Kudo is a modern martial art that combines elements from various disciplines such as karate, boxing, Muay Thai, judo, and jujitsu, with fundamental elements of wrestling.
It originated in Japan in 1981 to provide an effective and comprehensive street combat system, demonstrating its completeness and real effectiveness in self-defense situations.
Historically, Kudo was conceived and developed by Azuma Takashi, a master of Kyokushin full-contact karate, to create a system that integrated long-distance and close-quarters combat techniques. Azuma Takashi decided to leave the Kyokushin organization, of which he was a part, to found Daidojuku, which deviated from classical Japanese karate and was historically a first form of what would later become the Kudo we know today.
The concept is that there are no boundaries of a single style, but rather a collage of many different martial arts techniques, starting from the most famous and practiced, karate and judo.
Over time, various techniques from martial arts such as boxing, Muay Thai, jujitsu, and wrestling were integrated into the Daidojuku style. Daidojuku was rooted in a realistic and versatile fighting style that included effective offensive and defensive techniques such as punches to the head, elbows, headbutts, throws, and joint locks from judo, along with other ground-fighting techniques. In 1981, Daidojuku made its debut at the “Hokutoki Karate Championship.”
In this evolutionary phase, both technically and in terms of its spread, Karate Daidojuku transformed into MMA, Mixed Martial Arts, and in 2001, the founder renamed this martial art to Kudo. Based on the philosophy of budō, it was eventually registered worldwide as K.I.F., Kudo International Federation.
The term “Kudo” means “the way of the free fist,” emphasizing the importance of freedom of movement and tactical flexibility in combat without any schematic or predictable process.
The practice of Kudo is not solely focused on sports competition but embraces a philosophy of life centered on respect, discipline, and humility. Kudo practitioners are encouraged to develop both their body and mind, seeking a balance between physical strength, fighting spirit, and mental clarity.
Globally, Kudo has gained growing popularity in various countries, including Japan, Russia, South Korea, and many Eastern European countries. Its spread in Italy is thanks to Sensei Graziano Lecci, President of K.I.B., Kudo Italian Branch, 6th Dan Black Belt in Kudo Daido Juku, and 7th Dan Black Belt in Karate Wado-Ryu. Through targeted work and great sacrifice, he has introduced Kudo to northern, central, and southern Italy. The technical figure of reference is Master Luigi Rossini, 5th Dan in Kudo Daido Juku, 10th Dan Grand Master PATH-JU-JITSU, and 6th Dan Wado Ryu Ju Jitsu Kempo, a point of reference for Italian sensei.
What strikes those who approach this martial art the most is its effectiveness as a self-defense system and its practicability both as a competitive sport and as a martial practice.
From a scientific point of view, Kudo offers numerous physical and mental health benefits since regular practice helps improve muscle strength, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and coordination, while emphasizing concentration, stress management, self-awareness, and reinforcing self-confidence, having a highly positive impact on the lives of those who undertake the journey of discovery.
Thus, Kudo is not just a martial art, but above all, a philosophy of life. It teaches respect for others, humility that must never be lacking, discipline, and clearly also self-discipline. Kudo sensei do not only focus on the technical sports aspect but also on creating a healthy psycho-physical environment to shape individuals and citizens who can control their emotions, are aware of their strength, and capable of reading situations and assessing their danger. A strong and pure mentality in a trained body. The ultimate goal is not just to win sports competitions but to grow and improve socially and in integration.
In Italy, an educational and planning program for primary and secondary schools has begun, with Sensei Marco Di Zazzo in Cassino, joined by Sensei Decio Benedetti in Rome.
Kudo athletes’ equipment differs from other martial artists with the presence of a full helmet. They wear a “dogi” uniform different from that of judo, with shorter sleeves more suited for grips and throws. To compete, one needs an integral groin guard, a mouthguard, and the official K.I.F. fingerless gloves. The characteristic K.I.F. protective helmet with a plexiglass visor protects fighters from possible blows to the face and brain injuries.
As for minors, in addition to the dogi, the plexiglass helmet, and gloves, they must wear shin guards and padded vests.
Another characteristic of Kudo is that athletes are not classified based on weight, but according to the **physical index**. The physical index (PI) is the sum of the weight in kilograms plus the height in centimeters.
Category: below 230
Category: 230-240
Category: 240-250
Category: 250-260
Category: 260-270
Category: 270 and above
In other combat sports, categories are classified based on weight in kilograms. Therefore, weight and height, synonymous with longer reach, are emphasized.
Kudo rules are unique but with small changes in various tournaments. The fundamental rules are two ground-fighting exchanges, each lasting no more than thirty seconds, and prohibited blows to the back and groin.
Competitions take place on a 13×13 meter tatami, with a 9×9 meter inner square, where the fighting area is located. At the four corners of the fighting area sit four referees, plus one inside the tatami.
The fundamental principle for awarding points is based on the force of the blows delivered, a result of technique and physical ability. The point is awarded based on the damage caused and the effectiveness of the blow on the opponent. The scoring ranges from 1 to 8. Points, in Japanese, are called **koka**, **yuko**, **wazari**, and **ippon**, corresponding to values of 1 point, 2 points, 4 points, and 8 points. An 8-point score wins the match.
Victory can also come through submission or strangulation, knockout, or a point victory. A single 3-minute round is fought, which can be repeated in the event of a draw.
The way of Kudo is a path of life, spirituality, and raw nature, made up of men, athletes, gladiators with full control of their mental and spiritual strength.
Prof. Ph.D Francesco Calarco