I Tried The BEST Self Defense For Multiple Attackers

Since I became afraid and lost my confidence after getting attacked multiple times, I tried one of the world’s best self-defense systems and took part in some of their most intense tests, to see if it can help me overcome my fear of getting attacked and gain my confidence back.
Learn more about Andy Norman and Defence Lab here: www.defencelab.com/
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Welcome to the Martial Arts Journey KZbin channel!
My name is Rokas. I'm a Lithuanian guy who trained Aikido for 14 years, 7 of them running a professional Aikido Dojo until eventually I realized that Aikido does not live up to what it promises.
Lead by this realization I decided to make a daring step to close my Aikido Dojo and move to Portland, Oregon for six months to start training MMA at the famous Straight Blast Gym Headquarters under head coach Matt Thornton.
After six months intensive training I had my first amateur MMA fight after which I moved back to Lithuania. During all of this time I am documenting my experience through my KZbin channel called "Martial Arts Journey".
Now I am slowly setting up plans to continue training MMA under quality guidance and getting ready for my next MMA fight as I further document and share my journey and discoveries.
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If you want to support my journey, you can make a donation to my PayPal at [e-mail]
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Check the video "Aikido vs MMA" which started this whole Martial Arts Journey:
► • Aikido vs MMA - REAL ...
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#selfdefense #martialarts #fighting

[@cthulhu-jitsu7404]

Unpopular opinion, if you're facing 6 guys with knives, you're screwed regardless of training. No one will win that fight.

[@cahallo5964]

Give me a spear and a sidesword and I'd do it

[@Patrick-sh9tt]

Yep, the video is the height of delusion tbh. It’s like going back to the 90’s again listening to your mate telling you how his kung fu instructor beat up 6 guys in a street fight. Total b@llox.

[@zappersolo7588]

100 meter dash: hold my bear

[@dylan.-6527]

There was this video on Flippino martial arts, I saw awhile back. This dude faced against 5 dudes armed with knifes. He got out ( with FMA training and running). He still got stabbed in the abdomen, where he showed his scar.

[@zappersolo7588]

@@dylan.-6527 link sound cool

[@hdavis9856]

Nothing wrong with being afraid. Fear kept you alive. Being attacked by 5 people is an abnormal experience and your response to that was natural. You have also taken a very negative experience and turned it into a net positive experience which is pretty incredible.

[@joonasmukala8208]

Best case scenario your adrenaline spike works in your favor and you're able to run like a jack rabbit. Conflict would've been probably bad in an open area.

[@PaMuShin]

There is a big problem with fear, you tense up, you lose strengh and confidence. You can see same problem on a lower level with people afraid to socialise not looking at other people, maybe even missing the chance for situational awareness and get into dangerous situations. You can get some quality only if you let fear go, same reason the trainer of Mike Tyson hypnotized him to lose fear in fighting, look what he created, a champ like no other. On the other side, Cassius Clay began to lose after getting robbed by multiple attackers and lost confidence, basically the end of his career. Tyson came even back after beeing in prison with all this horrible experiences, which makes him in a way even greater no matter how much people are judging him.

[@zakosist]

Agree. It just shouldnt be so strong it makes you panic. COMPLETE lack of fear is even worse, you would basically lack the drive to both fight back and run, and just let it happen

[@KARATEbyJesse]

One of your absolute best videos Rokas! 👏 Keep crushing it my friend 🔥

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you so much Jesse!! KZbin stats don't t seem to agree with this statement at least yet, but your words mean a lot to me 🙏🙏🙏

[@nunninkav]

His editing and story telling has clearly leveled up. This one was fantastic, the edits, the montages, the voice over, all of it. Great art.

[@LambSauce.]

Karate Nerd does Defence Lab?! Lol would be a great video!

[@Dilzze]

Agree with you!

[@olivierdepryck5610]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZTCgJykdqeAfLs

[@deadmeatgames2]

I remember this talk with my dad when I was a young scared kid. "What if i lose?" He smiled and said "Do your best, but sometimes life serves you a s#it sandwich. Make sure you you bring your hot sauce." In other words. Beleive in what you stand in and be spiritually fit in case your best isn't enough.

[@lafielanarchy]

And prepare. I heard people put iun razors in their clothing so if somone tries grab and hit they get sliced. They made it so you dont get cut but criminals are.

[@JustinMcVicar]

My dad told me something similar when I was a kid, "mate, you're not gonna win all of them, but you can at least go down being the craziest fucker they've ever seen."

[@waefawawrgaw2835]

or your dad just meant to bring your heat aka a .45 lmao

[@kubikiribasara3499]

Or....he could have meant that you're not going to win them all despite your best efforts and the "hit sauce" is resting satisfied that you DID do all that was in your power physically and mentally to avoid and physically beat your enemy, just shy of killing him.

[@davereid-daly2205]

Out on the street your best has to be good enough, which means learning to do things that are ruthless in a fight and being prepared to face up to the consequences when you do. Simply put, you may fight people that are stronger and technically better than you but they don't like excruciating pain and will back off immediately they experience it. If someone attacks you, damage them, give them so much pain and discomfort for the next 6mths that they never think of attacking anyone else again.

