A Most heinous and Egregious Act Part 2

The rape of a minor child in a martial arts school is an extremely serious crime, in this case, a rape of an 11 year old girl that took place in a Ohio martial arts dojo in October of 2003. Upon hearing about the individual who raped a little girl in that state back in 2020, I didn't believe that the rape in 2003 was an isolated incident. Most child rapists have raped multiple times before getting caught.  

The rapist was originally charged with two rapes, one in October 2003 and a later one the following month in November where he was caught in the act and arrested. A deal was made to protect the 11 year old girl from having to testifying in court. 

When such an act is covered up, by individuals, school staff, or affiliated organizations, or are complacent it not only compounds the trauma inflicted on the victim but it also enables future harm to others and constitutes a criminal act in itself. 

The martial arts community must hold itself accountable. Silence, hero-worship of instructors, or fear of damaging the school's reputation cannot come before a child's safety. Ethical oversight bodies, if they exist, should permanently ban any instructor found guilty or complicit in regards to such a crime.

By 2003, Ohio law classified sexual contact with a minor as a felony—illegal regardless of consent. Schools and instructors were mandated reporters; failing to notify authorities could result in criminal charges. A single incident of child sexual abuse is horrific; most child predators have multiple victims or have victimized the same victim multiple times, this combined with complicity or some type of a cover-up makes it a systemic failure in the martial arts community. 

Martial arts instructors hold a position of trust and authority, especially with children. A cover-up destroys the integrity of the martial arts community and allows predators to continue harming others. Instructors who cover up abuse are no different, ETHICALLY, from the child predator in this particular Ohio case, a child rapist.

The victims deserve justice, not silence. In this case, I'm gonna see to it justice is served to everyone I'm going to see to it justice is served cold. 

A Most Heinous and Egregious Act

 The rape of a minor in a martial arts school is a profoundly heinous and egregious crime, violating not only the law but also the fundamental trust that parents and students place in instructors and institutions dedicated to youth development and safety. The rape of a minor in a martial arts school is a despicable act that should be met with the full force of the law and societal condemnation, and it underscores the critical importance of robust child protection measures in all youth-serving organizations.

When the rape of a minor in a martial arts school is minimalized or covered upby the school's owners or other instructors, the consequences are severe, both legally and ethically. The law imposes strict obligations on organizations and their personnel to report suspected child abuse, and deliberate cover-ups can result in significant civil and potentially criminal liability for those involved. In many states, including California, martial arts schools and their staff are legally required to report any suspected child abuse to law enforcement or child protective services. Failing to do so, or actively covering up abuse, is a violation of these laws and can result in criminal charges against the individuals and the organization.

 When leadership discourages reporting or minimizes the abuse (a rape of a minor child) to protect the institution’s image, it fosters a culture where abuse can persist, and more children may be put at risk. The school or organization’s reputation can suffer irreparable damage, and those responsible may face professional consequences, including loss of licenses or the ability to work with children in the future.

In some cases, administrators have fired perpetrators but failed to report the abuse, or have attempted to gaslight victims into doubting their own experiences. Covering up the rape of a minor in a martial arts school is not only morally indefensible but also exposes the institution and individuals involved to serious legal and financial repercussions, while compounding the harm to victims.

Association with Wrongdoing

When other instructors or organizations affiliate themselves with a school or instructor that covered up the rape of a minor, they face significant legal, ethical and reputational consequences. The extent of these consequences depends on their level of knowledge, involvement, and the actions they took (or failed to take) once aware of the abuse or cover-up.

Instructors, long time students and organizations linked to an instructor or school that covered up a rape risk severe reputational harm, loss of community trust, and diminished enrollment or participation if they are linked to such a cover-up. 

Ignoring a cover-up, especially one involving serious misconduct like the rape of a minor, poses substantial risks to any longtime student or blackbelt (who supported the instructor in question) personal reputation and the trust others place in them. Even small ethical missteps can erode how others perceive their integrity. If a longtime supporter or student of any rank ignored or defended a cover-up, either directly or indirectly, people may question their values and honesty, leading to a lasting negative impression.

Being linked to unethical or illegal activity—EVEN PASSIVELY—can result in "guilt by association." The public and your peers may view you as complicit, regardless of your level of involvement. Trust can collapse quickly once it becomes known you ignored or failed to address a serious issue, or worse showed support even passively to the person in question.

Once your reputation is damaged, it can take years and significant effort to restore. People often remember ethical lapses longer than positive contributions. Others may see you as unreliable or untrustworthy if you don't address or acknowledge wrongdoing. This can lead to social ostracism and exclusion from professional or personal networks. Damaged trust can affect future collaborations, friendships, and opportunities, as people may hesitate to associate with someone perceived as lacking integrity. 

If the cover-up becomes public, your continued silence or support can lead to others doubting your judgment and distancing themselves from you.

Ignoring a cover-up can have immediate and long-lasting negative effects on your personal reputation and the trust others place in you. Ethical lapses—especially those involving serious harm—are noticed and remembered, and can overshadow years of positive behavior. In the long run, the costs to your credibility, relationships, and standing in the community can be severe and difficult to repair.

The same also goes for any organization that the instructor may have been involved with or a member of even though the instructor covered it up.

American Jidokwan Association and Serving up a little "Justice" on a Silver Platter PT. 1

 The American Jidokwan Association (AJA) was the subject of significant controversy and accusations of fraudulent claims within the martial arts community. While the AJA presents itself as an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of Jidokwan with a rich history and legitimate lineage, these claims have been strongly disputed by credible sources and individuals connected to the original American Ji Do Kwan lineage.

Steven Hatfield’s claims about American Jidokwan unraveled due to several critical failures in substantiating their asserted lineage and organizational legitimacy. 

