Medieval combat tournament showcases fighters in Beijing park

Around 80 fighters clad in steel armor participated in a medieval combat tournament at a Beijing park on October 28. Known as the Shanhe Cup Full-Contact Armored Combat Open, the event features competitors from China and overseas, including teams from Italy, Russia, and France. Participants engage in full-contact battles using swords, axes, and polearms, aiming to stand out in a growing sport known internationally as buhurt. Guan Xiaoqi, a martial arts coach and competitor, highlighted the increase in local interest and emphasized the need for Chinese athletes to learn from their international counterparts to improve their skills.

• 1:10 AMYahoo Sports — Bringing the Middle Ages to modern China, medieval combat finds a foothold