Sensei Joe Gladstone Ralejoe of the Ring Contact Fighting Arts (RCFA) Bhubezi Fight Club in Welkom attended the recent RCFA instructor training and meeting at Chazen in Parys, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead and focusing on preparations for 2025.
Instructors gathered to discuss key events, new opportunities, and the growth of martial arts within the organisation. The meeting was chaired by Shihan Gerhard Laubscher, national president of the RCFA.
The RCFA’s annual Arts Awards will take place in Pretoria in March, the same day as the Art of War Tournament. The event will celebrate the hard work and achievements of martial artists across all clubs, with four of the local students being nominated: Siyabonga Gina, Brandon Kelly, Gofaone Sebati and Steven Nkgadima.
The RCFA also announced that an international film would be made this year, showcasing the history and future of the organisation. Students from all clubs will be afforded the opportunity to be featured; and one standout fighter will be chosen as the lead, with the film following their training journey to the RCFA World Championships.
Due to the film, the RCFA World Championships has been postponed to 2026. This offers significant benefits, allowing new students the opportunity to qualify for the 2026 national team. It also provides time to prepare by training and certifying officials as judges and referees, ensuring the tournament meets world-class standards.
In addition, a documentary will be filmed later this year, offering an in-depth look at the RCFA’s unique style.
Furthermore, as a dedicated nature conservationist Master Joe Viljoen, founder and international president of the RCFA, will share his extensive knowledge of animals, highlighting how certain techniques in the style are inspired by the way animals attack and defend in the wild.
The RCFA’s vision for 2025 is to unearth new talent in and around
Matjhabeng and develop these students into future champions.
“We aim to inspire disciplined individuals through the sport of martial arts,” the RCFA states.
Contact the club on 078-714-2104, or send an email to bhubezifightclub@gmail.com.