A person by the name of Patrick Justice was promoted to 9th degree black belt and served as President of the American Jidokwan Association (AJA), a rank and position awarded to him by Steven Hatfield to give the appearance of legitimacy to the organization. However, This promotion, which occurred when Justice was in his thirties, has been widely criticized as fraudulent, given his relatively limited training and teaching record and the questionable practices of Hatfield and the AJA. 

Hatfield further attempted to establish his legitimacy by claiming a direct connection to E.A. Fuzy, the recognized founder of American Ji Do Kwan, through two individuals: William Sirbaugh (Hatfield’s stepfather) and Shune Yung Davis. However, there is no credible evidence that either Sirbaugh or Davis played any role in developing American Ji Do Kwan or even existed as martial arts instructors with verifiable credentials. Their supposed contributions and relationships with Fuzy are unproven and widely considered fabricated.

American Jidokwan claims refuted.

The timeline and details of Hatfields claimed lineage has shifted repeatedly as inconsistencies and challenges emerged. For example, Hatfield’s biography changed the identity of his mentors and the specifics of their involvement, while the AJA's official history page was frequently revised to accommodate new revelations that contradicted earlier claims.

Senior black belts, board members, and the widow of E.A. Fuzy from the original American Ji Do Kwan organization publicly denounced Gordon and Hatfield’s claims. They asserted that the AJA’s narrative was a fabrication and that neither Gordon nor Hatfield had any legitimate connection to Fuzy’s legacy or organization.

It was claimed that Sensei Charles “Buddy” Brown supported Hatfield’s version of events. However, when directly contacted, Brown not only refused to corroborate Hatfield’s version but also expressed his dismay at how his words were misrepresented to serve the AJA’s  purpose.

Hatfield has a pattern of questionable claims regarding martial arts backgrounds and credentials, not just in Jidokwan but across other martial arts styles. These included unverifiable instructors, dubious transfers of rank and authority, and even allegations of buying credentials.

Hatfield's inability to provide documentation, credible witnesses, or consistent narratives led to the claims being widely dismissed as fraudulent. Even legal threats and lawsuits did not result in the production of credible evidence supporting their story.

Hatfield's supposed martial arts background story has changed numerous times,  showing a pattern of frequent and significant revisions. Between 2012 and 2017, there was no mention of Ji Do Kwan in Hatfield’s public biographies or organizational histories. The narrative connecting Hatfield to American Ji Do Kwan and GM E.A. Fuzy only emerged after Fuzy’s death, and has since been repeatedly altered to address inconsistencies and new revelations.

Hatfield has presented “many different versions of their story as they have tried to stay ahead of all the revelations that have shown that their claims are little more than fabrications”. Specific timeline claims, such as the involvement of William Sirbaugh, the existence of Shune Yung Davis, and the sequence of events regarding Hatfield’s early training and rapid promotions—have changed as his “stories” were exposed contradictions and impossibilities (such as implausible travel and training timelines for Hatfield as a child).

Observers note that the AJA’s official history page has been “re-written over and over again,” and the organization eventually added a disclaimer acknowledging that their account is subject to ongoing revision as “new information regularly becomes available”. It appears that the American Jidokwan Association (AJA) has changed it's website and is the US Traditional Taekwondo Federation (USTTF).

As a result. the record shows that Hatfield’s martial arts background story has changed multiple times, often significantly, in response to scrutiny, making Hatfield’s narrative highly unreliable and widely viewed as fraudulent and his lineage totally  manufactured rather than earned.

John Youngblood Shibucho? More like Fraud Covering Asshole

I have zero doubts that there were a few directly around Bret Gordon who knew what Gordon was doing. They were aware of all his fabrications and changing stories. They were aware of the legit people Gordon defamed and of those Gordon harassed. Like one my students and his little girl. 

I brought up John Youngblood in previous articles, he was one who knew and he covered for and made excuses for Gordon and worst of all.... he chose to remain silent. And he got ranks in return for his silence and support of Gordon....worthless ranks. 

Youngblood wasn't the only one....but those folks are saved for another time....Gordon should have never written a single word about me, harass my students, his child or even approached my instructors.... Gordon, Hatfield Youngblood are not Martial artists they are not fighters or warriors they are not even men. They are cowardly in every aspect of that word....birds of a feather flock together. Gordon, Hatfield and Youngblood DO NOT FIND each others actions or character irreprehensible. THEY ARE THE SAME. 

In other words, Youngblood sees no fault in them or cares to....speaks volumes to who he really is.  He took elation in joining Gordon and Hatfield in taunting a person battling cancer online to fight. Youngblood covered up and remained silent about Gordon harrassing one of my students and his 13 year old daughter, my student was told that his would his little girl would be skinned  alive....peeled like a grape. 

Certainly none of it stopped Youngblood from going to Gordon’s dojo and collecting ranks from Gordon. 

In martial arts, the value and recognition of a rank depend on the credibility and recognized authority of the issuing instructors and their organizations. When those instructors are exposed for fabricating their credentials, inventing organizations, and misrepresenting their experience, the ranks they grant are invalid.

Receiving and claiming fraudulent martial arts ranks severely undermines the credibility of the individual and any organization that acknowledges or supports such ranks. When someone is promoted by an unqualified person, or through a made-up or unrecognized organization, their skills and knowledge are often not commensurate with the rank they claim. Individuals with fake ranks frequently lack the technical proficiency and teaching ability expected at their claimed level.

Let’s be clear here Youngblood knows the questionable backgrounds of both Gordon and Hatfield. He was not duped he went along with all their changing narratives and histories over the years. Young Blood has been a student of Gordon’s for years. It is my understanding Youngblood is Gordon’s highest-ranking direct student. The credibility of Youngblood's ranks all of which he received from Gordon and Hatfield is fundamentally compromised due to the documented fraudulent assertions and lack of legitimate recognition associated his instructors.

