USA IFK Summer Camp / 17-19 July 2026

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USA-IFK Summer Camp 2026: A Weekend to Remember

Over the weekend of July 17-19, Shihan Karl Biedlingmaier and his dojo, Gray Wolf Kyokushin Martial Arts in Holley, NY, hosted the 2026 USA-IFK Summer Camp, featuring an unforgettable seminar with Sensei Wesley Jansen. It's the kind of weekend that reminds you why we do this in the first place.

Over 70 students showed up ready to work, and Sensei Wesley didn't hold back. Fighting training and combinations, kata, renraku, and some genuinely exciting conditioning methods filled the weekend. Anyone who was in the room knows the energy was different. This was training in the true Kyokushin spirit — demanding, honest, and built to bring out more than what students walked in with.

Thirty black belts turned out in support, representing USA-IFK alongside other Kyokushin organizations. That kind of turnout doesn't happen by accident. It happens because people still believe in showing up for each other.

A few people carried extra weight this weekend and deserve real credit. Sensei Matt Zahand, out of Ohio, served as uke for Sensei Wesley — a tough job under any circumstances, and he handled it without complaint. Sensei’s Jenna Grant and Audrey Bartholomay from S&S Fitness, along with Shihan Scott Haug, jumped into the fight sessions and added to what made this weekend special. And on Thursday, July 16, Shihan Sean Schenker and Fighting Spirit Karate in Gardiner, NY hosted a training session that helped fund the seminar, support that made the whole weekend possible.

Grading commenced on Sunday, July 19, and every candidate passed. That's a credit to the preparation these students put in long before they ever stepped on the mat this weekend.

Congratulations to all the black belts who earned their next rank:

  • Alexa Johnson — Shodan, FSK Gardiner, NY

  • Leilani Nieves — Shodan, Kyokushin Academy of Martial Arts, NC

  • Bhodan Wolosivk — Shodan, IFK New Jersey

  • Brian Walsh — Nidan, FSK Gardiner, NY

  • Aliaksandr Tsybulkin — Yondan, Elite Kyokushin Budo Karate Union, NJ

Becoming a black belt is not the finish line — it's where the true journey begins. As Shihan Monaco always reminds us, "A trip has an end. A journey continues." May each of these students' journeys be filled with humility, perseverance, and a lifelong commitment to learning. Osu!

Thank you to our USA-IFK dojo leaders — Shihan’s Greg Stokelin, Dave Sheets, Sean Schenker, Bill Schrader, Karl Biedlingmaier, Artur Kuzio, Sensei Alex Tsybulkin, and Senpais Greg Johnson and Akram Rustamov — for their attendance and support, and to our Strategy Team for everything that happens behind the scenes to make a weekend like this run right.

Osu.

Submitted by: Sensei Bill Stewart (3rd Dan)
USA-IFK Media Committee Chairman

IFK Switzerland 30th Summer Camp / 18-21 July 2026

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30th Summer Camp

From Saturday, July 18, 2026, through Tuesday, July 21, 2026, the annual summer camp took place in Willisau. This year marked a special anniversary: the 30th! A total of 89 karatekas from IFK Switzerland Kyokushinkai gathered for the event. Twelve dojos were represented.

Shihan David Pickthall, 8th DAN and President of the IFK World Federation, served as the head instructor. Training consisted of kihon (basic techniques), kata, and sparring practice in various forms. On Sunday evening, a refereeing course—for kumite—was held for brown belts and higher. On Monday afternoon, 30 fights were held, as has become tradition. On Tuesday, the various training sessions were reviewed, and the exam results were announced. We thank everyone who contributed to the success of the summer camp—OSU.



IFK Kyokushin Mauritius Winter Camp 2026 - 17-19 July 2026

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IFK Kyokushin Mauritius Winter Camp 2026

The IFK Kyokushin Mauritius Winter Camp 2026 was held from Friday 17 July to Sunday 19 July 2026. It was three days full of friendship, discipline, challenge and the true Kyokushin spirit.

IFK Kyokushin Mauritius is proud to be the first Kyokushin federation in Mauritius to organise a Winter Camp few years ago. Today, IFK Kyokushin Mauritius has more than 30 dojos across all 30 regions of the island, bringing Kyokushin closer to people everywhere in Mauritius.

