Perhaps you have heard whispers of a self-trained Shaolin Kung Fu master called Yi Long? Yi Long Pai is named after this very martial artist.
Yi Long whose birth name is Liu Xingjun was born in Dezhou China. He is a martial artist kickboxer and Wushu practitioner. Yi Long competes in the Super Welterweight Welterweight and Super Middleweight divisions.
Now let’s delve deeper into the world of Yi Long.
Yi Long began his martial arts journey at the age of 14. His father shared captivating stories of Chinese martial arts inspiring him to become a fighter. He champions traditional martial arts.
Yi Long is known for his spectacular fighting style. He often lowers his guard relying on his inner strength to withstand attacks. In kickboxing he prefers western-style boxing making him vulnerable to kicks.
He maintains an unconventional training routine incorporating Tai Chi and breathing exercises to prepare for Muay Thai matches. You will recognize him by his traditional Kung Fu attire of long yellow pants and shaved head adding to his iconic presence.
In 2015 Yi Long fought Buakaw Banchamek in a Wu Lin Feng kickboxing event dubbed Fight of the Century. Despite a valiant effort Yi Long lost by decision.
Before his fight against Sudsakorn Sor Klinmee at YOKKAO 9 Yi Long acknowledged his opponent’s experience and skill. Sudsakorn ultimately won by decision after three rounds of intense exchanges.
Yi Long says his training allows him to control his weight perfectly.
Yi Long compares Shaolin Kung Fu and Muay Thai. He notes similarities in defensive techniques. Muay Thai excels in steel knees iron elbows and iron legs. Similarly Shaolin Kung Fu features iron fists iron legs and iron cloth which means a body hard enough to defend any attack.
Interestingly a Shaolin Temple spokesman declared in December 2010 that Yi Long is not affiliated with the temple. They clarified that he is not a Kung Fu monk of Shaolin Temple nor could he be named as the No.1 Shaolin Kung Fu monk at all. This statement adds an intriguing layer to Yi Long’s persona.
Notably Yi Long achieved significant accolades throughout his career. He was the 2007 Guangdong Foshan International Wing Chun champion. He also secured the 2013 Wu Lin Feng World champion title the 2015 WCK World Champion title and the 2014 S-1 Muaythai Super Middleweight World champion title.
He has wins over Franz Sanchez Enriko Kehl and Buakaw Banchamek. He suffered defeats against Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong and Yasuhiro Kido.
As we conclude our exploration of Yi Long Pai remember the dedication and unique approach of Yi Long. His story embodies the spirit of martial arts a blend of tradition innovation and unwavering determination.