[@Schooley96]

I mean this in the sincerest way possible. you are like the Socrates of KZbin Martial Artists, because it seems you know that true wisdom comes from knowing that you know nothing and asking the tough questions to find understanding. I respect your humble approach to learning martial arts.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thanks you! Socrates approach is awesome

[@Starexe97]

A great video as always, Rokkas! A personal experience here: I am a doctor, currently working in an ER setting. One day, there was a rowdy psychiatric patient who was trying to escape. Problem was, I was in his way, and he took it that I was challenging him (which I was not, mind you. I was just standing around). He immediately went to a fighting stance. A bad one, but a stance, nevertheless. He kept pointing at me, shouting, "What's wrong, huh? Something wrong, huh? You got something to say???" (Was not a direct translation, but it was in Indonesian, and this was the best translation I could get). By that time, I already had some training of MMA (boxing, muay thai, and no-gi BJJ). I was like, "Wait, he is challenging me to a fight! What should I do???", then I was like, "Wait, I know how to fight! Calm down, damnit." So slowly, I transitioned myself to an MMA stance: feet apart front and rear, elbow tucked, and lower arms near my face. However, I modified my stance from the usual closed fists to open hands as if showing that there was nothing in my hands. "No, nothing sir, nothing is wrong sir." I looked like a helpless person, but an experienced fighter would realize that I was actually prepared as soon as he tried to hit me. The patient then immediately ran to the other direction (to my big relief). I then calmly lowered my stance and walked toward my peers, who were staring aghast. Soon after, the security arrived, and we put the patient to sleep with some drugs. I just wanted to highlight 2 things: 1) the most important aspect of fighting is actually the VIGILANCE, not the TECHNIQUE. An experienced street brawler with no technique can actually take down a fighter full of techniques but little to no experience. Usually, those people compensated their lack of techniques by using their raw strength and their surrounding objects and environment. Based on my experience, if I actually froze and did not get into my stance immediately, I might have got beaten down by a punch from that person. 2) you may remember that I commented in your knife fighting videos that I suggested running away when you see a knife (which you tackled in your next video). I just want to highlight to everyone here: do NOT engage in a fight, unless you are forced to do so! Fights are not like Hollywood movies (which I blame for this viewpoint) where you can easily evade every hit and come out the fight (almost) woundless. When you get into a fight, know that you WILL be injured, no matter how good you are. Now, if you are fighting against a knife? Remember, you will always get slashed or stabbed, no matter how good you are. The question is not "will I get slashed/stabbed?" but "how much will I get slashed/stabbed?". Granted, if you are protecting someone or yourself, you need to fight as you have no choice. However, if your attackers are just asking for your wallets, phones, or jewelries (which is true in most cases), I suggest just give it to them. No materialistic things worth your lives. In essence, try to avoid fights as much as you can! You have to highlight this more in your videos, Rokkas. As an MMA fighter myself, I only train in MMA to make fighting as my last resort. Realize how I was just trying to protect myself in my experience. Had he demanded something, I would have given to him (as long as it is something reasonable). Only fight if the alternative outcome is _worse_ if you do not fight at all, i.e. death. Well, that is all from me! Another thing, Rokkas. The statements "The only chance I can get is in Spain" and "Defence Lab has member all over the world" sound contradictory. Does it mean that the global members were not good enough to teach you? Coz that sounds weird coming from a martial art that promotes a fighting style for everyone xD

[@alvaroprietotorres4508]

The original style is named Keysi and this is a variant. Keisy was created in Spain by an Spanish. Good history doctor 💪

[@BugnOutLLC]

I have complete confidence in a .308 at a hundred yards.

[@Starexe97]

@@BugnOutLLC sorry, not American, no guns here xD we do have pepper spray tho

[@alisalman5917]

I’ve gotten into MMA for the same reasons! I live in Khartoum, Sudan and people here are so problematic and are always looking for a fight💀especially if you’re “innocent looking”. I’ve gotten into MMA since July but only started taking it seriously during December(where my progress actually started kicking). I first came cuz i wanted to “beat some ass and prove myself” but now i realise that i only want to use it as a last resort. Besides i’ve always been the type to avoid fights even when it meant people calling me a “pussy” or straight out disrespecting me.

[@Starexe97]

@@alisalman5917 good to hear, bro! There is a Chinese philosophy: “the greatest martial artist is the one who never need to fight”, accentuating how the more experienced a fighter is, the more that person understands how awful it is to actually fight.

[@ninjuhdelic]

Getting jumped is just a different experience all together. As a multi jumped survivor myself I feel you. Despite having training, unknown unknowns exist. Glad you made it out.

[@deadmeatgames2]

Yeah it sucks. Glad you made it out as well

[@yeout4386]

@@deadmeatgames2 i was attacked as a kid never reallygot over it

[@deadmeatgames2]

@@yeout4386 yeah started for me as a teen,as well. It's rough to lose that innocence. I used it to become more aware and capable so my family and friends didn't have to suffer it. You survived it you didn't do anything wrong. It will always be with you but how you use it is up to you.

[@FlyingTigersKMT]

Why you always getting jumped?

[@ninjuhdelic]

@@FlyingTigersKMT racism, stupid kids who dont like when you are smarter than them, beating ppl in games, boyscout racism, helping a friend get revenge on a rapist. one was my fault cuz at the time i pulled a sword on some dudes smoking weed by the apartments i lived at.They caught me later unarmed. The D.A.R.E program and training to be in the marines had me wild at that point in life tho so i deserved that one.

[@walkingwithgiants1]

Thank you for all the wonderful content that you produce. In the future, whoever has you as a teacher shall be blessed.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you! I appreciate the kind words 🙏

[@kevinstiles3747]

I am so proud of you. You are doing a great service for everyone. Cutting through the crap, sharing your fears and doubts and continuing your journey and sharing it with us. Kick like a mule bite like a crocodile.

