Cannes – Toronto-based global content distribution company, 108 Media announces it has secured the worldwide rights to the live broadcasting of Kyokushin Karate, the specialised Japanese form of martial arts. This is a first of its kind acquisition for the company with the deal secured through its 108 Asia arm.

The deal, headed up by Ryo Ebe, Managing Director of 108 Asia will include access to pending live matches as well as archived content which will both be available to international buyers at MIPCOM 2016. Kyokushin Karate, a specialised Japanese sport sometimes known as ‘the strongest karate’, is a highly regarded form of Budo (the Martial Way) and is rooted in a philosophy of self-improvement, the strictest of disciplines and hard training.

 

This popular sport is practised all over the world, with around 10 million registered members at clubs in over 123 countries. It represents one of the largest martial arts organisations in the world since it was founded in 1964.

 

Ryo Ebe, Managing Director, 108 Asia says “It’s with great honour we take the live programming of Kyokushin Karate to broadcasters outside of Japan. The sport has a deep-rooted history in Japan and is widely practised and highly respected by a large community.  As karate has become an official sport in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, we believe more audiences around the globe will enjoy its art, discipline and strength.”

 

Kyokushin Karate will be represented by 108 Media’s Head of International Sales, Jordan Nutson and will be on stand P-1.N13, Palais 1 at MIPCOM 2016. Ryo Ebe, Managing Director of 108 Asia will be available for all press interviews.