real aikido

Real aikido is a martial art invented by Ljubomir Vra?arevi?, a self-defence instructor from Serbia. It is a mixture of aikido, judo and jujitsu techniques, with some modifications made by Vra?arevi? himself.

Real aikido is a defence techniques system (empty-handed, as well as defense against weapons such as knife, pistol, etc.) derived from Vra?arevi?''s experience as a bodyguard, military and police instructor. It consists of, generally speaking, aikido, judo and jujitsu, techniques simplified in such a way that they are easily taught in security and self-defence courses.

The curriculum of real aikido itself is mainly based on a general aikido curriculum, with a kyu/dan system of grading.

Controversy

There is a substantial amount of controversy regarding the name of this martial art, and the essence of the art itself. Despite its referring to the Japanese martial art, real aikido is not recognised by any relevant aikido organisation neither in its country of origin, Serbia, nor any other international or Japanese aikido organisation. The primary reason for this is a lack of verifiable and notable lineage. Vra?arevi? was never dan-graded by a Japanese teacher and it is still a matter of debate if he ever did obtain dan grading within Aikikai (or any other aikido organisation), and if he did what grade was it.

It can be seen in diplomas and certificates that from 3rd dan onwards he received grading (within the World Centre of Real Aikido, an organisation led by Vra?arevi?) from persons with lower ranking than himself.

What "adds fuel to the fire" is Vra?arevi?''s derogatory behavior towards "traditional" aikido he often expresses in the media and public in general. This self-serving behaviour has led to bitter relationships with neighboring aikido groups which demand, because of before-mentioned reasons, that the word "aikido" is left out of the name of this martial art.