What martial arts does Batman know? In this episode we're going to explore the fight sequences and styles of the Dark Knight as seen in the live action films. Then we'll pit them against each other to see which bat reigns supreme. So let's explore the martial arts of Batman!
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Going by the original Batman, he was a boxer, wrestler, gymnast, weightlifter…. But, with the use of the cape and the way he kicks, I would say he does french cloak fighting, and Savate. Also, Japanese Jujutsu.
French cloak fighting?
@@stevendc83n the time they used cloak while dueling with swords to distract or destabilize the opponent. Thoses techniques were still learned by gentlemen until the early XXth century along with fencing, and canne de combat ( fencing but with a cane) and savate. It was later replaced by Bartitsu when people got fascinated by Japan and its culture.
@@forzaeonore780 thank you, i did not know that martial art. 🙂
In real street fighting, most of the fights morph into what looks like boxing and wrestling anyway, so that would be just perfect!
@forzaeonore780 It is the late 30's, so those styles make sense. Maybe some Karate too, but that's pushing it as the original Jinjiro was already getting major flak for teaching grappling to non-Japanese.
So sad how many Batman fans know NOTHING about martial arts, at least this guy actually studied them.
As someone who has been studying the martial arts for 20 - 25 years, I think Boxing tends to be underrated especially when compared to many others styles. It's a good style. Can be used as a stand alone style or be used as a really strong foundation to build others onto.
I started working the door in Baltimore in 1988. I have moved now, but I still work the door and Bartend. I can tell you with certainty that punching wins fights. There are rare exceptions from time to time where kicking and such are involved, but those that can punch hard are top dog.
Unfortunately its difficult to box in a close quarter combat
@@marcushursl2931 Very true. I meant just as way get an idea about what his techniques are going to be and what styles he would be best at moving forward. The Keysi (dark knight) was a good style that was virtually unheard of at the time.
@@ironmikehallowween Yeah in a street fight for sure. I someone isn't comfortable with kicking in a fight, I don't suggest doing it, like you said, depends on the situation. Wing Chun is a good style for fast, strong punches, with limited kicking.
i could be wrong but i feel like boxing and wrestling would be the most useful fighting styles in a street fight.
I had believed, since my 20s, that Batman had learned the most efficient techniques from several arts. To master even one art would have taken more time than he had
Agreed! And the fun is wondering which arts he would have chosen to spend the time he had in.
I agree. He would not have the time to master over 100 fighting styles and still be out every night.
Yes but if we go by the comics its stated that he has a natural talent and genius at mastering martial arts techniques quickly by his sensei especially since he has a photographic memory that he developed as a child
I always thought that Batman knew all martial arts. Because Bruce Wayne is the type of guy that would literally spend decades learning every fighting style ever. Just in case.
You don't need to master any style to be a kick-ass fighter. Just look at MMA, most of those guys aren't masters of even one martial art, but most of the top fighters would puff up your face and roll you up lickety-split!
It made sense that Bat-Fleck was a brawler. Ben Affleck is a really big guy so the choreographers would want to use more strength in his fighting than the other actors playing batman.
but with martial background cuz he used a lot of muay thai techniques and lots of thugh throwing. When we saw it that is. He even used hammer fists, but used his grapplers gunbutt to smack into the thugs head. If I remember correctly. I admit its been a while since I last saw the film so dont quote me.
Also he was more aggressive not just strength unlike the other batmen he would close the gap he wouldn't just find an opening and take ppl out he brought the fight to them
He was also the first actor the same size as the fictional character
He was a brawler, because he was based off Frank Miller's iteration.
-come over and see-‘The Audio Recording Where Amber Heard Almost Died’
Respect to Robert Pattinson for putting in the work & doing all the fight scenes himself. Btw. the fight scenes in The Batman reminded me a lot of the fights in Netflix Daredevil.
christian bale did it too
Those are his stunt doubles.
@@thebuddhaofknowledgemichae2486 Did you actually watch the video, dumbass?
No he did all his stunt by himself he said it in an interview @@thebuddhaofknowledgemichae2486
I LOVE the fights in Netflix's Daredevil! The hallway scene is still one of my favorites!
Actually the 127 martial arts thing is relatively recent in the comics. Originally he was stated to have trained in 12 martial arts and mixed them into his own unique style. Then it was said that he had mastered 12 martial arts and knew at least one technique from 127 martial arts and then they said he knew all 127 martial arts. I tend to go with the 12 martial arts bit among the 12 martial arts he was stated to know was Karate, Japanese Jujutsu, Judo, Savate, Taekwando, Boxing, Wrestling and Ninjutsu. The rest are unnamed.
no. Batman knows every single martial arts and if there are more he will master them.
