Mitchell Douglass

Inducted into the A.M.A.H.O.F. (Inc) and W.K.U.H.O.F. for 2025
Continual Excellence and Service to the Australasian Martial Arts Community

Mitchell began his martial arts journey studying Tae Kwon Do in the early 1990s. Mitchell moved to Canberra in 2000, where he first encountered Kokusai Jujutsu Ryu, and commenced study under the tutelage of John Bear – Shihan Sensei. He was fascinated by the combination of traditional Japanese technique, and the immense practicality and directness of the art as practiced in the ryu. This training started a lifelong passion and dedication to the art.

Over the years, Mitchell’s commitment to martial arts has been demonstrated by his steady progression. Mitchell earned his first dan black belt in 2006, followed by his second dan in 2007, and his third dan in 2008.  During his early black belt years, Mitchell’s training focused on perfecting his own techniques where he concentrated on the unarmed expression of Kokusai Jujutsu.

In 2010, he reached the rank of fourth dan.  At this stage, Mitchell began focusing on teaching the art and incorporating traditional Japanese weapons into his training – again under the dedicated tutelage of John Bear.  Over the following years, Mitchell also studied the traditional Japanese Kuatsu techniques within the ryu. The pursuit of energy systems and vital points into his training helped him acquire a deeper understanding of the art.  He earned his fifth dan in 2018, and received a Menkyo KJR grading license. Through the completion of further studies in Kuatsu immobilisation and healing arts, Mitchell achieved a sixth dan rank of Kuatsu Semonka within the Kokusai Jujutsu Ryu in 2021.

As Public Officer of Kokusai Jujutsu Ryu, Mitchell plays a vital role in continuing the legacy laid down by his teachers. Mitchell is Co-director of KJR-IJI Ltd, and Public Officer of ACT Inc.  By maintaining the Ryu, Mitchell hopes that the traditions, techniques, and philosophy of the ryu can be passed on to future generations of martial artists.

As a member of the Society for the Preservation of Traditional Martial Arts, Mitchell works with others to protect and promote the authentic teachings of classical martial arts, ensuring their cultural and philosophical aspects remain relevant and respected