Kenichi Osada, born in 1964 in Iwanuma, Japan, is a prominent martial artist and the current head of Kūdō, a modern full-contact martial art blending elements of karate, judo, and other combat disciplines. Known as “The Hitman” for his devastating straight right punch, Osada has been instrumental in both the technical and philosophical development of Kūdō since its early days.

Osada began his martial arts journey with kendo and Shotokan karate in childhood, inspired by his father and martial arts manga like Karate Baka Ichidai. His deep passion led him to train in Kyokushin Karate under Shihan Higashi, a former All-Japan champion. But it was in 1981, upon joining Takashi Azuma’s Daido Juku, that he truly found his path. Daido Juku would later evolve into what is known today as Kūdō.

From 1984 to 1989, Osada dominated the competitive scene, winning six titles in the Hokutoki All-Japan Championships and even competing against Muay Thai champions in Thailand. His toughness, technique, and fighting spirit made him one of the most feared competitors of his era.

After retiring from active competition in 1992, Osada shifted focus to coaching and developing the next generation of fighters. Following the death of Kūdō founder Takashi Azuma in 2021, Osada was named the second Jukucho (headmaster) of Daido Juku and President of the Kudo International Federation.

Under his leadership, Kūdō continues to grow globally, preserving Azuma’s legacy while adapting to modern martial arts challenges. Osada promotes not just fighting skill, but the spirit of shin-gi-tai—harmony of mind, technique, and body.

Today, Kenichi Osada stands as a symbol of martial integrity and evolution, leading Kūdō with the same precision and resolve that earned him the nickname “The Hitman.”