Friday - Arrival Day

The camp started at 4:00 p.m. with the arrival and check-in of all participants. Everyone was welcomed before taking part in a full site visit. The camp was held in a large private area with security at the entrance and regular police patrols for everyone’s safety.

Participants discovered:

  • A large theatre

  • Dining hall

  • Kitchen

  • Football ground

  • Basketball court

  • Gymnasium

  • Large open yard

  • Seaside area

  • 12 accommodation barracks with space for more than 120 participants

  • Large private parking

After settling into their rooms, everyone enjoyed dinner together. The evening was dedicated to friendship. Every dojo joined fun games to meet new people, work together and build new friendships. Members from different regions mixed together and quickly became one big Kyokushin family. The day ended with a movie night. There was no karate training on the first evening. The goal was simple: relax, make friends and enjoy the first night together.

Saturday - Challenge Day

The day started early with a 6:00 a.m. wake-up, followed by breakfast. At 9:00 a.m., participants took part in exciting team games that tested speed, teamwork, thinking and determination. At 10:30 a.m., professional firefighters led an intense stunt session. Participants completed several challenging activities that gave them a small taste of the physical and mental training firefighters face. It was demanding, exciting and unforgettable. After lunch, everyone enjoyed water activities including:

  • Kayaking

  • Dragon boat

  • Pedalo

  • Stand-up paddle

  • Other team water challenges

At 4:00 p.m., participants enjoyed a football match between members from different dojos. At 5:00 p.m., everyone returned to what they love most: an intense Kyokushin training session. Despite a full day of activities, every participant gave their best until the end. At 6:30 p.m., participants faced another challenge by breaking wooden sticks, proving courage, focus and determination. After dinner, the evening continued with a campfire where everyone gathered together to enjoy the special atmosphere of the camp. The night became even more exciting with a car show, rally activities, music and many fun games. Activities continued until midnight, with lights out at 1:00 a.m. It was a very long, demanding and unforgettable day.

Sunday - Sunrise Spirit

The final day started at 5:00 a.m. At 6:00 a.m., everyone walked together to the beach. At 6:30 a.m., participants trained while watching the sunrise over the sea. Training in this peaceful setting reminded everyone that Kyokushin is not only about strength, but also about discipline, respect and a strong spirit. The group returned to camp at 9:00 a.m. for breakfast. At 9:30 a.m., more intense team games began. Later, the Special Mobile Force (SMF) joined the camp and organised exciting activities including zipline and other challenging obstacle exercises that tested courage, confidence and teamwork. After lunch, participants packed their belongings, shared their final moments together and checked out at 4:00 p.m.

More Than a Camp

The IFK Kyokushin Mauritius Winter Camp was much more than a training camp. It brought together students from every age and every dojo. It created new friendships, stronger teamwork and unforgettable memories. Every activity was carefully planned to develop confidence, discipline, leadership, fitness and the true Kyokushin spirit. From sunrise training to water activities, firefighter challenges, SMF obstacle courses, wooden stick breaking and intense karate training, every participant left stronger than when they arrived.

Osu!



USA-IFK Arizona Seminar & Grading Tucson, Arizona — June 4–6, 2026

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The USA-IFK Arizona Seminar & Grading was held June 4–6, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona, under the instruction of Shihan Mike Monaco (8th Dan), President and Founder of USA-IFK Kyokushin and member of the IFK Executive Board. Hosted by Shihan Bill Schrader (6th Dan) and Kaizen Kan Kyokushin, the event brought together students and instructors from Arizona, California, New York, Oklahoma, and Texas for three days of intensive training culminating in a formal grading examination.

Throughout the seminar, Shihan Monaco emphasized that the IFK approach to teaching Kyokushin is rooted in the methods and principles established by Sosai Mas Oyama. Drawing upon the grading syllabus developed by Hanshi Steve Arneil, instruction focused not only on the physical execution of techniques, but also on understanding when, why, and how they should be applied through proper timing, distancing, movement, and tactical thinking. Shihan Monaco explained that Hanshi Arneil's syllabus was developed from the lessons he learned directly from Sosai during Kyokushin's formative years and reflects an effort to preserve and transmit those lessons to future generations.

