GLOBAL ASSOCIATION OF MARTIAL ARTS ORGANIZATIONS

Dear Colleagues and Friends,
Welcome to GAMAO — the Global Association of Martial Arts Organizations.
My name is Vidadi Hajiyev, and I founded GAMAO with a vision born from four decades of martial arts practice and nearly two decades of training elite security forces worldwide.
The story of GAMAO begins not with me, but with my father, Major Takhmaz Hajiyev. As Chief of the Crime Police Department in the 1970s and 80s, he founded a Sambo combat training group and dedicated his life to protecting the vulnerable. "He always defended the weak," those who knew him said, "and helped everyone who needed guardianship." In 1985, he began passing this legacy to me — not just techniques, but a philosophy: strength exists to serve and protect.
I have carried this philosophy through six world championships, through 18 years of designing training programs for presidential security details and special forces, through training over 10,000 personnel across 15+ countries. Every medal, every rank, every successful protection mission has reinforced one truth: martial arts training must be real, must be tested, and must serve a purpose greater than individual glory.
But as I traveled the world, I witnessed something troubling in our industry: organizations that exploit instructors through endless fees, credentials that mean nothing outside their issuing body, and training that fails the moment real pressure is applied. This is not the martial arts world my father taught me to build.
So I created GAMAO to be different.
We are built on evidence, not tradition alone. If we teach it, we can test it — and we can explain why it works. We treat instructors as partners, not revenue sources, through our revolutionary 50% revenue-sharing model. We honor all traditions — East and West, ancient and modern — while demanding that every technique proves itself under pressure.
GAMAO is not just another federation. We are a bridge between worlds: the discipline of the dojo and the demands of the protection detail, the philosophy of the East and the pragmatism of the West, the individual practitioner and the global community.
Whether you are a government agency seeking elite tactical training, a school owner wanting genuine partnership, or a practitioner seeking meaningful credentials, you are welcome here. You are family.
Three generations of protectors. One global mission.
One World, One Martial Arts Family.
Earned, Never Given.
With respect and dedication,
Grandmaster Vidadi Hajiyev
Founder & President, GAMAO
8th Dan, 6x World Champion

The Global Association of Martial Arts Organizations (GAMAO) represents a fundamental evolution in how martial arts federations serve their communities. Founded in 2020 and building upon the International Combatives & Self-Defense Association (established 2007), GAMAO is a registered non-profit international organization operating under Georgian civil law with legal authorization for international operations.
GAMAO exists at the intersection of ancient martial wisdom and modern operational necessity. We are not merely a federation; we are the bridge that connects the discipline of the dojo to the demands of the protection detail, the philosophy of the East to the pragmatism of the West, the individual practitioner to the global community.
Our organization encompasses 12 specialized sub-organizations covering the full spectrum of martial arts disciplines — from traditional arts like Hapkido and Taekwondo to modern tactical systems like Krav Maga and combatives. This comprehensive structure allows GAMAO to serve government agencies, corporate security firms, martial arts schools, and individual practitioners with equal excellence.
What sets GAMAO apart is not just our founder's unprecedented credentials — 18 years of presidential security training, six world championships, 10,000+ personnel trained — but our fundamental philosophy. We believe instructors deserve partnership, not exploitation. We believe training must be evidence-based, not tradition-only. We believe credentials should mean something everywhere, not just within our organization.
GAMAO is recognized by WOMA International and holds Delaware State Apostille authentication under the Hague Convention, ensuring our credentials are valid across 120+ countries. We maintain UN DESA affiliated status through our WOMA partnership, providing international legitimacy and access to global networks.
This is GAMAO: where traditional mastery meets tactical excellence, where instructors are partners, and where one global family stands united in the pursuit of martial arts excellence.

Happy New Year, friends! 🎉
As we step into a new chapter, I want to wish you peace in your home, strength in your body, clarity in your mind, and kindness in your heart.

The past year taught many of us the same lesson: life doesn’t always get easier—but we can get stronger, wiser, and more disciplined. Not by loud promises, but by quiet daily actions.

In the new year, I wish you:

health that supports your dreams

courage to change what must be changed

patience to build what takes time

and people around you who truly value you

Let’s make this year about progress—real progress. One step at a time.
Happy New Year! 🥂✨

📅 Join Us This August in Baku for the 2025 GKMU Krav Maga
🥋 International Instructor Course & Black Belt Attestations

🌍 Participants from FSU Countries · Israel · USA · Europe
📍 August 2025 | Baku, Azerbaijan

🔜 More details coming soon—stay tuned for registration and program information!

