Bro been following for a few weeks and from your journey from fake Aikido to full mma and then improving those techniques, *I can say that you are a real fighter* You never gave up and fought your way through and even became 3rd best in ultimate self defense martial arts Beating really good martial artists. As a martial artist from India, You have my respect 🙏
Give yourself some time Rokas, to regenerate and to think. Having a bad foot takes realistically 1-2 years to heal properly and come back to good usable state that not breaks again so fast. I doubt you quit, by maybe you gotta find a better direction to walk that way.
Rokas, I've been in the MMA ecosystem since 1997 (longer if you count wrestling and boxing) and I am now an old man. Out of all the people I used to train with, fight for and fight with, there are only about 5% of us left still doing it. Part of the reason I feel I am able to still train, despite training with world champions, pro fighters and world beaters is 1) I rarely went super hard 2) I trained 2-3 a week 3) I took time off when I got an injury. You obviously have a love for martial arts and losing it will be like losing a piece of yourself, but it is just too much for anyone to train 4-6 days a week for years. Take it down, be a "hobby level" martial artist and understand your still-impressive limitations. Heal up well and keep going with the channel.
Martial arts will harm you more than any attacker will. In fact, you'll never get attacked in your life if you live in a good neighborhood and stay away from drunk people.
@@-whackd That’s not entirely true. Martial arts are about much more than self-defense, they improve discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. Plus, even in 'good neighborhoods, unexpected situations can happen. It’s better to be prepared and empowered than to rely solely on your environment to keep you safe.
There are a lot of old okinawan karate guys around that are still agile on their legs in their last quarter of life that prove a point for martial arts done the right way
That terrible that a “training partner” used Kani Basami during an open mat session. I feel for you and wish you the best. Also, I have come to the same realization: -Training to improve strength and mobility -Being selective with training partners -Making peace with martial arts as a hobby
I haven't seen updates from this channel in a while, whether because of algorithm or what I'm not sure, but I'm really sorry that happened man, that's gotta be tough, and I relate, although my sport was football not MMA. I was 3 days from starting my first Varsity game when I was in high school when I tore just about every ligament in my leg. Kept me out for a whole season and psychologically I never really recovered so got reduced to second string in my senior year. Nobody ever talks about the psychological toll of serious, potentially career ending injuries. Praying for you dog.
Thanks man! And thank you for sharing. I can honestly tell you the injury had a psychological toll on me too. I don't think I'll train martial arts with the same enthusiasm as before anymore.
@@MartialArtsJourney maybe it is time to rethink about the term martial arts. maybe its time to do les martial and more art, as self cultivation. aikido is great, but i would suggest go for internal chinese MA, such as xing yi, ba gua and tai ji. those MA will give you the balance of solo training with longevity as an important part of it, and, still, under the right teacher you can deal with self defense and sparing. you dont have to quit on bjj or anything, but as a part of the journey, wide the horizon. there is a good reason why you can find many very old aged people training Okinawan and Chinese martial arts whit very impressive mobility.
I'm following you since your aikido days and i was always wondering what part of it you'll be keeping while you transition into a more hardcore style. I've always liked how you (and Ranton oddly enough) seemed wiser than other the other martial arts youtubers and I'm sure your aikido background will help you transition and progress in your future projects 🙏@@MartialArtsJourney
I'm so sorry, man. That's a seriously brutal injury, and what's worse is that it sounds like it could have been avoided if your training partner had more sense and restraint. I've probably suffered more injuries from over-eager sparring and grappling partners than I ever had competing, so I understand it's almost inevitable, but those partners are supposed to help you improve your skills (as you're trying to do the same for them), so it's especially upsetting when it seems like their motives don't align with those principles. I wish you all the best with your continued recovery, Rokas.
You and all the other martial arts youtubers I found through the USDC have really helped guide me into a healthy approach to combat sports. I managed to find a kickboxing gym where people are safe and friendly, with a relaxed environment that still allows for plenty of personal challenge. So if it makes you feel any better, your reports on your injuries have so far helped me avoid such injuries in the first place. Huge thanks for that!
@@qefewfwdcwdc are you aware that most sports you do have an acknowledged risk to it? Once you enter a facility you accept the risk, like if you go price boxing and they hit your head to the moon there is no way to sue, if you go icehockey and you lose teeth, there is no way to sue ...
Actually thats passive accepted risk is actually the reason why people stress the rule of always protect yourself under any circumstances. if you are not up to the task, its not the fault of the training partner if it is an acknowledged risk
rokas, i really recommend starting to lift weights more seriously. it not only strengthens the muscles which supports the joints but also causes growth and strengthening of tendons and bones. i did bodybuilding/strength training for 4-5 years gaining 50 lean lbs before i started grappling, and though i have gotten some acute injuries the general wear on my body is much lower than my peers. because, think of it like this: if i can build myself up to squat 500 lbs, then my knees are going to be much more durable than someone who buckles under 200 lbs. in fact, my biggest issue is a recurring shoulder tweak that happens when i DONT lift for a while. lifting really does strengthen your body. if you wish i can share my routine, it's not so much for performance but rather injury proofing. i also think your new philosophy to training is also very wise, i think you will see that this mindset leads to more sustainability and being able to practice more deliberately. i've been trying to adopt this approach too; many great combat athletes use this, notably GSP and most thai muay thai fighters
I second this comment. I started to have back aches after bjj, but I started to left weights, mostly pull ups and dips and the pains went. I also started to take yoga/stretching more seriously for flexibility
@@kingartifex At 47, mobility work, yoga, and meditation have been my adaptations from combat sports. I now spend more time sparring against those parts of myself that are no longer serving me
I think you guys should stop giving advice for medical conditions if you are not working in that particular field. It is correct that muscles help joints but body building has its own problems by itsself and should not be thrown in there just Willy nilly as a normal means to strengthen the body. This kind of injury rokas has should first and foremost concentrate on functionality and training with his own body weight. Of course there are Training machines that are very helpful but for him its not necessary to go beyond your body weight training to be healthy and stable. Muscles grow faster than tendons and in body building this can cause tendon problems and pain all by itsself at some point especially when people go for numbers instead of quality.
@@Dragens2 not medical advice, just sport performance advice. also, i study this in college, undergrad in bio and have taken classes in sport science. muscles typically only grow faster than muscle in untrained hyper-responders or steroid users. besides, this discrepancy is only relevant at maximal efforts which are rare in combat sports (this is most commonly a problem in powerlifting, under 3 reps)
You're a good guy and exactly the kind of creator this platform and genre need. I have no doubt that you'll get out of it and start training again in no time. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
I'm a black belt whose leg got crippled, then amputated, so I relate to your story. Being a martial artist was part of my identity and I felt lost when I didn't know if I'd ever get that piece of me back. I fought so hard for many years to get back on the mat and discovered that there are a lot of things I can still do, but I have to be a lot more careful about injury. I asked myself why it was so important to me to get back on the mat. Some people do martial arts because of fitness, the comradery, or they like the culture. For me, martial arts makes me feel alive in a way nothing else does, and without that my life doesn't feel complete. I love how both my mind and my body are pushed at the same time, unlike standard exercise. I ended up acknowledging that my former martial arts aren't the best place for me anymore. I started parafencing, because I can push myself to the max without fear of injury and it still has that chess-like strategy that I love from sparring. I'm training for nationals and, despite the grief I went through, I feel happy and complete again. It's hard knowing how to move forward after a major injury. I'd suggest asking yourself what is at the heart of your martial arts journey and why you chose to be on this path in the first place. Once you know those answers, it'll guide your next steps. Best wishes, Rokas!
Maybe doing the Ultimate Self Defense Challenge fulfills whatever need it is that made you like martial arts in the first place? Either way, we love USDC. Get feeling better!
