What Is Panantukan and Why It’s Called Filipino Dirty Boxing
Panantukan is often described as the “dirty boxing” of the Philippines, but it’s far more than that nickname suggests. It’s a dynamic empty-hand combat system that borrows fluidity, angles, and timing from the bladed arts of Kali, Arnis, and Eskrima.
Instead of focusing only on punches like Western boxing, Panantukan weaves in elbows, shoulder bumps, head manipulations, and limb destruction (gunting)—moves designed for real-world self-defense, not ring sport.
A Glimpse into Panantukan’s Origins
The roots of Panantukan trace back to Pangamut, a Filipino term for empty-hand fighting. When fighters laid down their sticks or blades, they adapted weapon movements into striking patterns using fists and elbows. Over time, this became a sophisticated hand-to-hand system practiced by warriors and modern martial artists alike.
What Makes Panantukan Unique
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Fluid transitions: Every strike flows into the next, with seamless offense and defense.
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Limb destruction: Attacks target the opponent’s hands or arms to disable attacks.
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Close-range power: Short, sharp strikes—elbows, hooks, and uppercuts—rule this art.
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Footwork mastery: Borrowed from Kali, Panantukan uses angles and pivots to stay mobile and deceptive.
Why Train with Panantukan DVDs Instead of Free Clips?
You might be thinking, “Why buy DVDs when I can just watch tutorials online?”
Here’s why Panantukan DVDs still stand out in 2025.
Structured Learning
Quality Panantukan DVDs follow a logical curriculum—starting with footwork and stance, then moving into hand trapping, limb destructions, and flow drills. Free online clips often skip these building blocks.
Train Without Distractions
No pop-up ads, no endless scrolling. A DVD lets you focus entirely on technique. You can slow down, rewind, and study movements frame by frame.
Expert Guidance You Can Trust
Most Panantukan DVDs are taught by qualified instructors—many trained directly under legends like Dan Inosanto or Ted Lucaylucay. That means you’re learning from authentic sources, not random internet content creators.
Top Panantukan DVDs Worth Adding to Your Library
If you want to learn properly, invest in well-produced instructional sets. Here are some of the best Panantukan DVDs still recommended by martial artists worldwide:
| Title | Instructor | Level | Format | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dirty Boxing Mastery | Daniel Sullivan | All Levels | 4-DVD Set | Combines Kali, Panantukan & street tactics |
| Panantukan with Ted Lucaylucay | Ted Lucaylucay | Intermediate | Single DVD | Classic instruction from a Dan Inosanto protégé |
| Panantukan 1–5 Series | GM Angelo | Beginner–Advanced | 5-DVD Set | Complete system covering trapping and destruction |
| Panantukan Basics | Sam Brill | Beginner | 1 DVD | Ideal for newcomers; strong solo drills |
| Pangamut Combat Series | Tony Ligorio | Advanced | Multi-DVD Set | Real-world combatives approach for experienced fighters |
1. Daniel Sullivan – Dirty Boxing Mastery
Sullivan’s 4-disc set mixes Panantukan and Kali with realistic self-defense drills. His teaching is detailed yet beginner-friendly, making it one of the best introductions to Filipino dirty boxing.
2. Ted Lucaylucay – Panantukan Training
Lucaylucay’s instruction bridges Jeet Kune Do and traditional Filipino martial arts. Expect deep lessons on trapping, countering, and flow control—perfect for intermediate students.
3. GM Angelo – Panantukan Series (1–5)
GM Angelo’s series is comprehensive and methodical. Each volume builds on the last, progressing from stance and structure to full trapping and destruction combinations.
4. Sam Brill – Panantukan Basics
A great starting point for complete beginners. Brill focuses on fundamentals: footwork, timing, and body mechanics. The solo drills make it easy to train without a partner.
5. Tony Ligorio – Pangamut Combat Series
Tony Ligorio blends Panantukan with practical combatives. His no-nonsense style emphasizes application over theory—great for law enforcement or real-world defense training.
How to Choose the Right Panantukan DVD
Choosing the right DVD depends on your skill level and learning goals. Here’s a quick guide:
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Beginners: Look for structured, step-by-step programs like Panantukan Basics or GM Angelo’s Series 1–2.
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Intermediate learners: Go for DVDs with partner drills and flow applications (Lucaylucay or Sullivan).