@@nkemnoraulmanfredini7286 The awesome thing about batman for me is that he is human and doen not have super powers. A human probably cannot master all martial arts in the span of several lifetimes. He is an incredibly intelligent fighter who is technically and tactically extremely sound with fantastic strength, endurance, aggression and experience. He makes for pretty much the best fighter a human can possibly be - but no more.
@@nkemnoraulmanfredini7286That's bullsht
I go with jeet kune do.
Interesting fact is, if you analyze the martial artists involved in the movies, there is one master who is connected to all of them. This man trained with Bruce Lee and is Dan Inosanto, his main background is: Jeet Kune Do, Eskrima/FMA, Shoot Wrestling, Kenpo, Boxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Silat. If we add ninjutsu, hapkido, keysi and krav maga we got 12 styles, that cover all the performances.
As a big old nerd of both comics and martial arts the Batman in my head canon focused his training largely in Japanese martial arts but eventually developed his own bespoke style that strongly parallels combat Sambo. Both technically and philosophically.
I agree mostly Japan!
Not sambo but Aikijustu
Don't forget Chu Chin Li. He was the Shaolin master who taught Bruce. He spent years there and only left because there was nothing left to teach him
Batman in the comics has indeed mastered all martial arts, even know alien ones.
Michael Keaton learned Karate in Japan in 1985, while filming Gung Ho. ps Batman Beyond is my favorite 🎉
Batman is the embodiment of “[a]bsorb what is useful, discard what is useless and add what is specifically your own” ― Bruce Lee,
-Bruce Wayne Lee
in addition to his martial arts training, Batman also takes advantage of his surroundings called "situational awareness". meaning if there's a giant penny around, he's going to knock it over and take out a few thugs with it. also you never know when you're going to have a giant rubber duckie handy.
Even though the Nolan trilogy employed Keysi Fighting Method/KFM for the fight choreography, it flat out stated that Ninjutsu was the main heart of what Batman used. Nice analysis video of the live action fight background of each of the Batmans.
ninjitsu is an umbrela term. Yes, it has fighting in it, but also other concepts that Batman has shown. I think Ninjitsu has like 12 branches. This video explains it best. kzhead.info/sun/n5eRiLBpmX1jmY0/bejne.html
I like to think that batman just studied a bunch of different systems, pieced them together, and used what he found most effective in different senarios. He is definately a ninja
Yea that's why I wanted to include it as a universal across all interactions. You are correct, the Nolan trilogy placed much more weight on that aspect of his training.
Met the keysi guys at a seminar. They were cocky assholes
Batman was the worst ninja. They trained him to fight 500 men from the shadows and he just slowly elbowed and hammerfisted people. His fight with Bane was like an old man trying to return soup in a deli.
Batfleck is the strongest of all the live action Batman's!
Debatable
@@revealingtruth3329how?
With recently Keaton coming in at a close second imo
@@NMbones98 yeah, after the positive fan reactions of batflecks performance as batman, now they want to apply it to the other Batmen. You think they would've show cased Keaton being that way in the movie if it wasn't for batflecks Batman performance? Studios sometimes update the performances of characters based on positive feedback from fans and audiences.
@@josephp95 probably not but Keaton is kinda beloved just like what they did with raimi spiderman the basically kinda scale off the MCU now because popularity lol
I took Lou Cassamasa's Red Dragon Karate when I was in high school back in the mid-90s.
I think it is safe to say Batman has a broad list of general fighting skills. This is the kinda list I would expect: 1. Stand up striking 2. Stand up grappling 3. Ground striking 4. Ground grappling 5. Weapons general 6. Riot/Swat training
I would also add espionage gorilla warfare and ninjitsu he doesn't just use hand to hand or melle tactics
Agreed.👍😊
Sounds like an cool list.
With Batman's resources the sky is the limit.
Also going to point out a funny story: When Michael Keaton was named as Batman there was such a fan backlash because he was mostly known as a comedic actor that Warner Bros. almost fired him and replaced him with a new actor/martial artist that they had signed a multi picture contract with already so they could have him play the part for cheap. That person was Setven Seagal. 😂
No... not the kumite legend man himself. I can't XD
Right? I remember people questioning him. But he turned out to be a great choice. That is why I didn't get worried when they announced Ben Affleck or Robert Pattinson as Batman. I think they've all done great in the cowl. Segal would have been HORRIBLE.
@@ArtofOneDojo not all... Clooney and Kilmer sucked!
Sorry to say but he was stiff as a board. Christian Bale captured the essence of Batman.
@@kenpoDragonkilmer was decent actually
From the Batman: Knightfall novel published in 1994... “He assumed the opening stance of Yang-style Tai Chi Chuan and began the slow, rhythmic moves of the most peaceful, and potentially most useful of the martial arts. He put his feet in position and waved his arms according to the form.”
