Event date: 19/05/2024
Background and Collaborative History
The friendship between Ultimate Judo Academy and Michihiro Omigawa began during a challenging period for the martial arts community: the global COVID-19 pandemic. With dojos closed and in-person training halted, both Omigawa and Ultimate Judo Academy pivoted to online platforms to continue their passion for judo. This shared dedication led to frequent collaborations, with Michihiro Omigawa joining us in virtual training sessions to inspire students and instructors alike. Omigawa, known for his exceptional judo skill and teaching style, was instrumental in keeping the judo spirit alive during lockdown. Through these shared online training sessions, a friendship blossomed, setting the stage for a series of invaluable exchanges.
In 2023, the Academy had the honor of visiting Omigawa’s dojo in Yokohama, where students and instructors were able to experience firsthand the rich judo traditions and techniques that Omigawa imparted. This visit solidified the bond between our club and his dojo, with both parties gaining mutual respect and admiration for each other’s dedication to the art of judo.
Michihiro Omigawa’s Achievements
Michihiro Omigawa has a distinguished career in both judo and MMA. Known internationally for his tenacity, he is a celebrated judoka and MMA competitor, having represented Japan in numerous competitions and secured several championships over the years. His career highlights include:
Omigawa’s tokui-waza, or preferred techniques, particularly his mastery of uchimata (inner thigh throw) and kouchi-gari (small inner reap), have earned him admiration worldwide and have become signature moves that embody his style and strategic acumen on the mat.
Omigawa’s Visit to Aberdeen (2024)
In 2024, Michihiro Omigawa’s long-awaited visit to Scotland took place, marking a historic day for the judo community in Aberdeen and across the UK. With his newly acquired visa, Omigawa made his way to Scotland, where he led an extraordinary judo workshop, attended by judokas from all over the UK. His presence brought together judo practitioners of all ages and skill levels, eager to learn from a true master.
During the workshop, Omigawa demonstrated his tokui-waza with precision and clarity, offering attendees a rare opportunity to learn directly from a judoka of his caliber. The workshop covered his uchimata and kouchi-gari techniques in detail, along with strategic insights on how to incorporate these moves effectively in both competitive and traditional judo settings. Omigawa’s hands-on approach and attention to each participant’s progress made the day unforgettable, and his humility and warmth left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Conclusion
Michihiro Omigawa’s visit to Aberdeen was more than just a workshop—it symbolized the strength of international judo friendships and the resilience of the judo community. What started as a virtual collaboration during lockdown has evolved into a meaningful partnership that bridges continents and cultures. His visit to Scotland underscored the global nature of judo, uniting practitioners from diverse backgrounds under a shared passion for the sport.
The impact of Omigawa’s visit will be felt for years to come, with students and instructors inspired to push their limits and embrace the values of discipline, respect, and excellence that he embodies. Ultimate Judo Academy looks forward to many more years of collaboration with Michihiro Omigawa and continuing to build upon this foundation of friendship, learning, and mutual respect.
This visit was a testament to the enduring power of judo to create connections, inspire personal growth, and build a supportive, worldwide community.