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Advanced students: Seek tactical or combatives-focused instruction (Ligorio’s Pangamut Series).
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Check instructor lineage: Instructors connected to Dan Inosanto or Lucaylucay’s family offer credible instruction.
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Mind the region code: If importing, make sure your player supports the correct DVD region—or buy a digital version.
How to Train Effectively with Panantukan DVDs
Watching a DVD is easy. Getting results takes commitment. Use these methods to make your training count.
1. Build a Simple Weekly Routine
Try this 8-week plan for steady progress:
| Weeks | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| 1–2 | Stance, balance, and movement drills |
| 3–4 | Basic strikes, jabs, crosses, and elbow flow |
| 5–6 | Trapping and destruction (gunting) combinations |
| 7–8 | Flow drills and sparring integration |
2. Mix Solo and Partner Work
Use mirrors or heavy bags for solo training, then add partner drills to refine timing and distance. Even light contact sparring helps you understand Panantukan’s close-range flow.
3. Record and Review
Film your sessions to spot habits and improve body alignment. Compare your movement to what’s shown in the DVD—it’s like having your own coach watching.
4. Combine with Other Arts
Panantukan complements boxing, Muay Thai, and BJJ beautifully. Add it to your current training to improve angles, counters, and close-quarter striking.
Mistakes to Avoid When Training from DVDs
Even serious learners fall into common traps. Avoid these if you want to progress faster:
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Skipping fundamentals: Fancy combos mean nothing without solid basics.
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Only watching, not drilling: Repetition builds muscle memory—watching doesn’t.
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Ignoring safety: Use gloves, elbow pads, and mouthguards during partner work.
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Training without feedback: Record yourself or train with a coach occasionally.
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Overtraining: Panantukan’s elbow and shoulder motions can stress joints—rest matters.
Panantukan DVDs vs. Digital Streaming: Which Wins?
Both formats have their perks, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle.
| Feature | DVDs | Streaming |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Works offline | Requires internet |
| Ownership | You keep it forever | Dependent on the platform |
| Navigation | Manual menus | Easy chapter jumping |
| Quality | Consistent HD | Varies with connection |
| Updates | Fixed content | Often updated with new lessons |
Pro Tip: Many modern martial arts brands now sell hybrid sets—DVDs plus digital downloads—so you can train anywhere.
Where to Buy Panantukan DVDs Safely
1. Reputable Martial Arts Retailers
Websites specializing in martial arts equipment often carry rare or official Panantukan DVDs. They verify authenticity and sometimes include bonus materials.
2. Instructor Websites
Purchasing directly from instructors like Daniel Sullivan or GM Angelo guarantees genuine content and occasionally signed copies.
3. Trusted Marketplaces
eBay and Amazon can be good sources for out-of-print titles—but check seller ratings and look for sealed or “like new” conditions.
4. Digital Alternatives
If you don’t have a DVD player, most Panantukan programs now offer streaming or downloadable HD versions that work on any device.
Conclusion
Panantukan DVDs remain one of the best ways to learn Filipino dirty boxing in a structured, authentic way. They combine expert instruction, replayable content, and proven techniques you can revisit anytime.
Whether you’re sharpening your self-defense skills or exploring Filipino martial arts, a good Panantukan DVD gives you a foundation to train safely, effectively, and confidently at home.
Remember—progress comes from consistent practice, not just watching. So pick a program, press play, and start training.
FAQs About Panantukan DVDs
1. What’s the best Panantukan DVD for beginners?
Panantukan Basics by Sam Brill and Dirty Boxing Mastery by Daniel Sullivan are excellent starting points for newcomers.
2. Can you really learn Panantukan from a DVD?
You can learn core techniques and drills, but pairing DVD study with live partner training will help you develop real timing and adaptability.
3. How is Panantukan different from dirty boxing?
Dirty boxing is a broad term for close-range striking. Panantukan is the Filipino version, combining elbows, limb destruction, and weapon-inspired movement.
4. Does instructor lineage matter?
Absolutely. Instructors trained under Dan Inosanto or Ted Lucaylucay ensure authentic, lineage-based teaching.
5. Is streaming better than DVDs for learning martial arts?
Streaming is flexible, but DVDs give you permanent access and distraction-free study. A combination of both is ideal.
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