And, 66 Batman the Bright Knight was proficient in boxing....POW!
Batflec is my personal favorite with that being said I feel like his kicks were somewhat influenced by kyokushin more than TKD, especially when he kicks that guy into the elevator during the Warehouse scene.
Most SF, Army Rangers already know 80% of Batman's skills. And on being a billionaire and add more focus training I hand to hand. And you got on paper Batman. BUT everyone forgets how and why he became this way. He was a detective first
People who do a lot of fighting in "no rules" situations probably employ techniques from several styles and have a "whatever works" mindset. Batman likely uses techniques from several different martial arts.
You're a real badass if you step up to someone who's fighting you with swords
Fantastic overall, and especially dope you brought up Batfleck's experience edge. I totally slept on that until you pointed it out. Earned a sub!
Much appreciated!
Fighting wise, Affleck's Batman was the closest to the comics AND he sold it very well.
I agree
Great video! I love the frank attitude, the practicality, and passion for Batman. I've never even heard of hapkune do before! You're clearly a passionate guy who isn't putting any bells or whistles on this video. Great stuff, best wishes for you.
When you reach a certain level of martial arts, it becomes a sense of self expression. You can never tell the style of stroke on canvas of a painting, its simply a nice painting. Batman is of this level of combat. To conform to a style when you are naturally talented is like caging a bird. As long as humans have two arms and two legs, nothing that is being done now has not been done in the past. So no martial art owns the movement of the human body. They just were the first to label and document it for themselves.
I can see the influence of Bruce Lee in your comment.
VERY well put.
he's basically America's version of a NINJA.
Great video! Loved the intro!
When it comes to Batman's Martial Prowess I've always subscribed to the belief that thanks to his natural drive and intellect he picked up fighting styles very quickly as the more of them you know the easier it is to understand and learn other styles, thus him being a master of 127 martial arts is actually pretty easy to believe.
no, Batman knows every single form of martial arts and if there are more he will master them
@@nkemnoraulmanfredini7286no he doesn't. it doesn't even make sense for anybody to master every martial arts even if they were some kind of super genius like Batman. after the main MMA forms there's no reason for batman to learn anything else. what use would batman have for Silat when he already knows Kali and Muay Thai? what use would he have for northern Shaolin kick techniques when he already knows karate and taekwondo?
@@destroyallfurries Yes he does. and Batman knows every single form of martial arts
@@destroyallfurries Yes he does, Batman knows every single form of martial arts and if there are more he will master them too
@@destroyallfurries Yes he does, Batman knows every single form of martial arts and if there are more he will master them too
Uh... A four hour episode about Martial Arts AND Batman!!!! Yes please!
Nice. I fight with the same styles as Batman. Batfleck is the best in my opinion. Powerful and doesn’t give a F.
Originally I was thinking Bale or Pattinson but your explanation for endorsing Afleck was spot on IMHO. And while I agree that 127 is a ridiculous number I don't think it's unconscionable for Batman to have achieved mastery in multiple styles. We must remember he started when he was very young, he was extremely motivated, and he was a billionaire with access to all the funds necessary to obtain the most ideal training.
no. Batman knows every single form of martial arts and if there are more he will master them too
@@nkemnoraulmanfredini7286 You know what I'm going to do a self-correction here. As a life long Batman fan I approve this message.
The system used in The Dark Knight, Keisi Fighting Method, is pretty cool.
Realistically Barman would have learnt traditional Judo "jujitsu", traditional karate "kyokushin", Aikido-"ninjutsu", english boxing, submission catch Wrestling, gymnastics and illusionist magic. He seemed to have some theater training : he can do voices, costume design, acting.
On a side note this is the first time that I have heard of the martial art you mentioned, hap kune do. Is this art a mix of Hapkido and various Kung-fū systems?
Information is scare on it, but it seems to be a Malaysian version of Kung Fu or a variation.
@@ArtofOneDojo , interesting. The only Kung-fū version of Silat from Malaysia that I am familiar with is what's known as the Hakka style of Kung-fū that was brought to Malaysia by the group of nomadic chinese that were simply known as the Hakka (Hakka being a southern chinese word meaning "village".). And as for your choice, I agree fully that "Batfleck" could take the rest of the other Batmans, after all he bested Superman.
Batkido surely?!
The original Batman was strictly boxing
It used to be just Boxing and Judo. I think that should be his style for any throwback iteration pre 70s.
I really enjoyed this video! Very interesting.🦇
I've been a Batman fan since the age of eight officially. This is one of the best videos I've seen on this topic. Well done and THANK YOU! New sub! 🦇
Thank you! This was a fun one to research and make. And welcome to the channel!
