08/13/2026
NEWS FROM JAPAN!
Shihan Yuzo Goda, the Chief Advisor of the I.K.O. Kyokushinkaikan & International Committee chairman, passed away at 11:05 a.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 in Tokyo, from pneumonia following a sudden deterioration in hi/s condition after a prolonged illness.
Shihan Yuzo Goda dedicated more than six decades of his life to Kyokushin Karate.
In April 1959, shortly after graduating from high school, he entered the Oyama Dojo in Ikebukuro — the birthplace of Kyokushin Karate and the predecessor of the IKO Kyokushinkaikan Honbu. There, he became one of the early disciples of Sosai Masutatsu Oyama and studied directly under the founder.
He was later entrusted by Sosai Oyama with the position of Sohonbu-Shihandai (Headquarters Head Instructor). In 1976, he was appointed Branch Chief of the Tokyo Joto Branch.
In 1985, Sosai Oyama appointed Shihan Goda as the head of the Japanese Branch Chiefs Committee. Over the years, he also served as Branch Chief, Chief Judge of championship tournaments, and Chairman of the Referee Committee, making a significant contribution to the development of Kyokushinkaikan in Japan and internationally.
Following the passing of Sosai Masutatsu Oyama, Shihan Goda continued to support the organization as Chief Advisor, contributing to its development and to the education and guidance of generations of Kyokushin practitioners.
Shihan Goda was a teacher of Sensei Kenny Buffaloe and was always very helpful to him and Senpai Christian Buffaloe whenever they were in Japan.
Shihan Goda was featured on the DISCOVERY CHANNEL'S documentary on Kyokushin Karate in a series called "Fight Quest" a few years ago. That segment is still available to view on YouTube.
He will be greatly missed.
May he rest in peace.
Osu!