Senpai Dominic Veltre of New York assisted Shihan Monaco throughout the weekend, helping lead drills and demonstrate the training material presented during the seminar. As Shihan Monaco introduced and explained the material, Senpai Veltre provided students with clear examples of the techniques and concepts being taught.

A recurring theme throughout the weekend was that Kyokushin is intended to develop the mind, body, and spirit. Students were encouraged to look beyond the mechanics of individual techniques and develop a deeper understanding of timing, distancing, movement, positioning, and tactical application. Rather than viewing training simply as an exercise in physical toughness and conditioning, the seminar emphasized the importance of understanding why techniques are performed, how they connect to one another, and how they can be applied effectively under pressure. Equal emphasis was placed on cultivating the character, discipline, and fighting spirit that have long been hallmarks of Kyokushin Karate.

Shihan Monaco also stressed the importance of maintaining consistent technical standards throughout the organization. The IFK syllabus provides a structured framework through which students and instructors develop a common understanding of kihon, renraku, kata, kumite, and the principles that unite them. More than a collection of techniques, it is intended to guide the development of the complete karateka through the balanced cultivation of mind, body, and spirit. This approach seeks to ensure that Kyokushin is taught consistently across the organization while preserving the lessons passed down from Sosai Mas Oyama through Hanshi Steve Arneil and subsequent generations of instructors.

Hanshi Steve Arneil began training under Sosai Mas Oyama in January 1961 and belonged to one of the earliest generations of Kyokushin practitioners. Best known to many as the first person to successfully complete the 100-man kumite after Sosai himself, Hanshi Arneil spent decades teaching, developing instructors, and preserving the lessons he learned during Kyokushin's formative years. Through his training, teaching, and organizational leadership, he worked to organize and systematize those lessons into a comprehensive grading syllabus that continues to serve as the foundation for IFK technical standards worldwide.

Following the completion of the seminar, candidates undertook a formal grading examination on Saturday, June 6th. The examination evaluated technical proficiency, kata performance, fighting ability, spirit, and overall understanding of Kyokushin Karate.

USA-IFK is pleased to announce the successful promotion of the following candidates:

Promotions

Brandon Koster — Promoted to 2nd Dan (Nidan)

Claudio Rodriguez — Promoted to 1st Dan (Shodan)

Logan Koster — Promoted to 1st Dan (Shodan)

Brett Burtton — Promoted to 1st Kyu

The successful completion of these examinations reflects years of dedication, perseverance, and commitment to the principles of Kyokushin Karate. Advancement in rank represents not only technical achievement, but also continued development of the mind, body, and spirit through the study of Kyokushin Karate.

USA-IFK extends its congratulations to all successful candidates and thanks Shihan Monaco, Shihan Schrader, and all participants whose efforts contributed to a successful and productive weekend of training.

Osu!

Submitted by Sensei Bill Stewart (3rd Dan)
Chairman, USA-IFK Media Committee

IFK India - 5th IFK Intracity Kyokushin Karate Tournament

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Date: 10th May 2026

Venue: Unnayani Sangha, West Bengal, India

The 5th IFK Intracity Kyokushin Karate Tournament was successfully held with the participation of around 150 students from across the city. The event showcased great spirit, discipline, and sportsmanship, making it a grand success. The tournament played an important role in spreading the message and spirit of IFK throughout.


IFK Mauritius - National Kata & Kyokushin Kumite Open Cup 2026

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The leading kyokushin federation in Mauritius- IFK Mauritius Hosts National Kata & Kyokushin Kumite Open Cup 2026 in High-Level International Showcase 

The International Federation of Karate Kyokushin (IFK) Mauritius successfully hosted its National Kata and Kyokushin Kumite Open Cup 2026, held in an international-style tournament format from 9.00 to 18.00, on 12th April 2026, bringing together more than 200 participants from across the region. 

The event opened with the kata divisions, highlighting technical precision, discipline, and traditional form, before transitioning into the highly competitive Kyokushin kumite bouts, where athletes demonstrated exceptional endurance, spirit, and fighting skill. 

According to Shihan Nazir, Country Representative of IFK Mauritius, the standard of the competition reflects the federation’s long-term vision of developing athletes capable of competing on the international stage. 

