Kosen Judo: The Forgotten Legacy Book by Guillermo Diaz

Before ground fighting became a global phenomenon in modern martial arts, a quiet revolution was taking place on the mats of Japan’s elite technical colleges. Kosen Judo: The Forgotten Legacy tells the story of a uniquely influential branch of Judo that prioritized groundwork (ne-waza) over throws, developing a deeply strategic and fluid approach to combat that would echo across generations of grapplers.

This book traces the origins of Kosen Judo from its academic roots in the early 20th century to its golden era between the World Wars. It explores how Kosen diverged from Jigoro Kano’s Kodokan vision, focusing on positional control, submissions, and tactical guard work—decades before Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brought those elements into the spotlight. Through detailed technical analysis, historical context, and firsthand accounts, readers will discover the principles that set Kosen apart and the lasting impact it had on Judo, BJJ, and modern MMA.

Including profiles of legendary masters like Tsunetane Oda, insights into dojo culture and training, and a survey of the art’s revival in contemporary martial arts communities, Kosen Judo: The Forgotten Legacy is a vital read for any serious practitioner or historian of grappling arts. This is more than a story about a style—it’s a journey back to the roots of ground fighting and a tribute to a legacy that still flows quietly beneath the surface of today’s combat sports.

115 pages