R.I.P Sosai Mas Oyama - The Founder of Kyokushin Karate

The first time I stepped in a kyokushin dojo in 1987, I've noticed a hand drawn photo on the front wall behind the Sensei. Everyone was very respectful towards it and I found out that he is the founder of Kyokushin Karate. Not much else I knew about him (those years in Romania that kind of information was restricted), but even like this, we always showed the deepest respect.

On April 24, 1994, my grandmother died. I was very close to her and her death hit me hard, but I know she was not healthy, so in one way I was relieved.

Two days later on the 26 the news that Sosai passed away was brought to me. I was sad, but I didn't really know how to react. I've never met Sosai Mas Oyama, but he must have been a very special person, to gain so much respect from millions of people all over the world.

Today, I know more and I am greatly humbled that I had the chance to be part of the Kyokushin world. It has changed my life, it gave me purpose.

Thank you Sosai.

R.I.P

Osu!