“We have to keep the international level, and I am proud to say we have a lot of good athletes ready to compete abroad,” said Shihan Nazir. “The kata performances were very strong, and the fighting was on another level.” 

The tournament was officiated under a strong and structured refereeing team, led by Chief Referees Sensei Rayhaan Hossen and Sempai Jean Rival Mavac, supported by a dedicated panel of judges. The competition was conducted across two tatami areas, ensuring smooth scheduling and high-level coordination throughout the event. 

Organisers also highlighted the professionalism of all officials, including tatami managers who ensured full control and operational efficiency across the tournament days. Their contribution was widely acknowledged as a key factor in the success of the event. 

The IFK Mauritius Open Cup 2026 also benefited from strong institutional and diplomatic presence. The event was honoured by the attendance of the Minister of Youth and Sports, Honourable Darmarajen NAGALINGUM, alongside Honourable Deputy Govinden Venkatasami, MP for Constituency No. 8 (Quartier Militaire and Moka) and Deputy Chief Government Whip, as well as the Mauritian Ambassador based in Kuala Lumpur H.E. Rabin Gungoo, Telfair Moka, and Chairman Moka District Council Mr Prakash Ramnarain Heerooa. Their presence underscored the growing recognition of martial arts development in Mauritius. 

A special acknowledgement was also made to the Ministry of Youth and Sports for sponsoring the main trophies of the competition, reinforcing government support for youth development and sports excellence. 

The tournament was also remarkable in terms of participation and recognition of athletes. A total of 140 trophies were awarded to winners across the different categories, including 1st place, 2nd place, and two 3rd place positions in accordance with international Kyokushin tournament standards. Each participant competed in both kata and kumite divisions, bringing the total number of participations to around 400 entries throughout the competition. In addition, the organisers presented 50 special trophies and awards, recognising outstanding performances such as Best Technician, Best Fighter, Best Promising Athlete, among other distinctions. These awards aimed to encourage excellence, dedication, and the true spirit of Kyokushin among all competitors.  

At the conclusion of the championship, organisers extended heartfelt congratulations to all winners and participants, emphasizing that the tournament was not only about competition, but also about discipline, respect, and the continued growth of Kyokushin karate in Mauritius. 

The IFK Mauritius leadership reaffirmed its commitment to raising standards further in future editions, with a focus on expanding international participation and preparing athletes for global competition. 

A few of the winners 

Elite 

1. sunny Makoon

2. ⁠Nirvesh Jugbundhun

3. ⁠Wasiim Aliraja

 3. Arshaaq Chummun

 

Fighting

1. wal- Rehaan Goodur

2. ⁠Anishah Subdurally 

3. ⁠Shaheen Janoo

 

Fighting 

1. vihaan Heeroa

2. ⁠Sarfaraz Salamuth

3. ⁠Zafar Mandary

4. ⁠Shabaaz Salamuth

 

Fighting 

1. Ajitsingh Bhuttoo

2. ⁠Saffroodin Subdurally

 

Kata 

1. fazila Bhugeloo

2. ⁠sameea Fareed

3. ⁠Munirah Jaufur

 

Kata 

1. Rishi Kumar Arshaadi

2. ⁠Boodhun Mohamed

3. ⁠Ajitsing Bhuttoo

 

Kata 

1. Yusrina Goodur

2. ⁠Wal Rehaan Goodur

3. ⁠Sameerah Joomun

IFK Mauritius - State House Demonstration 8 April 2026

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We had the great honor of preparing a special event for IFK Mauritius at the State House in Réduit, where we presented a Kyokushin Karate demonstration in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Dharambeer Gokhool G.C.S.K and his esteemed wife, Mrs. Brinda Gokhool.

We were warmly welcomed at the Château of the State House in a truly prestigious setting. The event began with an inspiring speech delivered by Shihan Nazir Hossen, followed by an address from His Excellency Dr. Dharambeer Gokhool G.C.S.K.

A total of 70 dedicated participants proudly represented IFK Mauritius. After a warm meet-and-greet with everyone present, we delivered a dynamic 45-minute demonstration showcasing the discipline, strength, and spirit of Kyokushin Karate.

