The 13th Kyokushinkai Karate World Open, which takes place every 4 years, begins tomorrow in Tokyo. One weight category, 3 days of KO fights, breaking tests and one cat champion. All the information to follow this unique event.
By Ludovic Mauchien / Photos: L.M.
WHAT IS THE WORLD OPEN TOURNAMENT?
Something crazy ! The only tournament where a 1.67 m and 72 kg fighter can take on a 1.95m and 111 kg giant, and possibly win.
Faithful to the philosophy of Mas Oyama, the founder of the Kyokushin school, this tournament takes place every 4 years and KO’s are authorized. There must only be one left, the Open world champion, one of the most sought-after titles on the Karate planet.
WHO IS IN THE WORLD OPEN ?
166 fighters and 50 warriors, the best Kyokushin karatekas from the IKO federation, who compete for 3 days. They mainly come from Japan, Russia and Brazil, the 3 major countries where Kyokushinkai is practiced. Europe is also very well represented with Poland, Spain and France.
WHERE IS THE WORLD OPEN ?
Actually, it’s at Tokyo Gymnasium. But, for the first time, it will be possible to follow the competition on the Web.
The IKO is setting up a free livestream on the 1st day (November 17), free for members on the 2nd day and paid on the day of the finals, Sunday 19.
The links : https://www.kyokushin.net/event/vydlebjVRp9stGpOB1afCfk0iiNggbGYLnumaxlR
Or https://www.youtube.com/live/GrPcWZwWe3o?si=f7XCzBbW08VOj2Do
WHO IS THE SMALLEST ?
What we cannot take away from the South African fighters is their courage. Zamani Lubanyana (1.55m ; 65kg), Ayanda Gwala (1.58m ; 90kg) and Bonginkosi Mayaba (1.60 m; 80kg) are the smallest fighters in the competition. Fight !
WHO IS THE GIANT ?
His name is Icaro Nascimento, he comes to us from Brazil and he is the Golgoth of the 2023 World Open with his 2.04 m and 160 kg. Until he meets a South Af’!!! The Iranian Abassi Behnam is also a beautiful baby with 1.97 m and 145 kg. In total, there are 30 of them weighing at least 100 kg (out of 166). But, be careful, this is not a guarantee of success. In Oyama’s school, it’s not necessarily the biggest who wins.
THE PROGRAM
Friday 17
Starts at 10 a.m. (Japanese time). 1st rounds for men and women
Saturday 18
Starts at 10 a.m. (Japanese time). 2nd and 3rd rounds for men and women
Sunday 19
Start at 10:30 a.m. (Japanese time). 4th round and finals for men and women