Well, illegal moves are illegal for a reason, that was probably meant for self-defense or the battlefield and not for a sport. At least you got a loyal doggo to support you all the way
in judo they got that technique from traditional juijitsu, and then as bjj was created from judo it got the technique. But in judo there were many guys with broken legs with it so they banned it and I've never seen a dojo that teaches it so far
@@revbladez5773 Or something a bit more nefarious. Someone shows them in a context of historical martial arts training, whilst stressing it's sports illegal because how dangerous it is, they try it, feel overconfident in their ability to pull it off safely / neglectful about others getting hurt, go to a gym with no sctrict rule enforcement, gradually pull off more dangerous moves to push the bar, and this happens.
One gym brute ....and look at all the pain and time and resources depletion he brought on. Absolutely, if you're not a professional fighter, after such an injury....train/spar only with people you know well. May you have a speedy recovery and continued health, Rokas.
I'd argue that if you're a professional fighter you are more cautious of who you train with since your livelihood relies on trust that your partner won't do something stupid to hurt you. But completely agree with the sentiment
BJJ has a particularly high injury rate for multiple reasons. because its grappling only, you end up in positions you might not otherwise end up in, it is also a submission based sport which means you have to put your opponent right on the edge of injury in a lot of cases, and finally, BJJ suffers from popularity: more people doing a martial art means more of all types, good and, unfortunately, bad. I might try devoting more time to a striking art and just not spar super hard.
I personally don't recommend AG1 as they're going through some scandals through unsure practices. Regardless i love you man and appreciate your work in the Martial Arts community
Just listening to the first few minutes here hurt like heck!! OUCH! Holy Moly!!! I wish you the all the best in your healing and recovery. I've learned a lot from watching your videos for the last few years. Blessings to you and yours.
Recovering from a serious injury such as yours is a long journey. In my aikido training during my 30s, I separated both shoulders and caused damage that took years to fully recover from, even w/surgery. Then, in my early 60's, a large tumor was found on my hip and that really screwed me up as my femoral nerve was damaged in the process and never recovered. Like you, more than 60% of my frontal thigh and shin area are numb. I walk funny- w/a limp now- because of the surgery which causes my back discomfort and both hips are in constant discomfort. Martial arts training is long over for me but I continue to work out daily w/rigorous walks and weight lifting. One simply cannot give up or give in. My best to you on your continued recovery and journey.
Most people don't do kani basami correctly anyways. Much like tani otoshi. There are a handful of old jujutsu techniques that are just cripplers: standing kimura then sprawl, sasae tsurikomi when you step on the foot and don't take your weight off of it, sankyo where you spin under the arm then swing for the fences, a rear naked choke with a sprawl, osoto gari to the side of the knee, uchi mata as a mule kick to the balls.
I hate how stupid people are. So many people do the Uchi to the balls, when that's not the mechanic at all lol. But 100%, those are all so accurate. The Osoto to the side of the knee is also so common. I feel like you need to pass an IQ test to participate in combat sports.
Scissor takedowns are banned in most BJJ academies; it's crazy that someone with so much martial arts training was naive enough to even let that happen.
Why you didn't sue the guy/gym is beyond me. Edit: For all you kids who keep commenting but have no idea about the full story. The gym Rokas was at provided no first aid, left him to crawl off the mat and wouldn't call him an ambulance. That's negligence and a waiver won't mean 💩 in court against that. Also, the guy who injured him knowingly did a dangerous and illegal move.
I know that doesn't have to do with the topic in the video, but i've been following your channel since long ago, I was a former aikido student in Cuba, in a dojo with a lot of emphasis in traditional aikido but in self-defense at the same time, as cuba is a really dangerous country. After some years my teachers figured out themselves that aikido was very far from reality, and we started to practice MMA. The cool thing is that when i started to investigate if aikido was actually worth it, you were the first channel that appeared in that search and helped me to open my eyes, I've been watching you since your first fight against the MMA dude and is a shame that your leg got injured like that, i really hope that you recover soon as you are a great martial artist and helped to open the eyes of a lot of people.
Rokas I'm really happy to hear that you're recovering well. There are many things you can train that wont destroy your body and allow you to continue to train. My training partner had an internal injury and had to have surgery. After his recovery he took up Tai Chi. Not that in the park stuff but martial Tai Chi. It helped him recover and also remain in the martial community. He's a bad bad man now. I wish you well.
Haha 😄 Well, I mean, everything is dangerous to some degree. Riding a bicycle can also lead to injury. My lesson here though was - to choose your training partners carefully and to not push yourself too hard. I think that would have led me to much less injuries over my martial arts journey.
only educated martial arts are safe, meaning that you know about the risks like concussions and sports injury. Like knowing how to diagnose, prevent, treat in first aid etc. Jesse enkamp for example has video prehab. And having a good trainer that restrains and interferes is a safe sport, if you go on alone without knowing what you do then it probably not gonna end well
the golden rule of mma is always protect yourself at all times, which means you must know what can happen and see to it in your own responsibility to prevent it. Sometimes this might even involve people that you angered having fixed gloves that can destroy bones etc.
I think there are videos about Joe Lewis, gabriel varga, superfoot wallace feature it a bit. i think even rokas has video himself on Fighting IQ Is Superior To Power and Speed • Ft. Bill Wallace
tell your mom the quote of cuz d amato (trainer of mike tyson) > gotta be clever, gotta be smart and not get hit, if you are able to do this then you are a fighter. < Thats probably the only reason why tyson is still alive and kickin after so many fights against really incredible opponents. He spend thoughts to basically everything and had people taking care of him in the process.
Rokas, I'm so thrilled that you are back! I truly hope you be happy in any path you choose. I am learning so much from your experience. Thank you for sharing the journey with us.
After 50 years of martial arts, I’ve had 6 knee operations, and two knee replacements. For me, still worth the experience. I wish you the best on your recovery Thank you for sharing.
This would be a great opportunity to explore what traditional martial arts has to offer like Okinawan karate or Kung fu, where the focus is more on forms / kata. I feel it has more of an emphasis on the "art", which may be a valuable outlet.
A great Karate school will accept a person's limitations and adjust training either until they're back to full strength, or until they know what that person CAN do. Karate focuses on natural movement, so nothing should hurt beyond the natural "I've exercised" level of pain.
I feel like there might have been a target on your back because of your online presence and some people out there might just be interested in hurting you. I hope that wasn't the case, but it is something on my mind. I wish you all the best.
It was probably just some martial arts bro that thought he would look cool doing it, no need to make up some weird fantasy and make the guy an actual villain that wanted to hurt someone on purpose. Most people aren't psychos, don't get too conspiracy brained.
@@im1fadedRob "I would love to fuck [martial arts youtuber] up" is, unfortunately, something I have heard a lot in the places I train. I hope that it wasn't the case, but it was a notorious move known for causing a lot of damage and we haven't heard the other side of the story.
Thank you so much for sharing. I have some similar scars. Broke both legs in a motorcycle crash, surgeries on both legs. I had been teaching a high-school martial arts class before the wreck, and it one of the biggest things for me in the recovery was how emasculated I felt. Like many guys, I occasionally will daydream about fending off attackers (fighting off the ninjas or shooter or whatever with objects lying around the room). The thought of these random attackers didn't stop during my recovery, but in all of the daydreams, I lost and was helpless. It was the first time I felt helpless and dependent as an adult. Like you, I am now able to walk and train again, but this taste of weakness and vulnerability has made me much more cautious (no more motorcycles, at least until the kids are grown). Martial arts was largely a power fantasy for me before that point, and this was dispelled. I currently teach a free martial arts class at my church for fun and as a way to give back some of the health, focus, and mentoring I have been given through this practice. Martial arts are a what, but it is the why that matters and the why that changes with maturity. I wish you success in your journey.
