John Borter has been training in martial arts for over 30 years, earning black belt ranks in five different systems, including a 6th-degree black belt. While his expertise spans multiple disciplines, he is best known for his dedication to reviving and preserving Irish stick fighting—the traditional martial art of Ireland.

As the founder of the Whiskey Stick Faction, John has played a key role in teaching and promoting Bataireacht, the art of combat with the Irish shillelagh. Through seminars, workshops, and structured training, he has helped bring this nearly lost fighting system back into the spotlight, blending historical techniques with modern applications for self-defense.

In addition to Irish stick fighting, John teaches martial arts, self-defense, knife, tomahawk, and Kubotan to hundreds of students each year. He is also the creator of the ABC Women’s Self-Defense Program, a renowned system taught in 12 countries, and has served as a training consultant for law enforcement.

Get ready for a deep dive into the rich history, techniques, and resurgence of Irish stick fighting! Please welcome John Borter!

Doyle Irish Stick Fighting | Whiskey stick faction