Norichika Tsukamoto is not just a karate legend but a true supporter of Ukraine. This is the opinion of Roman Kryvytskyi, a three-time champion of Ukraine in karate and president of the Kyiv City Federation of Kyokushin Karate. For the Ukrainian athlete, support from such a prominent figure is important.
“Preparation for the competition was in Crimea, I had a very good training camp. In Japan, I faced the world champion, the legendary Japanese Norichika Tsukamoto, in my first match. He won that championship.”
It turns out that after that tough match, Kryvytskyi and Tsukamoto even became friends. The Japanese karateka expressed his respect for the Ukrainian's courage in the ring, and even during the conflict in Donbas, he supported him on social media.
Support through sports events and influence
Tsukamoto not only befriends Ukrainian athletes but also organizes tournaments such as the Tokyo Open, where representatives from Ukraine are invited. This Japanese karateka has a significant influence in the sports world and uses it to support Ukraine. There were plans to visit Kyiv in the fall, but due to security circumstances, the visit had to be postponed.
Tsukamoto's efforts confirm his friendship and mutual understanding with Ukrainians, not only in the ring but also beyond.