I had and interesting time finding information on Hap Kune Do, but I found something. It is a combination of the following disciplines; Shaolin Kung Fu, Karate, Muay Thai, Aikido, Jujitsu, Chinna, and Internal Chi Power Qi Gong.
Hallelujah! I tried searching for what HapKune Doneas and they didn’t give me anything, any meaning or anything. But thank you for helping.
*1960 Batman theme plays* Batman is able to mix different techniques to make his style of MMA. Hope to see Shang-Chi’s breakdown like Dan did here
RIP Brad Allen (Jackie Chan stunt team) , choreographer of Shang Chi
Awesome review and thanks for sharing big love from Australia 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
During the No Man's Land story arc, Talia Ah Ghul paid Batman a visit and mentioned that he was Master of the Whispering Hand. Never heard of that style, I don't know what it is, but it sounds pretty sweet
i believe Whispering Hand is a version of the Knifehand strike or commonly known as the Karate Chop. but I'm not certain for sure.
The merch is super dope! I can't wait 'til mine get here!
Batman, pretty much practiced the art of gung-fu . Which means always learning, taking everything useful from every style boxing grappling kickboxing, and Ninjitsu and probably a couple different ones and combined everything that worked for him into a new fighting style. We’ll call it. But-fu lol
Fun episode! I totally agree with the ninjutsu connection. Surprised that you didn't explore the 1960s Adam West fighting style... LOL! Probably the same dojo as Kirk-Fu...😆
I almost included West but honestly felt it wasn't even in the same league in terms of fighting. That show (and movie) was its own entity and I didn't feel it meshed well with the more cinematic outings of the Bat.
Batfleck fight is just amazing
A few years ago, the guys at Bloody Elbow went and analyzed the Golden Age Batman, and found he used mostly Boxing (and he was good enough to take out the #1 heavyweight contender in one round) and Judo, plus techniques from freestyle Wrestling, Savate, Fencing and a few techniques that anticipate modern MMA. How good would he be?
If i remember it correctly batman learned the martial arts that were origin of many martial arts and then he also studied the various mixed martial arts that grew out of those many martial arts to have both general grasp of what are the core elements of each and what techniques have proven to be most useful over time. Ending in a mix that allows for efficient but still creative and informed approach to combat.
Love these videos Huge Batman fan and life long martial artist as well Great video Batman alongside Power Rangers and TmNT were the reasons I got into martial arts.
To make it simple, he had master a dozen or so styles but he is familiar with or experienced with dozens upon dozens or other styles. So he had his core base of mastering the modern day martial arts( shotokan, tai kwan do, kempo, muy thai, jujitsu, ninjitsu, etc.) But he traveled for years and studied many other styles just not to mastery level.
no. Batman knows every single martial arts and if there are more he will master them
Appreciate you doing all this research, probably took forever.
It took a bit of info gathering but it was a fun exploration :) I may do this later for more movie/fantasy characters.
@@ArtofOneDojoCan you or are you going to make a Tang Soo Do origins video?
THE BRAWLER is close to the Frank Miller version that would not hold back-- a mature and battle-tested veteran of the streets of Gotham.Batfleck FTW!
Great video!!!
In The Batman novel, "Before The Batman", it has also been stated that Alfred has taught him some fighting styles while he was taught during his life as a British Intelligence Officer, such as Boxing, Judo, Karate and Tae Kwon Do. They even confirmed it that Alfred had indeed trained him from the start. So I honestly thought this should be added as well, as honorable mentions.
Love this video there are certain styles i would like to learn
I wonder for how long would a human be able to function as Batman. Fighting is one thing, but what about recovery? Calorie intake? TBI? PTSD... On the long run, it doesn't matter how many martial arts you know, what matters is for how long you'll be able to live.
I agree with this, and I love that the Christian Bale films at least attempted to address this. They constantly showed Bruce bruised and battered, even had Alfred saying he had limits. After a year of being Batman he goes into "retirement" but we see in Dark Knight Rises that he's suffered from extreme cartilage damage and premature wear and tear on his body. Yea, they gave him some nifty braces and tech so that he could fight again and have another movie, but he's slower, sloppier, and the damage is showing.
It was amazing looking back do one on the daredevil love to see what your take on it
Batfleck would be the winner. He was straight up beating guys to death.
