Should I compete in martial arts tournaments again?

I semi retired in 2000 aged 27 after 11 years of competing. I felt I retired too young, but did so because I suffered a brain aneurysm that year. I also stopped tarining at the karate club I had been at since 1992, returning briefly in 2003 only to find I had been stripped of my grades and had to start from scratch. This was not acceptable to me, I was unhappy about it. I then trained in other martial arts and trained also in China and Japan with real masters. It was a privelege for me to do so. Recently I was contacted by promoters of an all styles tournament, asking me if I would like to participate. I would like tom having had the all clear from the hospital this year, but as I now teach martial arts (since 2007) , it is years since I sparred with anyone here and my students are beginner level. I am interested, but don't want to be humilated. And yet for my level I would be expected to enter at black belt and above level. So is it foolish for me to do this?

Should I compete in martial arts tournaments again?
One thing I've learned after 11+ years of martial arts is that you should never be embarrased to loose in a tournament. As Wayne Gretsky once said "You miss 100% of the shots you never take."





Yeah you could loose. But that's by no means a reflection on what you know.
Reply:Well if you are on anticoagulants then you should get medical advice I would think. And if you aren't then wouldn't it be a bit of a risk if you are a clotter.
Reply:yes you need the big boys to train with
Reply:I wouldnt bother. Its been a big part of your life, but you have to move on. It is never the same when you go back to something like that after a break. I studied karate for twelve years, then after a few years off started back. I didnt give it long, time moves on.