Kodenkan Danzan Ryu - A Dynamic Fighting Style  

     
Kodenkan Danzan Ryu is a diverse and robust style of Jujitsu.  Professor Okazaki, the founder of KDR, was ahead of his time, creating a combative, utilitarian art.  He was one of many early pioneers of MMA, competing in No-Holds-Barred prize fights in the early 1920’s.  Most notably he fought Kayo Morris in Hilo, Hawaii on May 19, 1922.  The fight consisted of six, three-minute rounds.  Kayo Morris was a Wrester and Boxer while Okazaki represented Jujitsu.
     Below is a quote from the Hilo Daily Tribune dated May 19, 1922 entitled “Morris Had No Chance Against Jujitsu Expert”
“Okazaki threw his opponent to the mat and with an arm lock, which wrenched the muscles of Morris’ right arm and forced him to throw up the sponge.*  At first sight, it looked as if Morris’ arm was broken, but after an examination by Dr. S. R. Brown, who was present in the audience, it was found that the muscles were merely badly wrenched.”
     Today, KDR continues to be a dynamic and utilitarian Martial Art system.  It is steeped in tradition, yet focuses on diversity and combat effectiveness.  As practitioners, we all must strive to maintain the integrity of the art by emphasizing this diversity.  We, as true KDR practitioners, should not just practice kata or self-defense or just compete in tournaments.  We should embrace and respect the art in its entirety, just as Okazaki intended, practiced and taught.   
*The term "throw up the sponge" means to give up a contest.  The term comes from the early prize fighting days and has been replaced by "throw in the towel".

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