[@IAmAleksha]

I have a bit of history with Andy Norman and Justo Dieguez who were the two originally behind KFM - Keysi Fighting Method, of which Defence Lab is an off shoot from. I trained with an ex-Keysi instructor who made his own school from the system back in 2017 until November 2019 when the school closed down. I never did Defence Lab, but the core of it are the fudamentals from Keysi which is to guard your head with the Pensador (thinking man) and move your forearms to block the brunt of an attack. Against an untrained opponent, or two, you could block a fair few strikes in a pinch that way, as well as retaliate yourself. I ended up with a Yellow grade in Keysi, studying for roughly two years, and a lot of the core striking techniques and self defence stuff continues to be useful in some situations out in the street. It's not an encompassing system, you'll still get hurt likely if you're attacked by multiple people as I have been, but it'll save you from being knocked out or worse. What I found the most useful was moving with the guard to check strikes. Even though I now train BJJ, I'm thankful for the time spent training the system. Thanks for shedding light on a lesser known martial art which meant a lot to me.

[@captainkirk7513]

hm Where you exposed to real strikes to the head though? i mean a person throwing a punch full force at you?

[@IAmAleksha]

@@captainkirk7513 No, not quite. When I went for white grading, it was purely being slapped with a pad in the head, but my yellow grading was against people wearing 4oz gloves but they weren't going all out.

[@bombapow]

instead you couldve learned a functional martial art

[@allan459415]

Great Video as usual. As a BJJ student, multiple attackers has always been my worst nightmare. I’ve heard of the defense lab and Keysi from a colleague and how effective it is but I saw a lot of negative trolls on the internet that put me off. But I guess there’s some value in most of the systems that can be effective under circumstances. I don’t have access to a lot of these systems here in south India, thank you for making these videos that educate us about the reality of these modern arts.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you 🙏

[@davereid-daly2205]

Don't be put off by what others say about the fighting system that you are training in. Just train hard and fight other fighting styles as much as you can, then you will soon figure out what doesn't work for you and what does. There are great fighters across all the styles and like wise there are many bad instructors that couldn't win a fight against an eight year old.🤣Pick your your teacher carefully. From what this guy is saying in this video is that he trained with a teacher not a fighter, bad luck to him. But to measure all martial arts as inferior to this, is simply being dishonest.

[@allan459415]

@@davereid-daly2205 Well said, I used to practice TKD and Karate earlier during my college days, a lot of people started trolling those systems. Now I found a legit BJJ school here (actually the only school) and people are already talking about how it doesn’t work as you shouldn’t take people to the ground and then there’s multiple attackers scenario. I’ve sort of come to a conclusion to keep getting better at what I’m doing now and figure it out on my own. I guess this is my journey now.

[@davereid-daly2205]

@@allan459415 Fighting multiple people is always hazardous. The Systema community always go to the ground and have some innovative solutions for street fighting. My style and preference is to stay upright, although I can work from the ground if I must. I love the fact that everyone posts their techniques on line, because I get to see all the new innovations and what I might come against on the street. It helps me stay sharp and ahead of the curve...

[@VenturaIT]

Listen to what some of the actual Gracies say about the difference between sport BJJ and self defense BJJ... they are not the same thing and many or possible most BJJ schools don't teach the self defense BJJ. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m2mZZZyQadh1brM

[@RAPEDBYBLACKS]

Have to say, respect for opening up and sharing what MANY men feel inside. Many of us are here because we have been hurt in some way and doubted ourselves (still do). We are looking for something to ‘make it right’. I know i wouldn’t have the confidence to share my inner weakness with the world like you have. That’s perhaps the biggest sign that you have overcome.

[@Covrage]

I was in an institution because of my anger issues growing up. I got attacked alot there and was forced to defend myself. when I got out I learned martial arts and it taught me to defend myself properly and control my anger. Thank you for this video my friend. 🤝👊

[@yoyofanatic1224]

I have immense respect for you Rojas, the honesty with which you talk about fears in public is some of the hardest shit I've ever seen and inspiring.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you 🙏

[@paulmcbride9139]

Thanks for making this video! I’ve seen at least one video that was highly critical of Keysi in particular, in which the KZbinr did the usual “it’s not pressure tested” line, blissfully unaware that Keysi and Defence Lab have multiple attacker strsss tests in every class…I know, I remember how tough it was when I did it(you did great). I think a lot of the critics are going off what they’ve seen in the training videos rather than an actual class. What you filmed is what my experience of Keysi was like.

[@pyramidiot2283]

It's hard to believe this isn't an old martial art, the table manners and thinking man are so 'logical' why hasn't someone formalised this into an art until now? Impressive stuff Rokas, great video. (edit) - Sweet thumbnail too.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you! I really appreciate it 🙏

[@moltascarlsson6394]

I was thinking the same thing! However, I do believe there are similiar elbow techniques in some styles of gong fu. Of course, in most of those styles there are different problems, but I do think that this is more of a redisocery than an invention. Not that it is any less significant by any means. This looks fantastic and I would honestly want to try this myself!

[@samlecoupe1309]

It reminds me of Baji Quand elbow style, and Keysi fighting system used by Christian Bale and Tom Cruise in certain movies. Take Care of you, From France.

[@zber9043]

It looks a lot like Yang Mian

[@johncasarino5627]

@@moltascarlsson6394 some forms of mauy boran are like this, as well as the most well known indian martial art (forget the name, begins with K)

[@BatCaveOz]

The World's *best* self defense system is Detroit Urban Survival Training (DUST) as taught by the legendary Dale Brown. 👊

[@MartialArtsJourney]

No question 😎 Of course Master Ken is somewhere close too

[@kingartifex]

its the smart intelligent option for those who want to increase their survivability

[@GiangoPT]

How to eat doughnuts properly

[@mellonhead9568]

Intelligent options for increased survivability

[@pieguymcduck8600]

For sure

[@skyfistoflight]

Thanks for continuing to share your journey. You are not the only one out there who got into martial arts due to trauma.