Batman shows skills from martial arts: 1. Ninjutsu (stelth, cold weapions, throwing weapions), 2. Kraw maga (disarm cold and fire weapions), 3. Muay thai (elbows, knees, klinch), 4. Kickbox (punch-kick combinations), 5. Box (dodging and punching), 6. Karate (precised strikes), 7. TaeKwonDo (spining and jumping kicks), 8. Kung fu (pressure points), 9. Judo (stand up throws), 10. BJJ (ground levers and chokes), 11. Aikido (joint manipulations), 12. Grapplling (fighting for control using grapping methods), 13. MMA (combining striking and grappling martial arts), 14. Jeet kun do (philosophy), 15. Shaolin (mind-body connection) ... he does not need to be Master in all of them just well trined so he can use what suits him best and apply it to the situatinon.
batman has never used anything Shaolin/kung fu related in any fight. he may know wing chun for the speed and intercepting concepts but that's not shaolin
'Batfleck' is the only Batman that breaks bones, pummels bad guys even when thriving in pain and generally kills without compunction, it makes sense his would be the most deadly from the live-action movies.
See the end scene of the batman where batman is pummelling a bloke on the lighting structure.
pattinsons batman in the iceberg lounge was breaking bones everywhere, he broke a guys arm with a metal bat, broke that corrupt cops nose, broke the the twins noses, you can even see a thug break/sprain his own hand from punching pattinsons sharp ass jaw in the subway scene, so i'd say affleck and pattinson both are pretty brutal, but pattinson actually follows the no kill rule
In Dark Knight trilogy, he was a Ninja. In comics I think he know judo, jujitsu, some other stuff. For The Batman, they used Keysi for the look. For Adam West it was KaPow!
kzhead.info/sun/a96jk6qwiqWQqJ8/bejne.html
As a huge Batman fan and longtime martial arts enthusiast, I think I agree with everything you said. Very well done! Thanks for doing your homework!!
Batfleck is clearly the most experienced of all the Batmans. he's also skilled with firearms. I think the close second would be Robert Pattinson's Batman. He also could be skilled with firearms if he wished to start using them. Alfred was SAS and a former government operative.
What we see is Boxing, Ving Chun Gung-fu,Okinawan Tai Karate, Muy thai kickboxing, Jui Jitsu, Judo, Grappling Pancratium. Of course he is a Ninja and knows Ninjutsu.
And to all of you in the comments that are trying to defend one type of fighting or the other, "Oh, boxing is best in a street fight", or " Wrestling is best"... Listen, train yourself all you want, but in a real street fight and life or death split second decision, its dirty, mean, and whatever works for the situation. Its not a boxing bout or a cage match.
If I remember right, I assume due to bulky suit he uses elbows in close quarters, which is Muay Thai elbow strikes are exponentially deadly especially considering his armor weight and straight kicks at the waist line n below which generally karate style.
Ben for the win far as raw power an strength, but Michael Keaton in the flash movie was doing his thing frfr
Bruce Wayne's mentors and training based on the comics Batman The Knight,Batman Zero Year and Detective Comics #0 Alfred Pennyworth: reading a lot of books and combatives (he's seen reading a book about Dangerous Plants, Taekwondo and Hypnotism. Ted "Wildcat" Grant: boxing, wrestling, gymnastics, bodybuilding and american kickboxing. The World's Greatest Fencer: fencing. Lucie Chesson A.K.A the Grey Shadow: parkour,infiltration,lockpicking,safe cracking and capoeira. Henri Ducard: detective work,urban warfare,manhunting,savate, grappling, fencing and gun assembly. Mongolian Desert Kings: probably mongolian wrestling and horse riding. Sensei Takibi Kirigi: Ninjutsu,Karate (probably Uechi Ryu and Kyokushin) Jiu-Jitsu,Niten Ichi Ryu. Avery Oblonsky: espionage,disguises,charm and sambo. Retired CIA operative in Suriname: traps and how to escape traps. Scientist in Canada: bombs. Luka Jungo A.K.A the Swiss Mark: markmanship and hunting. Giovanna Zatarra: escape artistry and improving of lungs. Don Miguel: car racing and how to be a mechanic. Mentor in Morocco: desert warfare? Tommy Tivane: knife fighting. Sky Spider: climbing. Baba Tomar: pain resistance. Shihan Matsuda: jujutsu,sword fighting, improving his body and trusting no one. Daniel Capio: how to control his emotions. Ras Al Ghul: martial arts,sword fighting,medical techniques and guerilla warfare
I knew Taylor lautner knew martial arts but never knew Robert did.
Totally agree… Love it!!
The Flash movie shows Keaton’s batman with some more fight scenes. Really bringing it back up to 2023 and letting them show off how badass he really is
I haven't seen the Flash yet, but I'm anxious to see Keaton again!
@@ArtofOneDojo he was great in it. Brought back a lot of nostalgia
When I was a kid there some info dump that mentioned he "mastered every martial art" but I always assumed he was a master of ninjitsu.
