What Is Bo-Ka-Jitsu MMA?
Bo-Ka-Jitsu is an intricate and robust martial art form, conceived in the mid-seventies by Master Daniel Timothy Lee, a 10th Dan, who was also honored with the distinguished Medal of Valor. This martial art represents a potent fusion of Boking, Karate, Shotokan Karate, and Japanese Jujitsu, reflecting Master Lee’s comprehensive training and vast experience in various martial arts disciplines.
Master Lee’s journey in martial arts was shaped heavily by several prominent figures. Among them, Jon “Bangon” Langon, an accomplished boxer and Shotokan 4th degree black belt, had a significant influence. Langon’s competitive spirit and technical prowess were evident in his extraordinary record: 35-time black belt grand champion and a two-time Golden Gloves Boxing Champion. Langon’s skills and fighting philosophy had a profound impact on Master Lee, shaping the core principles of Bo-Ka-Jitsu.
Another person of note who influenced Master Lee was his great uncle, William Walker, a Pearl Harbor survivor and an undefeated middleweight boxing champion in the Navy Fleet. Walker’s resilience and fighting spirit served as an inspiration for the creation of Bo-Ka-Jitsu, emphasizing the importance of fortitude and determination in overcoming adversity.
Professor Larry Cary, a 10th Degree Black Belt in Danzan Ryu Jujitsu and founder of Unity Martial Arts, significantly influenced Master Lee’s approach to martial arts. Cary’s illustrious career included roles as Director of USA JuJitsu & Martial Arts Federation, US Director for the World Council of Ju-Jitsu Organisations, and coach of the 1998 USA JuJitsu Team. His vast experience and deep understanding of martial arts have made a significant contribution to the evolution of Bo-Ka-Jitsu.
Sensei Robert J. Hunt, a 7th Dan in Bo-Ka-Jitsu and brother-in-law of Master Lee, is another key figure in the development and propagation of Bo-Ka-Jitsu. Hunt’s extensive background in wrestling, boxing, and martial arts has significantly influenced the teachings and practice of Bo-Ka-Jitsu. He started his training at a very young age under his father, Gerald Hunt, a Golden Gloves Boxing Champ, and Kempo Karate practitioner. His journey was further enriched by various masters in different martial arts disciplines, including “Old school TaeKwonDo” under Paul Dicks and Master Chong, Shorinji Kempo and Kyu Shin Ryu (Kempo) under Master Gary Conors, and Chiroko Ryu under Master Brent Undhjem. Master Undhjem’s proficiency as a trainer is underlined by his achievement of coaching seven world champion fighters.
Today, as the Senior Instructor of Bo-Ka-Jitsu, Robert J. Hunt has integrated his vast knowledge and skills into the system, significantly influencing its evolution. In recognition of the need for diversity in martial arts, Hunt has established two distinct paths within Bo-Ka-Jitsu. The first path adheres to traditional martial arts principles, emphasizing discipline, form, and spiritual growth. The second path leans towards Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and practical, real-world self-defense without rules, focusing on survival and effective combat.
Bo-Ka-Jitsu is more than just a martial art; it’s a personal journey of evolution and self-discovery. It invites its practitioners to constantly challenge themselves, to forge their spirit in the fire of their will. Bo-Ka-Jitsu isn’t merely about physical strength and fighting prowess; it’s about cultivating an indomitable spirit, resilience, and an unwavering will – principles that form the core of this dynamic and ever-evolving martial art.