Gordon and Hatfield's fraudulent martial arts claims directly undermine the legitimacy of any ranks they have issued, including those held by John Youngblood. The technical and ethical standards behind the ranks are in doubt, making the rank essentially meaningless in any context where legitimacy and lineage are valued. Association with instructors known for fraudulent claims can harm the reputation of the rank holder, in this case John Youngblood, especially if he seeks recognition or advancement in legitimate martial arts circles.

The exposure of Gordon and Hatfield’s fraudulent claims renders the ranks they issue to their students and associates, including those to John Youngblood, illegitimate and worthless. To my understanding the only ranks John YoungBlood possesses are those garnered from or through Gordon and Hatfield.  

Arizona Shibucho  (Reginal Director) San Budo Sogo Bugei

Kyoju Dairi (Representative Instructor) American Yoshinkan AikiJujutsu

Menkyo Shoden San Budo Sogo Bugei

2^nd dan San Budo Sogo bugei

2^nd dan American Yoshinkan Aikijujutsu

Black belt Gracie Jiujitsu 

2^nd kyu Kontei Judo

Note:  All the above ranks and titles come from Gordon and Hatffield. Also note that he was given the position of Arizona regional director despite Youngblood not actually having a school or program. San Budo Sogo Bugei is a system that Gordon has alleged he made up at 16 years of age. Yet he stapled Japanese titles to it despite not having an actual proven Japanese lineage. American Yoshinkan aikijujutsu is another home brewed system that Hatfield and Gordon claim have Japanese roots but those claims have been disproven.

If John Youngblood decides to actually start something teaching under ranks issued by Gordon and Hatfield, knowing their credentials and organizations are fraudulent, he would be perpetuating the misrepresentation associated with those ranks. In the martial arts community, using and promoting illegitimate ranks not only damages the integrity of the art but also misleads students and the public about the quality and authenticity of instruction. 

Teaching with fraudulent ranks can lead to significant reputational harm for the instructor and any associated organizations. This can have long-term consequences for career prospects and the ability to participate in reputable martial arts or educational communities. 

John Youngblood knowingly accepted fraudulent ranks from Bret Gordon and Steven Hatfield, and represented himself as holding that rank, this would generally be considered fraudulent behavior. Such actions would likely result in being regarded as a fraud both legally (if within a jurisdiction or organization with enforceable rules) and ethically, particularly if there was intent to deceive or gain benefit from these false ranks.

I find it odd that Gordon touted Youngblood to be opening a dojo in Arizona and it hasn't actually happened. It begs a few questions; Is Youngblood having second thoughts and just trying to keep his head down. Has he already stumbled into a situation where his credentials have been questioned. Has he been turned down by other organizations. A lot of possibilities. At the end of the day I know Youngblood knew about the harassment of my student and his daughter he at the least covered for Gordon and kept his mouth shut about which makes him just a culpable. 

All involved owe apologies plain and simple.

A formal apology is to be issued with Gordon admitting his wrong doing. Gordon is not to twist anything, he screwed up and lied about me and my instructors, he wrongly went after my student to get at me and he wrongly went to my instructors asking for rank in judo years later. He is to post this on his blogs. Former articles that mention myself my students and my instructors are to come down. 

I will not stop till then. There isn't going to be a compromise. I will not take mine down. Gordon blatantly lied and those around him knew it. All involved owe public apologies. The most any of them can hope for is that I don't continue to write future articles.

Next:

The American Jidokwan Association and "Justice" served up on a silver platter....

Steven Hatfield About that Sheppy Article.......I Don't Forget

It is obvious That Bret Gordon Steven Hatfield, John Youngblood and a couple three others don't want any of me. All had some sort of hand in the involvement of trying to defame me and my instructors and harassing my student and his child. Now in all fairness, I did say in my last article I wasn't going to write about Bret Gordon. I did not extend that to the likes of Steven Hatfield. I sure havent forgotten the ones left.....Youngblood. 

Steven Hatfield has made numerous claims regarding his background and credentials in aikijujutsu, particularly relating to the creation and inheritance of systems such as "American Yoshinkan Aikijujutsu." These claims have been widely scrutinized and are unverifiable, questionable and have been exposed as total fabrication. 

John Paul

Initially, Hatfield claimed “John Paul” (sometimes referenced as J.P.) as one of his original martial arts instructors. However, there is no independent or verifiable evidence that John Paul ever existed as a martial arts teacher or that he held any recognized credentials in the field. 

Hatfield’s references to John Paul are part of a broader pattern of shifting and inconsistent stories about his martial arts lineage. Paul disappears from future bios. Hatfield's narrative regarding John Paul as his primary instructor shifted to naming William Sirbaugh as his stepfather and main teacher, claims that only appeared after Sirbaugh’s death and have also been thoroughly debunked. 

Haska Yutasi

Haska Yutasi is cited by Steven Hatfield and his associates as a foundational instructor in Hatfield's martial arts lineage. Yutasi was described as Hatfield's Goju-Ryu teacher. The narrative suggests that Yutasi’s Goju-Ryu background somehow evolved into a new martial art, which was then passed down to

The stories about Yutasi’s background, role, and even the spelling of his name have changed over time. These inconsistencies are seen as clear signs of fabrication, with narratives evolving to fit different needs or to address scrutiny. 

Shune Yung Davis

Hatfield has cited Shune Yung Davis as a co-developer of American Ji Do Kwan and a key figure in his martial arts lineage. There are no records, photographs, certificates, or credible witnesses to support the existence of Shune Yung Davis as an actual person as a martial arts instructor. The claims surrounding Davis, including his supposed role in promoting Hatfield and passing on organizational leadership. Hatfield claimed that Davis was a co-developer of American Ji Do Kwan with Grandmaster E.A. Fuzy.

