Japan
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Masahiko Kimura
Kumamoto, Japan
Archival Overview
Legendary Japanese judoka widely regarded as the greatest master of newaza in history, undefeated for thirteen years and immortalized by the reverse ude-garami shoulder lock that bears his name.
Biographical Record
Masahiko Kimura (1917–1993) achieved legendary status through punishing training regimens of nine hours daily, earning his 7th dan at age twenty-nine and winning the prestigious All-Japan Judo Championship four consecutive times from 1937 to 1949 without suffering a single defeat.
In 1951, Kimura traveled to Rio de Janeiro's Maracana Stadium to face Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu founder Helio Gracie before 20,000 spectators; executing a devastating reverse keylock that fractured Gracie's elbow, the technique was universally renamed the 'Kimura lock' across world martial arts.
Key Life Milestones
First All-Japan Judo Championship
Won his first national crown at age twenty, launching an unbroken thirteen-year victory streak.
Historic Bout with Helio Gracie
Defeated the BJJ master at Maracana Stadium, cementing the global renown of the Kimura lock.
Memorial Guestbook & Tributes
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Final Resting Place
Perpetual MemorialKumamoto, Japan