All Japan Students Judo Winter Challenge Tournament 2026: Preview & Key Players

The All-Japan Student Judo Winter Challenge Tournament 2025 is set to take place this weekend, February 14th and 15th, at Tenri University’s Somanouchi First Gymnasium. This event is widely recognised as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring judoka, with past champions like Kanta Sekimoto and Hideyasu Tokumori going on to achieve significant success on the international stage.

A Proving Ground for Future Champions

The tournament, which attracted 688 participants across seven weight classes last year, is notable for its high level of competition. Entry is restricted to athletes who haven’t reached the top levels of the All-Japan team or the best eight in the All-Japan Student Weight Category Championships, yet the competition remains exceptionally strong. The event’s significance is underscored by its track record of launching careers; Kanta Sekimoto, a two-time champion (2023-2024), later earned a silver medal at the Grand Slam Paris, and Hideyasu Tokumori, who secured his first national title at this tournament, went on to win the Kodokan Cup twice.

New Rules and a Focus on Judo Fundamentals

This year’s tournament will be the first in Japan to adopt a “new rule” set, mirroring those used in the IJF World Tour. This change means that the competition pairings will be determined shortly before the event, limiting opportunities for pre-match research. Success will depend on a player’s core “judo ability,” adaptability, and the stamina and mental fortitude to endure a large-scale tournament.

Did You Know? The All-Japan Student Judo Winter Challenge Tournament attracted 688 participants across seven weight classes in 2025.

Weight Class Previews

60㎏級: Takuya Kokubo Favored to Win

Takuya Kokubo (Tsukuba University, 1st year) is considered the frontrunner in the 60㎏ category, having won the title last year and placed 5th in the 2025 All-Japan Junior Championships. Contenders include Koki Koen (Toyo University, 3rd year) and Ryo Taro Iso (Tsukuba University, 2nd year).

66㎏級: Oosaki Tencho Leads a Competitive Field

Tencho Oosaki (Aichi University, 3rd year) is the favorite in the 66㎏ division. He was last year’s runner-up and is aiming for the first championship for Aichi University. Other strong competitors include Xun Zuoben (Tenri University, 2nd year), who won the 2025 All-Japan Junior Championships.

73㎏級: Kawanishi Daiki Stands Out

The 73㎏ category is expected to be highly competitive. Daiki Kawanishi (Tenri University, 2nd year) is highlighted as a leading contender, possessing a well-rounded skillset. Other athletes to watch include Fukatora Shimizu (Tsukuba University, 3rd year) and Isshin Nishiyama (Hosei University, 3rd year).

81kg級: A Wide-Open Competition

The 81kg division is predicted to be a closely contested event with numerous potential winners. Kaiden Matsumoto (Shundotokan University, 3rd year) is a key athlete to watch. Other contenders include Daishi Kaimi (Kokugakuin University, 2nd year) and Haruki Fujimoto (Kokugakuin University, 1st year).

Expert Insight: The All-Japan Student Judo Winter Challenge Tournament is not merely a competition, but a critical development opportunity for young athletes. Success here often translates into advancement to higher levels of competition, including national and international events.

90㎏級: Nagane Genki and Tsunemoto Hayate as Frontrunners

Genki Nagane (Meiji University, 3rd year) and Hayate Tsunemoto (Yamanashi Gakuin University, 1st year) are considered the leading contenders in the 90㎏ class. Other athletes to watch include Yohei Shibata (Tokai University, 1st year) and Ryo Tanaka (Toyo University, 3rd year).

100kg級: Oda Yuuga Leads the Charge

Yuuga Oda (Hosei University, 3rd year) is favored in the 100kg division. Other potential contenders include Kazuki Yokote (Kokushikan University, 3rd year) and Kenhao Segawa (Tenri University, 1st year). The tournament will also feature a strong contingent of first-year athletes.

100kg超級: Chino Kenki as the Top Candidate

Kenki Chino (Meiji University, 3rd year) is the top candidate in the super heavyweight division. Ryo Kumatani (Kokushikan University, 3rd year) and Kenhao Segawa (Tenri University, 1st year) are also expected to be strong competitors. A number of promising first-year athletes are also entered in this weight class.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this tournament significant?

The All-Japan Student Judo Winter Challenge Tournament is considered a “stepping stone” for young judoka, with past champions often going on to achieve success at higher levels of competition, including international events.

What is new about this year’s tournament?

This year’s tournament will be the first in Japan to adopt a new rule set, mirroring those used in the IJF World Tour, and will feature immediate draw announcements.

Which weight classes are expected to be the most competitive?

The 73㎏ and 81kg divisions are expected to be particularly competitive, with numerous athletes having a realistic chance of winning.

As the All-Japan Student Judo Winter Challenge Tournament approaches, will this event truly serve as a launchpad for the next generation of Japanese judo stars?