About Us

We are a group of like-minded Kyokushin Budoka who have become disenchanted with the politics and money associated with membership in one of the many Kyokushin off-shoots. We propose a new way of building a strong, supportive, and budo-focused group. 

 

We will never have any Kaicho or Soke, but rather a council made of high-ranking and internationally recognized Kyokushin Budoka. Any existing Kyokushin black belt can apply for membership.

 

Our Mission

 

Mas Oyama’s United Budoka Group promotes Mas Oyama’s original Kyokushin Karate. We believe our egos have no place in leadership, and we find true budo in building supportive communities. 

 

Our Philosophy

 

What this group is NOT:

 

• We do not believe we need a traditional Kyokushin leader to be credible. 

• We are not ego-driven, will not hand out promotions, and will not stray from the true Budo path.

• We do not have a financial agenda. Membership fees are minimal and only enough to cover minor administrative costs.

 

What this group IS:

 

• We promote Oyama Sosai’s original Kyokushin Karate.

• We respect everyone’s ability to run their dojo their way.

• We will promote members through a fair promotion process overseen by the council.

• We put Budo above our egos.

 

Mas Oyama’s United Budoka Group Guidelines

 

• We follow the way of Oyama Sosai, which means including all kata’s that Sosai had in his curriculum before his death. If a person wants to add kata’s to their own dojo’s curriculum, that’s acceptable. 

• Kata’s will be as close to Oyama Sosai’s version as possible, not post-Sosai evolutions.

• There are no leaders or by-laws. Instead, we have a council of Godans and above. 

• Membership qualifications:

  • Must be a Kyokushin black belt

  • Can come from any off-shoot of Kyokushin

  • Membership open to dojo-operators only

• Member promotions:

  • Members are eligible for promotion after a year of membership and participation. 

  • Members will submit a video, which the council will review before test invitations.

  • Promotions conducted by the board will generally be for the rank of Yondan and above.  

  • Shodan through Sandan will be handled at the local level provided the instructor has the proper rank (two grades above). 

  • Senior members who cannot physically test can apply for merit-based promotions overseen by the council. 

 

Training

 

Once a year, we will hold a centrally localized seminar.  Kihon, kata, kumite, and the mental and spiritual aspects of being a Kyokushin black belt will be taught and gone over. Testing for Yondan and above is available only at the seminar.

 

Inclusivity Statement

 

We welcome all races, genders, religions, and countries. Members are welcome as long as they respect each other and commit to promoting Mas Oyama's Kyokushin Karate for all.