I have a ridiculous amount of respect for Rokas. To detail all of why would take a while so I'll summarize. It takes a special kind of person to challenge their beliefs and themselves so often. It takes someone more special to do it so openly and honestly with the world. Thank you for posting your martial arts journey for us to see.
Thank you for sharing your story. A couple months ago, my pancras teacher was teaching this move. I told him not to show it to the beginners as it's too dangerous,or at least show another safer variation. I got kicked out of class since, and he injured his uke who was a 16yo beginner.
As someone, who has had multiple knee surgeries and is now in his 40s, I have now the exactly attitude towards martial arts as you described it: I'm a hobbyist and only train for fun an fitness (doing Muay Thai currently). Staying healthy is now my most important thing, I have a family now and I'm definitely not doing ego contests with the young lions in our gym. Therefore, I do light sparring only which is not negotiable. It's just sad, that you have these problems now because of an overzealous training partner. Some guys in martial arts unfortunately have huge egos, are reckless or just idiots. I avoid to train with them if possible.
Hello Rokas, I'm sorry for your injury, it must has been tough. I think you really love martial arts and should continue doing it, even if it become more like a hobby. I trained in traditional martial arts (ju-jutsu-aiki-jutsu) for more than 10 years, then 3 years in MMA as a recreational practicionner (1 or 2 times a week) and never got seriously injured (it never stop me to go at the next training, worst time was a black eye). May be I was lucky, but I think with good consciousness of your body and by refusing to sparre with some few people, you can even go a little hard without injuring yourself. Best support from France ! I can't wait to see the next season of self-defence championship !
Bro, this episode is prophetic. In one year of mma training I have a Meniscus injury in my left knee, MCL injury in my right knee, Turf toe in my left big toe and a weird pain in my left forearm defending an arm-bar. I really enjoy going to the club, the people are great but my body is taking strain. I still want to play with my seventeen month old daughter too.
Hey Rokas. You really deserved for an emotional refreshement period at least. I think you can go as your passion goes here, without overpushing yourself. And personally I think that you already proved your skills in good and actual fights and sparrings. Btw, your video about summarizing your trip from Aikido to amateur MMA was one of the most intesresting I have ever seen in Martial Art youtube-segment. So, all the luck here. I would say that your interest will resurrect when it is time.
I had no idea that you went through this! I’m praying for you bro that your body and your mind will continue to heal. You’re doing great and I hope that you will continue to be patient with yourself. Thank you for continuing to come up with great ideas for the martial arts community!
Congratulations for your channel! I know you since you were doing aikido. Your journey on martial arts is amazing. I hope you the best and hope you recover fast! Sometimes things happen for a reason. You do t have to prove anything! Martial art is a huge part of your life and of what you are! After i broke my hand in kickboxing i never went back to the gym after many years of training. I took a break and i realised that its not for me anymore im 38 also. Now i train my body only in healthy ways and never push any further. Nothing is more important tha our health guys! Love yourself and do what is best for you! Greetings from Greece!
Hey rokas, thank you so much for the since video, I am really glad you were able to recover as much as you did. I even feel bad making this nitpick, but you should have talked about your wife more. I know you probably know this, and I saw the text you included, and maybe I am missing something because I don't know you guys personally, but from where I am standing. you should have been more vocal about it. You are really lucky to have someone who supports you at your lowest, most people dream of that.
Rokas, I have much to tell you (I'll try to keep it brief). It`s great to see you back in shape, you have been pushing yourself to the absolute limit all this time... and the worst part is someone else ruining it by beign an imbecile. Luckily it seems that your body is gifted with great healing (aside from all the hellish work you put in to it), and all that training you have been doing it really paid off (you have the body of an athlete with its metabolism, after all). Injuries that big are like big bad monsters you will need to learn to live with (I have some seriously injured cervical vertebrae too)... live your life and enjoy your body... take care of yourself and only push far when you feel like it`s really worth it !!! We spend all that time training and builiding, and then we forget we are supossed to enjoy what we have built ! Hugs from Argentina !
Rokas you constantly amaze me. Truly an inspiration! You take on adversity and comeback stronger! I will show this video to my bedridden mother whose lost the use of both legs for five years. She will be rooting for you too!
Good luck to you. Still rolling after 2 ACL surgeries, one meniscus surgery and 1 shoulder surgery. You will need to adapt your game, but it's not all bad. Injuries will force you to be a more thoughtful martial artist and a better technician.
Glad your recovery is going okay, brother. Keep building up that slow stable strength. A lot of the older masters hit the same point in their journeys when age or injuries make you shift from speed and athleticism to balance, isometric strength, and structure. I've also been going back to some Tai Chi and Aikido exercises/drills while making sure my BJJ rolling is based on strategy and proper structure. It's definitely helped me to be far more efficient and less injury prone.
Amazing to see your recovery. I know after my knee op (no where ear as bad as yours) I had similar doubts and feelings. It basically came down to a fear if being reinjuried. I wish you all the best with the rest if your recovery and the journey you take from here
Sveikas, Rokai. Labai malonu, jog populiarini kovinį sportą pasauliniu mastu ir jį detaliai analizuoji. Tikrai didžiuojuosi, jog mano tautybės žmogus vykdo tokį žygdarbį. Apgailestauju dėl traumos. Didelė pagarba, jog grįžti į kontaktinį sportą po tokios rimtos traumos. Pats asmeniškai jau turiu antrą kelio traumą užsiiminėdamas koviniu sportu. Esu reabilitacijos etape. Po truputį atsistatinėju ir manau neužilgo galėsiu grįžti į savo seniai pradėtą sporto kėlionę.
I took 24 years off after a judo injury- broken collar bone. I too was aggressive in pursuit of some perceived master skillset when this happened. Currently I train in shotokan and I take my time. I train for the long game of being healthy and enjoying the process. It did take 24 years to get back into martial arts for all the reasons you stated in this video. I'm glad you're healing and processing life. Cheers.
We all go through this same journey, those of us who did competitive or high level sports….Dancers,hockey players, gymnasts, etc….We all got beat up bodies and need to in later life tone it back to hobby level or quit entirely. Glad to see your embracing the hobbyist. Nothing wrong with that. Longevity is what matters.
Send you all the love from germany brother. Sounds like the injury put things into perspective. Your self defense challenge also kind of proved that being the best in the gym is not the be all end all when it comes to self defense. So focusing on your fitness and health is an equally valuable goal. Hell, self defense and Martial arts without your health is nothing. Have been through something similar, so again much love and respect to you pulling through like that.
Sorry to hear about your injury. Got quite much injuries myself from MMA and BJJ so it is pretty easy to relate. You have now been in "jutsu path" and if you want still continue with Martial Arts there is still the "Do path" of Martial Art journey. Get well and healthy!
I am so glad you are recovering well. I hope your healing and recovery continue to go well. I wish you and Gabby a safe, happy, and blessed holiday season. Merry Christmas and happy new year.
Everyone is being mean to Tai Chi for not being effective enough, but now might be the time to take a look at the gentle side of Martial Arts. Good luck with your journey!
I agree. The big lesson I'm taking away from this is unless it's your career to fight and win, martial arts aren't about effectiveness. Enjoy the process of learning and perfect the art. It really doesn't matter if you could beat up this or that guy. With some rare exceptions, you will never need to actually practice self defense.
Glad to see you giving us an update and more importantly, glad you are healing quickly. I hope you can continue martial arts, perhaps not so hard and competitive, and maybe not solely for fighting, but the work you did to help facilitate truths about martial arts and the production and filming you did to get the self defence championship the exposure and popularity it deserves was absolutely a joy to watch, and I could tell you enjoyed it too (when someone enjoys their project, it comes out in their craftsmanship).
