Shokei Matsui, whose full name is Yoshikazu Matsui, is an emblematic figure of Kyokushin karate. Born on January 15, 1963 in Tokyo, Japan, he is currently Director of the Kyokushinkai International Karate Organization.
Matsui began his Kyokushin karate training at the age of 13. His skills and dedication to training quickly set him apart from his peers. In 1976, he won the National High School Championship in Japan, establishing his name in the world of Kyokushin karate.
In 1980, at the age of 17, Matsui was accepted into the rigorous “Uchi Deshi” (internal student) training program under Masutatsu Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin karate. This training strengthened Matsui’s skills and prepared him for an international career in karate.
Matsui’s fighting skills have earned him international recognition. In 1981, he became champion of the All Japan Open Karate Tournament, then in 1983, he won the IKO (International Karate Organization) World Heavyweight Championship.
Matsui’s stamina was put to the test in 1986 when he undertook the “100-man test”, a challenge involving 100 consecutive fights against top-level karate opponents. Matsui became the youngest practitioner ever to pass this test, an achievement that has enhanced his reputation and propelled him to the top of the Kyokushin karate world.
After Masutatsu Oyama’s death in 1994, Matsui was appointed director of the Kyokushinkai International Karate Organization. As director, he worked to promote Kyokushin karate worldwide and maintain the high standards of excellence and integrity set by Oyama.
In short, Shokei Matsui is an exceptional karateka and a respected leader in the world of Kyokushin karate. His dedication to the art of karate, his strength and determination are an inspiration to many karate practitioners around the world.