However, the claim and supposed connections to Fuzy and American Jidokwan were debunked. Fuzy’s black belts and family members have directly contradicted Hatfield’s narrative and indicate Shune Davis is unknown among legitimate practitioners. Further more it appears that  Shune Davis is a fabricated instructor with no legitimate existence or recognized role in martial arts history.

William Sirbaugh

Hatfield refers to his stepfather, William Sirbaugh, as a significant influence in his martial arts journey. In 2012, Hatfield said his father was “Grandmaster John Paul,” who died in 1994 at the age of 58. By 2020, “Grandmaster J.P.” disappeared completely from his bios, replaced by William Sirbaugh, who died in 2009 at age 56.  All of Grandmaster J.P.’s martial arts contributions, including the creation of “Hanki/American Combat Hanki” that Hatfield formerly claimed had been transfered and contributed to Sirbaugh. 

Sirbaugh has had no verifiable martial arts involvement, there is no public information or documentation to substantiate his credentials or his role in developing recognized martial arts systems. Sirbaugh is claimed to have collaborated with a mysterious instructor and developed martial arts systems during periods when court and prison records show Sirbaugh was incarcerated for nearly a decade, directly overlapping with the years Hatfield claims to have been training and developing systems with Sirbaugh.

One of the most glaring examples is Hatfield’s claim of being connected to the development of American Ji Do Kwan through his stepfather William Sirbaugh and another instructor, Shune Yung Davis. The existence of Davis is unproven, and the connection to the legitimate founder, GM Fuzy, is described as totally  fabricated. These claims have been repeatedly revised as scrutiny increased, further undermining their credibility.

LINKS TO COURT FILINGS REGARDING KARATE AND AMERICAN JIDOKWAN CLAIMS 

Hatfield only began attributing his martial arts background to William Sirbaugh after his death, a common tactic among frauds to attach themselves to deceased people who cannot refute the claims. This pattern is repeated with other supposed founders and instructors, such as Jack Stern, all of whom were deceased by the time Hatfield's stories emerged.

Jack “Papasan” Stern

Hatfield claims to have earned a 5th Dan in Judo under Jack Stern, a controversial figure known for fraudulent claims, including false military honors. Stern readily admitted in court to having made fraudulent martial arts claims and issuing fraudulent ranks and certifications in judo and Hapkido and other arts. 

LINKS TO COURT FILINGS REGARDING JUDO CLAIMS

Hatfield was never a 5th dan in Judo or licensed by the Kodokan

By the time Hatfield claimed to be training under Stern, Stern was incapacitated by a stroke and unable to teach, making Hatfield’s claims of significant tutelage highly suspect. Evidence suggests Hatfield met Stern at a seminar, using this tenuous connection and a single group picture as proof of his "legitimacy." 

Click Here: USA vs. Jack “Papasan” Stern: Stern’s Yudo, Judo,Hapkido and Kojido Fraud

Jack Stern’s proven history as a martial arts fraud and fabricator directly undermines the legitimacy of any rank Steven Hatfield claims to have received from him. Jack Stern was exposed as a fraud both in martial arts and in his false military claims. He issued martial arts ranks through nonexistent organizations, signed his own certificates, and was never recognized by any legitimate martial arts governing bodies. As a result, any rank or licensure given by Stern or claimed to be from Stern are essentially worthless. 

Hasaka Yutashi

The supposed founder of "American Yoshinkan Aikijujutsu," Yutashi Hasaka, who supposed trained aikido under Gozo Shioda and in daito ryu Aikijujutsu appears to be a entirely fictional character.  Formerly Hasaka Yutashi was Haska Yutasi. As in the former no independent evidence exists for this person outside of Hatfield and his associate Bret Gordon. Claims that Hatfield inherited systems from this fictional founder, and then passed them on to others, are not supported by any credible documentation. 

Hatfield's student Bret Gordon tried to explain away the obvious discrepancies in the newly formed iteration of Yutasi who was now Yutashi. Even the styles had swtiched Goju to aikido and aikijujutsu. When pressed Gordon suggested that Hatfield both mispronounced and misspelled his own instructor's name and alleged Yutashi had trained extensively in all three before moving to California.   

The change from "Haska Yutasi" to "Hasaka Yutashi" appears to be another part of a broader pattern of shifting and rewording claims by Steven Hatfield. As scrutiny increased and inconsistencies were exposed, these changes allowed Hatfield and his associates to "re-write history" and distance themselves from earlier, easily disprovable claims.

LINKS TO COURT FILINGS REGARDING DAITO RYU CLAIMS

Hatfield’s bios often overlap or contradict each other, such as being named successor to one system while supposedly still training and being promoted in another, or inheriting arts from instructors who cannot be found in any legitimate martial arts records. The narrative that Sirbaugh, Shune Davis, and Hasaka Yutashi collaborated with Hatfield in the early 1990s is contradicted by prison records and the lack of evidence for Davis and Yutashi’s existence. This makes Hatfield any claims to have been awarded a black belt at age 8 (1992) by Sirbaugh extremely unlikely as well.

The current narrative seems to have multiple variations. 

Steven Hatfield is now claiming that "Yutashi" is his grandfather. This is a recent development in his ever-changing martial arts biography, as noted by critics who have tracked the evolution of his lineage claims. Previously, Hatfield described Yutashi as one of his instructors in Goju Ryu and Daito Ryu Jujitsu, but there has never been any verifiable evidence that such a person actually existed. When earlier claims about Yutashi as a Japanese teacher or master came under scrutiny, particularly due to the lack of any verifiable evidence that such a person existed, Hatfield shifted the narrative again, now presenting Yutashi as a family member.