Hey Rokas I hope you are getting well, keep doing your rehab and keep your heads up, man. Best wishes for you and hope that you can resume the pre-injury life as soon as possible
Hi Rockas, I’m sorry to hear about this difficult experience of yours. Sometimes life has unique / creative / sometimes painful ways to align ourselves with our true purpose in life. Keep pushing brother. Great things will come. Like Einstein says once, life is like riding a bicycle, in order to keep your balance, you must keep moving forward!!! God bless you brother!!
Glad to see you're having a good recovery! The mind gets hurt also and that is pretty hard to deal with. I've always been afraid of getting injured like that (again... broke my fibula and torn a ligament in the ankle in Aikido, believe it or not... got surgery and pins also). Stay healthy, Rokas!
Glad to see that you have recovered somewhat and thought your life through. Wish you to get back to full health and succeed in production, because the first two seasons of the self-defence championship were a blast.
Hey, nice to hear from you again! I'm not used to leaving comments on videos, but I have in past videos of yours, as I'm doing it now, because of how much of an inspiration your journey is for me, and for many others around the world. Whatever you decide to do regarding martial arts is okay, as long as it is what you really want and is fulfilling. Finally, i just wanted to remember you that your videos and your journey have inspired me, in spite of being a 16-year-old in the other side of the world (Argentina), and I hope you can go on with your life and martial arts journey in the most pleasent, safe, and healthy way! Regards from Argentina (PD, you're my favourite martial arts content creator)
I had a severe knee injury from a seemingly innocuous fall, it took me out of judo for a year and wrestling for nearly three. Hell I am 21 and have been reliant on a cane since the age of 13, but I am fortunate enough to be a collegiate wrestler and competitive judoka. It is really hard to adapt to the limitations from injuries. I hope you fare better than I did.
Glad to hear you are recovering well. As someone who is older and still practices, I think you are asking good questions. Questions that are easy to neglect when we are younger. Regardless of where the answers take you, it’s still all part of the journey. :)
You will always impress me even more than I would have expected! You are and always have been a warrior at heart, searching the truth and putting this much effort in your way despite the challenges! In many ways a rolemodel
I'm very glad to see that you are going way better. Damn, first long covid then this injury, you are stockpilling it. 100% agree wuth wath you say in the video, don't push too hard, keep martial art as a hobby, take it easy, and continue to deliver us the terrific content of the USCD !
That's what a real fighter looks like! Good job keeping the moral and doing the best you could to recover faster. It must have been really hard. You really are talented to orchestrate great event like USDC, really looking foward for you projects! Hope you make a total recovery fast and that you are able to enjoy martial art in the way you want. Cheers mate!
Really great to see you back on the mats Rokas. I've been struggling with the same themes myself. Regarding the knee, I've been pretty happy with the Bauerfeind knee braces. Just the right amount of support and cushioning for rolling. Keep it up...
I think you practicing mostly for fitness and fun is good, you can still learn a lot of technique from it while going easy. I hope you recover well and become able to fully enjoy martial arts again 👍
I've watched you for years and followed your entire journey and loved your content. The Self-Defense Championship is an awesome experiment and so entertaining! Think of this as an evolution or change to your path and not the end. I'm mad impressed at you even getting back onto the mats after all that, wow. Your questions about "what am I trying to prove?" and the intensity-level of your training is valuable. At 37 and considering wanting to get back into training again, I have to think along those lines as well. I hope the BJJ community can use your unfortunate accident as a way of policing the use of Kani Basami/Scissor-Leg Takedown the way the Judo community does. Because what your training partner did was highly irresponsible. He shouldn't have even had the remote thought of trying that technique at all.
I'm in a similar but not as severe boat. Getting injured way more often at open mats due to stupidity. Dealing with way more freak accidents than I have in my other 4 years of training. It's frustrating and scary. Stories like these make me greatful i've never had a SEVERE Injury, but it puts it all into perspective that it's a possibility.
So proud of how you worked consistently to recover Rokas Yes do more production but wishing you all the best. Could even do a bit of boxing since that can still feel strong but not need as much complex leg stuff Also I think your wife being so supportive is the major key to the recovery. Rooting for you all the way 😊
I'm 39 days from a total knee replacement and it may be the end of my martial arts journey... as I know it. Hell I'll do Tai Chi if it's all I can do, but the physical challenge and other physical and mental health benefits I get from MA will keep it at the top of my list. I re-started karate decades after my teen years doing judo for fitness and health and it's done that for me. I added BJJ for some fun and fitness and to round out skills amongst friends. Post surgery I'll have new limitations and I have to be OK with that. For 2025 Martial Arts for me will be for rehab/recovery. Come 2026, I'll find a new focus. I hope you too find your new focus and you're right, you are a great motivator, innovator and we'll continue to enjoy your contribution to the world of martial arts media.
Use this link to subscribe and save $20 off your first subscription of AG1: drinkag1.com/rokas
Bro been following for a few weeks and from your journey from fake Aikido to full mma and then improving those techniques,
*I can say that you are a real fighter*
You never gave up and fought your way through and even became 3rd best in ultimate self defense martial arts Beating really good martial artists.
As a martial artist from India,
You have my respect 🙏
fuck AG1 bro overpriced garbage
Rochas you've got a superpower now you got the superpower of steel knee
Give yourself some time Rokas, to regenerate and to think. Having a bad foot takes realistically 1-2 years to heal properly and come back to good usable state that not breaks again so fast. I doubt you quit, by maybe you gotta find a better direction to walk that way.
Scam product.
Happy to see you back on the mat Rokas! ☺️ ”The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” 🙏 Keep it up!
Absolutely, Brother! 👊👊✊✊👏👏👌👌
This is fortunate for those of us with only one foot...
It's all coming full circle... Rokas is going to go back to Aikido as an awoken master.
I was going to say... Time to go back to aikido!
Awaken your Aikido skills, Rokas, and be at risk on fracturing or breaking your elbow and lower arms instead of your legs.
I forsee a KneeOverToesGuy collab in the future
Might aswell play golf
Rokas will become a no touch aikido master like he was meant to be in his early days of aikido training.😂
Rokas, I've been in the MMA ecosystem since 1997 (longer if you count wrestling and boxing) and I am now an old man. Out of all the people I used to train with, fight for and fight with, there are only about 5% of us left still doing it. Part of the reason I feel I am able to still train, despite training with world champions, pro fighters and world beaters is 1) I rarely went super hard 2) I trained 2-3 a week 3) I took time off when I got an injury.
You obviously have a love for martial arts and losing it will be like losing a piece of yourself, but it is just too much for anyone to train 4-6 days a week for years. Take it down, be a "hobby level" martial artist and understand your still-impressive limitations.
Heal up well and keep going with the channel.
Martial arts will harm you more than any attacker will. In fact, you'll never get attacked in your life if you live in a good neighborhood and stay away from drunk people.
@@-whackdyeah, but... I like to explore.
@@-whackd That’s not entirely true. Martial arts are about much more than self-defense, they improve discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. Plus, even in 'good neighborhoods, unexpected situations can happen. It’s better to be prepared and empowered than to rely solely on your environment to keep you safe.
There are a lot of old okinawan karate guys around that are still agile on their legs in their last quarter of life that prove a point for martial arts done the right way
best advice
That terrible that a “training partner” used Kani Basami during an open mat session.
I feel for you and wish you the best.
Also, I have come to the same realization:
-Training to improve strength and mobility
-Being selective with training partners
-Making peace with martial arts as a hobby
You're a true warrior who already made notable contribution to martial arts, you deserve our support regardless of where you go from here.