Got TWO things to say about this topic: 1- Originally, Batman's fighting style was mainly boxing. He learned other fighting arts along with it, but as I understand, boxing was the core art. 2 - I don't know what how the fictional Batman would structure his martial arts arsenal, which arts he'd pick, but I DO know how it would've gone down REALISTICALLY. This according to what I was told when talking to a highly experienced martial artist. One would need to choose a core art that is a best fit for one's physical attributes and needs. One would then master that one system to black belt level, and note which fighting ranges said system is best for. Then one would learn a complementary system that specializes in fighting ranges that your core art lacks.
I must also say that, it depends on which era Batman comes into. Is he growing up in the 80s, like the Nolan version? Or is he the original Batman who grew up in the 20's-30's. This effects which fighting systems he would learn. But aside from the specific systems/styles, there is the more crucial issue of HOW he would go about his overall martial arts training! .............................
No matter which incarnation, the core thing that Batman would use to decide which fighting art to study is his NEEDS. So after learning Boxing, he'd have to consider that he would be in street fights which involve multiple attackers. And so he wouldn't want to waste time on one person. He'd want to disable a person ASAP, down for the count! So today, that would mean he'd study things like wing chun and/or krav maga. I don't know what fighting system that would mean in the 1930's/40's. Whatever it'd be, it would have to address the need for instant KO and multiple attackers. Now realistically speaking, it would be impossible to learn 127 martial systems, much less all of them (as he is said to have learned). And it wouldn't be an effective use of his time anyway. To be a "complete fighter" (as he has been labeled), it'd be more realistic and EFFECTiVE to study only an array of martial arts that fulfill skillsets of all 6 fighting ranges. Whatever number of martial arts that involves, and not necessarily ALL of them, nor even 127. If that means learning 3 systems to fulfill those 6 ranges, then he'd be considered complete. But more importantly...and this is a very realistic point...is HOW would Bruce Wayne even KNOW to structure his combat training around this idea of core-art-&-filling-in-the-deficits??? If it was a Batman growing up the 60's, he'd have Bruce Lee to guide him toward that path. But in the 30's, not so. Therefore, I would guess that he would NOT know. And would then have to find out for himself while being Batman, and then go back and learn other fighting arts to fill in the gaps. This would take a lot more time from his life.
I think the best way to figure out Batman’s fighting is to consider the actual character as much as possible. BW is not limited by time or money. He also has a very specific goal in mind. He is going to train in probably 4-6 martial arts archetypes, and then dabble in a few systems beyond that to make sure he has familiarity with different things he might encounter. In other words, besides ninjutsu, he is going to train in boxing, some style of kickboxing, some traditional art that is big on percussive movements outside of boxing/kickboxing, a system that focuses on grappling (standup and ground), a system that focuses on the most common melee weapons, and probably a system that has a specialty in disarming firearms as well. To take grappling as an example, Bruce can train under literally anyone he wants to. He will find the best grappling teacher in the world. Assume he chooses Jujutsu as his base grappling system. He will probably also spend time on Greco-Roman Wrestling. He won’t learn judo, aikido, hapkido, and all other grappling arts. He will find teachers who will show him what is unique about their systems to fill in the gaps in his training. It is fair to say he probably has had 20-30 teachers for various disciplines around the world, but he probably only learned 5-6 complete arts.
My young friend, you forgot Adam West... the original batman in the 60's. I think I was about 7 when the show started on TV.. Of course the comics had been around since the 40';s.
In that show Burt Ward (who played Robin) did most of his own stunts and was experienced in wrestling and tae kwon do.
I didn't forget him, I actually wrestled with including him or not. Ultimately I decided not to and focus more on the cinematic and serious versions of Batman. The West version was more of a spoof and comedy, and the fighting was less serious. I know Burt Ward did martial arts, but ultimately I decided to stick with the darker movie versions.
kzhead.info/sun/a96jk6qwiqWQqJ8/bejne.html
"See, the thing is, these other guys, they can play Batman, but I am Batman." - Michael Keaton
The strongest version of Batman is based on whatever writer uses the the most liberty when writing about Batman’s ability’s. So how strong, Weak, unstoppable or vulnerable is Batman? However strong, weak, unstoppable or vulnerable the writer wants him to be.
Batfleck wasn't a brawler, but he was more attribute based and fluid in his movements. The Burton and Schumaker Batmans were more rigid in structure. Battinson was more of a brawler than Batfleck. On a side note, I'd love to see a Batman incorporate his cape in his fighting style with some wushu movements and technique.
Being an ambidextrous in martial arts myself I've always considered that to be his biggest attribute. For example considering the fact that combat regardless of styles is essentially in a few categories an ambidextrous person can be proficient in kickboxing and master numerous martial arts by simply comprehension of that particular styles nuanced interpretation. I speak from experience on this. Ig not for the comics earlier emphasis on it being a Japanese style I personally would have assumed something deadly like Silat. Because an ambidextrous person who has mastered Silat can do all he does easily. The guy can snap joints and break bones. As well as throwing and finishing moves. Personally I enjoyed the KFM version. An excellent platform for all his skills.
