French Boxing: Four Chinese fighters take part in Savate Pro

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A major competition in the French martial art called Savate Pro has been held by the Chinese federation for the sport. Also known as French boxing, savate is based on traditional Kung Fu principles. It's the 7th year the event has been hosted by China in the French capital. Jack Parrock reports from ringside.

Savate pro - or French boxing - is said by those who practice it to be the most gentlemanly of all the martial arts. But that doesn't mean the punches and kicks fall lightly. And here at a major event for the sport, 16 fighters are competing in 4 different weight categories - for world titles. Four came from China to fight.

LI SHAOQIAN SAVATE PRO FIGHTER "It's a very exciting atmosphere because there are lots of amateurs watching the professionals who are crazy about this sport."

For the spectators, there are plenty of exciting moments - including some spectacular entrances into the ring. And roundhouse kicks always get the crowd going.

JACK PARROCK PARIS And it's not only the prestige of winning in their category that is motivating the athletes - each champion goes home with a 35 thousand dollar cash prize.

The event is conducted in both French and Mandarin for the many Chinese fans who've travelled to watch their favorite fighters. These fights wouldn't have happened without the support of the Chinese Savate Pro Federation which is promoting this martial art around the world.

LIU XIAOHONG, PRESIDENT CHINESE SAVATE PRO FEDERATION "I am very happy and excited that this event can be held here. "

None of the Chinese fighters reached the final fights in their category at this year's events. But while for the individual fighters the losses can be hard to swallow - the organizers say the true winner is the sport itself and the deepening of cooperation between martial arts disciplines around the world. Jack Parrock, CGTN, Paris