Thank you man! I really appreciate that
I haven't seen updates from this channel in a while, whether because of algorithm or what I'm not sure, but I'm really sorry that happened man, that's gotta be tough, and I relate, although my sport was football not MMA. I was 3 days from starting my first Varsity game when I was in high school when I tore just about every ligament in my leg. Kept me out for a whole season and psychologically I never really recovered so got reduced to second string in my senior year. Nobody ever talks about the psychological toll of serious, potentially career ending injuries. Praying for you dog.
Thanks man! And thank you for sharing. I can honestly tell you the injury had a psychological toll on me too. I don't think I'll train martial arts with the same enthusiasm as before anymore.
@@MartialArtsJourney
maybe it is time to rethink about the term martial arts. maybe its time to do les martial and more art, as self cultivation. aikido is great, but i would suggest go for internal chinese MA, such as xing yi, ba gua and tai ji. those MA will give you the balance of solo training with longevity as an important part of it, and, still, under the right teacher you can deal with self defense and sparing. you dont have to quit on bjj or anything, but as a part of the journey, wide the horizon. there is a good reason why you can find many very old aged people training Okinawan and Chinese martial arts whit very impressive mobility.
Are you still part of that gym where the injustice happened? Any feedback from the staff, or even the guy that did you dirty?@@MartialArtsJourney
I'm following you since your aikido days and i was always wondering what part of it you'll be keeping while you transition into a more hardcore style. I've always liked how you (and Ranton oddly enough) seemed wiser than other the other martial arts youtubers and I'm sure your aikido background will help you transition and progress in your future projects 🙏@@MartialArtsJourney
I'm so sorry, man. That's a seriously brutal injury, and what's worse is that it sounds like it could have been avoided if your training partner had more sense and restraint. I've probably suffered more injuries from over-eager sparring and grappling partners than I ever had competing, so I understand it's almost inevitable, but those partners are supposed to help you improve your skills (as you're trying to do the same for them), so it's especially upsetting when it seems like their motives don't align with those principles. I wish you all the best with your continued recovery, Rokas.
Your courage, resilience, and curiosity always astound me, Rokas. You have always owned your own journey ❤
You and all the other martial arts youtubers I found through the USDC have really helped guide me into a healthy approach to combat sports. I managed to find a kickboxing gym where people are safe and friendly, with a relaxed environment that still allows for plenty of personal challenge.
So if it makes you feel any better, your reports on your injuries have so far helped me avoid such injuries in the first place. Huge thanks for that!
I am really glad to hear it! Keep owning your journey 👊
@@MartialArtsJourney dude you need to sue your trainings partner.
@@qefewfwdcwdc are you aware that most sports you do have an acknowledged risk to it? Once you enter a facility you accept the risk, like if you go price boxing and they hit your head to the moon there is no way to sue, if you go icehockey and you lose teeth, there is no way to sue ...
Actually thats passive accepted risk is actually the reason why people stress the rule of always protect yourself under any circumstances. if you are not up to the task, its not the fault of the training partner if it is an acknowledged risk
rokas, i really recommend starting to lift weights more seriously. it not only strengthens the muscles which supports the joints but also causes growth and strengthening of tendons and bones. i did bodybuilding/strength training for 4-5 years gaining 50 lean lbs before i started grappling, and though i have gotten some acute injuries the general wear on my body is much lower than my peers.
because, think of it like this: if i can build myself up to squat 500 lbs, then my knees are going to be much more durable than someone who buckles under 200 lbs.
in fact, my biggest issue is a recurring shoulder tweak that happens when i DONT lift for a while. lifting really does strengthen your body. if you wish i can share my routine, it's not so much for performance but rather injury proofing.
i also think your new philosophy to training is also very wise, i think you will see that this mindset leads to more sustainability and being able to practice more deliberately. i've been trying to adopt this approach too; many great combat athletes use this, notably GSP and most thai muay thai fighters
I second this comment. I started to have back aches after bjj, but I started to left weights, mostly pull ups and dips and the pains went. I also started to take yoga/stretching more seriously for flexibility
@@kingartifex At 47, mobility work, yoga, and meditation have been my adaptations from combat sports. I now spend more time sparring against those parts of myself that are no longer serving me
I think you guys should stop giving advice for medical conditions if you are not working in that particular field. It is correct that muscles help joints but body building has its own problems by itsself and should not be thrown in there just Willy nilly as a normal means to strengthen the body. This kind of injury rokas has should first and foremost concentrate on functionality and training with his own body weight. Of course there are Training machines that are very helpful but for him its not necessary to go beyond your body weight training to be healthy and stable. Muscles grow faster than tendons and in body building this can cause tendon problems and pain all by itsself at some point especially when people go for numbers instead of quality.
@@Dragens2 not medical advice, just sport performance advice. also, i study this in college, undergrad in bio and have taken classes in sport science.
muscles typically only grow faster than muscle in untrained hyper-responders or steroid users. besides, this discrepancy is only relevant at maximal efforts which are rare in combat sports (this is most commonly a problem in powerlifting, under 3 reps)
@Dragens2 right cus recommending basic callisthenics exercises like pull-ups is now "medical advice."
You're a good guy and exactly the kind of creator this platform and genre need. I have no doubt that you'll get out of it and start training again in no time. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
I'm a black belt whose leg got crippled, then amputated, so I relate to your story. Being a martial artist was part of my identity and I felt lost when I didn't know if I'd ever get that piece of me back. I fought so hard for many years to get back on the mat and discovered that there are a lot of things I can still do, but I have to be a lot more careful about injury. I asked myself why it was so important to me to get back on the mat. Some people do martial arts because of fitness, the comradery, or they like the culture. For me, martial arts makes me feel alive in a way nothing else does, and without that my life doesn't feel complete. I love how both my mind and my body are pushed at the same time, unlike standard exercise. I ended up acknowledging that my former martial arts aren't the best place for me anymore. I started parafencing, because I can push myself to the max without fear of injury and it still has that chess-like strategy that I love from sparring. I'm training for nationals and, despite the grief I went through, I feel happy and complete again. It's hard knowing how to move forward after a major injury. I'd suggest asking yourself what is at the heart of your martial arts journey and why you chose to be on this path in the first place. Once you know those answers, it'll guide your next steps. Best wishes, Rokas!
Maybe doing the Ultimate Self Defense Challenge fulfills whatever need it is that made you like martial arts in the first place? Either way, we love USDC. Get feeling better!
Damn just checked out your channel Champ and subscribed... wishing u all the best
Try motorcycling, it's excellent for situational awareness ;)
I'd expect some prosthetics to be better to kick with than a human foot.
You are a legend for not giving up on your passion!
Well, illegal moves are illegal for a reason, that was probably meant for self-defense or the battlefield and not for a sport.
At least you got a loyal doggo to support you all the way
It used to be legal, but the likelihood of unintended injury and the severity of the resulting injuries proved too high.
in judo they got that technique from traditional juijitsu, and then as bjj was created from judo it got the technique. But in judo there were many guys with broken legs with it so they banned it and I've never seen a dojo that teaches it so far
@@josef6126 Issue is that some people see someone doing it on RUclips and then in their next sparring session, they decide "I am going to try that".
@@revbladez5773 Or something a bit more nefarious. Someone shows them in a context of historical martial arts training, whilst stressing it's sports illegal because how dangerous it is, they try it, feel overconfident in their ability to pull it off safely / neglectful about others getting hurt, go to a gym with no sctrict rule enforcement, gradually pull off more dangerous moves to push the bar, and this happens.
One gym brute ....and look at all the pain and time and resources depletion he brought on. Absolutely, if you're not a professional fighter, after such an injury....train/spar only with people you know well. May you have a speedy recovery and continued health, Rokas.