It was a moment of great pride for all of us and a powerful representation of the unity, dedication, and passion that define the IFK Mauritius family.

IFK Switzerland - 23rd Budo Training Day

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23rd Budo Training Day

On Saturday, April 11th 2026, the traditional Budo Training Day was held for the twenty-third time. A total of 54 Karatekas from nine dojos of IFK Switzerland Kyokushinkai gathered in the gymnasium in Felsberg. The following Karatekas served as Instruktors:

• Shihan Edi Gabathuler, 8th DAN

• Shihan Rolf Imhof, 5th DAN

• Shihan André Emmenegger, 5th DAN

• Sensei Fritz Trautmann, 4th DAN

• Sensei Barbara De Patre, 4th DAN

• Sensei Dominique Frey, 3rd DAN

The program included Kihon, Ippon-/Sanbonkumite as well as Renraku, Katas, Fighting combinations, and sparring. We thank everyone who contributed to the success of the twenty-third Budo Training Day. Until next year – OSU.

IFK Uruguay Summer Camp - February 26th to March 1st 2026

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This camp included participants from our National Dojos, two members from IFK Brazil, a Sensei, and two participants from KWF Uruguay.
The camp was led by Shihan Jeovaldo from Brazil for the Kumite sessions and by me for the Syllabus sessions.
During the camp, we had a special session for Dan and Kyu ranks at different times.
Sensei Maite De León passed the Sandan, and Nicolás Mosco and Emiliano Lagos passed the Shodan.
It was 15 sessions over 4 days at an amazing camp.

IFK USA - 8th United States International Kyokushin Championships - January 17, 2026

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Osu! The 8th United States International Kyokushin Championships took place on January 17, 2026, in Albany, New York, marking the tournament’s first year in its new location at Albany Capital Center following its move from Atlantic City.

The transition to Albany was met with positive feedback from competitors, instructors, officials, and spectators. The venue provided improved space and layout for competition areas, officials, and spectators, contributing to a smooth and well-organized event throughout the day.  

This year’s championships welcomed competitors from 16 countries across five continents, and reflects the continued growth of international participation. Strong representation came from across the IFK international network, while the tournament also continued to attract participants from a wide range of Kyokushin organizations.

Karateka of all ages competed in kata, semi-contact kumite, knockdown kumite, and All Abilities divisions. The tournament featured divisions ranging from youth through adult competitors.

Knockdown Kumite Results

K-2 Knockdown Kumite / Men’s Heavyweight, Ages 18–21 & 22–34 (-198 lb / -90 kg)
1st Place: Justin Zyskowski (Canada, Kanreikai Karate Vaudreuil)
2nd Place: Anthony Gugino (United States, S&S Fitness and Martial Arts)

K-4 Knockdown Kumite / Men’s Lightweight, Ages 22–34 & 35–45 (-154 lb / -70 kg and -168 lb / -76 kg)
1st Place: Sebastien Deragon (Canada, Centre de Karate Deragon)
2nd Place: Sarvar Orujov (Azerbaijan, Maine Kyokushin Karate)
3rd Place: Derek Woykovsky (United States, Salerni Dojo Kyokushin Karate)

K-5 Knockdown Kumite / Men’s Heavyweight & Super Heavyweight, Ages 22–34 (-198 lb / -90 kg and +199 lb / +90 kg)
1st Place: Joel Bilodeau (Canada, Shinkyokushin Longueuil)
2nd Place: Yurii Lobodiuk (Ukraine, No Affiliation)

K-9 Knockdown Kumite / Men’s Heavyweight, Ages 35–45 (+187 lb / +85 kg) and Super Heavyweight, Ages 22–34 (+199 lb / +90 kg)
1st Place: Yurii Lobodiuk (Ukraine, IKO)
2nd Place: Theodore Kassimatis (Canada, Karate Shinkyokushin Greenfield Park)

K-3 Knockdown Kumite / Women’s Lightweight, Ages 18–21 (-132 lb / -60 kg)
1st Place: Jessica Krause (Germany, IFK Germany)
2nd Place: Lyric Schenker (United States, Fighting Spirit Karate)

K-8 Knockdown Kumite / Women’s Lightweight (Open / Exhibition)
1st Place: Jessica Krause (Germany, IFK Germany)
2nd Place: Caitlyn Anderson (United States, Fighting Spirit Karate)

Knockdown Kumite Exhibition Match
1st Place: Jessica Krause (IFK-Germany)
2nd Place: Audrey Bartholomay (USA-IFK)

Note: Some divisions were combined.

