The guy in the air is Salem ASSLI, a former gymnast who went from France to the US to study the arts of the late Bruce LEE under Dan INOSANTO. Whilst there, DI asked if he (Salem) had ever studied his own native art of Savate.

Salem said that he had not, so DI gave (or lent) him an old book written by Charles CHARLEMONT. This book featured the old style of Savate. Salem then studied this book and pretty much learnt the old art from that book.

He continued to travel back and forth between the States and France, mainly to visit friends and relatives in France, but I believe he was able to test for his Silver Glove rank and Professorship whilst in France at some point. His intended six-months visit to the US eventually saw him staying on and gaining his US citizenship.

The other guy in the photograph is Phil NORMAN, who lives on the South Coast of England (UK). Phil is often known as 'the Gladiator' as he won the 1993 UK Gladiator series competition and competed in the International Gladiator 1 competition, and the Springbok Challenge 2. He also became Southern Area Contender Coach for the UK Gladiator series and, over the years since, has regularly competed (very successfully) in Mixed Martial Arts and Kickboxing competitions.

The photo was taken during a seminar hosted by me at our Academy, featuring Salem Assli. Although the exact year escapes me for the moment.

Ollie Batts, Director & Senior Instructor Cambridge Academy of Martial Arts®.