Master Kai Uwe Pel performing Xiao Hu Yan in Penang, Malaysia.
The Xiao Hu Yan empty handsets (Xiao, Zhong, Da) are said to have been introduced by Master Wang Rong Sheng (c. 1854), who is generally recognized for expanding the Seven Star Praying Mantis style curriculum with a deeper integration of Shaolin long fist boxing traditions and content.
Born 1854 in Shandong province, Wang Rong Sheng is said to have already been a master of the Shaolin long fist boxing arts, although it is not entirely known which specific system he studied. Before meeting his Mantis teacher Li Zhi Zhan (c. 1821), Master Wang was a free fighting champion but it wasn’t until being defeated by Li Zhe Zhan in a challenge match that he was accepted as a disciple. Master Wang was a dedicated student under Master Li and would later go on to expand the Shaolin long fist boxing traditions and content including the introduction of a number of fighting sets such as Cha Chui, Hei Hu Jiao Cha, Si Lu Beng Da, and the Xiao Hu Yan series sets.
The Hu Yan fighting sets themselves have their origins in Mi Zong Quan boxing sometimes also referred to as Yan Qing Quan, originating out of Hebei province. Some accredit Shaolin Master Jin Naluo as the founder, while others stories suggest that Yan Qing and Cheng Zijing had mastered the arts of the Sui dynasty and later developed separate arts – Yan Qing calling it Yanqingquan and Cheng Zijing calling it Mizongquan. While the sets are said to be based in long fist boxing, the techniques and tactics cover all ranges of kicking, striking, qinna grappling and throwing.
NOV
2021