For all other results please visit: https://smoothcomp.com/en/event/26785/results

On behalf of USA-IFK President Shihan Michael Monaco (8th Dan) and USA-IFK Chairman Shihan Sean Schenker (5th Dan) the USA-IFK wishes to express their appreciation to all the competitors, along with their supporters, friends, and family for attending the 8th USIKC. They also wish to thank the instructors and dojos who traveled to support the event, along with the many volunteers, officials, and USA-IFK members who travel each year to support our tournaments. OSU!

The successful execution of the 8th United States International Kyokushin Championships reinforces USA-IFK’s continued commitment to hosting high-quality national and international events and the growth of Kyokushin karate throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Everyone is invited to join us in Lima, Ohio on March 28th, 2026 for the 4th Ohio International Kyokushin Championship. For information on this and other upcoming USA-IFK events, please visit: https://uskyokushin.com/kyokushin-karate-events

Osu!

The 3rd IFK All India Instructor Camp and Seminar - 18 January 2026

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The 3rd IFK All India Instructor Camp and Seminar was successfully held on 18 January 2026 at Unnayani Sangha, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, from 8 am to 5 pm with a participation of 150 instructors and students. 

The event featured multiple important activities including:

- Intensive karate training sessions

- Self-defense training programs

- Kyu grading session

- National-level referee and judges training and selection

- Instructor camp for skill enhancement and organizational development

A major highlight of the seminar was the announcement of two new branch openings, along with the appointment of two new instructors as Branch Chiefs of the Southern and Eastern Zones, aimed at strengthening and expanding the reach of IFK in India.

The event marked another significant step in IFK India's continuous efforts to promote IFK Kyokushin, leadership, and disciplined training nationwide.

IFK Mauritius End of Year Celebration 2025

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International Federation of Karate Kyokushin (IFK Mauritius) hosted its End of Year 2025 event in Rodrigues Island, an unforgettable and one-of-a-kind experience!

This incredible trip was entirely planned by Sensei Zaynab Hossen and Sensei Rayhaan Hossen, with the full support of their country representative, Shihan Nazir Hossen.

With a total of 160 participants, the preparation took nearly a year. The initial plan was to charter 2 full flights, but due to overwhelming interest, 2 flights became 5! From January to June, due to the pending Government Budget, we had to rebook every participant each month, doubling the effort, but the team remained fully dedicated.

What may seem simple on the surface took unbelievable behind-the-scenes work. We couldn’t rely on online arrangements, so the team personally travelled to Rodrigues to negotiate every detail themselves, ensuring everything was secure, no surprises on arrival!

Rodrigues is a small island, and organising transport for 160 people was a challenge. We booked through multiple agents to secure 35 4x4 vehicles, and for a few days, IFK Mauritius became the talk of the island.

We secured several accommodations exclusively for IFK Mauritius, and held our EOY celebration at Ti Caraille Bar & Resto on Friday night, 28th November 2025. 

The first group arrived on 26th Nov, the rest on 27th, and everyone returned on 30th Nov. Each day was packed with adventure:  We did hiking, trails, road trips, late-night walks, and even late-night drives. And of course, we couldn't go on such a trip without our drone. The drone was an absolute must to capture every epic moment from above!

Locals kept asking:  

“Who are these people?”  

“Why so many vehicles?” 

“Is there a rally going on?”  

Even the police stopped us asking for a rally permit, when we were simply a group of passionate, organised tourists!

IFK Mauritius is known for its creativity, bold ideas, and thinking outside the box, constantly setting the bar higher and inspiring others to follow.

A massive success and a true showcase of teamwork, dedication, and Kyokushin spirit.  

Osu!

IFK Norway Camp 2025 - Friday 28th to Sunday 30th November 2025

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Friday 28th to Sunday 30th November in Sandnes, Norway.

