Dedication deserves a community behind it. Every international appearance begins long before the journey: in the hours spent preparing, the commitment to keep learning, and the decision to represent something larger than yourself.
This November, Musashi Swords is celebrating two distinct journeys shared with us by the USA Kempo Team: an Iaido and Kenjutsu exposition in Japan involving practitioners from U.S. schools, and the Pan-American Kempo Championships in Argentina involving US team competitors. Different members will participate in each.
The team’s sponsor montage brings this journey into focus: Rob Zingg’s leadership, years of study in Iaido, and competitors celebrating past international appearances. These photographs document earlier chapters; the November 2026 participant roster has not yet been announced here.
Japan: honoring a living tradition
According to the team's announcement, practitioners from U.S. branches of Tenshinsho Jigenryu Iaido schools are preparing to join Japanese dojos for the Tenshinsho Jigenryu Iaido Temple Exposition at Kashima Jingu in Kashima, Japan, November 10–15, 2026.
This is an exposition of traditional Iaido and Kenjutsu. Its story is one of study, respect, and the opportunity to share practice with fellow schools.
Argentina: representing the United States
USA Kempo Team members are also preparing for the 2026 Pan-American Kempo Championships in Neuquén, Argentina, this November. The team has described participation across traditional forms and weapons divisions, as well as kickboxing, MMA, and submission grappling categories for male and female competitors.
We look forward to recognizing the people behind that preparation and sharing confirmed updates as they become available.
A shared spirit of dedication
At Musashi, our appreciation for Japanese-style swords includes an appreciation for the people who study the traditions connected with them. This campaign invites our community to recognize that dedication and stand behind the USA Kempo Team.
Be part of the support
Choose a piece that speaks to your appreciation for Japanese-style swords and craftsmanship. During our current USA Kempo Team promotion, use USAKEMPO at checkout to save 10% while supporting the team.
USAKEMPO: 10% off through November 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific. Offer eligibility and any discount combinations are determined at checkout.
Follow the next chapter
Visit our News blog and social channels for future updates. We will share participant stories, event reflections, and confirmed results when supplied by the team. Looking ahead, the team has also shared plans for the 23rd World Kempo Championships in Hammamet, Tunisia, in April 2027.
Event participation information is based on the announcement shared with Musashi Swords by the team. Event arrangements may change.
