Founded: 2000 (with the opening of the Baku Sudo Academy)
Country of orign: Azerbaijan
Creator: Sabir Suleyman
Place of creation: Azerbaijan
Type: Martial art
Official organization: World Sudo Federation (headquarters in Paderborn, Germany)
The Foundation of SUDO
SUDO is not merely a martial art—it is an entire universe that embraces the most valuable and refined qualities humanity has sought throughout the centuries.
It unites discipline and strength of spirit, mastery of body and mind, highly refined technique, and the ability to control an opponent in any situation.
SUDO encompasses both standing combat and ground fighting, yet its foundation is not limited to techniques alone. At its core lies a profound philosophy aimed at inner harmony, spiritual self-discovery, and personal development.
Yet simply combining different systems could never create something truly unique. What was missing was a force capable of uniting opposites—hardness and softness, power and flexibility, strategy and philosophy.
It was here that the great idea was born.
Its inspiration came from water—the element that embodies the wisdom of nature.
Water gently flows around obstacles, finding a path where none seems to exist. Yet over time, it can wear down even the strongest rock, becoming a symbol of strength, endurance, and invincibility.
SUDO can be imagined as the meeting of two rivers atop a mountain.
For a long time, they flowed along different paths, separated by distance and time, each carrying its own strength and character.
Then, upon reaching the summit, they meet face to face.
Their meeting transforms into a powerful waterfall—the battle of two warriors.
Strength collides with strength. The currents merge into a single force, and the rushing descent symbolizes the intensity of combat, where spirit, skill, and willpower are revealed.
Yet below, the waterfall gives birth to a calm lake.
Its waters are peaceful and clear—a symbol of reconciliation, a handshake, and the kind words shared between fighters after the challenge.
The rivers then continue their journeys in different directions.
But now each carries a part of the other within it.
So it is with fighters. After the contest, they remain friends, like brothers. Though their paths may diverge, they remain forever connected by the spirit of SUDO.
Thus emerged the philosophy of SUDO—a philosophy in which combat becomes not merely a clash of bodies, but a dialogue of souls.
It teaches a person to be both flowing and unshakable, to find harmony where opposites meet, and to overcome not only opponents but also personal weaknesses.
SUDO became a path to inner freedom, to living in harmony with oneself and the world while remaining unconquerable.
The Philosophical Foundation of SUDO
The fundamental idea of SUDO is based on the principle of becoming like water.
Similarity to Water
Water takes the shape of any vessel, flows around obstacles, and yet, over time, is capable of wearing down even stone. In the same way, a SUDO practitioner must be adaptable, capable of adjusting to any situation, and able to achieve victory not only through strength but also through wisdom.
The Path of Invincibility
An opponent can be defeated in any given contest, but true perfection lies in making oneself unbeatable. This is achieved not through brute force, but through continuous development—physical, spiritual, and moral.
Spiritual Values
SUDO cultivates respect, discipline, patience, and the pursuit of harmony. It shapes a personality for whom sport is not an end in itself, but a path toward inner purification and service to society.
The Philosophy of the Water Drop
The philosophy of SUDO is like a drop of water. Drop by drop, an ocean of invincibility is created.
A single drop appears small and insignificant, yet it contains tremendous power. Drop by drop, a stream is formed; the stream becomes a river, and eventually the river becomes an ocean.
So it is with the path of SUDO. Every movement, every effort, and every small victory is a drop. At first, these drops seem insignificant, but through perseverance and patience they grow into a vast ocean of mastery and invincibility.
A drop of water is soft, yet it can pierce stone if it falls again and again.
This truth lies at the heart of SUDO. A fighter’s strength does not come from brute power, but from persistence, precision, and patience. Repetition, training, and continuous movement forge an unbreakable character.
A student should strive to be like a drop of water—gentle on the outside, yet unwavering and relentless on the chosen path.
A single drop quickly disappears, but countless drops create a sea.
Likewise, a person alone may be weak, but together with family, school, society, and the entire SUDO community, that person becomes part of a powerful ocean where the energy of brotherhood and unity is born.
SUDO teaches that true strength lies in unity. Just as drops create an ocean, people together create great power.
A single drop represents a small amount of knowledge. Alone, it may not be enough to transform a person. But as knowledge accumulates, the flow grows stronger. Drop by drop, knowledge becomes a stream, then a river, and finally an ocean of wisdom.
A person who studies and learns fills the mind day after day. Through patience and consistency, the mind becomes like the sea—deep, powerful, and inexhaustible.
Be like a drop of water: gentle on the surface, yet capable of piercing stone through patience.
SUDO teaches that a single piece of knowledge is only the beginning of the journey. The continuous accumulation of knowledge makes a person developed, wise, and invincible.
Just as a drop does not disappear within the ocean but becomes part of it, every piece of knowledge contributes to the strength of both mind and spirit.
A drop of water is pure and transparent, just as the spirit of a warrior should be.
The purity of the drop symbolizes the purity of the warrior’s spirit.
In SUDO, it is essential to preserve inner clarity and purity in order to recognize the right path and avoid wrongdoing. Pure thoughts lead to proper actions, and a pure heart leads to spiritual elevation.
Just as water washes and cleanses everything around it, SUDO should purify the soul and shape a person who brings goodness, justice, and harmony into the world.
Thus, through the image of a drop of water, the philosophy of SUDO reveals an eternal path—the path of perseverance and patience, the path of gentleness and resilience, the path of unity and brotherhood, and the path of purity and spiritual strength.
Everyone who follows this path becomes, like a drop of water, part of the great ocean of SUDO—the ocean of invincibility.
Every SUDO warrior is a drop.
Together, we are the ocean.
SUDO is not merely a martial art. It is a complete system of education and personal development in which technique, tactics, psychological preparation, physical training, and philosophy are united into a single whole in order to create a harmonious human being—strong in body, pure in heart, and clear in mind.
Classification and Biomechanics of SUDO Techniques
OX — Straight Lead-Hand Punch
OKH is a fundamental, fast, and direct punch delivered with the lead hand from a fighting stance with one foot positioned forward.
This technique is used to control distance, establish tempo, disrupt an opponent’s balance, and score points during the first round (Doyush).
The strike travels along the shortest possible path with minimal motion, relying on speed, precision, and efficient weight transfer. A key element is shoulder engagement: before the punch is launched, the shoulder slightly moves forward, extending the reach while simultaneously creating a protective barrier.
This prevents effective counterattacks by maintaining control of distance through the arm and shoulder line.
The primary advantage of Okh is initiative. The strike reaches its target before the opponent can react or initiate movement.
DÜZ — Straight Rear-Hand Punch
DUZ is a powerful straight punch delivered with the rear hand.
Unlike Okh, which emphasizes speed and distance control, Duz is a power-oriented strike capable of penetrating an opponent’s defense and changing the course of a contest.
The technique begins with a slight rotation of the torso and a transfer of body weight from the rear leg forward.
The kinetic chain develops through:
• Hip rotation
• Torso rotation
• Shoulder projection
• Direct extension of the arm toward the target
This coordinated movement generates substantial power, making Duz one of the most effective strikes in the Doyush round.
Its additional advantage lies in its extended range, allowing the strike to reach the target with unexpected force.
When executed correctly, Duz can produce a knockdown or create an opening for follow-up combinations.
YAN — Hook Punch
YAN is a powerful hook delivered along a curved trajectory and primarily aimed at the opponent’s body.
Under SUDO competition rules, punches to the head are prohibited. Therefore, Yan is used exclusively for body attacks, where its rotational mechanics and explosive power make it highly effective.
The technique utilizes hip rotation, weight transfer, and rapid engagement of the torso.
The shoulder creates a defensive shield while the arm travels in a circular path toward either side of the opponent’s body.
A properly executed Yan can force air from the lungs, disrupt balance, and weaken an opponent’s posture.
In self-defense situations, where sporting restrictions do not apply, Yan may also target the head, becoming one of the most powerful and effective striking techniques.
ALT — Twisting Punch
ALT differs from standard straight punches such as Okh and Duz.
Its distinctive feature is the upward rotation of the fist during impact rather than the traditional downward rotation.
This twisting motion creates a penetrating line of force and allows attacks from unconventional angles.
Alt may be directed toward the body or jaw, although punches to the head are prohibited in official SUDO competitions.
Its spiral mechanics make it especially effective at close and medium range, allowing it to bypass defensive structures with minimal telegraphing.
DİRSƏK — Elbow Strike
DİRSEK is an elbow-striking technique with five primary applications.
Elbow strikes generate tremendous power at close range and are particularly useful when longer-range attacks become ineffective.
QILINC — Sword-Hand Strike
GILINJ is an open-hand strike delivered with the thumb side of the hand toward the opponent’s neck.
The technique combines speed and precision, enabling effective attacks against vulnerable targets during close-range encounters.
SƏRT — Knife-Hand Strike
SART is an open-hand strike delivered with the little-finger side of the hand.
It serves as the opposite counterpart to GILINJ.
The strike may be executed from either the inside or outside angle, allowing attacks from multiple directions.
NİZƏ — Spear-Hand Strike
NİZE is a straight thrusting strike performed with an open hand.
For attacks to the abdomen, the fingers are held vertically.
For attacks to the neck, the fingers are positioned horizontally, allowing precise targeting.
DÜZAYAQ — Straight Kick
DUZAYAG is a direct kick aimed at the abdomen or beneath the jaw toward the head.
The technique follows a linear trajectory and is valued for its speed and efficiency at medium range.
YANAYAQ — Outside Round Kick
YANAYAG is a kick delivered from the outside trajectory toward the shin, body, or head.
Its circular motion generates powerful lateral force capable of disrupting balance or producing a knockout.
PƏNCƏ — Inside Crescent Kick
PANJA is a circular kick performed with the sole of the foot from the inside outward.
The technique allows unexpected attacks to the body or head while bypassing defensive blocks.
BALTA — Axe Kick
BALTA is executed by raising the leg to head level and then driving it downward in a powerful chopping motion.
The strike targets the head or shoulder and possesses significant destructive force.
QABIRĞA — Side Kick
GABIRGA is a powerful side kick directed toward the body or head.
The technique relies on strong hip extension and is effective at both medium and long range.
AYAQGERİ — Spinning Back Kick
AYAGGERİ is a straight rearward kick delivered after a complete turn with the back facing the opponent.
The technique generates considerable power and is commonly aimed at the body or head.
DAİRƏ — Outside Roundhouse Kick
DAIRE is a circular kick delivered along an outside arc toward the opponent’s head.
Its wide trajectory enables it to bypass defenses and land with substantial force.
ƏKS — Inside Roundhouse Kick
EKS is a circular kick traveling from the inside outward toward the opponent’s head.
The technique is known for its speed and unpredictability.
DİZ — Knee Strike
DIZ is a knee-striking technique used at close range.
It may target either the body or the head and relies on hip drive and explosive mechanics.
Grappling, Throws, and Ground Techniques
QARMAQ — Twisting Leg Capture
GARMAG involves controlling the opponent’s leg and applying rotational force to break balance or cause a takedown.
Numerous variations exist for different tactical situations.
BADALAQ — Foot Sweep
BADALAG is performed using the inside of the leg to remove the opponent’s supporting leg inward or outward.
The technique is designed to break balance and produce an immediate takedown.
Many variations of BADALAG are used within SUDO.
AŞIRMA — Throw Over the Body
ASHIRMA is a throwing technique in which the opponent is projected over the attacker’s hip, back, or torso.
Its effectiveness depends on proper gripping mechanics and coordinated body movement.
The SUDO system contains numerous forms of ASHIRMA.
BOĞUCU — Choke Technique
BOGUJU is a choking technique performed using the arms, legs, forearms, or combined body controls.
The technique restricts breathing or blood circulation, forcing the opponent to submit.
Numerous variations of BOGUJU exist within SUDO.
AĞRIDICI — Joint Lock
AGRIDIJI is a submission technique that applies pressure to joints, muscles, or ligaments, causing pain and forcing surrender.
These techniques may target the arms, legs, torso, wrists, or other joints.
Many forms of AGRIDIJI are utilized throughout the SUDO system.
QEYD — Control Hold
GEYD is a controlling hold used to immobilize an opponent on the ground while maintaining a stable dominant position.
The objective is to secure points or create opportunities for submissions and chokes.
Several forms of GEYD exist depending on the opponent’s position.
Scientific Definition of “YAXA”
Within the SUDO ruleset, the term YAKHA refers to a referee command indicating a controlled grip on the opponent’s collar or neck area by one or both athletes.
SUDO contains nearly 8,000 techniques and technical terms, making it one of the richest and most comprehensive martial arts systems of the modern era.
Competition Round System
The SUDO competition system consists of three rounds:
1. Döyüş
Standing combat that includes strikes, throws, sweeps, and takedowns.
2. Döşək
Kneeling ground fighting (without standing up), featuring joint locks, chokeholds, and control holds.
3. Dömix
A mixed phase that combines standing combat and ground fighting into one continuous flow.
Competition Colors and Symbolism
Athletes enter the contest wearing one of two colors:
Red — OD, the symbol of fire and flame.
Interestingly, the root word DO (combat/struggle), when read in reverse order, forms OD, giving the color an additional meaning—energy, aggression, and offensive power.
Blue — SU, the symbol of water, fluidity, and purity of movement.
This duality creates a unique philosophical image within SUDO: water and fire meet in combat—two ancient elements whose opposition generates the dynamics of battle.
Water is soft, flowing, and yet unbeatable.
Fire is bright, explosive, and capable of breaking through obstacles.
Their interaction symbolizes the balance between power and flexibility, determination and wisdom.
What is particularly remarkable is that although the philosophy of SUDO itself means “a martial art similar to the properties of water,” combat also contains the element of fire—the impulse to attack, decisiveness, and the ability to make instant decisions.
Thus, a match becomes more than a sporting contest. It becomes an interaction of elements, where water teaches control and fire teaches strength of spirit.
SUDO was not born from a desire to create just another system. It emerged from an inner search for truth—the truth of movement, strength, character, and spirit.
Today, its technical arsenal includes thousands of techniques, yet its essence remains unchanged:
Water prevails through continuity rather than hardness.
Fire prevails through determination rather than destruction.
Competition Structure
Competitions are divided into three rounds, each with its own rules and characteristics.
Round 1 — Doyush (Standing Combat)
This round is conducted entirely in the standing position.
Permitted Techniques
• Kicks to the head, body, and legs.
• Punches to the body only (punches to the head are prohibited).
• Throws and sweeps.
Scoring System
• Knockdown lasting 1–9 seconds → Hal point.
• Knockdown lasting 10 seconds → Qalib point (clear victory; the match ends immediately).
• Throwing the opponent while remaining on one’s feet and following with a strike → Hal point.
This round emphasizes striking skills and dominance in the standing position.
Round 2 — Doshek (Kneeling Grappling)
This round is conducted from a kneeling position with a primary focus on grappling.
Within this round, ground fighting is officially recognized whenever one or both knees of an athlete are in contact with the mat.
Victory Conditions
- Chokehold (opponent submits).
- Joint lock (opponent submits).
- QEYD hold maintained for 30 seconds → Qalib point.
- QEYD hold maintained for 20 seconds → Hal point.
- Opponent receives a penalty point (when the score is otherwise tied).
This round places special emphasis on controlling the opponent through holds, limiting mobility, positional management, submission techniques, and effective ground fighting.
Round 3 — Domix (Mixed Combat)
This round combines standing techniques and ground fighting.
Permitted Techniques
• Punches to the body.
• Kicks to the head, body, and shins.
• Throws and sweeps.
• Free grappling on the ground.
This round showcases the complete arsenal of SUDO: strikes, throws, and grappling techniques.
Summary
Doyush
Standing combat featuring trips, sweeps, hooks, standing throws, strikes, and knockdowns.
Doshek
Kneeling ground fighting featuring chokeholds, joint locks, grips, and control holds.
Domix
Mixed combat combining strikes, throws, and ground fighting.
Determining the Winner
If the score is tied, victory is awarded according to penalty points.
The athlete with fewer penalties is declared the winner.
Scoring and Penalty System
G – QALIB (Clear Victory)
A GALIB results in the immediate termination of the match.
Ways to Achieve a GALIB
- Knockout (the opponent is unable to continue for 10 seconds or more).
- Maintaining a GEYD hold for 30 seconds.
- Joint lock or chokehold resulting in submission.
- Clear domination or a decisive action.
- The opponent receives three JAZA penalties, resulting in an automatic KOBUD declaration.
GALIB = Early Victory
H – HAL (Partial Victory / Point)
A scoring action that provides an advantage but does not end the match.
Examples
✔ Throwing the opponent while remaining on one’s feet, followed by a strike.
✔ Knockdown (recovery within less than 10 seconds).
✔ GEYD hold maintained for 20 seconds.
Two HAL points = One GALIB
C – CƏZA (Penalty / Warning)
A JAZA – the first three penalties issued for rule violations.
Reasons
• Passivity.
• Stepping outside the competition area.
• Illegal grips or prohibited actions.
Displayed on the scoreboard as: C
After three CƏZA penalties → KOBUD
K – KOBUD (Serious Violation / Disqualification)
There are two situations in which KOBUD is declared:
- Automatically after three JAZA penalties.
- Immediately for a serious violation (dangerous strike, unsportsmanlike conduct, or prohibited technique).
Displayed on the scoreboard as: K
KOBUD = Defeat
(The opponent is awarded a GALIB.)
Summary
• G – QALIB → Clear Victory (the match ends immediately).
• H – HAL → Partial Victory (two HAL points equal one QALIB).
• C – CƏZA → First three penalties.
• K – KOBUD → Disqualification.
SUDO Counting System
In SUDO, the traditional count from one to ten is used:
1 — Bir
2 — İki
3 — Uch
4 — Dord
5 — Besh
6 — Altı
7 — Yeddi
8 — Sekkiz
9 — Doqquz
10 — On
SA Greeting
The SA greeting is more than a formal expression—it embodies an entire philosophy of respect, patience, and inner readiness.
Meaning of the SA Greeting
1. Greeting and Respect
The SA command in SUDO is not only a traditional greeting but also an expression of respect toward the opponent, referee, teacher, spectators, and the art of SUDO itself. By pronouncing or performing SA, an athlete demonstrates readiness to enter the contest with honor, dignity, and nobility.
2. A Symbol of Patience and Inner Strength
The SA command also symbolizes patience, self-control, and inner stability. It reminds practitioners that the path of SUDO is built not on haste or emotions, but on endurance, discipline, and the ability to remain calm under all circumstances. In the philosophy of SUDO, SA is a symbol of patience that helps a person overcome difficulties and move toward perfection step by step.
3. Acknowledgment
Recognition of one’s readiness for combat and fair competition.
4. Focus
A state of discipline, self-control, concentration, and inner strength.
5. Humility
A reminder that every contest is a path of development rather than merely a struggle for victory.
6. The Philosophy of SUDO
SA symbolizes the spirit of SUDO: respect, patience, perseverance, purity of intention, and harmony between body and mind.
Thus, when an athlete performs or pronounces the SA greeting, it signifies:
“I am ready to enter this contest with respect, patience, honor, and dignity.”
Performing the Greeting
• Participants stand upright with their feet together and their arms at their sides (Dur stance).
• Upon the command SA, athletes slightly lower their heads while keeping their eyes directed forward, expressing respect toward the opponent, referee, teacher, and spectators.
• This gesture symbolizes respect, patience, self-control, and readiness for the contest.
Greeting of AL and MA Athletes
• The AL athlete (wearing the red uniform) and the MA athlete (wearing the blue uniform) stand facing one another.
• Feet together, arms at the sides (Dur stance).
• Upon the command SA, both athletes simultaneously lower their heads while keeping their eyes directed forward.
• After the greeting, the athletes raise their heads and assume the Hazır stance (feet shoulder-width apart).
Referee Classification (WSF)
The quality and fairness of a contest largely depend on the professionalism of its referees.
Within the SUDO system, the refereeing career follows a clearly structured path based on mandatory education, examinations, and certification.
The World SUDO Federation (WSF) classification reflects experience, qualification, and responsibility.
D – Entry Level
Officiating local competitions.
Basic training in rules, scoring systems, and contest organization.
C – Regional Level
Higher experience gained through regional tournaments.
Successful completion of examinations and practical evaluation is required.
B – National Level
Officiating national championships and major tournaments.
Requires extensive practical experience, comprehensive knowledge of the rules, and a high degree of responsibility in decision-making.
A – International Level
Officiating continental and world championships.
Requires strict certification standards, the highest qualification level, and international recognition.
This system ensures objectivity, professionalism, and fairness in officiating, forming an essential foundation for the international development of SUDO.
The SUDO Logo — The Symbol of the Pomegranate
The pomegranate in the SUDO logo is not merely an image of a fruit; it is a profound symbol of unity, strength, and harmony.
Just as the seeds of a pomegranate are closely united beneath its crown, the members of SUDO form one family in which every individual is important, valued, and has a place.
No seed exists on its own. Only together do they create completeness and wholeness.
Likewise, SUDO seeks to unite athletes, masters, and entire organizations into a single community built upon mutual respect and brotherhood.
Since ancient times, the pomegranate has symbolized abundance, unity, and life energy.
Its crown reminds us that true greatness can only be achieved through unity.
Its juice, resembling blood, symbolically flows through all of us, connecting every member of SUDO into one living and unbreakable whole.
Within the philosophy of SUDO, this means that strength is born from harmony, respect, and inner balance.
Therefore, the pomegranate logo represents not only visual beauty but also a deeper meaning:
SUDO is one great family, where every individual, like a pomegranate seed, is part of one united and indivisible whole.
ODA (The SUDO Uniform) — Meaning and Philosophy
The word Oda originates from Azerbaijani culture.
Traditionally, it means a room, a dwelling, a home, or a place where a person feels safe and in harmony.
It is a place of rest, inner concentration, and renewal.
Within SUDO, however, the word carries a deeper philosophical meaning.
ODA as the Home of the Warrior
Philosophically, Oda represents the place where a fighter’s body and soul become one.
When an athlete puts on the uniform, it is as though they enter their inner space—a state of concentration, balance, and readiness.
It is the transition from everyday life to the path of the warrior.
ODA becomes more than clothing. It becomes:
• A space of discipline.
• A place of inner silence before action.
• A state of readiness for combat.
• A symbol of the union between physical power and spiritual control.
Unity of Body and Spirit
In SUDO, combat is not merely a physical confrontation.
It is the management of emotions, breathing, attention, and strategy.
Therefore, ODA symbolizes:
• The body — the instrument of action.
• The mind — the center of control.
• The spirit — the source of willpower and resilience.
When a fighter is in ODA, they are “at home” within themselves—in a state of inner balance.
It is from this state that precision, speed, and power emerge.
ODA as a Philosophical Concept
In a broader sense, ODA represents:
1. A Space of Order
Acceptance of rules, structure, and discipline.
2. A Space of Respect
Respect for the opponent, the system, and oneself.
3. A Space of Growth
A place where every contest becomes a stage of personal development.
4. A Space of Unity
Belonging to the international community of the World SUDO Federation.
Conclusion
ODA is the home of the warrior.
It is the state in which body and soul unite into a single force.
It is the place where discipline is born.
It is the space where character is forged.
In the philosophy of SUDO, ODA is not merely a uniform.
It is the symbol of the warrior’s inner home—the place where the journey of combat begins and where it ultimately returns.
What Is SUDO?
SUDO is an Azerbaijani martial art. It was created by Sabir Suleyman in 2000. Its name originates from the expression “su xassələrinə bənzər döyüş,” which translates as “a martial art similar to the properties of water.”
SUDO is not merely a system of techniques and combat methods; it is a complete philosophy that unites physical strength, spiritual development, and cultural traditions. It combines elements of striking and throwing techniques, joint locks, and chokeholds, while establishing a unique combat strategy in which the flexibility and softness of water are expressed—water that is capable of overcoming even the hardest obstacles.
Official Championship Competition Mat
Competition Mat Explanation
The mat used for official SUDO championships has a strict structure and clearly defined color zones. This system is essential for athlete safety and proper officiating.
1. Overall Mat Area – 10 × 10 m (Green Zone)
The outer boundary of the mat serves a protective function.
This area is called the Safety Zone and prevents athletes from moving beyond the competition area.
2. Main Competition Area – 8 × 8 m (Red Zone)
This is the active competition area where all contests take place.
• If both feet of an athlete are positioned on the red boundary line, the match is immediately stopped and a penalty is issued.
• If only one foot touches the red boundary line, the match continues without interruption.
3. Combat Zone – 6 × 6 m (Blue Zone)
The central area of the mat where active actions occur, including strikes, throws, control holds, and submission techniques.
The outcome of the contest is primarily determined within this zone.
4. Central Circle – 2 × 2 m (SUDO Logo Area)
A symbolic area where athletes begin and conclude the match by performing the traditional greeting.
Summary
The official competition mat consists of three functional zones:
• Central Combat Zone – 6 × 6 m
• Main Competition Area – 8 × 8 m
• Overall Safety Zone – 10 × 10 m
In addition, a central ceremonial area measuring 2 × 2 m is used for the opening and closing greetings.
A special rule applies to the red zone:
• Two feet on the red line → Match stopped and penalty issued.
• One foot on the red line → Match continues.
This structure and regulation fully comply with international safety requirements and the official rules governing SUDO championships.
The SUDO Belt System – The Philosophy of Growth
In SUDO, belt colors symbolize not only technical progress but also the inner journey of discipline, knowledge, and wisdom.
10th GU – No Belt
The state of a beginner. An empty vessel ready to be filled with discipline.
9th GU – White Belt
Purity and beginning. Readiness to receive knowledge.
8th GU – Gray Belt
The first shade of experience. A transition from confusion to clarity.
7th GU – Yellow Belt
Light and awakening. Optimism and awareness begin to grow.
6th GU – Orange Belt
Energy and readiness. Technique becomes sharper and faster.
5th GU – Green Belt
Growth and harmony. The connection between mind and body.
4th GU – Light Blue Belt
Depth of knowledge. Technique becomes smoother and more mature.
3rd GU – Blue Belt
Inner strength. Calm power and determination.
2nd GU – Red Belt
Intensity and control. Passion directed by discipline.
1st GU – Brown Belt
The final step before mastery. Wisdom, responsibility, and leadership.
Black Belt – 1st DAR
The beginning of mastery. True understanding, self-control, and the ability to guide others along the path.
OJAG – The Place Where Martial Arts Are Practiced
Within the context of SUDO, the word Ojag (meaning “fire” or “hearth”) carries a symbolic meaning.
It represents the place where people gather to train, refine their skills, and preserve the spirit of community.
In SUDO, as in many martial arts traditions, such a place is vital because it symbolizes the beginning and development of personal mastery and martial spirit.
In SUDO, Ojaq May Represent:
Training Place
A physical environment where classes and training sessions take place, reflecting the principles and values of SUDO.
Symbol of Spirit
The hearth symbolizes the inner fire and determination necessary to overcome challenges and achieve success in martial arts.
Cultural Value
Preserving and transmitting SUDO traditions and culture is essential, and the Ojag serves as the place where these traditions are maintained and developed.
Thus, the Ojag in SUDO is a place where physical training and spiritual development intertwine, strengthening the connection between students and their art.
Principles of the Ojag
Trust and Respect
Every student must demonstrate deep respect toward their teacher, senior students, and themselves.
Belief in one’s own abilities and respect for tradition form the foundation of learning.
Strength of Spirit
The Ojag develops resilience and mental strength, helping students overcome challenges both in martial arts and in everyday life.
Patience and Self-Control
Patience and emotional control are key qualities developed through training.
Strength must never be used in anger or without purpose.
Unity and Brotherhood
Students are expected to support one another and function as a unified whole.
All members of the school are considered one family.
Fairness and Responsibility
Every student is expected to behave fairly and take responsibility for personal actions and progress.
Rituals of the Ojag
Greeting
Upon entering the training hall, each student greets the Ojag and their teacher with a respectful bow of the head.
This gesture symbolizes respect and readiness for training.
SUDO Hierarchy
Dahi
The creator or an individual who has made extraordinary discoveries and provided great contributions to SUDO.
Ustad
The guardian of SUDO philosophy and wisdom.
An Ustad possesses the highest level of mastery, leads schools, and shapes the worldview of students.
Muell
The chief instructor and teacher.
Responsible for the education, personal development, and physical training of students.
A Muell is a professional who teaches knowledge, skills, habits, and values.
Sahib
Experienced students possessing a high level of skill.
They assist in teaching junior students while helping preserve discipline and traditions.
Nasib
All other students participating in training, divided into groups according to their level of proficiency.
Each student is expected to support their group and continuously strive for improvement.
Çhırag
An appointed student responsible for organizing rituals and maintaining order during training sessions.
One Euro for the Future
Construction of the World SUDO Center in Paderborn
SUDO is more than a martial art.
It is a philosophy of unity, discipline, and inner strength.
The “One Euro” Initiative invites every supporter, athlete, and friend to become part of a historic project—the construction of the World SUDO Center.
This center will become an international venue for education, development, and gatherings under the guidance of the World SUDO Federation.
Why One Euro?
One euro is a small amount.
But united together, small contributions become a great force.
Like the seeds of a pomegranate that together form a strong and complete fruit, many small contributions create a solid foundation.
Just one euro represents a symbolic contribution toward creating:
• An international training center.
• A venue for tournaments and seminars.
• A platform for youth development.
• A home of unity for the worldwide SUDO family.
Every contribution matters.
Every euro is a building stone.
How You Can Support
Recipient: World SUDO Federation e.V.
Payment Reference:
“1 Euro – Weltzentrum SUDO”
IBAN:
DE65 4765 0130 1010 2321 46
BIC:
WELADE3LXXX
Bank:
Sparkasse Paderborn-Detmold-Höxter
Girocard (with Mastercard function):
5374 2802 0880 0792
Together We Build the Future
The World SUDO Center in Paderborn will become a symbol of discipline, respect, and international unity.
With your support, more than just a building will be created—
it will become a home for generations of warriors.
One Euro. One Idea. One Unity.
We sincerely thank you for your support.
Not the Story of One Person
I have traveled the path from my first steps in martial arts to the creation of a school, a federation, and an international movement.
But SUDO is not the story of one person.
It is the story of everyone who one day discovers within themselves the power to change both themselves and the world around them.
Every student, every teacher, and every champion becomes part of a current that will continue to flow long after we are gone.
May everyone who opens this book find within it not only knowledge, but also a state of being.
Not only technique, but a path.
Not only strikes, but meaning.
May SUDO become for you not merely a martial art, but a key to harmony, where water and fire exist not as opposites, but as forces that reveal your true nature.
The journey continues.
SUDO is the path of a drop of water becoming an ocean of strength and harmony.
And everyone who steps onto this path writes the next page of this story.
When I die, SUDO will speak for me.
It will live in the souls, hearts, and actions of people.
That is the meaning of existence—to leave behind an art, a legacy, a trace.
SUDO is my trace.
(Sabir Suleyman)
The Dream Between Two Buildings
There is one day from my childhood that has never faded from my memory.
My father and I left home together and walked between two buildings.
There was a small, quiet piece of land there—a vacant lot surrounded by pine trees.
No buildings. No noise.
Only the scent of the earth, the fragrance of the pines, and my childhood dreams.
Every time I passed that place, a desire was born in my heart.
One day, I finally spoke it aloud.
I said to my father:
“I would like a two-story building to be built right here. On the first floor there would be a training hall. I would train there, work there, and teach students. One day I would become a coach. On the second floor would be my home. After training, I would walk upstairs to my family, rest, and spend time with you. You would always be nearby, and I could visit you often.”
It was not merely a child’s fantasy.
It was the first outline of my future life.
My father listened carefully.
There was faith in his eyes.
At that moment, he spoke words that would become a source of strength, determination, and direction for many years to come.
He said:
“Do not worry. The most important thing is never to miss your training sessions. Train seriously. Work with all your heart. When you grow up, we will save money, do everything possible, and make this dream come true. I promise you. Stay calm. But above all—never miss your training.”
Those words were more than comfort.
They were a father’s belief in his son.
The unwavering support of a man who believed in me.
On that day, my father did not simply promise me a building.
He taught me to believe in myself.
During every difficult training session, every moment of exhaustion, and every second when I wanted to give up, those words echoed in my ears:
“The most important thing is never to miss your training.”
Time passed.
Life changed.
Sadly, my father is no longer in this world.
Yet those few sentences remain with me to this day.
Sometimes, to move forward, a person does not need great wealth.
Sometimes a single sentence is enough.
My greatest wealth is the words of my father.
That piece of land may no longer be the same.
Perhaps something has been built there.
Perhaps it still remains empty.
But for me, it is not merely a patch of ground.
It is a beginning.
The beginning of a dream, a purpose, and a father’s blessing.
On that day, I was only a child.
Yet it was then that I chose my path.
To live through sport.
To learn.
To teach.
To stay close to family.
To build everything through my own work.
Although my father is no longer physically beside me, his support, calmness, and faith have become part of my soul.
Whenever I achieve success or take another step forward, it feels as though I hear his voice inside me saying:
“I told you that you could do it.”
And so I continue my journey.
Because the dream born long ago between two buildings, beneath the pine trees, is still alive.
(Sabir Suleyman)
