The Untold Story of Mas Oyama: From Ronin to Young Lion

The Early Years: Becoming a Ronin

Many martial arts enthusiasts have heard of Mas Oyama, the legendary founder of Kyokushin Karate. Known for his incredible strength and unwavering dedication, Oyama's journey to becoming a martial arts icon was no easy feat. Before he was recognized as the Young Lion, Oyama had to go through what is known as the Ronin years.

Back in his early twenties, Oyama found himself at a crossroads in life. Despite his training in various martial arts, he felt like something was missing. He decided to embark on a journey to search for the ultimate truth in martial arts, which led him to become a Ronin.

The Ronin Years: Mas Oyama's Young Lion

by Norm Schriever (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8653 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	183 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

A Ronin is a wandering samurai without a master, often seeking enlightenment through rigorous training and challenges. During this period, Oyama traveled through Japan, honing his skills, and facing off against formidable opponents.

The Challenges and Growth

During his Ronin years, Oyama faced many challenges that tested his strength and determination. He sought out and fought against other martial artists, taking on all styles and techniques. These encounters helped him refine his own skills and develop his own unique style of fighting.

One of the remarkable aspects of Oyama's training was his dedication to physical conditioning. He knew that true martial arts mastery could not be achieved without a robust and resilient body. Thus, he engaged in grueling training regimens, such as breaking boards and rocks, to toughen his hands and body.

The Ronin years also taught Oyama valuable life lessons. He embraced the mindset of never giving up and pushing past his limits. Through constant battles and hardships, he cultivated an indomitable spirit that would later define his journey.

From Ronin to Young Lion

After years of wandering and intense training, Mas Oyama emerged as a formidable martial artist, earning his rightful title of the Young Lion. It was during this time that he founded Kyokushin Karate and started spreading its teachings.

Kyokushin Karate is a full-contact style that emphasizes realistic combat and physical conditioning. Oyama's vision was to create a martial art that would prepare individuals not only for physical combat but also for the challenges of life.

Through the establishment of his Kyokushin Karate organization, Oyama trained numerous students, inspiring them with his discipline and fierce spirit. His relentless pursuit of excellence and dedication to the art of karate turned Kyokushin into one of the most popular and respected martial arts styles worldwide.

The Legacy of Mas Oyama

Mas Oyama's legacy goes far beyond his Ronin years and his title as the Young Lion. His contributions to the world of martial arts transformed Karate and continue to influence practitioners today.

His emphasis on physical conditioning and full-contact training revolutionized the way martial arts were taught and trained. Kyokushin Karate became renowned for its rigorous training methods and instilling discipline and mental toughness in its practitioners.

Furthermore, Oyama's teachings went beyond physical techniques. He believed in the importance of character development and the cultivation of strong moral values. He championed the idea that martial arts should be a vehicle for personal growth and self-improvement.

In

Mas Oyama's Ronin years were a crucial part of his remarkable journey towards becoming the Young Lion. Through countless battles, physical conditioning, and unyielding determination, he transformed himself into a martial arts icon.

Oyama's story serves as an inspiration not only to martial artists but to anyone who faces challenges and seeks personal growth. His legacy continues to live on through Kyokushin Karate and the thousands of practitioners who embody his teachings.

The Ronin Years: Mas Oyama's Young Lion

by Norm Schriever (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8653 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	183 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

After graduating from The Young Lions program, Judd Reid set his heart on traveling the world, teaching what he learned during his 1,000 days of training in Japan.

As a personal student of Sosai Mas Oyama, Judd knew it was his duty to carry on his teacher’s legacy and share his wisdom.

From Sweden to Thailand, Australia to the United States, and many countries in between, Judd explores the world like a Ronin of old, or a Samurai without a master. He bounces at a Tokyo nightclub, trains Thai SWAT forces, and later becomes heavyweight champion as well as completing the legendary 100-man kumite.

Through it all, his best friend Anton Cavka was there to share in the adventures and document it all, putting together an award-winning film, the 100-Man Fight. But Judd's world is turned upside down by an unexpected tragedy.

Picking up the pieces, Judd finally finds peace and happiness, honoring Sosai Oyama's life's work while finally opening his own Kyokushin Karate dojo back home in Melbourne, Australia.

If you liked Judd Reid's first book, The Young Lions, The Ronin Years is a must-read!