[@mark9104]

What strike me on more than one occasion was your honesty in facing your own shortcoming and fear, not something you see everyday in someone who trained a long time in martial art. Kudos to you!

[@Kris-ym2zr]

Hats to you for your journey and sharing it in a way that can help others. I like the idea of training for fights at tables and against multiole attackers.

[@NeilBlanco]

Wow that was great Rokas! It really goes to show you that there is a world of difference between training in martial arts (whatever the art) and an ACTUAL fight for your life. Keep owning your journey brother... ✌

[@Damo1981]

I always enjoy your approach to martial arts. It seems we've led similar paths in search of the ultimate fighting/ self defence system and to face our personal demons. Well done mate. All the best with your journey. I hope you find what you're looking for.

[@brycekeeney4995]

Great stuff in this episode. Can't wait to see you try it in your Self defense competition

[@VivRT96]

As usual, an awesome journey you had the curtesy to share with us, thank you very much for that and keep up the good work !

[@CamejoJesus]

I've been following your channel for a long time and I really identify with your experience. I grew up in one of the most dangerous cities in Latin America and had similar experiences with street crime. Bro, some advice is that fear is not going to disappear completely unless you treat it with psychological therapy along with your training. Best wishes and may the journey continue.

[@warhawksmemories3071]

Still amazing to watch your journey. Fear is annoying no matter how much you train. For me going to the ground is scary so I'm working on that as well as stand up a bit. When talking to a few people they all said work on your strengths and get good at it. Can't wait to see what's next

[@wolveschangerivers4339]

Mate I love your honesty in your videos. You seem like a great guy. I understand how you felt. Doing martial arts is my life and I trained Keysi for years and it definitely has helped me in my life. I've trained with Justo and was one of the best things I've ever done in my life. Love your videos. Good luck on your journey.

[@jonathanmarkov1741]

In Somatic Experiencing, a trauma therapy modality, there’s this concept of titration: slowly exposing yourself to your trauma to work through it without getting overwhelmed by it. What Andy is doing here is good work.

[@captainkirk7513]

i dont think that is neccessarily how this works A soldier who gets PTSD doesnt go through his war scenarios over and over again while exposing gradually

[@jonathanmarkov1741]

@@captainkirk7513 trauma is not about the event, it's about how the event still lives inside your body. The way I understand trauma therapy, as someone who's been in it for several years now, is that it's general intention is to slowly expose yourself to triggers, memories, and sensations that are related to the trauma in a safe (and informed) space for your body to be able to process it.

[@captainkirk7513]

@@jonathanmarkov1741 " to slowly expose yourself to triggers, memories, and sensations that are related to the trauma in a safe (and informed) space for your body to be able to process it." Exactly and not the event itself. nor the resimulation through reanactment

[@jonathanmarkov1741]

@@captainkirk7513 I hear what you’re saying better now. It has me thinking about whether or not this training method would be a good idea for people who were severely traumatized in such a situation (or if maybe particularly sensitive individuals would benefit from a gentler approach). I’m interested in seeing how Rokas might fare in this over time and how his fear might be either released, unchanged, or worsened.

[@hurricaneseason073]

@@jonathanmarkov1741It would help, slowly. The difference was said in the video, you're not going out picking fights with randoms to see if this time it would be different, that's the definition of madness. You are, however, exposing yourself to the fear and doubts that the trauma created in a SAFE and CONTROLLED enviroment, one where you can meltdown safely, one where you can call quits. This will slowly, among with therapy of course, override the freeze factor. Freezing is a traumatic response and a very hard one to get out from, the important thing is to be able to think when you think you might be in a situation. Freezing stops your thought process and instincts. I believe that with time, self care, TONS of work and help you can gain your instincts back. I really liked how they expressed that the idea is to work with your instincts and not against them, so as you slowly feel them coming back, you gain some confidence in yourself, now you can trust your instincts again. I have not been beaten to a pulp, but i was attacked by more than one person before. My freezing started with molestation and then SA. I'm not scared of dying, i'm scared of having to survive, to endure more pain, of freezing again, of SA.

[@edennathenson5054]

Loving this more cinematic format !

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you! I decided to do my best to level up the effort I put into my videos... 😊

[@gusaraya5477]

Fear is your friend. It keeps you alive and sharp so long as it doesn’t control your actions. The trauma will pass if you pressure test yourself often. Flooding technique is the key. The keysi method is very clever and I like their emphasis on multiple attackers as most male attacks are done in groups. Makes sense you’d use elbows in a situation where you are overpowered. It’s always better to keep the attackers at a distance but if you can’t elbows can control the fight as my Sifu used to say. Great video

[@TourGuideNixon]

This was a beautiful video that I think speaks to most people who began martial arts. Thanks for all you show Rokas. Much love from Ireland.

[@busa4091]

You're doing a great job my friend. You have learned so much and treated us all to your journey so we may learn as well. Keep up the journey.

[@nerd26373]

We appreciate your content. Keep up the good work.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you!

[@VoidedTea]

I had similar experiences and fears in my adolescence. Interestingly, my solution always was to move to a safer place. And I did. 30+ years later no regrets (I am in my fifty’s now). It may sound cowardly but in reality it probably takes as much effort as learning how to fight. Prerequisites for a “safer place” are higher grades at school, higher education, higher paying job, so I had to work hard to get all that, and eventually I did. Also, having genetically a rather fragile bone structure, I knew that chances for me to become a good fighter are slim to zero, so I decided not to waste my time on it. Looking back at my life I am glad I did.

[@brucehillbillybarthalow3786]

Great Video,Appreciate the honesty you've been putting out there.

[@seankelly1291]

Your journey is such an inspiration. Please keep going. !!! And. Thank you.

