Soshu Shigeru Oyama (大山茂)

A Pioneer of Kyokushin in America

Shigeru Oyama was one of the early giants of Kyokushin and played a critical role in establishing the style in the United States. A senior uchi deshi and former Chief Instructor at the Kyokushin Honbu Dojo in Tokyo, he was known for his formidable skill, fierce spirit, and unrelenting standards.

In September 1966, he became the third person in history to complete the 100-man kumite, finishing 121 rounds in a single day. Sosai Mas Oyama reportedly pushed him beyond 100 fights in an attempt to break him — a final test before sending him abroad to represent Kyokushin. He did not break.

Later that year, he moved to New York City and began teaching full-contact Kyokushin in America, laying the foundation for a new generation of practitioners. His demonstrations, power, and presence left a lasting impression across the martial arts world.

In 1985, Shigeru Oyama founded World Oyama Karate, carrying forward Kyokushin’s fighting spirit while following his own path. Though organizational lines eventually diverged, the roots remained strong. Shigeru Oyama never turned away from the heart of Kyokushin: rigorous training, real challenge, and the spirit of Osu.

Shihan Michael Monaco trained extensively under Soshu Oyama in his early years, earning his Shodan, Nidan, and Sandan rankings from him. Their relationship, like many in Kyokushin, was forged through hard training and mutual respect. To this day, many in the USA-IFK still pay tribute to Soshu’s influence and legacy, honoring the role he played in shaping the early path of Kyokushin in America.