I'd argue that if you're a professional fighter you are more cautious of who you train with since your livelihood relies on trust that your partner won't do something stupid to hurt you. But completely agree with the sentiment
BJJ has a particularly high injury rate for multiple reasons. because its grappling only, you end up in positions you might not otherwise end up in, it is also a submission based sport which means you have to put your opponent right on the edge of injury in a lot of cases, and finally, BJJ suffers from popularity: more people doing a martial art means more of all types, good and, unfortunately, bad. I might try devoting more time to a striking art and just not spar super hard.
I personally don't recommend AG1 as they're going through some scandals through unsure practices. Regardless i love you man and appreciate your work in the Martial Arts community
Just listening to the first few minutes here hurt like heck!! OUCH! Holy Moly!!! I wish you the all the best in your healing and recovery. I've learned a lot from watching your videos for the last few years. Blessings to you and yours.
Recovering from a serious injury such as yours is a long journey. In my aikido training during my 30s, I separated both shoulders and caused damage that took years to fully recover from, even w/surgery.
Then, in my early 60's, a large tumor was found on my hip and that really screwed me up as my femoral nerve was damaged in the process and never recovered. Like you, more than 60% of my frontal thigh and shin area are numb. I walk funny- w/a limp now- because of the surgery which causes my back discomfort and both hips are in constant discomfort.
Martial arts training is long over for me but I continue to work out daily w/rigorous walks and weight lifting. One simply cannot give up or give in.
My best to you on your continued recovery and journey.
Most people don't do kani basami correctly anyways. Much like tani otoshi.
There are a handful of old jujutsu techniques that are just cripplers: standing kimura then sprawl, sasae tsurikomi when you step on the foot and don't take your weight off of it, sankyo where you spin under the arm then swing for the fences, a rear naked choke with a sprawl, osoto gari to the side of the knee, uchi mata as a mule kick to the balls.
I hate how stupid people are. So many people do the Uchi to the balls, when that's not the mechanic at all lol. But 100%, those are all so accurate. The Osoto to the side of the knee is also so common. I feel like you need to pass an IQ test to participate in combat sports.
@@af4396I've definitely done uchi to the balls in training when I was still bad at it.😬
Interesting!!!
Scissor takedowns are banned in most BJJ academies; it's crazy that someone with so much martial arts training was naive enough to even let that happen.
Let what happen?
it's the other guy who probably decided to do the move, no?
Why you didn't sue the guy/gym is beyond me.
Edit: For all you kids who keep commenting but have no idea about the full story. The gym Rokas was at provided no first aid, left him to crawl off the mat and wouldn't call him an ambulance. That's negligence and a waiver won't mean 💩 in court against that. Also, the guy who injured him knowingly did a dangerous and illegal move.
You can't sue a gym for something some guy did in the gym, and he would have signed a risk waiver.
That's why gyms have waivers
@af4396 the gym left him on the floor and did nothing. They had no first aid and wouldn't even call him an ambulance. Also, waivers aren't iron clad.
@AprehamLincoln Waivers aren't iron clad and the gym did nothing to help him afterwards. He had to crawl off the mat and call his own ambulance.
Then Ramsey Dewey should sue USDC for his knee injury
I know that doesn't have to do with the topic in the video, but i've been following your channel since long ago, I was a former aikido student in Cuba, in a dojo with a lot of emphasis in traditional aikido but in self-defense at the same time, as cuba is a really dangerous country. After some years my teachers figured out themselves that aikido was very far from reality, and we started to practice MMA. The cool thing is that when i started to investigate if aikido was actually worth it, you were the first channel that appeared in that search and helped me to open my eyes, I've been watching you since your first fight against the MMA dude and is a shame that your leg got injured like that, i really hope that you recover soon as you are a great martial artist and helped to open the eyes of a lot of people.
Thank you for sharing. I'm really glad to hear the channel was helpful to you!
Rokas I'm really happy to hear that you're recovering well. There are many things you can train that wont destroy your body and allow you to continue to train.
My training partner had an internal injury and had to have surgery. After his recovery he took up Tai Chi. Not that in the park stuff but martial Tai Chi. It helped him recover and also remain in the martial community. He's a bad bad man now. I wish you well.
Great video. So sorry this happened to you. Very glad to see you're making good progress in your healing.
Just when my mum asked me if Martial arts are safe... thank yoy for encouragment😂😂😂
Haha 😄 Well, I mean, everything is dangerous to some degree. Riding a bicycle can also lead to injury. My lesson here though was - to choose your training partners carefully and to not push yourself too hard. I think that would have led me to much less injuries over my martial arts journey.
only educated martial arts are safe, meaning that you know about the risks like concussions and sports injury. Like knowing how to diagnose, prevent, treat in first aid etc. Jesse enkamp for example has video prehab. And having a good trainer that restrains and interferes is a safe sport, if you go on alone without knowing what you do then it probably not gonna end well
the golden rule of mma is always protect yourself at all times, which means you must know what can happen and see to it in your own responsibility to prevent it. Sometimes this might even involve people that you angered having fixed gloves that can destroy bones etc.
I think there are videos about Joe Lewis, gabriel varga, superfoot wallace feature it a bit. i think even rokas has video himself on Fighting IQ Is Superior To Power and Speed • Ft. Bill Wallace
tell your mom the quote of cuz d amato (trainer of mike tyson) > gotta be clever, gotta be smart and not get hit, if you are able to do this then you are a fighter. < Thats probably the only reason why tyson is still alive and kickin after so many fights against really incredible opponents. He spend thoughts to basically everything and had people taking care of him in the process.
Hope the recovery continues to go well and looking forward to season 3.
Rokas, I'm so thrilled that you are back!
I truly hope you be happy in any path you choose.
I am learning so much from your experience. Thank you for sharing the journey with us.
After 50 years of martial arts, I’ve had 6 knee operations, and two knee replacements. For me, still worth the experience. I wish you the best on your recovery
Thank you for sharing.
This would be a great opportunity to explore what traditional martial arts has to offer like Okinawan karate or Kung fu, where the focus is more on forms / kata. I feel it has more of an emphasis on the "art", which may be a valuable outlet.
A great Karate school will accept a person's limitations and adjust training either until they're back to full strength, or until they know what that person CAN do.
Karate focuses on natural movement, so nothing should hurt beyond the natural "I've exercised" level of pain.
I feel like there might have been a target on your back because of your online presence and some people out there might just be interested in hurting you. I hope that wasn't the case, but it is something on my mind. I wish you all the best.
Was literally my first thought. 🤨
Why else would someone perform a scissor? Only to look cool imo :(
It was probably just some martial arts bro that thought he would look cool doing it, no need to make up some weird fantasy and make the guy an actual villain that wanted to hurt someone on purpose. Most people aren't psychos, don't get too conspiracy brained.
@@im1fadedRob "I would love to fuck [martial arts youtuber] up" is, unfortunately, something I have heard a lot in the places I train. I hope that it wasn't the case, but it was a notorious move known for causing a lot of damage and we haven't heard the other side of the story.
@@im1fadedRob
If he had the ability execute it to such devastating effect, then he's been doing BJJ long enough to know better.
Thank you so much for sharing. I have some similar scars. Broke both legs in a motorcycle crash, surgeries on both legs. I had been teaching a high-school martial arts class before the wreck, and it one of the biggest things for me in the recovery was how emasculated I felt. Like many guys, I occasionally will daydream about fending off attackers (fighting off the ninjas or shooter or whatever with objects lying around the room). The thought of these random attackers didn't stop during my recovery, but in all of the daydreams, I lost and was helpless. It was the first time I felt helpless and dependent as an adult. Like you, I am now able to walk and train again, but this taste of weakness and vulnerability has made me much more cautious (no more motorcycles, at least until the kids are grown). Martial arts was largely a power fantasy for me before that point, and this was dispelled. I currently teach a free martial arts class at my church for fun and as a way to give back some of the health, focus, and mentoring I have been given through this practice.
