Gogen "The Cat" Yamaguchi

Gogen Yamaguchi, a descendant of samurai, a Shinto priest, a medical doctor, and a student of law, was born at Kyushu, Japan in 1909.

His fondness for athletics led him to the study of karate. After moving to Kyota, Japan he earned a 5th degree black belt in judo.

While attending Ritsumeikan University Yamaguchi was first introduced to goju karate and Chojun Miyagi, head of the school. As a result of his relationship with Miyagi, he made a decision to focus on goju above all other martial art forms.

Miyagi awarded Yamaguchi the highest rank in goju and appointed him the head of the school in Japan.

As a result of his relentless hard work he spread goju throughout Japan, organizing the first karate club at Ritsumeikan University and the first karate dojo in western Japan in 1930.