Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on June 2012
Fancy getting lean in no time flat, learning some self-defense skills, competing in front of 400 cheering fans—and doing it all for charity?
Ginja Ninja Promotions is giving 16 Tokyo residents the opportunity to compete at Executive Fight Night 2012, in the Grand Hyatt Hotel Ballroom on Friday, November 16.
The black-tie event, held in Tokyo for the first time after others in Hong Kong and Singapore, is fighting to raise money for the Run for the Cure Foundation. Launched just over a month ago, the event is already filling up with corporate warriors, but there are still spots left—so you can still register by June 30.
No previous fighting experience is required, and both men and women are welcome, but you’ll need to commit to a training program to improve fitness, stamina, and crucially, fighting skills. Not everyone who applies will make the cut, and the 16 selected competitors will attend 24 training sessions transforming them from slack urbanites into hardened warriors. Upon completion, each will be ready to step into the ring and battle someone of similar size and ability in November.
“We’re thrilled to bring this event to Tokyo” says Nathan Schmid, a prominent Tokyo personal fitness instructor. “Our focus is on providing a safe, fun experience for fighters, and an entertaining night for all. Professional coaches with a wealth of experience will ensure everyone’s well prepared for their big moment in the spotlight.”
One of these coaches, Jan “The Punisher” Kaszuba, will fly over from Canada to ensure the fighters learn all the skills to compete successfully—and safely—on the big night.
Kaszuba spent some years in Japan pursuing his dream of fighting in K1. He is currently head kickboxing instructor at Tapout Training Centre in Burlington ON, Canada. Trained in the martial arts since 1994, Kaszuba’s competitive experience includes boxing, MMA, kickboxing, muay Thai, wrestling, submission grappling, Kyoukushin karate, Shidokan karate, San Da, and shootboxing. Don’t try and nick his wallet.
“I’m looking forward to helping the competitors get ready to throw down,” says the MMA veteran. “I can’t wait to meet them and get to work.”
However, The Punisher has a warning for aspiring champions. “No shortcuts, no excuses. My schedule is not for the faint of heart.” Apparently, they don’t call him “the Punisher” for nothing.
If you don’t want to get in the ring but want to attend, book a table and support your heroic friends and the Run for the Cure Foundation.
More info: www.ginjaninjas.com