Martial arts are a what, but it is the why that matters and the why that changes with maturity.
I wish you success in your journey.
I have a ridiculous amount of respect for Rokas.
To detail all of why would take a while so I'll summarize.
It takes a special kind of person to challenge their beliefs and themselves so often. It takes someone more special to do it so openly and honestly with the world.
Thank you for posting your martial arts journey for us to see.
Great example of growth mindset as always Rokas!
Thank you for sharing your story.
A couple months ago, my pancras teacher was teaching this move.
I told him not to show it to the beginners as it's too dangerous,or at least show another safer variation.
I got kicked out of class since, and he injured his uke who was a 16yo beginner.
Damn
Man this kind of thing needs to be publicized
As someone, who has had multiple knee surgeries and is now in his 40s, I have now the exactly attitude towards martial arts as you described it: I'm a hobbyist and only train for fun an fitness (doing Muay Thai currently). Staying healthy is now my most important thing, I have a family now and I'm definitely not doing ego contests with the young lions in our gym. Therefore, I do light sparring only which is not negotiable. It's just sad, that you have these problems now because of an overzealous training partner. Some guys in martial arts unfortunately have huge egos, are reckless or just idiots. I avoid to train with them if possible.
Your dog is your guardian angel, it's good you have such excellent company while recovering.
Hello Rokas, I'm sorry for your injury, it must has been tough. I think you really love martial arts and should continue doing it, even if it become more like a hobby.
I trained in traditional martial arts (ju-jutsu-aiki-jutsu) for more than 10 years, then 3 years in MMA as a recreational practicionner (1 or 2 times a week) and never got seriously injured (it never stop me to go at the next training, worst time was a black eye). May be I was lucky, but I think with good consciousness of your body and by refusing to sparre with some few people, you can even go a little hard without injuring yourself.
Best support from France ! I can't wait to see the next season of self-defence championship !
Nice transition into the ad read, that was slick.
Best of luck for your recovery ! You're right, nothing deserves to put your health on the line.
Bro, this episode is prophetic. In one year of mma training I have a Meniscus injury in my left knee, MCL injury in my right knee, Turf toe in my left big toe and a weird pain in my left forearm defending an arm-bar. I really enjoy going to the club, the people are great but my body is taking strain. I still want to play with my seventeen month old daughter too.
Hey Rokas. You really deserved for an emotional refreshement period at least. I think you can go as your passion goes here, without overpushing yourself. And personally I think that you already proved your skills in good and actual fights and sparrings. Btw, your video about summarizing your trip from Aikido to amateur MMA was one of the most intesresting I have ever seen in Martial Art youtube-segment. So, all the luck here. I would say that your interest will resurrect when it is time.
Bro you are a warrior. All the best in your recovery!
I had no idea that you went through this! I’m praying for you bro that your body and your mind will continue to heal. You’re doing great and I hope that you will continue to be patient with yourself. Thank you for continuing to come up with great ideas for the martial arts community!
Just wanted to say im glad to see you recovered so well man. And while its nice to see you back doin martial arts... stay safe
Congratulations for your channel! I know you since you were doing aikido. Your journey on martial arts is amazing. I hope you the best and hope you recover fast! Sometimes things happen for a reason. You do t have to prove anything! Martial art is a huge part of your life and of what you are! After i broke my hand in kickboxing i never went back to the gym after many years of training. I took a break and i realised that its not for me anymore im 38 also. Now i train my body only in healthy ways and never push any further. Nothing is more important tha our health guys! Love yourself and do what is best for you! Greetings from Greece!
ánimo hermano, te deseo una completa y pronta recuperación. Saludos desde México
Hey rokas, thank you so much for the since video, I am really glad you were able to recover as much as you did. I even feel bad making this nitpick, but you should have talked about your wife more. I know you probably know this, and I saw the text you included, and maybe I am missing something because I don't know you guys personally, but from where I am standing. you should have been more vocal about it. You are really lucky to have someone who supports you at your lowest, most people dream of that.
Rokas, I have much to tell you (I'll try to keep it brief). It`s great to see you back in shape, you have been pushing yourself to the absolute limit all this time... and the worst part is someone else ruining it by beign an imbecile. Luckily it seems that your body is gifted with great healing (aside from all the hellish work you put in to it), and all that training you have been doing it really paid off (you have the body of an athlete with its metabolism, after all).
Injuries that big are like big bad monsters you will need to learn to live with (I have some seriously injured cervical vertebrae too)... live your life and enjoy your body... take care of yourself and only push far when you feel like it`s really worth it !!!
We spend all that time training and builiding, and then we forget we are supossed to enjoy what we have built ! Hugs from Argentina !
Rokas you constantly amaze me. Truly an inspiration! You take on adversity and comeback stronger! I will show this video to my bedridden mother whose lost the use of both legs for five years. She will be rooting for you too!
Good luck to you. Still rolling after 2 ACL surgeries, one meniscus surgery and 1 shoulder surgery. You will need to adapt your game, but it's not all bad. Injuries will force you to be a more thoughtful martial artist and a better technician.
Glad your recovery is going okay, brother. Keep building up that slow stable strength. A lot of the older masters hit the same point in their journeys when age or injuries make you shift from speed and athleticism to balance, isometric strength, and structure. I've also been going back to some Tai Chi and Aikido exercises/drills while making sure my BJJ rolling is based on strategy and proper structure. It's definitely helped me to be far more efficient and less injury prone.
Wow, what perseverance...thank you for all that you do Rokas! You've been and continue to be a massive inspiration to so many of us...we're with you
Amazing to see your recovery. I know after my knee op (no where ear as bad as yours) I had similar doubts and feelings. It basically came down to a fear if being reinjuried.
I wish you all the best with the rest if your recovery and the journey you take from here
Sveikas, Rokai. Labai malonu, jog populiarini kovinį sportą pasauliniu mastu ir jį detaliai analizuoji. Tikrai didžiuojuosi, jog mano tautybės žmogus vykdo tokį žygdarbį. Apgailestauju dėl traumos. Didelė pagarba, jog grįžti į kontaktinį sportą po tokios rimtos traumos. Pats asmeniškai jau turiu antrą kelio traumą užsiiminėdamas koviniu sportu. Esu reabilitacijos etape. Po truputį atsistatinėju ir manau neužilgo galėsiu grįžti į savo seniai pradėtą sporto kėlionę.
Ačiū! Sėkmės reabilitacijoj ir tolimesnėse treniruotėse!
Glad to see you back on the mat, and training again! I wish you a great recovery! Stay strong brother
I took 24 years off after a judo injury- broken collar bone. I too was aggressive in pursuit of some perceived master skillset when this happened.
Currently I train in shotokan and I take my time. I train for the long game of being healthy and enjoying the process. It did take 24 years to get back into martial arts for all the reasons you stated in this video.
I'm glad you're healing and processing life.
Cheers.
Wish you the best from Australia 🇦🇺 No matter what well keep watching your journey wherever you go from hear, heal up well brother
We all go through this same journey, those of us who did competitive or high level sports….Dancers,hockey players, gymnasts, etc….We all got beat up bodies and need to in later life tone it back to hobby level or quit entirely. Glad to see your embracing the hobbyist. Nothing wrong with that. Longevity is what matters.
Send you all the love from germany brother. Sounds like the injury put things into perspective. Your self defense challenge also kind of proved that being the best in the gym is not the be all end all when it comes to self defense. So focusing on your fitness and health is an equally valuable goal. Hell, self defense and Martial arts without your health is nothing. Have been through something similar, so again much love and respect to you pulling through like that.
