#underdog team

[ronnansink-blog]

Wang Shu Chin was sent by Chang Chao-tung to a meeting to bring Tai Chi Chuan back to its basics. The new version, with full subtitles!

Returning to the Roots: The Epic Journey of Taijiquan and Beyond

Wang Shu-Chin was a figure of nearly mythical proportions in various Chinese martial arts—Taijiquan, Bagua, and Xingyi was tasked with a monumental mission: to bring Taijiquan “back to the basics.”

The phrase “back to the basics” is simple but potent. And in those early days of Wang Shu-chin’s youth, it embodied a call to return to the original essence of Taijiquan, free from unnecessary ornamentation or misunderstood add-ons. Chang Chao-tung, Wang’s teacher and a towering figure who led the Chung-nan lineage of Bagua and Hsing-i, believed fervently in the unity of these martial arts. In his mind, Taijiquan should not stand alone but should benefit from the structure of Xingyi and the fluid circularity of Bagua. As a testament to his belief, Chang sent the promising young Wang Shu-chin to a landmark meeting—an assembly that would shape the future of Taijiquan for generations to come.

A Legend in the MakingYears later, the tales of that pivotal meeting read like a well-worn script from an epic sports drama. Wang Shu-chin was no mere bystander; he was an active participant, stepping boldly into the role of emissary on behalf of Chang. While observers expected the usual displays of slow, meditative postures associated with Taijiquan, Wang astonished the assembly by weaving in crisp Bagua footwork and explosive Xingyi strikes.

In martial arts, stories of transformation are the heart and soul of our most compelling narratives. Think about an underdog team that emerges victorious or a rookie athlete who revolutionizes the game. Wang Shu-chin’s role was similarly transformative, showing that Taijiquan, often viewed as purely meditative or internal, could incorporate more direct combat aspects while preserving its soulful core. It was as though he dribbled past defenders on the basketball court of martial arts tradition, unveiling a fresh approach that left his audience in awe.

Common Goals, Different ApproachesWe often think of martial arts as siloed systems—Karate belongs to Japan, Taijiquan to China, and Muay Thai to Thailand. But Sato’s journey illustrates the fluid boundaries that enrich the martial arts world. Under the guidance of this unnamed “king,” Sato not only acquired the principles of Seiso Taikyokken but also took bold steps to integrate them with Hakkesho and Keiiken. Like a dedicated coach borrowing tactics from rival teams, he seamlessly mixed these arts with his Japanese Jujutsu foundation.

Though rooted in different disciplines and cultures, a Vision for the FutureWang Shu-chin and Sato embodied parallel visions for martial arts as a universal community of shared knowledge. In the broader tapestry, men like Chang Chao-tung—visionaries who sent their students to far-off gatherings—spurred the synergy we now see blossoming worldwide. Wang Shu-chin’s injection of Bagua and Xingyi into Taijiquan was not just a skill set shift; it was a philosophical statement. At its core, it said: “We are more alike than we are different.”

[this-sapphic-paradise]

"First world" countries will never understand how much an Olympic/world championship medal means to Brazilians (and other "developing nations").

There are barely any scholarships for athletes, there are barely any endorsements or sponsorships. There's no infrastructure, no incentive...

Brazilians are on podiums because we persevere despite an entire system trying to stifle us.

Brazilians are on podiums despite, despite, despite...

[poorly-drawn-mdzs]

Congratulations to TEAM CHEESE for winning the popular vote on the Charcuterie poll!

[dreamingdeadly]

summer heat ☀️☀️☀️

[pequene-ninho]

Bell goat perfect colors send

[wishesofeternity]

The thing about HotD is that it while it absolutely minimizes the agency and ambition of both Rhaenyra and Alicent, this is specifically used to glorify Rhaenyra and frame her as righteous while condemning Alicent and framing her lacking. That's the key difference in both their textual portrayals that has directly led to 90% of the fandom hailing Rhaenyra as the second coming of Christ while spewing the most hateful vitriol at Alicent just for existing. But y'all are not prepared for that conversation.

[sainz100]

🩵🩵

[i-am-church-the-cat]

ngl i want the biggest comeback story ever. i want williams to win a constructor's championship in 2027, 30 years after their last one. i want logan to comeback for his sophomore year and absolutely blow the field away. i want alex to win a wdc after a year-long battle against red bull and say "fuck you" to every one who thought he couldn't cut it. i want the comeback kids!!

[elericelery]

"I only knew you was better than Michael, I didn't know you was good. There's a big distinction there."

[urbandunsel]

i'm sorry?

GENETICALLY ENHANCED hand-eye coordination,

and he MISSES the ball?!

THREE TIMES?

no he does not. get my man bashir back out there. i don't care if he's new at the sport. he would've killed that.

[forestfiresandfics]

Excellent

i did say that if Scar and Grian didnt reconcile this season then i wanted the opposite--all out war

scar was on board before

now grian is too

[pokemonunderdogtournament]

Best Underdog Used by a Villainous Team Leader 😈

Round 5 - FINAL MATCH

Our Contestants:

This poll is part of an event that allows the early eliminees from the main tournament have more time in the spotlight!

[kingofanemptyworld]

Dear King,

I write to you to request an audience on a very important query I would like to bring to your attention. It is whom who you have deigned to use as a profile on your esteemed tumblr account. To clarify, I talk about the character in the baseball uniform.

Please grant me the pleasure of a quick reply from your highness,

Yours forever faithfully,

Lomei

Loyal subject—

The baseball uniform-clad individual you speak of is called by the name of Sanada Shunpei, a most comely and entertaining minor character in the oft-overlooked series Ace of the Diamond (or Daiya no Ace, for those more inclined towards the traditional title).

[skitskatdacat63]

2009 Brazilian Grand Prix - Jenson Button

[etrosgate]

the second readthrough of world trigger is where it really kicks in

[venndaai]

predictable if you know me but genuinely at the end of DATV my primary emotion is feeling sorry for Elgar'nan. especially after we kill his dragon :( this man had one thing left...