Episode 21: Judd Reid

Shihan Judd Reid is a world-renowned martial artistwith a remarkable journey. As a teenager, he became an Uchi-deshi—a live-in student—under Sosai Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate. Judd’s extraordinary achievements include completing the legendary 100-Man Fight, winning the WKO World Championship in 2010, and earning the title of Australian Heavyweight Champion in 2002. He is also the author of two books chronicling his life and experiences and is a much sought-after teacher. This episode serves as a follow-up to my first conversationwith Judd in 2017, which marked the beginning of my podcast (you can listen to that episode here: 2017 Interview).Now, in 2025, as I relaunch the podcast, there’s no better way to start than with my first guest! We pick up right where we left off, focusing on Judd’s present and future.For those who may not be familiar with Judd, he trained under Shihan Eddie Emin in Australia before embarking on an incredible journey to Japan, where he became the first (and one of only two) foreigner to complete 1000 days as an Uchi deshi under Sosai Mas Oyama from 1990 to 1993. His later accomplishments include winning the Australian Heavyweight title in 2002, securing the WKO World Championship in Thailand in 2010, and becoming the last student of Sosai Oyama to complete the 100-Man Kumite in 2011. This journey was captured in the powerful documentary “100 Man Fight,” filmed by his best friend and corner man Anton Cavka. Tragically, Anton passed away before completing the book, which Judd dedicated to his memory. You can watch the documentary here: 100 Man Fight. To learn more about Shihan Judd Reid or explore his dojo, the Chikara Organization, and upcoming camps, visit his website: www.juddreid.com. Get Judd Reid’s books in Kindle and softcover here: Judd’s Books. Check out the 100 Man Fight Documentary here: Watch 100 Man Fight. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Martial Way Podcaston iTunes: The Martial Way on iTunes.