14/01/2026
The person featured in the image is Masutatsu "Mas" Oyama (1923-1994), the legendary Korean-Japanese karate master and founder of the Kyokushin style of full-contact karate.
Key Information
Founder of Kyokushin: Oyama established his dojo in 1953 and officially founded the International Karate Organization (IKO) Kyokushinkaikan in 1964.
Meaning: The name "Kyokushin" (極真) translates to "the ultimate truth".
Philosophy: The style emphasizes self-improvement, discipline, and hard training, rooted in the philosophy of Budo (Martial Way) rather than just technique.
Training: Kyokushin is known for its rigorous, full-contact sparring (kumite), physical conditioning, and breaking techniques to test strength and spirit.
Notable Feats: Oyama was famous for challenging and fighting 52 bulls bare-handed (reportedly killing three) and completing the "100-man kumite" (fighting 100 opponents in a row) three times, earning him the nickname "Godhand".
Legacy: His life and training philosophy have influenced popular culture, including characters in the Street Fighter video game franchise and the manga Karate Baka Ichidai.
