for some reason no-gi always had more appeal to me. I also began to take private lessons with Eddie Bravo when I was fifteen and he began to open my eyes and show me the truth about jiu-jitsu. But what really did it was when my former trainer tried to beat me up. I decided to take the no gi path because at the time no gi didn't have the politics that the gi jiu-jitsu did.
HHCF: How did you prepare mentally for this event?
DP: I have always believed that I had what it took to win a world title or to be the best, regardless of what some negative people have told me throughout my years of training. When I was 15 I lost to Kron Gracie, and after that loss I went back and analyzed my performance and figured out that he didn't beat me because he was a better grappler but because he was better prepared mentally. Ever since then I have been on a path to master my mind and my emotions. But as far as mental training for this event, I made sure that I rolled hard at least 10 minutes a day with Jake Shields, that always keeps my ego in check. I visualized my hand getting raised. I also did "shadow grappling" about ten to fifteen minutes a day. And dialoged on a daily basis with all the people I look up to, in order to keep me in check. I also watched grappling footage and tried to stay as positive as I could.
Jiu Jitsu champions Paul Schreiner (L) and Denny Prokopos (R) hit the boards at the first Hip-Hop, Chess & Life Strategies event in San Jose.
HHCF: How did you train physically?
DP: I trained six days a week anywhere between four to six hours a day. The training session include rolling, drilling, and conditioning. I went to 10Th Planet for about four days and trained there with Eddie Bravo when I was six weeks out and went back to 10Th Planet to train for two days again when I was four weeks out. Most of my preparation was done at fairtex with Jake Shields and our crew. But I controlled my whole training routine. I also taught about two private lessons a day, which is a form of training. What was also pretty cool is that this was the first time I didn't have to cut weight because when im in shape I walk around at about 155-157lbs. and the weight limit was at 162lbs. I weighted in with all my gear 158lbs.
HHCF: I know you have battled through knee injuries to get to where you are today. How did you keep faith through your rehab that you could still win at the top levels?
DP: In my almost seven years of training I have had about seven serious injuries or possible career threatening injuries whatever you want to call them. Throughout the years I have just learned to deal with them. I really believe in myself and I refuse to put limits to what is possible. I remember when I had my second serious knee injury and my doctor told me that I might never be the same or be able to compete at the level I was once at. I turned around and told him watch im going to win a world title one day and no one is going stop me. But about a year and a half ago I meet Dr Peter Goldman who is also Bj Penn's and Eddie Bravo's and the who's who of the fight game doctor and he has kept me healthy. That man is a magician. He's the best I would refer that man to anyone he heals people with all kinds of injuries and diseases.
HHCF: What is your most memorable moment of that day?
DP: There were a lot but there are a couple that really stick out. Eddie Bravo was supposed to corner me originally but he had a seminar booked in Toronto. He had booked it a while in advance to leave at like 10 pm so he could still do the seminar and still be able to corner me, but there ended up being a snow storm and he had to leave at 3, which are what time, my divisions started at. So Joe Rogan corned me instead. I remember getting my named call over the microphone and I went and I got Joe to walk over with me to weigh in right before the match. I remember saying to him "Dude, remember when I got my brown and you told me that I could be the best in the world and that I could be as good as Marcelo Garcia, I never forgot that". He was like "Yeah, you can. Today is your first big step toward that. You're going to win the world title today."
HHCF: Do you have any MMA aspirations?
DP: I do I'm supposed to fight this year. But im taking my time with it. I think that there are way too many people fighting too soon in MMA. MMA is no joke and when I fight I really want to be ready. Plus im still 19 there is a really good chance that if I put in the same amount of effort into my striking that I did to my Jiu-jitsu I'll dominate. But im really enjoying Jiu-Jitsu right now. I love training, teaching, and competing it's my passion. People always ask me what I do for fun. And im like dude I do Jiu-jitsu for fun. I mean think about it Jiu-Jitsu is like a real video game you get to choke people out for fun haha. And then you have to master different levels of offense and defense. It's so cool because you always learn and evolve as long as you keep an open mind.
HHCF: Any last words?
DP: Of course I've always got something to say haha. I'm really happy that Jiu-jitsu is blowing up right now. I believe that right now the second explosion is happening since Royce Gracie came out in the old school UFC days. I would like to thank god, my family, my grandmaster Eddie Bravo (his new book Mastering The Twister and Mastering the Rubber Guard dvds are out), Joe Rogan (the best comedian in the world), Jake Sheilds(most under rated welterweight in mma), Gilbert Melendez(the toughest guy I know),Dr Peter Goldman(goldmanhealing.com),Darren Uyenoyama(he's going to be the next big thing in mma), and to all the other people that have ever supported me. Also special thanks to my sponsor's meleefightgear.com they got some of the coolest gear in the industry. Philz Coffee the best coffee not only in San Francisco but the world "one cup at a time baby" check them out at philzcoffee.com. Also Eternal Unltd they have some of the coolest shirts in mma check them out at eternalunltd.com. If anyone is interested in Jiu-jitsu Private lessons or seminars contact me Prokopos300@gmail.com I got some really good rates.
Peace Out!!
© 2008 Hip-Hop Chess Federation
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