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By Ross Moyo
Undisputed World Kyokushin karate champion, Shihan Samson Muripo, has received his 6th Degree Roku Dan certificate from Japan, recognizing him as one of the world’s greatest karateka.
Muripo graduated alongside fellow Zimbabweans George Mutambu and Likhwa Khumalo, who both achieved 5th Dan, on November 27, 2023, at the International Technical Promotion Seminar in Shizuoka City, Japan.
The ceremony was conducted by Hanshi DAIGO Oishi, President of the International Karate Organization KYOKUSHINKAIKAN: WORLD SO-KYOKUSHIN, who is a 9th Dan.
With his new rank, Muripo promoted Kumbirai Musinami and Muchineripi Tarwireyi to 5th Dan on December 22, 2023, in Harare.
The 6th Degree Roku Dan is a prestigious level achieved six years after 5th Degree or twenty years as a Black Belt, recognizing karate masters who understand the true essence of the sport and can “give back” by training others and advancing the martial arts to the next generation.
In karate, the Black Belt has ten degrees, with each level representing a higher level of mastery and commitment. The degrees are:
1. First Degree (Sho-dan) – beginner
2. Second Degree (Ni-dan) – seasoned martial artist
3. Third Degree (San-dan) – five total years as a Black Belt
4. Fourth Degree (Yon-dan) – mastery and readiness to teach others
5. Fifth Degree (Go-dan) – mastery and ability to impart knowledge to others
6. Sixth Degree (Roku-dan) – understanding of karate’s true essence and ability to “give back”
7. Seventh Degree (Nana-dan) – experienced karate master with a deep understanding
8. Eighth Degree (Hachi-dan) – reserved for Masters who have made an impact on the martial arts world
9. Ninth Degree (Kyu-dan) – extremely rare and reserved for leaders and respected elders
10. Tenth Degree (Ju-Dan) – highest and most prestigious rank, awarded to masters who have given a lifetime to the furtherance of the martial arts.
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