Judo’s Moral Dilemma: Should Putin’s rank Be Revoked?
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has sparked a heated debate within the judo community, particularly regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s honorary sixth dan ranking. Awarded by the prestigious Kodokan Judo Institute in Tokyo during his 2000 visit, this rank now stands as a point of contention.Putin, a self-proclaimed admirer of judo legend Yasuhiro Yamashita, expressed a deep sense of belonging during his visit to the Kodokan, stating, “When I come to the Kodokan, I have a sense of peace, like I’m at home.” however, his actions in Ukraine have led many, including prominent judo figures, to question whether he truly embodies the spirit of the martial art.
Olympic judo medalist and former JOC board member Kaori Yamaguchi, who holds the seventh dan of Kodokan judo, believes Putin’s actions directly contradict the teachings of judo founder Jigoro Kano. “The teaching of Jigoro Kano Sensei is, ‘Once you have gained power, use it for good to do for the world’,” Yamaguchi stated. “In light of this teaching, Putin’s use of power in this manner is inadmissible.He’s not a judoka.”
While calls for revoking Putin’s dan have intensified, the likelihood of such action remains slim. Even the infamous Shoko Asahara, leader of the Aum Shinrikyo cult responsible for the 1995 sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway, retained his judo rank despite his heinous crimes.
The International Judo Federation (IJF) took a decisive step on February 27th by suspending Putin’s honorary presidency. This move,while notable,doesn’t address the question of his judo ranking.
The situation presents a complex ethical dilemma for the judo community. Balancing respect for tradition with condemnation of Putin’s actions remains a challenging task. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the debate surrounding Putin’s judo rank is likely to persist.
A Judoka’s Dilemma: Should Putin’s Rank Be Revoked?
Welcome back to “Sports talk,” your weekly dose of hard-hitting discussions and unapologetic sports analysis.Today, we delve into a truly complex issue gripping the judo world: the honorary sixth dan ranking held by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Joining us to dissect this moral quandary is two-time Olympic Judo medalist and former coach, Neil Adams MBE. Neil, welcome to the show.
Neil: Thanks for having me.
Let’s dive straight in. Putin,a self-professed judo enthusiast,was awarded this prestigious rank by the Kodokan Judo Institute back in 2000. But now, with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, many, including prominent judo figures, are questioning whether he truly embodies the spirit of the martial art. Your thoughts?
Neil: it’s a truly difficult situation. Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo, emphasized using your strength “for the good for the world.” Putin’s actions in ukraine contradict this ethos profoundly. His invasion has caused immense suffering and destabilized the region. It’s hard to reconcile these actions with the principles of judo, which stress harmony, respect, and self-improvement.
Exactly. Kaori Yamaguchi,a seventh dan and Olympic medalist,stated that putin “is not a judoka” due to his actions. Do you agree with such a strong statement?
Neil: It’s a bold statement, but I understand the sentiment. A judoka isn’t just defined by their rank or skills; it’s about embodying the philosophical underpinnings of judo. Putin’s actions directly contradict these principles.
The International Judo Federation (IJF) has already suspended Putin’s honorary presidency, a significant step. However, revoking his judo rank seems highly improbable.What are your thoughts on this?
Neil: I believe the IJF’s decision to suspend Putin’s honorary presidency was a necessary and appropriate response to the situation. However, the question of revoking his judo rank is a much more complex issue. It would be unprecedented, and there’s no clear protocol for such a situation. The Kodokan institute, as the ultimate authority on judo rankings, would face immense pressure and scrutiny.
Interesting point. Even Shoko Asahara, the leader of the Aum Shinrikyo cult responsible for the sarin gas attack, retained his judo rank despite his horrific crimes. Does this create a precedent that makes revoking Putin’s rank even less likely?
Neil: The Asahara case certainly complicates matters. It highlights the reluctance to revoke judo ranks, even in the face of egregious acts. Though, I believe putin’s situation is different. The scale and global implications of his actions are unparalleled.
The debate is far from over, with strong arguments on both sides. what do you think the judo community should do moving forward?
Neil: This situation forces the judo community to confront some uncomfortable truths about the sport and its values. We must have an open and honest discussion about what it truly means to be a judoka,and whether a person’s actions outside the dojo should impact their standing within the sport. Ultimately, I believe it’s crucial for the judo community to stand for peace and denounce violence in any form.
A powerful message, Neil. Thank you for sharing your insights on this challenging issue. Readers, we want to hear from you. What are your thoughts on Putin’s judo rank and whether it should be revoked? Share your opinions in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going.
