This past week I had the privledge and honor to train with Guro Jeff Davidson in Detroit, MI. Jeff has been studying martial arts since he was a teenager, specifically over 26 years training in the ways of the blade via Kali. One of Leo Gaje’s earliest students here in the US, a disciple of Tito Jun, as well as being one of the only westerners I have ever heard of who has trained in West African Wrestling, Jeff’s approach to the arts is unique and beautiful. I wanted to publicly thank him for his time and teachings. My Kali and grappling are better already!
He heavily reminds me of my CMA teacher Mike Martello who passed a few years back, to the point he nearly had me in tears a couple times with how similar the aire about them is. I have followed Jeff’s blog The Balisong Journal for years, why this trip home I decided to reach out… I am not sure. But I am sure of one thing and that is I don’t believe in coincidences. “No one finds me on accident” – Jeff Davidson
Though our time was brief I took away a ton from Jeff’s teachings. I can promise you will see more of him and his approach in the future. In the meantime check out these videos which do not convey just how smooth and gentle Guro Jeff Davidson really is. You will also see Guro Doug Marcaida with highlights from past Brotherhood of the Blade gatherings: