Kancho Bill Cox

Sensei Phil Robinson of Spirit Combat interviews his instructor Kancho Bill Cox, 8th Dan. 

Background

Kancho Bill started in martial arts at an early age at Isleworth Explorers Club, practicing Aikido with Sensei Jim Dodge, for three years before the Club closed.  Having practiced Judo at school he was encouraged to try Ju-jitsu at the age of 15 by Sensei Kevin Sumer, at Spirit Combat under Soke Brian Dossett, the Founder of Spirit Combat (currently 10th Dan Grand Master). Married to Marion and has two sons Jodie and Stacey (and a cat Ninja) 
 

Kancho Bill’s 30 years in Spirit Combat have enabled him to train in venues across the world, with hundreds of martial artists, sampling numerous different styles.  Kancho’s experience has not been confined to the Dojo – doorwork for over 22 years gave him excellent experience in practical application on the streets.  

 

Phil: How has martial arts changed, and how have you changed martial arts?

Kancho: Martial arts have not changed but a lot of concepts within in the arts have changed, and have been forced to develop with changing times and cultures. Modern medicine and sports science has changed our lives. Change is good but sometimes hard to except and implement. 

Phil: Media coverage has highlighted knife crime: is there any place for knives on our streets?  Why do you think do so many feel the need to carry them?

Kancho: The media make it seem like a new fad, but I remember the old boys talking about mods and rockers who apparently all carried knives or other weapon. Unfortunately knives and weapons have always been on our streets and I think they always will. 

Phil: Are insurance concerns taming some aspects of traditional arts?

Kancho: Taming the arts may be the wrong word but with all the claims and liability laws around I think they are necessary, I don’t think you would like to drive your car for a number of years without insurance. I do feel the world’s gone mad on a lot of issues but if there is something that can safeguard you, why not use it? 

Phil: Does this mean traditional ways are changing and in danger of being lost?

Kancho: If you believe in something very strongly it will never be lost but the world is changing all the time – sometimes we need a prod to catch up, but never forgetting what we do and the traditions within it. 

Phil: Who inspires you?

Kancho: I have the greatest respect for Soke Brian Dossett who has helped me through the good and bad times in my younger years, he is a great guy to have around, he is family to me and has taught me so much. I couldn’t start to think how I could repay him. .  Bruce Lee was “the man” in the cinema and I know it’s not all your taste but the original Dark Knight – Batman has always been my comic book hero. There are many great Martial artists out there, and many up and coming ones. So many of these guys inspire me and keep me going on my dark, down days. 

Phil: What are your favorite films?

Kancho: Lightning Swords of Death, Shogun Assassin and the classic Bruce Lee films.  
 

Phil:  What about the Politics in Martial Arts?

Kancho: There’s a subject! Soke has dealt with a lot of the politics within our association, but it’s the evil that drives change. No one likes it, and I have often heard martial art groups saying “we don’t have politics in our art”. Rubbish – politics are part of everyday life, whether  we like it or not. 
 

Phil: What is your philosophy, your likes and dislikes in Martial Arts?

Kancho: Enjoy what you do. Take the knowledge and experience of your martial art world, look at other martial arts in the same light as your own. Some will suite – but not all. That is no reason to say they’re no good – it may only be no good for you. Be open – it will change your life. My love is the passion it has given me for life and friendship, and how you can see the development of students. My dislikes in Martial arts are people who don’t understand, but know it all. 

Phil: What makes your style work?

Kancho: What a great question, I don’t really know if this is the answer you are looking for but, I think it works because of experience, attitude and personality. It all helps to deliver what you are trying to teach. I have a great support structure in my dojo with Sensei Steve Neville, Sensei Scott Clark and yourself. That helps to eleviate pressure when I am unable to attend or with the help of the class during a session, so it is important I thank you all for that. 

Phil: So how would you sum up this interview?

Kancho: Enjoy what you do, don’t knock others – if they enjoy it, leave them alone. Work hard and be the best you can. 

Phil: Thank you, Kancho 

Kancho: My pleasure, Phil.