Kudo

Kudo (空道, Kūdō) is a Japanese mixed martial arts, which is part of Budo (武道). The system was founded by Takashi Azuma in 1981 within the "Daido Juku" (大道塾) school with the aim of allowing a practice that is as realistic as possible while minimizing unnecessary pain and injury. It is practiced wearing a Dogi, equipped with a signature bubble helmet and cotton gloves. All strikes while standing (punches, kicks, elbows, knees, and headbutts) are permitted, as well as grabbing, throwing, and ground fighting including chokes and joint locks. Kudo is practiced in over 50 countries and is predominantly present in Japan and Russia.

Kudo in Competition

International competitions are held in a knockout tournament format. Matches last for a maximum of 3 minutes, with an additional 3-minute extension in case of a draw.

Competition Equipment

Kudo competitors wear a blue or white Dogi (called Kudogi) similar to Kyokushin karate but reinforced for grappling and throwing, along with a certified bubble helmet.