Stories
Martial arts is gaining more and more ground in the Netherlands. In a new, unique collaboration, the Dutch Martial Arts Association (NVB), the Netherlands Institute for Martial Arts and Society (NIVM) and Warrior Code are joining forces to make the benefits of martial arts more accessible to all of the Netherlands.
Codes are used to communicate; they are like a language. Depending on the context, the use of codes can vary. Within the context of the Warrior Code, we refer both to our own code of respect, honor, self-discipline, sincerity, courage, and freedom, and to the codes of groups and communities that also adhere to such principles.
Martial arts constitute various fighting styles that have developed worldwide and continue to adapt to the times in which people live. They are developed for combat, self-defense, competition and personal growth. In this series of articles we will dive into the different forms of martial arts as well as the warrior, who is the source of all things martial arts.
More and more young people in the Netherlands are struggling with mental problems such as stress, loneliness and depression. Warrior Code sees martial arts as a powerful tool to make young people more mentally resilient. By providing structure, discipline and respect, martial arts helps them express emotions in a healthy way. In safe, certified gyms, trainers guide young people in their personal growth. Martial arts is thus not part of the problem, but rather an important part of the solution.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is rapidly growing worldwide and is closer than ever to becoming an Olympic sport. With a strong amateur foundation, global popularity, and increasing professionalization, MMA is gaining serious recognition. Its inclusion in the 2026 Asian Games is a key milestone. While challenges remain—such as safety concerns and official recognition—Olympic status would open new doors for athletes, coaches, and federations. For many fighters, representing their country on the Olympic stage is becoming a real dream.
There are champions who win titles. And then there is Muhammad Ali - someone who changed the world. Not just with his fists, but mostly with his words, choices and the way he kept fighting even when it wasn't boxing. At Warrior Code, we often draw inspiration from the greats. Ali is in a class of his own in this regard. In our earlier article - "Muhammad Ali: The Undisputed Champion of the Ring - we already described his unparalleled influence in the ring. But Ali was more than a boxer. He was a movement.
Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko are not only boxing champions, but also symbols of discipline, leadership and freedom. Raised under military discipline in the Soviet Union, they dominated heavyweight boxing for nearly two decades. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, they are now fighting on the front lines: Vitali as mayor of Kyiv and international leader, Wladimir as a soldier and possible returning boxer
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