Court dockets indicate that Renshinkan representatives took issue with Hatfield's misrepresentation, conducted their own research and, following a conversation with Hatfield, debunked his claims and alleged that Hatfield purposely misrepresented himself as being ranked within the Renshinkan.

Also this discussion with the Renshinkan denotes another shift in Hatfield's ever changing narrative. The first mention of being trained in daitoryu by his grand father a second version Hatfield told was that it was his step grand father. This was the first implications of Hasaka Yutashi being a family member of Hatfield's. When asked for the grand father’s name Hatfield refused to give it the members of the Renshinkan.  

Additionally, these references are in court docket files (130, 138, and 139) https://courtrecords.lakecounty.org/ Case Number 35-2020-CA-001851 

The Yutashi story, like others in Hatfield's background, is considered a fantasy construct with no supporting documentation or credible witnesses. Hatfield’s current assertion that Yutashi is his grandfather is seen as another attempt to bolster his martial arts pedigree by inventing or reimagining personal connections to mysterious, unverifiable masters. Hatfield’s claim that “Yutashi” is his grandfather, despite previously offering different stories about Yutashi’s role in his martial arts background, follows a pattern commonly seen among individuals attempting to fabricate or embellish martial arts credentials.

Hatfield has a documented history of claiming martial arts ranks at ages that are widely implausible in the martial arts community. Hatfield's pattern of claiming advanced ranks at implausibly young ages is primarily driven by a strong desire for status and authority within the martial arts community. By presenting himself as a prodigy or an exceptional case he seeks to by pass years of formal training and the experience required for high level ranks much earlier than is credible. 

The debunking of claims in Bret Gordon’s aiki book just two weeks after its release, further discredited Steven Hatfield’s claims. The lineage and historical connections described in Gordon’s own book were completely exposed as being fabricated or grossly misrepresented. 

Gordon's book, also included a supposed picture of Yutashi sitting next to Hatfield as a boy. However the person in the picture supposedly Yutashi is not a japanese man. This flies in the face of previous claims of Yutashi being Japanese. Click the following lnk: https://theninjerkiller.blogspot.com/2025/05/what-you-put-into-universe-comes-back_23.html

It appears now the Hatfield's narrative has changed yet again. 

Shortly after the claims in the book being debunked, Hatfield and Gordon are now claiming to be under a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Typically, an NDA restricts the sharing of specific information, yet the act of publishing a book—especially one that covers the same subject matter—would indicate that the information is already public and not subject to confidentiality.

This contradiction further raises questions and even further damages the credibility of Gordon's assertion that Hasaka exists and further debunks Hatfield’s claims. 

Invoking an NDA after public disclosure is a tactic to avoid answering difficult questions, evade scrutiny, or limit further investigation into inconsistencies or fabrications. In the context of martial arts fraud, such claims are commonly used to deflect demands for proof or explanation when previous statements or published materials are challenged. This pattern further undermines the reliability of Hatfield narratives.

Hatfield’s only confirmed legitimate rank appears to be a single 1st degree black belt (Wae Kune Do) , while his higher ranks are associated with discredited or non-existent instructors such as Jack Stern (a proven fraud) and or fabricated figures like Haska Yutasi, Shune Davis and Hasaka Yutashi. 

This has significant implications for the martial arts ranks he issues.Ranks issued by Hatfield beyond his legitimate 1st dan in Wae Kune Do are therefore built on a foundation of false claims. 

 Individuals promoted by Steven Hatfield risk having their own martial arts credentials questioned due to the controversy and inconsistencies surrounding Hatfield’s background and rank claims. 

When a figurehead’s history is repeatedly revised or debunked, it casts doubt on the legitimacy of the ranks, titles, or affiliations he bestows. The exposure of fraudulent or exaggerated claims can damage the reputations of those promoted, especially if they publicly support or repeat Hatfield’s narratives. They may face the same scrutiny and or may be viewed as complicit in perpetuating misinformation or as lacking discernment in verifying their own credentials and affiliations.

So Youngblood about your ranks.......

What You Put into the Universe Comes Back Pt. 2

There is a saying don't start a fight you cant finish. 

Bret Gordon has a history of issuing threats, making challenges, harassment and online bullying when asked to simply verifiy his claims. Gordon along with Steven Hatfield and John Youngblood harassed a person named, Dale Dumas. Mr Dumas was challenged to a fight or to spar but he had to sign a waiver first. Dumas has been battling for his life against cancer.  But that didn't stop this brave trio from trying to flex. 

When Dumas agreed to spar or fight Gordon, Hatfield and John Youngblood Gordon's black belt inserted themselves into the squabble. Both inferring they wanted a piece of Dumas (see below).   

How brave of Gordon, Hatfield and Youngblood, multiple guys against one guy with cancer.....

Dumas showed up a week prior to the match and dropped off the waiver and left with Gordon inviting him to come back anytime. The next day Gordon filed a false police report against Dumas claiming Dumas tore up the place and was told to leave and not come back. Just weeks after Hatfield and Gordon filed a frivolous lawsuit against Dumas who was also jobless, because Dumas had the audacity to meet Gordon's terms and drop off the signed waiver a week prior to the match. 

I want to be clear, to date, not one of them has come after me or wanted to get on the mats with me. I'm 40 miles from Clermont. Gordon and others then harassed a student of mine and his 13 year old daughter just because he had trained with me. Former students of Gordon's have reached out and have said both Gordon and Youngblood admitted privately that a mistake was made but Youngblood stayed quiet about the whole thing. Youngblood obviously chose to involve himself. Let this be clear in relation to John Youngblood, his actions, his silence makes him just as culpable as both Gordon and Hatfield as far as I'm concerned. 

