Mataemon Tanabe

Unique Conditioning and Tactical Observation

Mataemon Tanabe, born in 1869 in Okayama, Japan, emerged as a master of the Fusen-ryū jujutsu school, renowned for his innovative and demanding training methods. His regimen featured unconventional drills such as catching eels with bare hands—an exercise that sharpened grip strength, reflexes, and adaptability. Tanabe also studied animal behavior, notably observing snakes as they swallowed frogs, to internalize patience and the art of seizing fleeting opportunities. These practices directly translated to his approach to groundwork, emphasizing timing, endurance, and the ability to capitalize on an opponent's momentary lapses.

Philosophy of Resilience

Central to Tanabe's philosophy was the uncompromising principle of "never submit, never surrender." This mindset instilled exceptional resilience and mental toughness in his students, preparing them for the rigors of both training and competition. However, this relentless approach also heightened the risk of injury, as practitioners were encouraged to resist submissions and persevere through adversity, sometimes at the expense of physical safety.

Technical Dominance in Ne-Waza

Tanabe's expertise in ne-waza (groundwork) earned him the titles "Newaza Tanabe" and "The Master of Groundwork." His technical arsenal and strategic acumen set him apart from his contemporaries. Between 1891 and 1892, Tanabe faced Kodokan judoka Takisaburo Tobari in a series of high-stakes challenge matches, defeating him three times. In their first bout at Hisamatsu police station, Tanabe reversed an osoto makikomi, transitioned to kami-shiho-gatame, and secured victory with a precise juji-jime choke. His mastery of positional control and submission chains consistently overwhelmed his opponents.

Victories Over Kodokan Representatives

Tanabe's dominance extended to other leading Kodokan figures, including decisive wins over Yoshitsugu Yamashita and Kunisaburo Iizuka by 1900. He also engaged in a notable rivalry with Soji Kimotsuki, initially suffering a defeat but demonstrating adaptability by avenging the loss the following day through superior ground positioning and control. These matches highlighted Tanabe's ability to analyze opponents and adjust his tactics for success.

The Ashi Garami Incident

A defining moment in Tanabe's career unfolded during a prestigious exhibition in Kyoto in 1898, attended by Prince Yoshihito. Facing Kodokan judoka Yuji Hirooka, Tanabe responded to a successful morote-gari by applying the ashi garami leg lock. The technique resulted in a severe leg injury to Hirooka before a submission could be signaled, underscoring both the effectiveness and inherent danger of leg locks.

Rule Change and Controversy

The incident prompted Jigoro Kano to advocate for a ban on leg-locking techniques at the subsequent Butoku Kai meeting in May, citing their potential for lasting harm. Tanabe strongly objected, arguing that leg locks were no more dangerous than other submissions. Only Kaisuke Masuda of Shinnuki-ryū supported Tanabe's stance, illustrating the contentious nature of the rule change and the broader debate over safety versus technical diversity in grappling arts.

Shaping Modern Groundwork

Tanabe's repeated victories over Kodokan judoka exposed critical gaps in the Kodokan's ne-waza strategy and highlighted the effectiveness of Fusen-ryū groundwork. Despite initial philosophical resistance to extensive groundwork, Jigoro Kano recognized the need for adaptation and incorporated elements of Fusen-ryū ne-waza into the Kodokan judo curriculum. Tanabe's technical innovations and competitive achievements played a pivotal role in redefining modern judo groundwork, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to influence the evolution of the art.