Shihan Masahiko Yamada, the Branch Chief in Nagasaki Branch of WKO Japan Region, passed away at the age of 71 due to an acute cardiac failure.
Shihan Yamada trained as an immediate pupil under Sosai Masutatsu Oyama while he was appointed as the Branch Chief in WKO Brazil Branch at his early age.
He spreaded over Kyokushin Karate through the South America Region and played a role in expanding our world organization.
After returning to Japan, he founded the Nagasaki Branch and mentored not only the World Champion, Norichika Tsukamoto, but also numerous excellent pupils.
An unique round-house kick, which slams an opponent straightforward, was taken over to his pupils.
It is also known as Mach Geri or Brazilian Kick and inscribed in the Kyokushin Karate History.
We express our sincere condolences to this sudden loss. May his soul rest in peace.