I know who was involved and to what extent they all were. Too many have told me the same story. I do not think all these former students and others are lying about Gordon, Hatfield or Youngblood. I think Gordon and Hatfield lied to a lot of people and Youngblood was aware of it all. He didn't care as long as he got martial arts rank from them. 

If Gordon ever tries to claim we worked things out assume it is another lie.....

I will now take this time to extend an invite to all three Gordon, Hatfield and Youngblood to get on the mats with me at the same fucking time. 

They are not martial artists, they are not even men. They can all three taunt Dumas into a fight but they dont want a piece of yours truly. 

This is my last article on the likes of Gordon. You can click this link to read part One here:  https://theninjerkiller.blogspot.com/2025/05/what-you-put-into-universe-comes-back.html

Gordon and his associates have done nothing but fabricate their entire background and lineages to perpetuate fraud. All mentioned have been active in their own way doing so. 

Gordon has habit and custom of misrepresenting his affiliations with other martial artists and organizations. Gordon according to several of his former students has claimed that he and I worked things out. This is nothing but a lie. 

Gordon claims regarding Daitoryu Aikijujutsu are nothing but more fabrication and misrepresentation. He lies. The core of which centers on fabricating or exaggerating connections to legitimate martial arts lineages and figures, as well as fabricating and or misrepresenting the support or endorsement of other practitioners.  

According to Eric Pearson, Gordon fabricated a "glowing review" supposedly from Pearson. When Mr. Pearson found out about Gordon doing this, he contacted Gordon and asked for it to be removed. Gordon refused his request see messages below. 

Pearson addressed this publicly on his blog.

"I am a moderator on one of the large Daito Ryu AikiJujutsu Facebook groups. Years ago Bret Gordon joined the Facebook group. I recall he posted a few videos. He was claiming connections to Kodokai as I recall. We had a pleasant exchange on Facebook messenger. I know very little about the lineage he was claiming. Another moderator on the group blocked him from access to the facebook group because he suspected Mr. Gordon was lying (the other moderator IS part of Kodokai and has access to the records). That was pretty much the extent of my knowledge of Mr Gordon. 

So it has come to my attention that Mr Gordon is using my name as a reference on his website. Budoka online have been questioning me about my “glowing review” of Mr Gordon. I don't know why Mr Gordan chose me as a reference. Recently I discovered that he, without my knowledge, used me as a reference. I asked him to please remove the statement. He refused my request."

Mr. Pearson's statement in it's entirety can be found at https://tomikiaikido.blogspot.com/2024/10/in-reference-to-bret-gordon.html

Gordon announced on his blog that he would release a book that included "proof" of his back ground and also included a supposed picture of Hasaka Yutashi. 

Two weeks after its release the Kodokai organization themselves debunked the claims Gordon made in his book. 

"There is no connection between Bret Gordon and the Daito ryu Aikijujutsu Kodokai organization either here in the USA or in Japan. Any claims he is making regarding such a connection are entirely false.

The Daito ryu Aikijujutsu Kodokai organization keeps strict records of it's members. There is and has never been a "Hasaka Yutashi" who trained in the Kodokai organization either here in the USA or in Japan. There is no basis for him to claim that his organization is based on or connected with the Kodokai in any way shape or form, much like the claim he mentions about Yoshinkan aikido.

Furthermore, Gordon should should specifically state that his organization has no historical ties, lineage or affiliation with the Daito ryu Aikijujutsu Kodokai organization. Additionally the individual depicted in the photograph included in his book has never held any rank or title within the Daito ryu Aikijujutsu Kodokai organization in either the USA or Japan.

I hope this clarification is helpful. Please feel free to reach if any further information is needed."

Sincerely, Donald Quintana 

Letter from Donald Quintana Kodokai Secretary of General Affairs

On the heels of the statement from the kodokai (above), the former General Secretary from the Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu Kodokai organization has also spoken out about Gordon's spurious claims and blatant misrepresentation of Daito Ryu connections. John Persson related that Gordon didnt present himself a daitto ryu practitioner but some one doing a street wise jujutsu. However Gordon took Persson's comments and edited them to make it appear Persson was commending him regarding Daitoryu. 

Additionaly others debunked more claims that Gordon made in his book. Pages 11- 14, Gordon covers his "training" with the Ginjukai which included Dimitri Deglas, JoE Brogna and Howard Popkin. Gordon alleges in his book that he trained with them twice a month beginning 2019 and that "he left" in 2020 indicating he trained with the group any from 30 to 40 times at the least and that he even taught classes while there. 

However, according to Popkin, Dimitri and Brogna, this doesnt appear to be the case. Gordon only attended a few classes maybe 6 to 10 at the most and only as a budo courtesy. It appears Gordon was caught in some of his "misrepresentations" was called a liar to his face, told to leave and wasn't allowed to come back. I was forwarded this recent email (below)and then I talked with Mr. Popkin by phone. 

 This directly contradicts what Gordon writes in his book that he alleges is proof of his training regarding the Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Ginjukai. 

Popkin described Gordon as a "bold faced liar" who was fabricating his back ground. Popkin made earlier statements debunking Gordon, alleging Gordon used Kodokai pictures with out authorization or permission. Those statements were admitted in court and can be found at  https://courtrecords.lakecounty.org/ Case Number 35-2020-CA-001851 court docket file 142, exhibit 14, page 6. 

What Gordon alleges as photographic "evidence" of Yutashi in his book has not held up under scrutiny. The person in the picture that Gordon alleges to be Yutashi isn’t even Japanese. Nor does he appear in the Kodokai pictures Gordon claims he is somewhere in. 

The claims of connections to aikido's Gozo Shioda and the daito ryu both online and in his book have been directly refuted and debunked. Any rank and recognition Gordon and Hatfield seek has been denied by those associated with that lineage. 

