Japan’s Maruyama Joshiro, two-time judo world champion and Abe Hifumi’s biggest rival, retires

Maruyama Joshiro Steps Away from Judo After Dazzling Career

Former world champion judoka Maruyama Joshiro has announced his retirement from the sport, bringing an end to an illustrious career marked by both triumphs and heart-wrenching defeats. At 31, Maruyama leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond his accolades, etching his name in judo history thru his legendary duels with two-time Olympic champion Abe Hifumi.

“I have decided to retire from judo as of today, 17 February,” Maruyama stated. “I am so grateful for all the support over the years.”

Embarking on his judo journey at the tender age of three, Maruyama dedicated his life to chasing his Olympic dream. While he ultimately fell short of gold, he achieved remarkable success, including a world championship victory on home soil in 2019.Known as a master of the uchimata (inner leg throw),Maruyama consistently ranked among the world’s elite judokas.

Though, his path was inevitably intertwined with Abe’s, leading to their epic clashes that captivated the judo world. Their encounter at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic qualifier will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the sport’s most intense battles. After a grueling 24 minutes of competition, stretching across six bouts, Abe emerged victorious, securing the Olympic berth and establishing a psychological advantage he maintained throughout their subsequent encounters.

“As things turned out, my dream did not come true. But I managed to get through the toughest of times thanks to all of you,” Maruyama acknowledged.

Maruyama’s career record against Abe stands at 4-7. Despite the overall deficit, his four victories against the Olympic champion showcase his remarkable skill and tenacity. Notably, his last defeat before his retirement came against fellow Japanese judoka Takeoka Takeshi at the 2022 Paris grand slam. It marked his first loss to anyone other than Abe in six years, highlighting the immense pressure and weight carried by the prospect of facing the Olympic champion.

maruyama’s retirement marks the end of an era for Japanese judo.His unwavering spirit, mastery of technique, and commitment to the sport have left an enduring impact on the judokas who will follow in his footsteps.

What message do you hope to leave behind for the next generation of judokas?

An Icon Retires: A Conversation with Maruyama joshiro

Archyde news Editor sat down with the legendary judoka, Maruyama Joshiro, to reflect on his remarkable career and the impact he’s had on the sport.

Looking Back: A Career marked by Triumph and Rivalry

“I’ve decided to retire from judo as of today, 17th February. I’m so grateful for all the support over the years.” – Maruyama Joshiro

You began your judo journey at just three years old. What inspired you to start so young, and what kept you going all thes years?

Your name is synonymous with the uchimata. How did you develop such mastery over this technique, and what do you think sets it apart?

Maruyama vs. abe: A Rivalry for the Ages

Your rivalry with Abe hifumi captivated the judo world.What made these duels so intense, and what have you learned from competing against him?

Your record against Abe stands at 4-7, but your four victories showcase your skill and tenacity. Which of these victories is most memorable for you, and why?

Legacy and the Future

Your retirement marks the end of an era for Japanese judo. What message do you hope to leave behind for the next generation of judokas?

In your opinion, what is the future of judo, both in Japan and worldwide? What trends or changes do you see on the horizon?

Thank you, Maruyama joshiro, for your time and for your incredible contributions to the world of judo.