[@XDWX]

Hey Rokas, excellent video. There is a fighting system called 52 Blocks that mixes boxing with dirty fighting tactics based on the creators experience in prison. I see some similarities here with the use of the elbows being a defense and attack at the same time.

[@mysticvisions9810]

After 26 years on a max unit, I can honestly say it can definitely be a very “real” school of self-defense. After years experience with Kenpo and Aikido, I had to relearn and unlearn a lot.

[@kamenwaticlients]

From personal experience growing up in the hood in BK NYC in the 80s and 90s I can say you are correct about the similarities. Rokas you should learn more about 52 Blocks/JailHouse Rock. It was one of the fighting styles Riggs used in Lethal Weapon movie from the 80s and it was used by Ludacris "fast and furious 9".

[@Santeria78]

@@kamenwaticlients Hey, then 52 hand blocks are a real thing. Excellent!

[@kamenwaticlients]

@@Santeria78 Indeed it is. I'm glad it didn't die with my generation. The later generations don't fight much anymore and don't have fair ones or fades these days. Weapons such as guns are way easier to come by now especially clean guns. Back in the day unless you were down with someone or had connections you had to spend a lot of money or went OT. If you didn't do that then you were getting a burner with bodies on it.

[@stevebb2915]

52 is stolen wholesale from silat/panuntukan and repackaged to the insecure who want an urban flavour. total bullshido.

[@jonjames5411]

Hearing this story has just confirmed what I have always been saying about martial arts. Many people do not know the difference between combative sports and self defence. There is more to self defense then just hitting people. It involves being street smart, self aware, knowing when to make the correct judgement in a dangerous situation. Many school and combative sports will never teach you this.

[@imthebestthingsinceslicedr5400]

Being aware of your surroundings and spotting trouble is the biggest thing people should think about instead of thinking their martial arts skill makes them invincible. Thats the big problem of most sport based martial arts system. They think on the streets people will follow fighting rules and not fight dirty

[@jonjames5411]

@@imthebestthingsinceslicedr5400 well said

[@TheFredmac]

I took Kuntaw for a college physical education credit in college in the 90's. The instructor focused on self defense not competition. Situational awareness, using anything available as a weapon, fighting from the ground or seated at a table, appropriate force, and how to break contact to get away. Over the years I have never used what I learned in a fight but the situational awareness has stuck with me.

[@oldtimeoutlaw]

Great vid on Defense Lab system. I’d like seeing and learning more of their techniques of their system. Thank you for your time and energy producing this great vid. Peace

[@hawkc31]

I feel like watching all your videos that I've been on the journey with you and as you're learning I am as well.

[@carlostakashima8804]

I really enjoyed watching this and how open you are about the process of learning and fears, mixed in with past traumas. It’s very honest and much more realistic than when some folks pretend to be super in control and act fearless. This makes me like your approach and thought process much more.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you!

[@gianandreagiacoma]

Your videos are always very interesting. It would be very helpful to see a comparison of the best self defense styles.

[@bushido2733]

Great video and a great lesson for us. Keep going Sensei. I hope someday our paths will cross and I will have the good fortune to gain wisdom from you.

[@ArnisRisingHFS]

One of your best videos so far Rokas, thank you for sharing your personal insights. You have come a hell of a long way.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you!

[@nunninkav]

Wow, what a piece Rokas. Great story telling and really good editing.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you 🙏

[@randomtvninja]

There's a lot of videos/forums about keysi and defense labs and not many are very positive, it's nice to see that you found something positive from this experience. Great video as always.

[@user-qp1yc3zl8i]

Rokas,You are capable and distinguished in all your topics and information about martial arts around the world. Thank you for all your wonderful and distinguished videos. I wish you prosperity

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you! 🙏

[@olegwiththeknowledge1729]

I never knew this happened to you, I was impressed by your journey and now even more! You are an inspiration man!

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you! 😊🙏

[@heavenly2k]

Damn. I also have been assaulted by random dudes in public before. And my karate teaching did absolutely nothing for me because I just froze. I was just 12 when a grown man punched me in my face and asked for my phone. You describe feeling uneasy just being around strangers you didn't know and I could relate a lot. I remember seeing strangers walking down the street and planning how I'd defend myself. I never had to, thankfully. But I still wonder. I've been in a much better place though. Ten years later and I don't live with that fear anymore, and it's not because I'm a master of any martial art but I'm just more confident in myself and the forces of nature. I wish you the best and I hope your trauma has been healing with time.

[@thezieg]

Same reasons I quit traditional Kung Fu. My road took me to hybrid systems and then to Krav Maga, and then to HEMA styles like boxing and wrestling. Now in my mid 50s with some serious injuries, I seldom go about unarmed.

[@drdan312]

Thank you for these videos. To see a normal person overcome fears and show us how it can be done is very inspiring. Congratulations!

[@handroids1981]

Absolutely. I think Rokas is one of the most important Martial Artist of this decade. _Because_ of his humility, caution, anxiety and honesty.

[@horaceholloway]

Rokas, this is an amazing video! You did a great job starting the story with the fear and doubt you were dealing with and then turning it into a positive and empowering journey and destination. People who are complaining aren't watching past the very start. Also, I found it incredibly insightful to learn details of what you'd gone through and get a deeper understanding of what your journey is about. You have such a great story! I can personally relate to losing all your confidence after a violent experience, as I experienced that myself, and this video showed and REASSURED me that I'm on the correct path as well. Non consensual violence IS NOT a "feel good" story, and I think that anyone who wants you to "happy it up" has never experienced what you've gone through. GREAT storytelling, and I felt the video played out like a film, with the victim turning the tables and triumphing at the end!