At this point anything that's proposed by Gordon or Hatfield as "evidence" is no doubt the result of their purposeful deceit and fabrication. 

There are two things Gordon and his crew won't do: 

1. Tell the truth 

2. Get on the mats and scrimmage with yours truly

Frauds and cowards.

Nuff said

What You Put into the Universe Comes Back

Bret Gordon wrote numerous lies about my back ground to attempt to defame and slander me. He accused me of having fake and non existent instructors. He belittled my instructors and admonished my instructors over the years for promoting me. He was involved with the online harassment of my student and his 13 year old daughter. He even reached out to one my instructors that he defamed and asked them to promote him to a nidan in judo. 

The past months I have received numerous statements that Gordon defamed me to students in his school and over the phone to various people over the years. More and more people especially former students have reached out and all feel they were ripped off by Bret Gordon. Apparently Gordon has a habit of trying to intimidate people by threatening legal action. 

Neither Bret Gordon or his instructor Steven Hatfield can offer  a single shred proof regarding their own back grounds. Bret Gordon has faced significant scrutiny regarding his claims of affiliation with Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, as of late. There are inconsistencies in his statements and this has questioned the legitimacy of his purported lineage. 

Gordon’s instructor Steven Hatfield has claimed to be a 6th Dan rank in Daitō-ryū jūjutsu Master (see early bio above). Reputable Daitō-ryū organizations have stated that there is no documented evidence of Hatfield's formal training or certification in this discipline from established lineages.

In 2018, Gordon publicly claimed to hold a dan rank in Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu. However, it was revealed that neither Hatfield or Gordon held no rank in or affiliation to Daitoryu. Gordon then stated the following in a 2022 blog article; "I have never claimed any rank in Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu," contradicting his earlier claim. Gordon had removed the rank claim in daitoryu from his website and then lied and tried to claim he never claimed such rank. 

Hatfield, along with Gordon, has promoted a martial arts system called American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu, which they claim was founded by a Japanese master named Yutashi Hasaka. According to their official website, American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu was founded by Hasaka Yutashi, with Steven Hatfield inheriting the art in 2006. Bret Gordon later became a student of Hatfield and was appointed as the headmaster in 2020.

Gordon and Hatfield have presented varying and inconsistent narratives over the years regarding the existence and background of Hasaka Yutashi.  These shifting accounts have raised significant skepticism within the martial arts community.

Evolution of the Hasaka Yutashi Narrative

Their Initial accounts describe Hasaka Yutashi as a Japanese martial artist who began developing what would become American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu in 1957. He is said to have studied Yoshinkan Aikido under Gozo Shioda and Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu under Kodo Horikawa, eventually moving to the United States in the 1980s. The art was reportedly named "American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu" in 1999. However, critics have pointed out that there is no verifiable evidence of Yutashi's existence, his contributions to martial arts or training in aikido or daito ryu..

Earlier versions of Hatfield's martial arts background mention a Haska Yutasi. It was then claimed by Gordon that Hatfield had been mispronouncing and misspelling his own instructors name.

The shifting narratives from both Gordon and Hatfield and lack of concrete evidence point toward a constructed lineage aimed at establishing legitimacy for their own made up homemade martial arts system.

Bret Gordon then claimed to be in possession of photographs depicting Hasaka Yutashi, including one from the 25th Anniversary of the Kodokai. However, experts have debunked these claims, stating that the individuals in the photographs are not Yutashi and that the images have been misrepresented.

In response to the mounting criticism, Gordon later stated that the reason no records could be verified was because "Hasaka Yutashi" was an alias. Hasaka Yutashi, a supposed Japanese guy had changed his name to Japanese name that isn't a actual Japanese name.  Gordon's story that Hasaka is an alias has further fueled skepticism and added to the lack of legitimacy and authenticity of their claims and the existence of Yutashi.

The existence of Hasaka and proof of their training has been requested to be presented by multiple judges to date. Gordon and Hatfield have both refused to offer a shred of proof to the courts. Yet a old Japanese group picture adorns their walls and their sites with the statement that Yusaka is somewhere in the picture. 

The story, according to others, of Hasaka Yutashi has changed over the years too. Supposedly it was “someone” who taught Hatfield's step father William Sirbaugh then it was handed to Hatfield and then to Gordon. They had a supposed picture of Hatfield's step father training in Korea however that picture wasn't him. In actuality it was a picture of a Lawrence Sieberliech. They had misrepresented the picture to be of Sirbaugh. The pictured had been pilfered from the Moo Du Kwan website. Lawrence Sieberliech had trained extensively at the Moo Du Kwan in Korea. 

Extensive research has failed to verify the existence of Hasaka, and linguistic analysis verifies the name is not consistent with Japanese naming conventions, indicating it's fabricated. 

The martial arts community has raised serious concerns about Steven Hatfield's and Gordon’s claims of any credentials in or lineage to Daitō-ryū Aiki-jujutsu and other disciplines. The lack of proof of verifiable formal training, verifiable evidence, associations with discredited individuals, and creation of self-styled systems contribute to the perception that their claims are unfounded and lack legitimacy.

Steven Hatfield's association with Renshinkan Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu has been a subject of controversy and scrutiny within the martial arts community. While Hatfield and his associate Bret Gordon have denied claiming formal rank from Renshinkan Daito ryu Aikijujutsu their actions, implications and representations were otherwise and led to disputes and clarifications from the Renshinkan Organization. 

In a blog post, Bret Gordon addressed allegations regarding their association with Renshinkan, stating: "That is one hundred percent categorically false, and I challenge anyone to find a post or article where Steven Hatfield or myself claimed to have rank from the Renshinkan."  

