Although Datchai had once been defeated by Liu Zhiqing, the two later became close friends, which was why he held Southern Fist in such high regard.
"Jason Luo, there are reasons I believe Southern Fist suits you. First, its movements are simple but incredibly fierce and powerful. If you ever have the chance to learn the authentic methods of generating and releasing force in Southern Fist, it would give your boxing a tremendous boost."
"Second, while it's called a 'boxing art,' Southern Fist is unlike any other. Its mastery of core and stance techniques is unmatched. I once tested an opponent's footing—his stance was steady as a mountain. If you could achieve even thirty percent of his level, no ground-fighting technique like jiu-jitsu would be able to take you down in the ring."
Jason understood immediately. Boxing's greatest weakness was its lower body. If Southern Fist could reinforce that foundation while amplifying his striking power, it would be the perfect path forward.
Feeling inspired, Jason said eagerly, "Coach Datchai, I have to learn Southern Fist! Is there any way you can help me?"
Datchai hesitated, his expression troubled. "Jason Luo, traditional martial arts aren't like running a boxing gym. Their standards for accepting disciples are extremely strict. I had a close relationship with Liu Zhiqing more than twenty years ago, but communication back then wasn't what it is now—we eventually lost touch. After all this time, I don't even know if he's still alive. If you're serious, you could visit the Putian region someday. I'll write a letter of recommendation for you—it's worth trying your luck."
"Alright, thank you, Coach. If I ever get the chance, I'll go. No, actually—I will go! I have to learn Southern Fist!"
Datchai smiled. "Ambitious words, but it won't be easy. Still, where there's effort, there's hope. I'll write you that letter and wish you success."
When the letter was done, Datchai handed it to him. "Here. Remember what I said—until you've truly mastered martial arts, if you ever encounter a real master, don't engage them head-on. Avoid unnecessary danger. Alright, let's go see how the young lady you brought is doing."
...
When they returned to the women's judo training area, Catherine was already sparring with one of the female trainees. They'd clearly been going at it for a while, but surprisingly, the judoka couldn't control her!
Catherine's athleticism was simply overwhelming. Even after being thrown repeatedly, she fought back fiercely whenever her opponent tried to apply submission holds. Using sheer strength, she broke free from armbars and rear chokes with raw power alone—it was astonishing to watch.
Coach Datchai watched with a mix of admiration and regret. "What a shame. Such potential! Stop, stop! That's enough for now. Ruan Xiuling, your power application still needs adjustment. Go back and work on it."
The sparring ended. The blushing trainee bowed and stepped aside.
Catherine, brushing her messy hair back, ran over excitedly. "Wow, judo is amazing! She wasn't even as strong as me, yet she threw me over a dozen times! That was incredible. I'm definitely learning judo when I have the chance."
Datchai nodded approvingly. "If you start training, your base level will already be high. Ruan Xiuling is a sixth-dan, yet she still couldn't control you. You have real potential."
Catherine beamed at the compliment. "Jason, you really brought me to the right place! Looks like I've found a new hobby."
Jason gave an awkward chuckle, secretly regretting his decision. Great... a girl like this, whoever marries her will suffer. What kind of trouble have I gotten myself into?
Still panting from the match, Catherine wasn't done. "What about you, huh? You brought me here—aren't you going to fight? Coach, give him a strong opponent. Let's see him make a fool of himself, ha ha!"
Datchai couldn't help but laugh. "Oh, that might be difficult. Your boyfriend isn't an ordinary boxer. Finding him a fair opponent won't be easy. Why don't you choose one yourself?"
Catherine grinned. "Oh, so you're testing my eye for talent? Fine then—I'll pick myself. Jason, don't regret it later!"
Jason didn't mind. It was just friendly sparring anyway. Let her have her fun.
Catherine wandered first through the karate training area, watched for a while, then shook her head and moved on. Next, she stopped by the sanda section, observed for a bit, and left again.
But when she passed the Muay Thai training zone, she paused. Several fighters were going at it fiercely, and one was practicing Leg Techniques on a wooden post with remarkable intensity. That caught her attention.
After watching closely for a while, she pointed toward a fighter of medium height. "I bet he's the strongest one here!"
Coach Datchai raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Why do you think that?"
Catherine answered confidently, "First, his breathing is the steadiest. Second, during exchanges, he stays calm and composed—like he knows he's in control."
Datchai burst out laughing. "Excellent observation! Jason Luo, your girlfriend has a sharp eye—no wonder she chose you. Jarunwang really is the strongest fighter here today. What do you say, Jason?"
Having fought Mad Bones before, Jason was no stranger to Muay Thai and wasn't intimidated. "Alright then, I'll take him on."
But when Catherine realized Jarunwang was actually the strongest, she suddenly panicked. "Wait, seriously? He's the best one? No, no, that doesn't count! I was just guessing. Can I pick someone else?"
Datchai laughed again. "Oh? I thought you wanted to see Jason make a fool of himself. What happened to that confidence?"
Catherine blushed and glanced at Jason. "It's not that... It's just—he finally agreed to spend the whole day with me. If he gets hurt, who's going to keep me company this afternoon?" Her voice trailed off, barely convincing even herself.
Jason quickly stepped in before she could back out completely. "It's fine. Sparring with a strong fighter is a rare opportunity. I want to try."
Datchai nodded. "Alright then, but be careful. Jarunwang's elbows and knees are no joke. Protect your vital points and don't take unnecessary risks."
Jason nodded firmly.
Datchai called Jarunwang over, gave him clear instructions, and had both fighters put on full protective gear. Then he signaled for the rest of the class to stop training and gather to watch.
"This will be a full-contact sparring session," Datchai announced. "No rules, no time limit. Follow my command. Ready... Begin!"
Jarunwang had long wanted to face Jason Luo. He'd been there the first time Jason visited but missed his chance when Jason chose to challenge Sanda instead. Now that the opportunity had finally come, he felt a surge of excitement.
This fighter was no amateur—he'd once competed in the WMC World Professional Muay Thai Championships. He'd come here hoping to study ancient Muay Thai techniques under Datchai's guidance, though he had yet to earn that privilege.
So today, he was determined to prove himself—to showcase everything he had in front of his mentor, using Jason Luo as the test of his strength.
With that thought, Jarunwang exploded forward the instant the match began, launching a fierce, all-out offensive!