Happy New Year 2025 from GAMAO!

Dear Members,

Thank you for your commitment, resilience, and unwavering dedication—qualities that fuel our shared mission of uniting martial arts worldwide. As we step into 2025, we celebrate your achievements and look forward to fresh opportunities for growth and collaboration. Through our collective discipline and respect, we continue to expand boundaries, inspire one another, and uphold the highest standards of excellence. May this year bring you health, prosperity, and ever-increasing mastery. Together, let’s move forward, building a stronger, tighter GAMAO family in 2025.

Yours in martial spirit,

The GAMAO Team

HAMMER-FIST STRIKES: Power, Practicality, and Purpos.
At a Glance
• Technique: Striking with the heel (bottom) of the fist, rather than the knuckles.
• Why It Matters: Easier to hit under stress, less risk of hand injury, versatile angles of attack.
• Six Key Variations: Forward Vertical, Sideward Horizontal, Side Vertical Upward, Downward Vertical, Spinning Backward Horizontal, Spinning Backward Vertical.
• Applications: Defending against grabs, chokes, or rear attacks; bridging the gap offensively; controlling space in sudden, close-range encounters.
• Legal Note: Always understand self-defense laws and the ethical use of force in your region.
Introduction: Why Hammer-Fists?
Hammer-fist strikes harness a broad, padded surface (the “heel” of the fist) for delivering concussive force. Compared to knuckle-based punches, hammer-fists reduce the risk of injuring small hand bones, making them particularly well-suited to real-life situations where an opponent might grab you unexpectedly or close the distance rapidly. Many self-defense experts, including instructors from various martial arts and security fields, recognize the hammer-fist as an accessible yet powerful tool for practitioners of all levels.
In this article, you’ll discover six key hammer-fist variations. Each technique is showcased through a three-stage photo series in my accompanying poster, showing (1) the start position, (2) the chamber, and (3) the final strike. We’ll also explore advantages, disadvantages, and common pitfalls, plus offer a training roadmap for honing your skills safely and effectively.
Disclaimer: The information here is for educational purposes only. Always train responsibly, follow local laws regarding self-defense, and seek professional guidance before applying any potentially harmful technique.
________________________________________
The Six Bare Hammer-Fist Variations
Below is a brief description of each variation, along with biomechanical notes, potential pitfalls, and a recommended application scenario. Refer to my poster for detailed photographs demonstrating each stage of the strike.

Are you ready to join a global movement that’s redefining Krav Maga? The Global Krav Maga Union (GKMU) unites instructors and practitioners worldwide to make reality-based self-defense accessible to everyone. Backed by an international network of experts, GKMU is proud to have Mikhail Frumgarts, a renowned Israeli security specialist and tactical gun-shooting instructor, as our International Office Director in Tel Aviv, Israel.

In partnership with PSTSS, a leading private security organization in Israel, GKMU Krav Maga stands as their official self-defense system—offering techniques and training proven in real-world scenarios. Whether you’re a civilian, law enforcement officer, or military professional, GKMU provides an unrivaled curriculum that focuses on practicality, pressure testing, and consistent evolution to keep pace with today’s ever-changing security landscape.

Join us and become part of a supportive, forward-thinking community that values shared growth and high standards of excellence. Visit www.gamao.org for official information on how to get started, enhance your skills, and forge a safer future with GKMU.

Ready to unlock a new level of self-defense skills? I’ve just published a powerful new article about hammer-fist strikes—including six versatile variations that can help you fend off threats from every angle. In this article, I break down each strike with step-by-step photos, detailed explanations, and key tips for maximum impact. Want to see how to protect yourself using simple yet incredibly effective techniques? Check out my latest post at www.gamao.org!

From forward hammer-fists to spinning backward strikes, each move comes with a high-resolution sequence so you can master them quickly and safely. Don’t miss this opportunity to boost your confidence and expand your self-defense arsenal. Head over to www.gamao.org now and join the journey!

