Masutatsu Oyama: The Founder of Kyokushin Karate
Experts: Masutatsu Oyama (born Choi Yeong-eui on July 27, 1923 – April 26, 1994) was a Korean-Japanese martial artist and the founder of Kyokushin Karate, one of the most influential full-contact karate styles in the world. Born in Gimje, Korea, during Japanese colonial rule, Oyama moved to Japan in his youth and later naturalized as a Japanese citizen, adopting the name Masutatsu Oyama.
From an early age, Oyama was drawn to martial arts. He first trained in Chinese Kempo before studying Shotokan Karate under Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate. He later explored Goju-Ryu Karate, further shaping his understanding of combat.
The Road to Kyokushin Karate
Oyama was known for his extreme dedication to martial arts training. In 1946, he undertook a legendary self-imposed training isolation on Mount Minobu, where he trained rigorously for 18 months. His intense routine included breaking trees, lifting heavy rocks, and meditating under waterfalls, which became part of Kyokushin’s legendary training philosophy.
After years of refining his skills and philosophy, Oyama founded Kyokushin Karate in 1953, officially establishing it as an independent martial art in 1964. The name Kyokushin (極真) means “Ultimate Truth”, reflecting Oyama’s vision of a martial art based on real combat effectiveness.
Kyokushin Karate and Full-Contact Fighting
Kyokushin revolutionized karate by emphasizing full-contact sparring (knockdown karate). Unlike traditional point-based karate styles, Kyokushin practitioners engage in realistic combat, testing their endurance and strength in kumite (sparring) matches. The system incorporates elements from different fighting styles, blending karate, judo, and boxing techniques.
The 100-Man Kumite
One of the most grueling tests Oyama developed was the 100-Man Kumite, a challenge where a fighter must face 100 consecutive opponents in full-contact combat. Oyama himself is said to have completed this challenge three times in three days, showcasing his extraordinary endurance and fighting ability.
Legendary Feats and Bullfighting Demonstrations
Oyama became famous for his superhuman strength and fighting demonstrations, including his ability to break thick wooden boards, roof tiles, and even bullhorns with his bare hands. In widely publicized bullfighting exhibitions, Oyama fought bulls with his bare hands, defeating 52 bulls over his lifetime, sometimes killing them with a single strike.
These feats were seen as a testament to the power of Kyokushin Karate, reinforcing its reputation as one of the toughest martial arts in the world.
Impact on Martial Arts and Legacy
Kyokushin Karate spread worldwide, with dojos established across more than 120 countries, making it one of the most influential and widely practiced karate styles. Oyama’s philosophy and training methods influenced many modern MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighters, as well as action movie stars and martial artists.
Students and Influence
Many famous martial artists trained under Oyama, including:
- Kenji Midori – Kyokushin World Champion
- Shokei Matsui – Current leader of Kyokushin
- Andy Hug – K-1 fighter known for his axe kicks
- Francisco Filho – Kyokushin and K-1 champion
- Bas Rutten – MMA legend influenced by Kyokushin
Oyama’s teachings also laid the groundwork for full-contact karate tournaments, influencing later kickboxing and MMA competitions.
Books and Teachings
Oyama authored several books on martial arts, including:
- What is Karate? (1958)
- This is Karate (1965)
- Advanced Karate (1970)
These books remain foundational texts for Kyokushin practitioners and martial artists worldwide.
Death and Continuing Legacy
Mas Oyama passed away on April 26, 1994, due to lung cancer at the age of 70. His passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy continues through the millions of Kyokushin practitioners around the world.
Today, Kyokushin Karate remains a dominant force in the martial arts community, with its knockdown tournaments, full-contact training, and warrior spirit keeping Oyama’s philosophy alive.
Mas Oyama was not just a martial artist—he was a warrior, teacher, and visionary who reshaped karate into one of the toughest fighting styles in history. His influence extends beyond karate, touching the world of combat sports, self-discipline, and personal development. His legacy lives on in the countless martial artists who continue to train in the way of Kyokushin—the way of the Ultimate Truth.