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you 🙏

[@chrisfletcher5270]

Hi Rokas, You might not remember me, but we met several years ago training Aikido in Switzerland; I was visiting from the UK at the time as an uchi-deshi for a month in Montreux, though, I may have still had hair back then 😅 I don't train these days, but I still keep an interest here and there. The journey you've been documenting in your videos is really inspiring; I was amazed at your transformation from when I last saw you! I regularly watch your videos, but this one was especially fascinating - I'm going to be looking for whether there are any links to the organisation in the UK, as I would like to get back into training /something/ again. Thank you for sharing your experiences, and keep up the good work!

[@piotrd.4850]

If somebody markets anything as "Best in The World" and others fail to ask "For what Purpose?" then something is .... WRONG. PS: First time First!!!

[@piotrd.4850]

Ramsey Dewey has great insights on martial arts, self-defence on streets etc. PS: no martial art helps against ambush with pepper spray.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

I definitely agree with you :) Also to put it on record, Andy and his team didn't say their system is the best. They were very realistic and humble about the limitations of any system including their own. Calling their system one of the best self-defense systems in the world is my statement :)

[@gingercore69]

@@piotrd.4850 Military units sometimes are forced to resist pepper spray or tear gas, and sometimes even try to do stuff like carrying someone out of a building, fighting someone or doing pushups or squats while breathing it... Closest thing ive seen in traditional martial arts was a ninjutsu gotonpo in wich you could use metsubushi, so people would throw powder into eachothwrs eyes and from that point, you decided if escaping or fighting, you had to do the mission, so it was not scripted as in "fight back" or "run" it was just something that could happen and you would have to deal with it yourself

[@piotrd.4850]

@@gingercore69 That's why militaries - at least more sane and reputable ones (British Army, USMC) still train obstacle courses, h2h fighting and bayonet. Also USMC also has the pepper spray test (I think) you mentioned ( any Marines, feel free to comment!). In short "train as you fight so you can fight as you train" - true since Roman legions. CONDITIONING (for given purpose) and CONFIDENCE BUILDING.

[@gingercore69]

@@piotrd.4850 fun fact, the mcmap used by the us marines is based in bujinkan... Even has the musha dori, wich is a technique that i have only seen in catch wrestling, mma, bujinkan and mcmap... But we know it was taken grom bujinkan because the guy who designed it is a bujinkan blsckbelt... And bujinkan is where those "mock missions where they might throw blinding powder to each other" happens...

[@camiloiribarren1450]

I’m glad Rokas has found what he needed to deal with this tough situation and was able to overcome his fear. That’s always the biggest opponent we have

[@adrianchineaamoros3230]

I admire your openness and honestly about the feeling of uncertainty and fear when it comes to self defense in real life. I truly appreciate the work you are doing, blogging your journey and I feel very inspired to restart my own. Thank you. This video and the one with the knife attacks on the self defense tournament are my two favorite. I think self defense systems should be trained in as real life simulated situations as possible. I am incerely wishing you for the best.

[@GluttonforPunishment]

I didn't know these guys still existed. Since this isn't really available in most of the world, all I can do is speculate. It seems like they have some good principles that would mix well with an existing base in striking and grappling. Pretty open to takedowns with that defense being so high but at least they keep a relatively low center so they can try to respond well. Plus, most street fights aren't like an MMA match with people shooting quality doubles/singles/high c's. I'd love to see you work with Ramsey Dewey in particular to go over the things you learned and hear his opinion on the techniques. He's a really thoughtful coach when it comes to systems like this.

[@icouldntthinkofagoodname.9296]

Hey, another martial arts KZbinr called Steven Strangles People actually heavily criticized this martial art,”I’m afraid Batman is a fraud.” I’ve always enjoyed your content and would love to see what you’d have to say about his opinion.

[@dlworksop3052]

I’ll answer that for you buddy Steven has no experience in Keysi or DL He has watched some vids and that’s it, he doesn’t know how it works l, how it moves or even understand it very well.. sadly that makes people like him a fraud as they are making stuff for likes, it’s like me doing a video on quantum physics saying it’s BS .. but I don’t know anything about it, but I watched a KZbin video.. he would I change his opinion if he actually experienced it! Fact

[@lawrenceshin2150]

Good video! Thanks for sharing!

[@jsg9575]

I look forward to your videos the most on KZbin! This was fantastic

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you so much 🙏🙏🙏

[@xFlow150]

Excellent video! This is definitely a reason why I have been avoiding self defense classes all together all my life, the fear of failure. The fear of getting hurt even if it sounds contradictory. It takes courage to face yourself and your deep rooted fears. Sometimes I find it best to accept those fears as I learn more about myself and know that some anxieties and some fears will always stay with me. You have my utmost respect.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Awesome! Let's push ourselves out of our comfort zones together :)

[@BacatauMania]

Great video!

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you!

[@averaham19]

Been subbed for a little over 3ish years and your production value has gotten SOOOO high it’s cool to see man keep it up!

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you! This is the video I invested most time and energy compared to any other video. I am happy to hear it was worth it. I will do my best to continue holding up the same level of production value :)

[@BMO_Creative]

This style combined with your Aikido and boxing! Man you gonna be even more amazing!

