A judo ruleset that allows extended newaza (groundwork) beyond what's typically permitted in standard Olympic-style judo competition.

Through the event's Smoothcomp listing at smoothcomp.com/en/event/33293.

Do I need judo experience to compete?

Kosen rules differ from standard judo, so competitors with a BJJ or newaza-heavy background may also find this format approachable — check the listing for division requirements.

A judogi and proof of rank, per standard judo/Kosen tournament practice; confirm on the event listing.

Smokey Mountain Judo Kosen Judo Shiai, Charlotte NC | Let's Roll

Smokey Mountain Judo Kosen Judo Shiqa

Organized by Smokey Mountain Judo

Charlotte, NC hosts Smokey Mountain Judo's Kosen Judo Shiai on September 5, 2026. The event follows Kosen judo rules, which favor extended newaza groundwork over standing throws.

Saturday, September 5, 2026Charlotte, NC0 registered

Gi & No-Gi

Judo

Event Description

This Smokey Mountain Judo event runs under Kosen judo rules — a groundwork-heavy ruleset, historically practiced at Japan's technical colleges, that allows extended newaza (ground fighting) beyond what's permitted in standard Olympic-style judo. It's a niche but growing format among grapplers who want judo's throws combined with BJJ-style ground work, and this Shiai gives Southeast judoka a rare chance to compete under those rules. The Kosen Judo Shiai takes place September 5, 2026 in Charlotte, NC. Registration is handled through the event's Smoothcomp listing — check there for the current age/rank divisions and any judogi or rank-verification requirements, since Kosen rules can differ from what competitors are used to in standard judo tournaments.

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Rules

Judo matches are decided by ippon — a full-point score that ends the match instantly. Ippon is awarded for a throw that lands the opponent largely on their back with speed and control, for a 20-second pin (osaekomi), or for a submission by strangle or armlock in the senior divisions. Lesser throws and shorter pins score waza-ari, and two waza-ari combine to make ippon.

Modern judo rules (based on the International Judo Federation rulebook) prohibit grabbing the legs in standing exchanges, and passivity or rule infractions draw shido penalties — accumulate three and the match is lost by hansoku-make. Armlocks and chokes are age-restricted, so junior divisions are typically throws-and-pins only.

Judo tournaments in the United States are generally sanctioned by USA Judo, USJA, or USJF, all of which follow IJF-based competition rules with local modifications for youth and novice divisions. Check the event's sanctioning body and division rules before registering.

Always confirm the official rulebook before you compete — organizations update rules between seasons. See the official event page for current rules.

Community results

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Frequently asked questions

When and where is the Smokey Mountain Judo Kosen Judo Shiai?: September 5, 2026 in Charlotte, NC.
What is Kosen judo?: A judo ruleset that allows extended newaza (groundwork) beyond what's typically permitted in standard Olympic-style judo competition.
How do I register?: Through the event's Smoothcomp listing at smoothcomp.com/en/event/33293.
Do I need judo experience to compete?: Kosen rules differ from standard judo, so competitors with a BJJ or newaza-heavy background may also find this format approachable — check the listing for division requirements.
What should I bring?: A judogi and proof of rank, per standard judo/Kosen tournament practice; confirm on the event listing.

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