UK Kung Fu Gathering 2025 – A Celebration of Martial Brotherhood
October 18th, 2025 – The sound of tradition echoed through the air as over 100 martial artists, teachers, and enthusiasts came together for the 6th UK Kung Fu Gathering, an event held biennially since 2013. Hosted by the Eagle Claw Kung Fu School UK, this gathering has become a powerful expression of unity within the Chinese martial arts community.
This year’s celebration wasn’t just about fists and forms—it was about family, honouring the spirit of Wu Lin Yi Jia Ren (武林一家人) – “The Martial Forest is One Family.”
And what a family it was.
We were deeply honoured by the presence of Master Chen Junjun, head of the Family Ying Zhao Fan Tzi Quan (Eagle Claw) system in the birthplace and traveled from the art’s founding village, Gu Zhuangtou 孤庄头村 in Hebei Province, China, alongside his wife Meng Xianghui. Their presence reaffirmed the unbreakable ties between tradition and modern practice, between China and the UK, between teacher and student.
A Day of Martial Magic
Throughout the day, 24 esteemed teachers from across the UK demonstrated their styles, shared insights, and connected over a mutual love for Chinese martial arts. The atmosphere was electric, with one full hour of dazzling demonstrations—from the explosive power of Southern Mantis to the internal flow of Taichi, the intricate grace of Wing Chun, the thunderous might of Dragon Boxing. and the Mighty Eagle Claw style
Speeches were given, meals were shared, and friendships were strengthened. The unity and diversity on display reminded everyone why we train—not just for skill, but for connection, discipline, and legacy.
A special thanks to the Eagle Claw students who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to help organize and run the event. Your dedication ensured everything flowed smoothly, and we are truly grateful.
Honouring the Masters
We offer deep gratitude to the following masters and teachers who made this gathering so unforgettable. Your presence, skill, and passion are what keep the flame of Traditional Chinese Martial Arts burning bright in the UK and beyond.
- Master Chen Junjun – Ying Zhao Fan Tzi Quan (Eagle Claw)
- Shifu Julian Dale – Ying Zhao Fan Tzi Quan (Eagle Claw)
- Master Paul Whitrod – Chow Gar Tong Long (Southern Mantis)
- Shifu Bill Moran – Wu Zu Quan (Five Ancestors)
- Shifu Dave Stevens – Bak Mei (White Eyebrow)
- Shifu Aidan Tierney – Wing Chun
- Shifu Dab Falta – Taiji Praying Mantis (Northern)
- Shifu Sean Whittaker – Dit Ngau Tong Long (Iron Ox Southern Mantis)
- Shifu Tom Braithwaite – Lung Ying (Dragon Boxing)
- Shifu Steven Wooster – Wudang Taichi
- Shifu Phil Davies – Kun Tao Matjan
- Shifu Ying Sung – Hung Gar
- Shifu Spencer Divine – Wing Chun
- Shifu Gerry Tan – Hokkien Kuntao Mantis
- Shifu Jon Crump – Lung Ying (Dragon Boxing)
- Shifu Nishan Kendnah – Chow Gar Tong Long (Southern Mantis)
- Shifu Alex PapaMichael – Chow Gar Tong Long (Southern Mantis)
- Shifu Barry Lewis – Wing Chun
- Shifu Susanto Das – Silat
- Shifu Frank Cooper – Lau Gar Kuen
- Shifu James Carrs – Hsing Yi & Yi Quan
Keeping the Legacy Alive
As we bow in respect to the ancestors and lineages that shaped us, we also look to the future. Events like this remind us that Traditional Chinese Martial Arts are not fading—they are flourishing.
Thank you to everyone who joined us. Until we meet again in 2027