Gordon acknowledged that Hatfield had posted a video demonstrating Renshinkan techniques while wearing a midnight blue belt, and that others "mistakenly identified it as a black belt". He emphasized that no explicit claim of rank was made in the video. However, there is no blue belt rank of any shade of blue issued in Daito ryu nor did Hatfield hold any rank at all in Renshinkan Daitō-ryū Aikijujutsu. 

Despite Gordon’s and Hatfield’s spin and denials, court dockets indicate that Renshinkan representatives took issue with Hatfield's misrepresentation, conducted their own research and, following a conversation with Hatfield, debunked his claims and alleged that Hatfield purposely misrepresented himself as being ranked within the Renshinkan. Also this discussion with the Renshinkan denotes another shift in Hatfield's and Gordon's ever changing narrative. This was the first mentions of Hasaka Yutashi being a family member of Hatfield's.  Additionally, these references are in court docket files (130, 138, and 139) https://courtrecords.lakecounty.org/ Case Number 35-2020-CA-001851 

Gordon claimed last year that they won their case. However this was a lie. The case appears to have been abandoned after the defendant Dale Dumas got an attorney.  Once submitted into the docket there is 90 days to offer proof contesting these filings. That was up months ago. These court filings shed significant light on the lies and fraud perpetuated by Gordon and have been left uncontested by both Gordon and Hatfield and stand as a matter of record. 

Howard Popkin, a recognized Daitō-ryū practitioner, met Gordon in 2014 and observed his training. Popkin later in 2020 described Gordon as "a bold-faced liar" and concluded that Gordon was fabricating his martial arts background. This can also be found in court docket file 142, exhibit 14, page 6. Popkin has spoken out against Gordon's claims for years.  

Donald Quintana, a senior instructor with the Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu Kodokai U.S. Hombu, has debunked Bret Gordon's claims regarding Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu. He publicly denounced Gordon's assertions of lineage and rank within Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu in 2020. This also seen in court docket files.  

Most recently many Aikijujutsu practitioners that Gordon claims connections to in his book, have denied even knowing Gordon or training with him, much less being connected or affiliated to him. Others have stated that he grossly misrepresented their statements in his book in an effort to paint himself as a expert in Daito ryu aiki jujutsu and aiki arts. 

Gordon and Hatfield have cited figures like Hasaka Yutashi, Shune Davis and a William Sirbaugh as foundational to their martial arts systems. However, Hasaka and Davis are not real individuals. There is no credible records supporting their existence much less any martial arts background. William Sirbaugh has no verifiable martial arts training which further cast doubt on their claimed lineages and affiliations. 

Gordon and Hatfield have claimed high-ranking positions in various martial arts. However, their affiliations often trace back to organizations or individuals with questionable legitimacy. For example, Hatfield claims to have received a 5th Dan in Judo under Jack "Papasan" Stern, a figure convicted of Stolen Valor. Stern admitted in federal court that he wasn’t a martial artist and had issued illegitimate martial arts ranks and certifications in judo and Korean martial arts. This alone casts doubt on the legitimacy of Hatfield’s credentials and showcase he and Gordon’s tendency to glum onto and collect fake credentials and fake rank. 

Gordon's early claims included earning black belts in multiple disciplines by the age of 16 and founding his own martial art system, San Budo Sogo Bugei. However, these assertions have been challenged by former instructors and lack credibility.

Conclusion

Gordon lists a variety of ranks in multiple arts (e.g., Aiki Budo, Goju Ryu Karate, Taekwondo, Judo), these ranks often come from out of thin air just made up, or from lesser-known or self-styled organizations. There is no documentation, no pictures of him going through formal training or third-party confirmation from mainstream or internationally recognized martial arts federations.

The figure of Hasaka Yutashi, claimed founder of American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu, has been shown to be fabricated. Linguistic analysis reveals the name is not consistent with Japanese naming norms. Gordon's shifting stories and eventual admission that Yutashi was an “alias,” only occurred after significant external pressure and demand for proof. 

Hatfield, who "passed down" American Yoshinkan to Gordon, is himself not recognized by legitimate Daitō-ryū or traditional Japanese martial arts organizations. Hatfield’s own rank claims and organizational affiliations have been widely discredited. 

There is no endorsement or recognition from credible Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu organizations (such as Kodokai, Takumakai, or the mainline Hombu). Their claims to the Kodokai have been directly refuted and debunked. Any rank and recognition Gordon and Hatfield seek has been denied by those associated with that lineage. 

Gordon’s own accounts have changed multiple times and shifted when his claims are debunked. Earlier writings do not mention key figures or claims he later introduced. Photographic "evidence" presented has not held up under scrutiny. They have tried to change and back date histories however that has only added more scrutiny.

After denying anyone access to their so called proof for years and even refusing to submit it to prove their back ground to the Kodokai and even multiple different judges in a court of law, Gordon put a picture of the man who was supposedly Yutashi in his book. After multiple iterations of Hasaka, he is supposedly Hatfield's family member. One accounting is a grand father another story is a he is a step grand father to Hatfield.  

There are two very noticeable things about the picture:

1.)  The person in the picture doesn't appear to be Japanese and 2.) the man in the picture in the book isn't shown in the old Japanese photographs that Gordon posted, including the one from the 25th Anniversary of the Kodokai that Gordon’s claimed Yutashi was in.

Two weeks after the release of the book the Kodokai addressed the claims (above) made in the book and verified that Gordon lied about his background and any connections to the Daitō-ryū and that the picture of Hasaka Yutashi was no one who had trained in the Daito ryu under Kodo Horikawa. 

Gordon now says that he cant offer proof, because he is under a non-disclosure agreement, but just buy his book because the proof is there.....yeah I cant make this shit up. 

To be continued....