In the world of martial arts, certain figures stand out as true legends, leaving an indelible mark on the history of combat sports. One such iconic figure is Masutatsu Oyama, better known as Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate. His life and contributions to martial arts have not only shaped the landscape of karate but have also inspired generations of practitioners worldwide.
Early Life and Training:
Mas Oyama, born on July 27, 1923, in what is now South Korea, initiated his martial arts journey in his early years under the guidance of his father, delving into Chinese martial arts. However, a pivotal shift occurred in his life when he relocated to Japan, where he encountered the disciplines of Goju-Ryu Karate and Shotokan Karate. During this transformative period, Oyama immersed himself in the rigorous training of Goju-Ryu Karate under the tutelage of Nei-Chu So Sensei, a senior student of the style's founder, Chojun Miyagi Sensei. Additionally, he studied Shotokan Karate under Gigō Funakoshi Sensei, the third son of the legendary Gichin Funakoshi Sensei, the founder of Shotokan. These diverse martial arts experiences became the cornerstone of Oyama's unique and influential style.
Journey to the United States
After the enforcement of the San Francisco Peace Treaty in 1952, Oyama lost his Japanese nationality and became a Korean national, but he continued his activities in Japan. In the same year, he traveled to the United States alongside professional Judo-ka, Koji Endo, Yondan. Oyama, adopting the ring name Mas. Togo, performed karate demonstrations across various locations in the United States, often portraying himself as the brother of the professional wrestler Great Togo. During these demonstrations, he engaged in confrontations with professional wrestlers and boxers. Upon his return to Japan, Oyama demonstrated his remarkable strength by defeating bulls with his bare hands (a total of 47, four of which resulted in immediate death), and footage of these feats was released in the 1954 film "Karate Bullfighter".
Oyama Dojo
In 1953, Oyama established his own dojo, the Oyama Dojo, and during this time, he traveled across Japan to validate his philosophy of karate. In 1956, Oyama relocated the dojo to a gymnasium within a school. Concurrently, he began organizing his own karate system, ultimately developing a style based on full-contact fighting, which he named Kyokushin. Throughout the training process, many students suffered injuries, yet there was still a significant number of students eager to join.
Kyokushin Karate:
In 1964, Oyama established Kyokushin Karate, a style that emphasized practicality, discipline, and full-contact sparring. The name "Kyokushin" means "the ultimate truth," reflecting Oyama's vision of creating a martial art that was both effective and spiritually enriching. Unlike many traditional martial arts that focused on forms and katas, Kyokushin became known for its emphasis on realistic combat training and physical conditioning.
The Three Pillars of Kyokushin:
Oyama identified three essential elements that formed the foundation of Kyokushin Karate:
Kihon (Basics): Fundamental techniques and movements that build a strong foundation for more advanced skills.
Kata (Forms): Prearranged patterns of movements that simulate various combat scenarios.
Kumite (Sparring): Full-contact sparring, which became a defining feature of Kyokushin, setting it apart from many other traditional martial arts.
The 100-Man Kumite:
One of the most legendary feats associated with Oyama is the 100-man kumite, a grueling test of endurance and skill where he fought against 100 opponents consecutively. This incredible demonstration of physical and mental toughness showcased the effectiveness of Kyokushin and solidified Oyama's reputation as a martial arts icon.
Legacy and Impact:
Oyama's influence on martial arts is immeasurable. His commitment to practical training and full-contact sparring challenged the conventions of traditional martial arts and paved the way for the development of modern mixed martial arts (MMA). Many of his students went on to become influential martial artists and instructors in their own right, spreading Kyokushin Karate around the globe.
Oyama's legacy extends far beyond the confines of a dojo. His philosophy, discipline, and dedication to the art of self-defense have inspired countless individuals to pursue martial arts not just as a physical practice but as a path to self-discovery and personal growth. As we continue to evolve in the world of martial arts, Oyama's impact remains a testament to the enduring power of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of the ultimate truth.
Sosai Mas Oyama's Accomplishments in Various Disciplines:
10th Dan Black Belt in Kyokushin Karate
7th Dan Black Belt in Goju-ryu Karate
4th Dan Black Belt in Shotokan Karate
4th Dan Black Belt in Judo
Osu,
Sensei Sophia