History of Tumfo Tu & Cetshwayo-Kempo Systems

The Arrival & Early Training

Upon arriving in the U.S., Professor Chang pursued his college education in Hawaii while continuing his training in his father’s discipline. Facing challenges as an Asian man in post-Pearl Harbor America, he dedicated himself to martial arts, refining his skills in Hung Gar and Lua. After earning his degree, he returned to Shanghai to complete his training but soon found limited opportunities for a Western-educated graduate. This led him back to the U.S. in search of a meaningful path.

The Meeting of Masters:

Professor Chang & Hughes Naumu

In 1956, while stationed at Pearl Harbor Naval Base, Professor Chang encountered a fierce young street fighter, Hughes N. Naumu. Intrigued by his raw talent, Chang offered to mentor him in his refined Tumfo Tu system. Under Chang’s guidance, Naumu combined his Lau techniques with Tumfo Tu, creating a powerful and unique combat style.

By 1967, Naumu had refined his teachings, carefully selecting only a few disciples to carry on his knowledge. Among them was Kajana Cetshwayo, who would go on to play a significant role in the system’s evolution and expansion.

War, Combat, and Refinement

Master Cetshwayo continued his training under Grand Master Naumu before deploying to South Vietnam in 1969 as part of the Naval Special Teams (I.U.W.G.1). There, he adapted Tumfo Tu to real-world combat, testing his skills in jungles, on beaches, and even in ocean-based combat. His experience against Korea’s ROK martial artists, Aikidoists in Japan, and Thai Boxers in Bangkok sharpened his abilities further.

In 1971, he brought Tumfo Tu to Detroit, Michigan, where he rapidly built a reputation for training warriors with unmatched combat prowess.

Community Impact & Martial Arts Legacy

Beyond training elite fighters, Cetshwayo-Kempo Systems (C-KS) played a crucial role in community service and social justice:

1971-1976: Organized food co-ops for struggling families in Detroit.
1975: Assisted city officials in preventing riots by acting as a peacekeeping force.
1975-1977: Patrolled crime-ridden neighborhoods, working with law enforcement to curb gang violence.
2002-2004: Partnered with Detroit Police to offer martial arts programs to youth.
2005-2007: Expanded efforts to Oakland, CA, assisting ex-offenders with job placement and community reintegration.

The Evolution of Tumfo Tu & Recognition

Master Cetshwayo’s dedication to Tumfo Tu culminated in several milestone events:

1979: Hosted “The Battle of the Belts” in Detroit, issuing an open challenge to fighters across the country. The competition ended prematurely when opposing fighters withdrew upon witnessing Tumfo Tu’s combat efficiency.
2004: At the 34th Annual C-KS Reunion, Grand Master Naumu personally honored Cetshwayo with the rank of 7th Degree Kempo Master, cementing his place as a true martial arts master.
2007-Present: C-KS headquarters moved to Denver, CO, expanding its reach while maintaining its deep roots in Detroit and Washington, D.C.