The camp was from Friday 28th to Sunday 30th November in Sandnes, Norway. Shihan Andrew Turner and Shihan Terry Prescott of Great Britain were guest instructors. 

There was a session on Friday evening, then on Saturday there was a grading for student going for 10th Kyu up to students attempting 2nd & 3rd Dan. Shihan Terry taught the rest of the camp and went through basic Kihon, stance, fighting  and self defence

On Sunday there was a bag session in the morning then after lunch the students attempting the Dan grades did 20 & 30 fights.

It was a great camp with over 40 members and some guests from Shinkyokushin. At the end of the camp, one student, Hans Petter Nesheim was promoted to Nidan,  and one, Alexander Vrtis to Third Dan. Both were of an excellent standard and fought brilliantly in their 20 & 30 fights showing great spirit.

 

33rd American International Karate Championships -15th November 2025

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Osu! The 33rd American International Karate Championships (AIKC) took place on November 15th, 2025, in Webster, New York. Now in its third decade, the AIKC is an established and important event within the Kyokushin community in the United States. This year’s tournament drew 220+ competitors from 27 dojos across the United States and Canada, with additional competitors from Kyrgyzstan and Ukraine. Karateka of all ages took part in kata, weapons, semi-contact, and full-contact knockdown divisions, with more than 400 spectators there to cheer them on.

Once the morning kata divisions concluded, the fighters took the floor. After the national anthems of the United States and Canada were played, Shihan Monaco welcomed everyone to the 33rd AIKC. Following his remarks, he recognized the instructors whose dojos had traveled to support the tournament.

He also acknowledged newly promoted black belts within the USA-IFK, including Shihan Karl Biedlingmaier, Shihan Artur Kuzio, and Shihan Kamil Maras, who were each promoted to 5th Dan. Shihan Greg Stokelin received his 7th Dan, making him the second-highest-ranked member of the USA-IFK. During this time, Shihan Lesław Samitowski of Kanku Dojo (Chicago) presented Shihan Michael Monaco with a plaque honoring his more than fifty years of dedication to Kyokushin Karate.

Shihan Monaco extends a special thank you to Shihan Samitowski for his many years of support, to Sensei François Presseault (Karaté Mascouche, IFK–Canada), who brought more than forty competitors, and to Shihan Nathan Ligo, a direct student of Sosai Mas Oyama, who brought students from Kyokushin-kan in North Carolina. Their continued support of the AIKC is deeply appreciated.

For those interested in the complete results for all divisions, a full listing is available here:
https://smoothcomp.com/en/event/26044/results

Submitted by Sensei Bill Stewart (3rd Dan) USA-IFK Media Committee Chairman & Website Administrator

Knockdown Results

Lightweight – Men
1st Place: Piotr Jasica (Chicago Kyokushin Kanku Dojo)
2nd Place: Matt Zahand (Zahand's Martial Arts / USA-IFK)
3rd Place: Joshua Norris (Eagle Wings Kyokushin Karate / USA-IFK)

Middleweight – Men
1st Place: Sebastian Bonislawski (Chicago Kyokushin Kanku Dojo)
2nd Place: Ryan Ramos (Electric City BJJ)
3rd Place: Claudio Rodriguez (Texas Kyokushin Karate / USA-IFK)
4th Place: John Brownridge (Chicago Kyokushin Kanku Dojo)

Super Heavyweight – Men
1st Place: Samuel Dansereau (Karaté Mascouche / IFK–Canada)
2nd Place: Victor Valac (Chicago Kyokushin Kanku Dojo)

3rd Place: Josh Eal (Brown County Kyokushin Dojo)

 

Masters Heavyweight – Men
1st Place: François Presseault (Karaté Mascouche / IFK–Canada)
2nd Place: Yurii Lobodiuk (Ukraine)

Lightweight – Women
1st Place: Audrey Bartholomay (S&S Fitness and Martial Arts / USA-IFK)
2nd Place: Ewelina Jasica (Chicago Kyokushin Kanku Dojo)

As always, USA-IFK President, Shihan Michael Monaco, and Tournament Director, Shihan Karl Biedlingmaier, wish to express their appreciation to the many volunteers, officials, instructors, and supporters who helped make this year's tournament possible. The continued support of dojos and organizations across North America is what keeps the AIKC tradition strong.

