In a recent analysis of the viral incident involving Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Chris Bower in Auckland, New Zealand, prominent judo influencer Chadi has offered his perspective, suggesting the successful defense was achieved through fundamental judo principles known as Katame-waza (grappling techniques).
The incident, which occurred after Bower’s 23-hour flight to Auckland, involved an assailant demanding money. After unsuccessful attempts to get help from bystanders, Bower entered a coffee shop, where the situation escalated. The martial artist executed what many initially described as BJJ techniques, but Chadi points out these movements are deeply rooted in traditional judo.
“Every technique, whether it is katame-waza or Nage-waza, it’s all part of a wholesome system,” Chadi explained in his video analysis. He specifically highlighted the figure-four back control position Bower utilized, tracing its origins back to Kodokan Judo and its development by Oda Tsunetane.
The incident ended with Bower subduing the assailant using the attacker’s own flannel shirt, maintaining control until authorities arrived. What’s particularly noteworthy, according to Chadi, is how the situation demonstrated the effectiveness of basic grappling techniques in a confined space.
“The fundamentals will take you a very long way,” Chadi emphasized, noting that the context of the situation made katame-waza particularly appropriate. “They’re in a close space, everyone was a witness, no one was with the attacker… employing katame-waza in this context was very wise.”
And while Chadi appears to use a direct repost from Bowers’ account he does not mention his training or his name.
Katame-waza refers to the grappling techniques in judo, emphasizing controlling and pinning your opponent. It is one of the primary categories of techniques in judo, alongside nage-waza (throwing techniques) and atemi-waza (striking techniques, which are less emphasized in sport judo).
Katame-waza in judo is divided into three primary subcategories: osaekomi-waza, shime-waza, and kansetsu-waza. Osaekomi-waza, or pinning techniques, involve controlling your opponent by holding them down on the mat, with the goal of maintaining the pin for a set amount of time to score an ippon. These techniques rely on body weight and leverage to immobilize the opponent. Shime-waza focuses on strangulation techniques, aiming to apply pressure to the neck or carotid arteries, leading to submission or unconsciousness. Techniques like the rear naked choke and cross collar choke fall under this category. Lastly, kansetsu-waza, or joint lock techniques, involve manipulating an opponent’s joints, typically the elbow, to force a submission. Arm locks, such as the cross arm lock, are common examples of this category. Each subcategory plays a crucial role in a judo practitioner’s ability to dominate opponents on the ground.
Bower’s own recounting of the event highlighted his professional approach: “I’m a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, I’m a trained fig hter, I have control of the situation,” he was heard saying to concerned onlookers.
In martial arts communities there are many cases highlighting the overlapping nature of grappling arts and their practical applications. Chadi’s analysis serves as a reminder that many modern martial arts techniques share common historical roots in traditional Japanese systems.
