04/12/2025
The 6th World IKO Matsushima Full-contact Championships were held in Japan last weekend.
NZ was represented by fighters Chiaki Lin and Annaliese Blumhardt, with Shihan Peter and Sensei Bev-anne Jennings officiating as Referee & Judge respectively.
As expected, the standard was exceptionally high.
Unfortunately, Annaliese had sustained an elbow injury leading up to the event - but despite medical advice to the contrary, bravely(?) decided to compete.
The injury was indeed aggravated in her fight against the eventual female lightweight world champion (from Brazil) and resulted in a disappointing - but not unexpected - shortened bout.
Chiaki progressed to the third round due to a couple of unplanned bye’s, where he met a very seasoned 5th Dan fighter (also from Brazil - formally from Tunisia).
The first round was declared a draw. Whilst the extension round went the distance, the eventual 3rd placed male lightweight winner was awarded the fight via judges decision.
Not only did Chiaki receive a suspected broken hand, he also gained a rare accolade indeed - with Kancho Matsushima himself subsequently praising Chiaki for his spirited fight against one of the world’s best.
Special congratulations are due to the eventual Female Heavyweight Champion, Sensei Ysobel Jarjoura from Sydney.
A short time now to reflect on such a special experience for all involved - before looking ahead to the next event in 4 years time and building new NZ talent equally capable of representing their country on the world stage.
