CHICAGO—A tradition of discipline, unity, and physical training continues as Brother Dr. Abdul Azziz (Anthony) Muhammad prepares for the 2025 Martial Arts and National Training Conference, themed “Triumph Over Trials.” Bro. Azziz is the student assistant supreme captain of the Nation of Islam and a martial arts grandmaster.
Set for July 25–27 at the Chicago southwest suburban Tinley Park Convention Center, this year’s event marks a major evolution, with expanded programming, new guest instructors, youth-specific tracks, and—for the first time—a dedicated mobile app for participants.
his wife, Sensei Azziza Muhammad
It will also be the first conference since Bro. Dr. Azziz was formally recognized as “Dr.” Abdul Azziz Muhammad, honoring decades of martial arts leadership.
He appreciates the new designation, but still embraces the title of Grandmaster given to him by his teacher, Dr. Moses Powell (Musa Muhammad), before his passing. Despite the recognition, Bro. Dr. Azziz remains grounded in purpose.
“I don’t do this for recognition,” he said. “I do this because our people need training—physical, mental and spiritual. This conference is just one part of that larger mission.”
Launched nearly three decades ago as a regional seminar, the event has grown into an internationally recognized conference blending martial arts instruction, security training, spiritual development, and self-improvement.
“The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan asked me to take on this responsibility of training,” said Bro. Dr. Azziz. “So I had to get to work. What began as a simple seminar has grown into something beautiful.”
The 2025 conference will feature the VSK Ryu Jiujitsu Martial Arts Competition, led by Master Daniel Muhammad, chief instructor of Lion’s Paw Karate and Chess Academy. National training modules will cover security protocols, leadership development, and post-training.
Sister-led workshops will highlight dignitary protection and search techniques. A specialized women’s track, “From Victim to Victor,” led by Sis. Azziza Muhammad, Dr. Azziz’s wife, and a black belt in her own right, focuses on trauma healing and empowerment.
The conference—which has programming for males and females of all ages—emphasizes youth development, with programming designed by the youth. “Our sisters are receiving vital training,” said Bro. Dr. Azziz.
“From martial arts to emotional healing, they’re being fortified spiritually and physically. And our youth are designing their own tracks—we just help guide the vision.”
Reflecting on the enhanced approach, Bro. Dr. Azziz said the event is no longer based on a one-size-fits-all curriculum.
“There was a time that we had one curriculum for everyone, but now we’re preparing for the next generation,” he said. “The National Training Conference is a family affair. No need to leave the youth at home. There is an entire conference just for them.”
V.S.K. Ryu Jiu-Jitsu, the signature martial arts system featured at the conference, was founded by Bro. Dr. Abdul Azziz (Anthony) Muhammad. Based on centuries of martial arts tradition, it draws from Grand Professor Vee (Florendo Visitacion),
last year’s conference.
Dr. Moses Powell (Musa Muhammad), and Soke Lil’ John Davis. Under Grandmaster Muhammad’s leadership, V.S.K. Ryu Jiu-Jitsu preserves its legacy while training a new generation in physical and spiritual mastery.
The style—featuring striking, joint locks, throws, and spiritual principles—will be demonstrated in training sessions and competitions throughout the weekend.
Participants can register for the full conference, which includes general sessions, a formal banquet, tournament participation, and youth programming. Details are available at thevskjiujitsu, where registration is open.
To streamline the experience, the VSK Jiujitsu Conference App is now live. It features an interactive schedule, venue maps, speaker and instructor bios, real-time updates, digital check-in, and a community board to encourage attendee engagement.
“This year, we’re merging tradition with technology,” Bro. Dr. Azziz said. “Our new app ensures that every registrant has access to updates, directions and important information—right in the palm of their hand.”
For more information or to register, visit thevskjiujitsu. Updates are also available via the VSK Jiujitsu App and @vskjiujitsu on all major social media platforms.