0 comments Hammer-Fist Strikes: Power, Practicality, and PurposeAt a Glance • Technique: Striking with the heel (bottom) of the fist, rather than the knuckles. • Why It Matters: Easier to hit under stress, less risk of hand injury, versatile angles of attack. • Six Key Variations: Forward Vertical, Sidew...

Hello, dear GAMAO Friends! This month, I have received many messages from my friends, loyal subscribers, and fans concerned about whether everything is okay with me, often asking why I do not share posts on social networks. I sincerely appreciate your care and support. My dear friends, the last year was hectic regarding the projects and events I carried out; 95% of all my work was related to state sports organizations, law enforcement agencies, and special forces. Therefore, I was overloaded with work, and sharing confidential corporate information is strictly prohibited. From June 03, 2024 - August 12, 2024, GAMAO's office was on summer vacation. Over the past year, especially this summer, I have visited many countries: Belgium, Portugal, Luxembourg, Austria, England, Kazakhstan, Latvia, and Turkey. There are a lot of pleasant impressions and memories left. On August 9 of this year, I completed my last contract. I freed up time to devote to developing my social networks, a video blog on YouTube, and new projects related to martial arts, self-defense, fitness, practical psychology, and life coaching. From today on, I will share interesting and valuable content with you. I will answer all the messages that have accumulated here on Facebook. I wish good health and all the best to everyone who respects and appreciates my work.
Best regards,
Vidadi Hajiyev
Founder & CEO of the GAMAO

🌟 Exciting News for the GAMAO’s Krav Maga Community! 🌟
We are thrilled to announce that, at the invitation of Vidadi Hajiyev, the founder of GAMAO and director of the Azerbaijan Krav Maga Center, Mr. Mamed Garayev will be visiting Baku!
Mr. Garayev, the head of the International Organization of PSTSS (www.pstss.com) and director of the Israeli headquarters of the Global Krav Maga Union (GKMU), brings with him an extensive background in Israeli forces, including many years of service in "YAMAM" - the elite unit of the Israeli border police and central anti-terrorist unit of the Israeli police. Since 2010, he has been a leading expert and consultant in security, providing invaluable services to public and private organizations.
During his visit, Mr. Garayev will conduct seminars and lectures focused on developing Krav Maga and enhancing the professional training of law enforcement officers in Azerbaijan. One of these exclusive seminars is planned for the public instructors of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Internal Affairs.
In addition, Mr. Garayev and Vidadi Hajiyev have been collaborating for years to update the Global Krav Maga Union (GKMU) 's training program, incorporating the most effective techniques and methods. Their comprehensive meta-analysis of hand-to-hand combat and self-defense techniques over the past twenty years has led to significant advancements in our training programs.
We are also excited to announce the presentation of the updated Krav Maga (GKMU) program, scheduled for September 2025, in Netanya, Israel. This event will showcase the latest developments and innovations in Krav Maga training.
Stay tuned for more updates, and join us in welcoming Mr. Mamed Garayev to Baku! Let's make the most of this incredible opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field. 💪🇦🇿🇮🇱

🇺🇿 Special Congratulations to Our Uzbekistani Members! 🇺🇿

We are thrilled to celebrate a significant milestone for the Global Association of Martial Arts Organizations (GAMAO) as we honor our members from Uzbekistan who have recently received their membership certificates. These individuals go beyond being skilled martial artists; they are pillars of inspiration within their communities and embodiments of dedication, excellence, and integrity. Their commitment makes them outstanding representatives of Uzbekistan's esteemed martial arts heritage.

To our dear friends and members in Uzbekistan, we extend our deepest congratulations. Your unwavering dedication to the martial arts and pioneering spirit within our global community is truly commendable. You exemplify the core values of GAMAO, proudly carrying the legacy of your rich cultural tradition onto the international stage.

🌍 Embracing a Bright Future 🌍

As GAMAO embarks on this exciting new chapter, our dedication to supporting and uplifting every member of our community strengthens. We eagerly anticipate the remarkable contributions and successes our Uzbekistani members will bring, alongside our cherished international family.

Together, let's forge ahead into a future rich with new achievements, breakthroughs, and a unity that spans the globe. Your achievements today signal the start of even greater accomplishments and shared victories ahead.

On behalf of the founders of GAMAO and myself, I extend heartfelt congratulations once again. Here's to a journey filled with boundless opportunities and collective success.

With the deepest respect and best wishes,

Vidadi Hajiyev
Founder & CEO, GAMAO