[@Liam1991]

I've looked into this system over the years. Andy seems like he understands violence, especially as he worked as a Bouncer. But I feel it's too niche for a self defense system. I think it would be good if you get ambushed, and don't have the time to do a traditional block and counter, you get with most self defense systems. I just feel a good self defense system should cover a broad range of scenarios. I will also say dealing with multiple attackers, you need to circle around them, and try to deal with only one at a time. Don't let them surround you. Also, if you're planning to do more self defense systems for your journey, I recommend looking into Lee Morrison and Richard Dimitri 😃

[@asharedo]

Yeah I don't understand why the guys using this system don't attempt to break out of the circle and instead just bounce around in between 4 guys trying to hit them on the head at the same time lol. Best thing you could do is break out of the circle and put them all in front of you, and partially blocking each other. Which is exactly what every person does in every video out there showcasing a real multiple attackers scenario live and unedited. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4urdYCel8h9rKM example. When chaos is going on, there's dim light and multiple people trying to hit the same target, chances are their strikes are going to be very inaccurate (they're unlikely to get a knockout blow on you right away), so you have a good chance of using wrestling skills to break away from them and position yourself with all opponents in front of you.

[@ricksterdrummer2170]

You got a good point, but you're forgetting that YOU don't dictate what happens in a fight. You say ''don't let them surround you.'' What if you're already surrounded before the fight has started? ''You need to circle around them.'' That's great. If you're in a big parking lot and not in a small hallway. Not to forget the fact that your opponents can move as well. If you move away, they'll follow. ''Try to deal with only one at a time''. How are you gonna do that if you're surrounded and getting punched by 4 guys at the same time both from the front AND back? This is what makes Defense Lab great. It's not about what you SHOULD do, but what you CAN do.

[@CynicalSnowflake]

@@ricksterdrummer2170 You're right, these guys always assume that the attackers will just stay frozen in place while you're trying to put them in front of you. If you're busy fighting one guy, there's nothing stopping the others from encircling you. Keeping them in front of you just doesn't work, period.

[@imthebestthingsinceslicedr5400]

Yup your attackers are not going to simply stand there and allow you to move to a spot that will be to your advantage. These opponents would also think how they can get to an advantageous position and will also try to outsmart you

[@imthebestthingsinceslicedr5400]

They also have the wrong mindset where they dont think about not putting themselves in that kind of situation just because they have martial arts training. Most important thing is to ba aware of your surroundings and know how to spot trouble before it happens, then if you got caught in a situation you have multiple attackers, why do you want to engage when you are clearly out numbered and think hey ill just line them up like Steven Segal then do my fancy moves. Why not immediately run for safety like similar to what Rokas did? If you engage on a street fight you have less time to react and so many unkowns that one should think carefully why would they shouldb put themselves to take unecessary risk thinking its a sport fighting match with rules. Have that mindset your martial arts makes you invincible is recipe to get you killed

[@augustasvolbekas2376]

Great video. Ačiū Rokai.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Ačiū! 😊

[@Simon-lj8bb]

This is hands down your best video so far. Thanks for opening up and sharing. I hope you find your way in the end.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you! 🙏

[@philpowell1162]

Thanks for your honesty

[@zeroethics3082]

I have trained Defence Lab for the last 2 years and I love it. I get frustrated when people who have never tried it, nor been victims of violence bash it. If you can get your head out of the TV violence/MMA space, and understand what real street violence looks like, there is real value in what they teach. I was happy to see someone try it and give honest feedback on the experience. Andy and Grek are such good dudes. Miguel is a beast. He's so handsome, yet terrifying, lol! I hope you stick with it. The journey just gets better! Proud of you my guy!

[@captainkirk7513]

i get frustrated with guys who dont do sparring and claim their stuff work

[@TheCooksTV]

I don’t know you personally but I feel like I do with your openness and vulnerability in your videos thank you so much for your constant courage to be who you are

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you 🙏 Means a lot to me

[@user-eb4iq2jw3y]

So happy for you. Sincerely. Thank you for sharing.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you

[@castro3336]

B.E.A.utiful upload. Keep climbing that ladder and finding ways to stress test yourself. The confidence will eventually follow. Cheers mate

[@soumyabratachakraborty3544]

Dude you brought back Defence Lab from the dead. Been soo long since I heard about it. It's cool to see Andy back killing it. Also you should try Urban Combatives they also provide top notch combatives stuff..

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Urban Combatives is definitely on my list!

[@ThorOdinson13]

From what I have seen from them they have been influenced by either KFM or DL as it looks very similar just demonstrated in a more aggressive manner. Definitely give it a go and see how they compare.

[@soumyabratachakraborty3544]

@@ThorOdinson13 yeah they use the keysi helmet guard when dealing with punching aswell. What they do so well than any other self defense classes is the pre-fight cues, descalation training, situational awareness and obviously their infamous and what they are know for are their pre- emptive striking

[@dlworksop3052]

All that exits in the above Ans it’s just as nasty but more fluent l, they just market and cater to a different audience .. these style sessions still exist in DL for the hardcore that want it

[@RCMproductions]

I've been in 3 real fights. All 3 were terrifying. In all 3 I forgot most of what I learned aside from basics, but somehow was able to power through the fear. I'm not a badass or tough person by any stretch, by the way, just VERY lucky.

[@TowerofAboveandBelow]

I liked and probably still like to fight. But I did get a taste of fear when my brother and I were chased by 15 other boys. I was laughing until I got cornered into a fence covered in branches, I couldn't climb thru all of that. Luckily they didn't do anything but give me a warning.

[@robinkamran4261]

Love your stuff man🙏

[@abumikail4046]

What an excellent video, thank you & congratulations 👍👍👍

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thanks!

[@hybridkarate4106]

My issue about this is the same about keisy fighting method (the inspiration of this one I believe). You go inside a very close quarters distance always....should you be there in the first place? ....

[@MartialArtsJourney]

We touched this question with Andy, I just didn't include it in the video. DL's approach isn't necessarily to always go in close quarters. It depends on the situation.

