Shoji Nishio's Judo & Karate Rankings

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[akiy]

Hi folks,

I've noticed a discrepancy of sorts in the late Shoji Nishio's judo and karate rankings that I was hoping could get cleared up here...

Although I've seen many sources having his karate ranking at 5th dan and judo ranking at 6th dan (eg this Aikido Journal article (http://blog.aikidojournal.com/2012/05/15/shoji-nishio-aikidos-innovative-genius-by-stanley-pranin/)), Wikipedia (both its English version (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoji_Nishio) as well as its Japanese version (http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E8%A5%BF%E5%B0%BE%E6%98%AD%E4%BA%8C)) list him as being 4th dan in each.

Since I certainly understand that Wikipedia shouldn't be used as the authoritative source for everything, I just wanted to see if anyone has any further information they could shed on this?

Thanks,

-- Jun

[JJF]

Hi Jun

I understand quite well. I've been puzzled as well and heard many variations.

The Danish Aikikai is primarily training in Nishio Aikido, and some of our high ranking senseis have lived in Japan training with Nishio sensei for years. Especially Mr. Bunzel. He deliveres information to the Danish Aikikai webpage which states the following:

8th dan Aikido
7th dan Shihan Nihon Zendoku Iaido
4th dan Kodokan Judo
4th dan Shindo Shizen ryu Karate
Trained in Shindo Muso ryu – Jodo(staff)
Trained in Hozoin ryu – Yari (spear)
Founder of Aiki Toho Iai

I believe this is from a reliable source. Heres the page (in danish): http://www.aikikai.dk/?page_id=262

Regardless of rank - he was amazing, and my only regret is to have not fully taken advantage of the chance to learn from him while he was still alive.

JJ

[akiy]

Hi Jørgen,

Thanks for the link and information.

(Not that you were implying so, but) I'll just say that my inquiry wasn't intended to call into question Nishio sensei's ability, legacy, nor legitimacy. Rather, I wanted to sate my curiosity as to these how these discrepancies may have arisen as well as see if people here couldn't shed light upon these discrepancies...

I'm still curious to see if any others here may have information regarding this.

Thanks,

-- Jun