About Joshiro
The Technician, the Artist
Joshiro Maruyama is a renowned Japanese judoka, born on August 11, 1993 in Miyazaki. He is primarily known for his exceptional performances in the under-66 kg category, where he has won several major titles. His career has been marked by impressive technique, great speed, and refined tactical play.
Born on August 11, 1993, in Miyazaki, Japan, Joshiro Maruyama stands out as one of the most elegant and technically skilled judokas of his generation. Competing in the -66 kg category, he is known for his refined style, mastery of fundamentals, and ability to elevate judo into a true art form.
Coming from a family of judokas, Maruyama was introduced at an early age to the values of traditional Japanese judo. From the beginning, he distinguished himself with an aesthetic approach to combat, blending explosiveness, fluidity, and exceptional tactical awareness. His uchi-mata, in particular, has become a benchmark in the judo world for its grace and precision.
In 2019, he reached the pinnacle of his career by becoming World Champion in Tokyo, in front of his home crowd. This symbolic title, earned in the birthplace of judo, crowned years of rigorous training and steady progress. Two years later, in 2021, he won the World Championships again. He also holds multiple victories in Grand Slam tournaments and other major international competitions.
Joshiro Maruyama is more than just a competitor. He is an ambassador for judo in its purest form: respect for the opponent, humility, focus, and a relentless pursuit of technical excellence. Through his practice, he embodies the spirit of bushidō and continues to inspire young judokas around the world.
The budo spirit
Joshiro Maruyama perfectly embodies the budo spirit in judo, a philosophy that goes far beyond mere athletic performance. His approach to combat combines rigorous discipline, deep respect for his opponents, and a relentless pursuit of technical perfection. Known for his fluid and explosive style, he symbolizes the harmony between technique and spirit, always striving to refine his seme (initiative in attack) and zanshin (awareness after action). Maruyama is also a model of shingitai, the essential budo triptych: shin (spirit and will), gi (mastery of technique), and tai (strong and balanced physique). His total commitment to judo makes him a true artist of the tatami, where each movement reflects a deep understanding of the do (the way), following in the footsteps of Japan’s greatest judokas.
Education and judo career
Bachelor in physical education: March 2012 – March 2016 Tenri University
High School: March 2009 – March 2012 Oki Gakuen High School
Junior High School : March 2006 – March 2009 Aihara Junior High School
Joshiro Maruyama pursued his education at Tenri University, one of Japan’s most prestigious institutions for judo. Located in Nara Prefecture, Tenri University is renowned for producing many of Japan’s top judokas and upholding the traditional values of the sport.
At Tenri, Maruyama not only refined his technical and tactical skills but also deepened his understanding of judo as a lifelong discipline. His time at the university played a crucial role in shaping his approach to competition—focusing on precision, respect, and continuous self-improvement.