The third of the Nolan films actually used a different fight team to the first 2, you can tell..
Obviously Adam West Batman could take them all at the same time blindfolded, with one arm tied behind his back and a broken leg -- all with enough time leftover to de-hypnotize the president and defuse the bomb.
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I agree, Afleck is a tough customer.
Something I never liked about the whole, "Batman has mastered 127 different martial arts," thing: 1. You could never fully master all of that in one lifetime. 2. You don't need to. Many styles are similar to each other in certain aspects. The human body can only move and be moved in so many ways. One could argue certain methods are more optimal and also different people with different body types and whatnot may be more successful at some styles than others. Still, you could learn and become proficient at a handful of styles and be skilled enough to handle yourself well in a hand-to-hand engagement. I would recommend learning several styles: two or three striking arts, two or so grappling arts, and learning to both use and counter close-quarters weapons in at least a couple different styles would be satisfactory if you reach expert level. Batman could probably get by with Boxing, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Jujutsu, and Kali to pick a few. This way he would be familiar with methods of fighting using methods that cover striking efficiently, grappling efficiently, utilizing joint locks effectively and forcefully, and would know how to deal with sticks, knives, and blades both countering and using them. Also, these are a combination of arts that could counter certain similar methods such as heavy-handed brawlers, dynamic and fancy strikers, burly types who might want to muscle their way through, guys attacking with knives or batons, etc. He could also handle trapping techniques and counter them effectively, and he would be also adequately prepared to deal with guys who are above street-level thugs. 3. If a character is more realistic in such a manner and not an all-around-invincible buster of butts, he has more flaws and more to overcome, and not just physically. One of the things I like most about Batman is that he has a trained mind in addition to a well-honed body. Although I would argue he is overpowered in that area as well, a combatant with physical flaws is more interesting and can still potentially overcome daring odds by being a smart fighter and having a high fight-IQ. 4. I love Batman, but I actually prefer Daredevil because he is more of an underdog. That's not to say he isn't unrealistic as well, but I think he is closer to the kind of character Batman would be if we played slightly closer to reality. Other than the fact that Batman can see and Daredevil can't, that is. That and Batman has more gadgetry than Daredevil does, although D.D. has his own tools of his trade as well. Side-Note: If I were to critique Daredevil, I think given his blindness he would be more well-suited to fighting styles that are more touch-reliant. He could combine arts like Judo, Wing Chun, Kali, and even something like Combat Hapkido. Like my chosen arts for Batman, they are more or less random with only some thoughts put into them, but they are arts that would fit the characters well enough to provide them a set of techniques to work well with against your typical odds. However, I would think Batman would be more of a striker who is adept in grappling where given Daredevil's disability he would be more of a grappler who still has skills in striking. Both would be familiar with use of and countering common close-quarters weapons. That's all just me, though and these are only examples, not the ideal picks for either character, just some basics to potentially use or start with and if they feel further training is necessary, they can add to it.
Batfleck is a beast of Batman and my favorite… to each their own and I respect that…
I would love to see a 4hr version of this video!😅
He technically knows at least 18, being trained as a "ninja" which historically were either samurai or ashigaru scouts. Spies can be in mix as well, but again were still of these 2 classes. They were definitely elite of the elite of them, though. Bugei jūhappan is what it would be. Ninjutsu has sub arts, that yes Batman is actually a master at, In-Nin and Yo-Nin being the main 2, along with explosives and such. Honestly I'd say the only martial art he's not proficient in at all is hojutsu, but this greatly depends on the continuity. Early years Batman used rifles. Not to the extent of punisher, but he could snipe. It is a pretty complex discussion though. Taijutsu means unarmed skills, literally body skill. Karate of course has the same connotation, as does krav maga, meaning close combat. And all unarmed combat also trains you for weapons usage. I remember your Glima episode as an example in Europe. A hammer fist quickly becomes a stab with a knife. Shuto ken of course is an even better example. It's Honestly only terrain, armor (costume in the original sense of the word) and the type of combat that culture favored more that determined the art. The weapon design I'd say is still under costume. So I think it's the wrong question. Batman knows every martial art in the original sense of the word. How many cultures of those martial art skills did he learn from, which I think is why he's so bad ass. He can think like the people of those cultures and come up with strategies and tactics based on this knowledge. Bane for example is a power based wrestler from Mexico. Definitely a street version of it, but still the influences are there. So Batman knows he can't fight him with power. Granted it took a broken back to learn. But that just showed Bane is as intelligent as batman.
I seem to remember, (correct me if I am wrong) the Keaton Batman doing the classic Wing Chun chain punch in one of the fights.