Glad that you're recovering! Stay strong, but also keep it easy on yourself.
Sorry to hear about that. I hope you get back to 100% soon.
Love your content!
OOOS!
Sorry to hear about your injury. Got quite much injuries myself from MMA and BJJ so it is pretty easy to relate. You have now been in "jutsu path" and if you want still continue with Martial Arts there is still the "Do path" of Martial Art journey. Get well and healthy!
Have a good recovery. Can't wait for the season 3. Love from France
The subtitles about the wife was so sweet lol
But not sweet enough to just record a 10 second snippet in the editing room saying that, rather than relying on 1 second of text?! :)
I am so glad you are recovering well. I hope your healing and recovery continue to go well. I wish you and Gabby a safe, happy, and blessed holiday season. Merry Christmas and happy new year.
Great to hear someone talk about this subject in such a honest and adult way. All the best to you!
I'm so glad you feel better! Still makes me angry how this guy broke your leg. I wish you can fully recover from this.
Everyone is being mean to Tai Chi for not being effective enough, but now might be the time to take a look at the gentle side of Martial Arts.
Good luck with your journey!
I agree. The big lesson I'm taking away from this is unless it's your career to fight and win, martial arts aren't about effectiveness. Enjoy the process of learning and perfect the art. It really doesn't matter if you could beat up this or that guy. With some rare exceptions, you will never need to actually practice self defense.
Therefore, the founder of Aikido invented the arts. But people mock Aikido say it does not work.
Damn, Rokas... This is one hell of an injury. I hope you continue recovering so well until you are a 100% back to normal again. Stay strong
Glad to see you giving us an update and more importantly, glad you are healing quickly.
I hope you can continue martial arts, perhaps not so hard and competitive, and maybe not solely for fighting, but the work you did to help facilitate truths about martial arts and the production and filming you did to get the self defence championship the exposure and popularity it deserves was absolutely a joy to watch, and I could tell you enjoyed it too (when someone enjoys their project, it comes out in their craftsmanship).
Hey Rokas I hope you are getting well, keep doing your rehab and keep your heads up, man. Best wishes for you and hope that you can resume the pre-injury life as soon as possible
Hi Rockas, I’m sorry to hear about this difficult experience of yours. Sometimes life has unique / creative / sometimes painful ways to align ourselves with our true purpose in life. Keep pushing brother. Great things will come. Like Einstein says once, life is like riding a bicycle, in order to keep your balance, you must keep moving forward!!! God bless you brother!!
Glad to see you're having a good recovery! The mind gets hurt also and that is pretty hard to deal with. I've always been afraid of getting injured like that (again... broke my fibula and torn a ligament in the ankle in Aikido, believe it or not... got surgery and pins also). Stay healthy, Rokas!
It takes a lot to come back after an injury of that severity, good for you for coming back, and good luck to you.
Glad to see that you have recovered somewhat and thought your life through. Wish you to get back to full health and succeed in production, because the first two seasons of the self-defence championship were a blast.
Hey, nice to hear from you again!
I'm not used to leaving comments on videos, but I have in past videos of yours, as I'm doing it now, because of how much of an inspiration your journey is for me, and for many others around the world.
Whatever you decide to do regarding martial arts is okay, as long as it is what you really want and is fulfilling.
Finally, i just wanted to remember you that your videos and your journey have inspired me, in spite of being a 16-year-old in the other side of the world (Argentina), and I hope you can go on with your life and martial arts journey in the most pleasent, safe, and healthy way!
Regards from Argentina
(PD, you're my favourite martial arts content creator)
I had a severe knee injury from a seemingly innocuous fall, it took me out of judo for a year and wrestling for nearly three. Hell I am 21 and have been reliant on a cane since the age of 13, but I am fortunate enough to be a collegiate wrestler and competitive judoka. It is really hard to adapt to the limitations from injuries. I hope you fare better than I did.
Glad to hear you are recovering well. As someone who is older and still practices, I think you are asking good questions. Questions that are easy to neglect when we are younger. Regardless of where the answers take you, it’s still all part of the journey. :)
You will always impress me even more than I would have expected! You are and always have been a warrior at heart, searching the truth and putting this much effort in your way despite the challenges! In many ways a rolemodel
I love seeing your work on and out of the mat. Take good care of yourself and enjoy life as much as you can.
I'm very glad to see that you are going way better. Damn, first long covid then this injury, you are stockpilling it.
100% agree wuth wath you say in the video, don't push too hard, keep martial art as a hobby, take it easy, and continue to deliver us the terrific content of the USCD !
Glad to see you're recovering!
Producing events sounds like an excellent career choice.
Such a comprehensive video, and for that I thank you.
Tbh i was surprised how much of an ad this video was, but I'm happy that your recovery finally seems to be going well!
I’m so glad you’re back Rokas!
Congrats one your continued recovery!
And that’s why I went from mma to almost no contact capoeira. To preserve the fun and minimize risk. All the best to you, Rokas!
That's what a real fighter looks like! Good job keeping the moral and doing the best you could to recover faster. It must have been really hard. You really are talented to orchestrate great event like USDC, really looking foward for you projects! Hope you make a total recovery fast and that you are able to enjoy martial art in the way you want. Cheers mate!
Glad to hear that your leg healing is well.
Whatever you decide to do from here on out, I just want to say that it has been quite a journey and I am grateful you took us along.
Really great to see you back on the mats Rokas. I've been struggling with the same themes myself. Regarding the knee, I've been pretty happy with the Bauerfeind knee braces. Just the right amount of support and cushioning for rolling. Keep it up...
I think you practicing mostly for fitness and fun is good, you can still learn a lot of technique from it while going easy. I hope you recover well and become able to fully enjoy martial arts again 👍
I've watched you for years and followed your entire journey and loved your content. The Self-Defense Championship is an awesome experiment and so entertaining! Think of this as an evolution or change to your path and not the end. I'm mad impressed at you even getting back onto the mats after all that, wow. Your questions about "what am I trying to prove?" and the intensity-level of your training is valuable. At 37 and considering wanting to get back into training again, I have to think along those lines as well.
I hope the BJJ community can use your unfortunate accident as a way of policing the use of Kani Basami/Scissor-Leg Takedown the way the Judo community does. Because what your training partner did was highly irresponsible. He shouldn't have even had the remote thought of trying that technique at all.
Glad to hear you are on the mend.
I have nerve damage too from prolonged injury, I've been back in the gym most of this year and guys like you motivate me to keep going. 💪
I'm in a similar but not as severe boat. Getting injured way more often at open mats due to stupidity. Dealing with way more freak accidents than I have in my other 4 years of training. It's frustrating and scary. Stories like these make me greatful i've never had a SEVERE Injury, but it puts it all into perspective that it's a possibility.
So proud of how you worked consistently to recover Rokas
Yes do more production but wishing you all the best.
Could even do a bit of boxing since that can still feel strong but not need as much complex leg stuff
Also I think your wife being so supportive is the major key to the recovery. Rooting for you all the way 😊
Thank you for your update, i wondered about you a couple months ago
I'm 39 days from a total knee replacement and it may be the end of my martial arts journey... as I know it.
Hell I'll do Tai Chi if it's all I can do, but the physical challenge and other physical and mental health benefits I get from MA will keep it at the top of my list.
I re-started karate decades after my teen years doing judo for fitness and health and it's done that for me. I added BJJ for some fun and fitness and to round out skills amongst friends.
Post surgery I'll have new limitations and I have to be OK with that.
For 2025 Martial Arts for me will be for rehab/recovery.
Come 2026, I'll find a new focus.
I hope you too find your new focus and you're right, you are a great motivator, innovator and we'll continue to enjoy your contribution to the world of martial arts media.