The USA-IFK’s next major event is the 8th United States International Kyokushin Championships, scheduled for January 17th, 2026, in Albany, New York. For more information and registration, please visit:
https://uskyokushin.com/kyokushin-karate-events

Osu!


IFK Kyokushin Karate "Victory Cup" (Zəfər Kuboku) - Azerbaijan - October 26th 2025

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IFK Kyokushin Karate "Victory Cup" (Zəfər Kuboku) was successfully held in Azerbaijan on October 26, 2025.

​The competition saw the participation of 250 athletes from various regions of the country, who demonstrated their strength, discipline, and commitment to the spirit of Kyokushin.

​We kindly request you to share the information about this significant event on your official social media accounts. This will make an important contribution to promoting the values of Kyokushin and inspiring young athletes.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1A6XAr-28B46mjgNlZIR3tU_P6SOzD8Om/view

IFK World Cup (kumite, kata, kata-group) - 30 October - 03 November 2025

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The management of the Kyokushin Federation of Russia hosted the IFK World Cup (kumite, kata, kata-group) among men and women, veterans and international competitions (12-17 years old) in Russia.

The competition was held at a high organizational and sporting level. Please note that the World Cup successfully implemented expanded weight categories for men in kumite: 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, and 95+ kg. For women: 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 70+ kg.

Results

IFK Switzerland - 30th Kumite Weekend - 31 October to 2 November 2025

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From Friday to Sunday, 31 October to 2 November 2025, Shihan Eddy Gabathuler, 8th DAN, organised the 30th Kumite Weekend in Chur. Shihan Francisco Filho, 7th DAN, from Brazil and President of Senshi South America, was invited as an instructor.

His reputation preceded him, and 141 karatekas from 25 dojos, 13 organisations and seven nations attended. A total of five training sessions were held. The topics were high leg kicks, movements, foot sweep techniques and counterattacks. The learning process was repeatedly emphasised: information, experience, knowledge, strategy and intuition were the keywords.

Shihan Francisco also explained on several occasions that ‘pushing yourself beyond your limits’ is always essential. He also made clear connections and gave examples of his experience between the techniques and his mental development as a world-class athlete.

Thank you very much for the strenuous hours and for the opportunity to learn from a Kyokushin legend – OSU.



Shihan Filho and Shihan Gabathuler seminar - 24-26 October, Romania

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A Legendary Kyokushin Experience in Cluj-Napoca

From October 24th to 26th, Cluj-Napoca became the heart of global Kyokushin excellence! Organized by Budo Gym Napoca under the guidance of Sensei Viorel Tătar, and held under the auspices of IFK Romania and IFK International, this remarkable event brought together passion, precision, and the true spirit of Budo.

We were deeply honored to welcome two icons of the Kyokushin world — Shihan Francisco Filho, the legendary K-1 fighter from Brazil, and Shihan Eddy Gabathuler from Switzerland. Their presence, mastery, and dedication inspired all participants, elevating the experience to an unforgettable level.

From world-class organization and logistics to a vibrant atmosphere filled with respect, energy, and unity — this event set new standards of excellence.

A heartfelt thank you to the organiser, to everyone who made this possible — instructors, athletes, and guests who shared the same vision: the pursuit of perfection through Kyokushin.

Shihan Christian Hirsch

country representative

IFK ROMANIA

International IFK Kyokushin Karate Seminar - Brazil, October 17th to 19th, 2025

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We are pleased to inform you that last weekend, from October 17th to 19th, 2025, we held the great International IFK Kyokushin Karate Seminar, taught by Shihan German Carballo of Uruguay.

The objective of the seminar was to clarify doubts and work on techniques within the IFK system (Kata, Renraku, and Syllabus).

We had the participation of students of all belt levels and also sessions for instructors.
The event was a success!

Our special thanks to Shihan German for sharing all his knowledge with us.

Moscow Open 23-26 January 2026

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International competitions for men and women, for boys and girls aged 12-13, 14-15, juniors and juniors aged 16-17 (kumite, kata, and kata group).

 

Dates: January 23, 2026 – January 26, 2026, Russian Federation, Moscow.

Info Moscow Open 26
Preliminary application kumite
Preliminary application kata