Ditangquan: The Ground Boxing Art of Acrobatics and Combat – Its History, Philosophy, Political Impact, and Deeper Lessons: Its dynamic movements, battlefield use, and the values it teaches.

Leighton Tokunbo Shepherd is a 67-year-old martial artist, teacher, and historian who has dedicated over five decades to the study and practice of combat traditions. Based in Beijing, China, where he has lived most of his life, Shepherd's journey into martial arts began as a young man in a small dojo, igniting a lifelong passion for the balance of strength, strategy, and discipline. His expertise spans multiple systems, with a deep focus on traditional Chinese martial arts and their philosophical, spiritual, and political dimensions. Through decades of teaching, competing, and mentoring, Shepherd has become a respected voice in the martial arts community. His writings explore how combat traditions reflect cultural values, shape national identity, and offer timeless lessons in resilience, self-discovery, and inner peace. Now semi-retired, he continues to teach in Beijing and is the author of the Martial Truths series, including regional studies of Vietnam, Australia, Tibetan White Crane, Wuzuquan, Dachengquan, and Meihuaquan, as well as this comprehensive examination of Ditangquan.