Savate, literally translated to mean ‘old boot’, developed in France through sheer necessity.

In the early 1800s, violent street gangs looking for trouble ruled the Parisian underground scene. Their prey was the aristocratic class who, to protect themselves, began taking self-defence classes.

Over the years, this training evolved into modern Savate, an exacting combat sport, and also the official hand-to-hand assault system of the French RAID police.

On their mission to uncover Savate’s distinct style, Jason and Bill navigate the dockyards of Marseille; roam the grounds of a 14th Century Castle; and even breach a secret police training site, to practice and perfect the painfully efficient kicks and punches that comprise this elegant yet ruthless martial art.

Finally, one of our hosts will enter the ring to take on a Savate heavyweight champion.