The Way of Least Resistance

Some of you will recall my article back in 2010: " Uraken: karate's greatest folly? " in which I discussed the relative usefulness of the uraken - the backfist of karate. Over the years I'd heard many opinions on the worth of this technique - mostly disparaging ones. I'm heartened to see that my opinion of the uraken wasn't misplaced.  Paul Felder's knockout of Danny Castillo use of this very technique at UFC 182 on January 3 was, as it turns out, a classic execution - albeit in the context of a spin.  It even used a snap-back at the elbow (rather than a swinging follow-through)! And it had a devastating effect. At first it was suggested by many that the technique was a hammer fist.  Or was intended as a hammer fist.  But, thanks to the work of my friend Noah Legel , the gif below demonstrates that it was indeed a pretty standard uraken as taught in karate - right down to the wrist extension at the end (see the picture above and my uraken example...

I am happy to announce that as of yesterday, this blog had officially passed the 1 million pageviews mark! My sincere thanks to all my readers for helping me achieve this milestone.  When I first started blogging I never dreamt that I would garner more than the occasional read of my lengthy, technical and detailed essays - especially on an internet where soundbites rule.  I've always worked on the basis that I would write what I wanted to write.  I'm heartened to find that being true to oneself doesn't always mean being not having your voice heard. So here's to the next million - and happy new year! Copyright © 2015 Dejan Djurdjevic