Combat sports have become more popular than ever in Beijing. So much so, that there is now an annual match at Beijing’s central business district called Shuangjing Showdown, which combines a variety of mixed martial arts like Boxing, Muay Thai, Jiu-jitsu and more.
Miranda Zhang, female boxer who has been training for two years
And it's not just for men.
"I think boxing is a passionate sport. I like its energy and positivity. Girls are not that different from guys," said Wu Yanyan, a female Boxer who has been training for two years, "With my boxing skills, I dare to walk alone at night. I feel safe.”
Wu Yanyan, Miranda Zhang's opponent at Shuangjing Showdown
Wu Yanyan and Miranda Zhang, also a female boxer are fighting each other during the showdown.
"I've fought her before. So I'm not nervous," said Wu as she warmed herself up for the fight.
After three rounds of fierce fist waving and punching, the result came in: Zhang defeated Wu as the judge raised Zhang's arm to declare her victory
"I encourage all the girls to come and join boxing. It's super fun." Zhang said in a loud and happy voice in front of everyone.
"In terms of combat sports, we should be more inclusive. We can infuse Chinese Kung Fu with western boxing in order to better develop our country's Mixed Martial Arts." Zhang said.
"I think boxing and combat sports have certainly grown a lot in China. China needs this kind of thing. We need more Chinese fighters." said Justen Keefer, a U.S. Boxer who has been living and training in China for four years, "I'm excited to see what the future is like for China's boxing and combat sports."