I remember a dude told me that the style used in Batman Begins trilogy was the same that Jack Reacher (Tom cruise) used, and it was designed for cops
It's the same Keysi system, they used for the Jack Reacher as well, you are correct. You can really see it in the street fight scene when Tom Cruise uses the close elbow strikes.
So glad to be a Batman and martial arts fan. Finally a dope video to explain the different fighting styles of Batman in live action. Interesting most of them have their own style, but I would have to rank it. 1) Robert Pattinson: very dope efficient combat that is quite almost military training type that Alfred taught him. But neat and realistic. 2) Ben Affleck : what a actual Arkham Batman can be in live action, Affleck gives the action that matches what the dark knight returns Batman is supposed to be in all strength and efficient. 3) Val Kilmer: appreciate that Kilmer is the first live action Batman that is much athletic and faster than Keaton in combat and be the first movie Batman that does sick martial arts. 4) Michael Keaton : quite descendant fighting Keaton does, but it’s only like stiff and street fighting level. But was so sick in the flash movie, he was able to fight like Arkham Batman. 5) Christian Bale: appreciate his commitment and dedication to the role, but the choreography of the fights in the trilogy needed some work.
theres actually a prequel novel for the batman 2022 that explains bruce traveled the world studying various types of martial arts and fighting styles with also the help from alfred
Bruce learned Tengu from the brothers of shadow, that's how he learned to channel and champion his fears and sadness into the bat and embraced the creature, "becoming" this amalgamation of negativity and used it to bring fear "into the hearts of criminals". Bruce was moreso a psychological fighter, a symbol thugs would fear, but knew how to earnestly scrap.
The original arts would have been boxing, wrestling, judo, then when Alfred joined him, he would have learned Fairbairn's and Sykes gutterfighting, that was taught to the British commandos and U.S army rangersalong with a few other organizations. But if we bring it to todays time lines, boxing,muay thai, juijitsu or judo and Krav Maga would make sense
Gotta do the martial arts of James Bond
Pretty exclusively Judo and Pistol whipping initially.
The fact that batman is rich NINJA. 💀.
Great video... I'm a huge Batman fan as well....I would love to see a film where he uses koppojutsu;the bone breaking technique of ninjitsu....
Thank you for a highly interesting and informative insight into Batman's potential fighting skills.😊 In some of the earlier stories centred around the sixties and seventies, Batman is a proficient Judoka and Aikido practitioner. As this review was just movie based, I am inclined to agree that Ben Affleck Batman would win the day although Pattinson would come a VERY close second. When all said and done Keaton just doesn't cut it as a lethal combatant and neither does Clooney. Given a different perspective on Batman such as the Nolan/Reeves treatment of the subject matter and I believe Val Kilmer could have exhibited more lethality. Still a wonderful assessment though.❤👍👏
Batfleck vs The Batman is basically an episode of justice league the animated series where they go in the future. Old Batman basically makes the young Batman look like a noob 😂 talking about after the justice league pretty much acknowledged Batman could take them on. Interestingly, the animated movie based on the 80s comic where Bruce is older shows he can't compete physically with the new criminals, so he gets way more brutal the second time with the mutant leader and says he's on an operating table.
Adam West was noticeably omitted. Adam West hit so hard his kinetic energy changed to light energy.
We're releasing the Adam West edition of this video tomorrow :)
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This is where the fun begins
If I had the money to make a life action Battman he would be a very gritty, brawler, min 6 months of recover for his opponents kind of Battman. He would be very well known to cause extreme injury with one or two shots. Things like snapping limbs like twigs or cutting ACL's with a Batarang. His fighting style would be a mix of... -ninjutsu -muay thai -boxing -Judo -kyokushin -Kyusho -and some kobudo I would expect many of his opponents would be rushed to the hospital looking like they had barely survived a car accident. Each one having many broken bones, extensive nerve damage, and PTSD from one fight with him. Not all of them would fully recover and end up in a wheelchair for the rest of their respective life's. Crooks would be kept off the street by fear and/or a need to physically recover. One of the big questions during Gotham City Elections Cycles, would be "what do you going to do about The Battman and his reign of terror"? To compensate for this violent vigilante beating people bloody, Bruce Wayne uses some of his millions to open "The Victims of Battman Recovery Fund". For those to poor to afford their hospital bills. Did I just write and elevator pitch?
While I didn't get to see the latest version of Batman I was most impressed with Ben Affleck's version. He had the best physical conditioning, practical martial arts and tactical understanding along with a good grasp of high technology.
Ben Affleck took the role very seriously and trained his body. he weighed at around 230lbs of almost pure muscle i think he was like 6 or 7 percent body fat. so out of all of them he was the largest Batman. Keaten was the skinniest Batman weighing around 156lbs-160lbs
You should definitely see the latest version.