[@hybridkarate4106]

@@MartialArtsJourney nice to know. Thanks for the info

[@ronanthebadbrain]

Really happy to hear about this leg of your journey! I've slowly been watching all of your videos and I think you are pointing out some really important differences between martial arts and self defence. The vulnerability is honestly inspiring and I think shows some of the major gaps in the way we commonly think about self defence and fighting. It's worth noting that dipping into fight or flight mode and disassociating or 'blanking out' can be a symptom of PTSD which effects your nervous system. Looking at your nervous system could be an alternative entry point for working through some of this stuff as well. Healing from PTSD is notoriously slow and difficult. Gradually upping the intensity of triggers in a safe controlled space is referred to as exposure therapy and is commonly part of a larger therapeutic program. Anyways good luck and thanks for this really important story you're sharing!

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you

[@uspenskiimusic]

Thanks man! Your videos helped me a lot ❤ Going my way now 😊

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Awesome!

[@falco447]

I used to do KFM (Keysi Fighting Method) in Germany. Many years later, after not having continued it, I noticed that Justo and Andy must have broken apart (in some sort of schism) since one now called his technique Defence Lab while the one renamed it to Keysi. Do you know what exactly led to this separation and what are the exact differences between them nowadays? Also interesting to note is that their schools or dojos are never to be found in the same city at the same time. They seem to have agreed on who keeps which territory. In Berlin it is all Defence Lab now, while Moscow has the Keysi school.

[@LambSauce.]

You just inspired me to get back to training defence lab. Wow! I gave up trying to learn because I listened to others say how stupid and horrible it was but now I'm like why tf did I let their opinion influence me?!

[@MartialArtsJourney]

I think it's very important to make the final decision ourselves :) Glad to hear about your discovery!

[@captainkirk7513]

well maybe they had valid arguments? what were they saying?

[@LambSauce.]

@Captain Kirk basically saying how they would react if someone who trained defence lab did this or that. Basically saying how they would react to whatever move they did when in reality, you don't know how you're gonna react when you're face to face with something like this. They said it was ineffective, but if you get elbowed in the chest, limbs or head, you're not gonna be able to do much.

[@danielf.8409]

Great video, great edition and great story... you are great Rokas

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you Daniel!

[@garethpowell8943]

It's great to see you going down this path as well as spiritual and sport side of MA

[@piotrd.4850]

"Fighting is not about knowing how, but chosing to". BTW: there's self-defence school in Poland which kinda.... orchestrates street assault on trainee as semi surprise.

[@RamBro3]

I like that you actually tried it and got training from these guys. Armchair clowns are making videos bashing it and other systems they haven't even tried. This actually gives your opinion meaning and respect. Good job

[@s1r155]

Another great video Rokas. Thank you.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you! 🙏

[@brandonlee0071]

Beautiful video here, thank you for this one🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you

[@shadowfighter6445]

Should have worn a Batman shirt for this. This must have been a really cool experience. Thank you for sharing ☺️.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

I did have a Batman t-shirt around 😅

[@shadowfighter6445]

@@MartialArtsJourney Oh well, still a great video 😄.

[@PaMuShin]

He already wore batman socks, does this not count anything?

[@kevinsargent]

It's bizarre to me that you'd call anything in fighting the best when I see no evidence. Has a single professional fighter come out of this system? with the popularity of MMA surely there should be a Defense Labs pro MMA fighter.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

From what I know there's a Defence Lab BJJ champ, and Andy worked with some UFC fighters. In the end though self defense and fighting is related but not the same thing

[@dapro5002]

@@MartialArtsJourney who are they, if I may ask? Not judging, just wondering who they are

[@dlworksop3052]

We have trained my friend and UFC fighter in Nottingham ufc gym .. they wanted DL in the UFC or her manager and trainer did .. but only elements work as it’s based around stress and multiple people.. We have video, pics etc .. maybe one day it will be edited and come out, but covid hit !!! Any way after a full day with Andy and the ufc fighter who has trained DL with me and done a seminar they were blown away by what they saw .. two problems though !!! The fighter would have to immerse in it to get good as it’s slightly different .. and you’d need Andy !! Or some equivalent.. which is hard to find that has what the mma guys or girl needs.. often times a factor And DL is a global company and fairly new with enough on its hands .. also they made a MMA stem years ago But it never came out fully, this also had braulio Estima involved in the ground sections a bjj champ as it blew him away .. so it exists .. it’s just that time and things like this are a factor in realty

[@jaeyoungkang5951]

This is so cool!

[@dw4861]

Wow! really really good. Thanks guys

[@happy_pep]

awe and respect you have gained a subscriber!

[@JohnDoe-fz7hz]

awesome Video!

[@samroy2252]

I overcame fear not by choice. You have the courage to search for it! Keep it up, it's a never ending battle.

[@debronj624]

Thanks for sharing

[@JLneonhug]

Wow, well done. Thank you for sharing.

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you 🙏

[@Mike-mo1gq]

Excelent video, I love your channel!

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you!

[@jonghoonpark8050]

You're the best for confronting the old fears and trauma, and giving Defense Lab a try. I saw Andy Norman before, and he has a good point. Train the natural instincts, educate those very natural instincts. Weaponize the frightened person. Great perspective.

[@amaashelton]

I love how open and honest you are with your journey. Vulnerable. Inspiring. Definitely give Tommy Carruthers of Glasgow a look . Its JKD but really in its most simplistic form. I’m sure you’ve seen some of his videos on KZbin that has been posted and re-posted. The flashiness of his videos don’t really do justice to the simple form self-defense that he teaches. You can also connect with Thomas Marx of tommy’s IFO out of Germany. His KZbin is really starting to build a good following.

[@jerrydmann]

Well done. One of your best videos yet

[@MartialArtsJourney]

Thank you 🙏