Excellence Level – Shihan Kai Member
The Shihan Kai is the highest and most prestigious affiliation within the World Ju-Jitsu Corporation.
It represents the pinnacle of recognition, reserved only for those few who have demonstrated years of unwavering leadership, loyalty, technical mastery, and a deep commitment to the values of Kishidō.
Who Can Become a Shihan Kai Member?
This title is exclusively reserved for National Technical Directors (NTDs) who, after a rigorous and personal evaluation conducted directly by Shodai Soke Adriano Busà, are chosen to join a true international elite:
the International Board of Black Belts, known as the Shihan Kai.
Shihan Kai members must:
- Hold a minimum rank of 5th Dan black belt
- Be a moral and technical role model aligned with the Wjjc’s philosophy
- Have demonstrated proven leadership, consistency, and long-term contributions to the organization and their country
Currently, the Shihan Kai includes only 14 members worldwide, handpicked from among the most respected Masters in the Wjjc.
Global Structure of the Shihan Kai
To ensure effective worldwide coordination, the Wjjc has divided the world into seven macro-continental areas, each represented by two Shihan Kai Members from different countries.
The seven macro areas are:
- North America
- South America
- Africa
- Europe
- Middle East
- Asia
- Oceania
Each pair of Shihan Kai Members is responsible for:
- Representing their continent in the International Board
- Collaborating closely with the Soke and the National Technical Directors for the development of technical and organizational activities
- Coordinating the strategic and educational expansion of Wjjc Ju-Jitsu in their region
- Promoting unity and international cooperation, fostering shared seminars, technical exchanges, and cultural projects
- Overseeing and enforcing Wjjc regulations, safeguarding the moral and disciplinary integrity of the organization
Why the Shihan Kai Exists
The Shihan Kai serves as the strategic, disciplinary, and spiritual backbone of the World Ju-Jitsu Corporation.
It is not merely a title of honor, but a position of international responsibility.
Being part of the Shihan Kai means shaping the future of traditional Ju-Jitsu on a global scale, while keeping its ancient values alive through a modern, structured, and professional approach.
Do You Have What It Takes to Join the Shihan Kai?
If you are a Wjjc NTD and feel your martial path has prepared you to step into the technical and spiritual nobility of our organization, this may be the moment you’ve been waiting for.
However, remember: you do not apply to join the Shihan Kai you are chosen.
You are observed over time, evaluated for who you are, not just for what you claim to be.
Wjjc – Shihan Kai: Leadership, Example, Responsibility.
For those who don’t seek power, but duty.
For those who don’t chase the spotlight, but aim to leave a legacy.