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Live as a Man. Die as a Man. Become a Man.
Live as a man. Die as a man. Become a man. Yamatodamashii is roughly translated as Samurai Spirit or old spirit of Japan and has become synonymous with Enson Inoue. He was given this nickname by the Japanese people because of the way he carries himself inside and outside of the ring. This philosophy permeates throughout Enson's experiences, helping him gain a different perspective on life with every new challenge that has come his way. He is the first World Shooto Heavyweight Champion, UFC fighter, Pride fighter, and pioneer of modern MMA. He gives an in-depth account of his philosophical insights and thrilling adventures both inside and outside the ring.
- GenresMartial ArtsMemoir
330 pages, Paperback
First published May 28, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
March 11, 2020
This book was recommended to me because I was interested in different life philosophies. I have never heard of Enson Inoue before and had to watch some videos on YouTube to understand what's so different if you fight under MMA rules compared to, let's say, K2 with which I am more familiar.
The story of this man is fascinating. He gives everything and has this life or death attitude that lets him achieve more than many other fighters. It's similar to the burning ships approach where you simply allow no room for a retreat so your brain is focused 100% on the goal you have in front of you. That alone is not enough to excel, you also have to get up every single day and train hard. As Enson mentions somewhere in the book, "to fight is the easiest thing" and the outcome is not fully in your hands. It's your responsibility to prepare and be in the best shape.
What makes the book unique is the way how Enson treats the events in his life to grow as a man and to give a meaning to our presence on earth. Integrity, honor and honesty are among his values as are developing a warrior spirit, conquering fear and protecting those close to him. He rather fights a ferocious opponent to prove his worth than earning an easy win.
Under the hood there is a darker side when rage and fury overwhelm him and he behaves like a maniac. The reader will also recognize the various ties to the Yakuza that he develops over time. The things that are left out tell as much as what is revealed.
Believe it or not, this reminded me a lot of Gene Wolfe's The Knight! Just read between the lines and look carefully for the clues that are there.
Towards the end there were some things that were important for Enson to get clean with (like the relationship to his wife and son, or the way he was cheated) but they were not so interesting for me and I deduct 1 star.
If you have a slight interest in the life of a professional fighter then this book is for you.
The story of this man is fascinating. He gives everything and has this life or death attitude that lets him achieve more than many other fighters. It's similar to the burning ships approach where you simply allow no room for a retreat so your brain is focused 100% on the goal you have in front of you. That alone is not enough to excel, you also have to get up every single day and train hard. As Enson mentions somewhere in the book, "to fight is the easiest thing" and the outcome is not fully in your hands. It's your responsibility to prepare and be in the best shape.
What makes the book unique is the way how Enson treats the events in his life to grow as a man and to give a meaning to our presence on earth. Integrity, honor and honesty are among his values as are developing a warrior spirit, conquering fear and protecting those close to him. He rather fights a ferocious opponent to prove his worth than earning an easy win.
Under the hood there is a darker side when rage and fury overwhelm him and he behaves like a maniac. The reader will also recognize the various ties to the Yakuza that he develops over time. The things that are left out tell as much as what is revealed.
Believe it or not, this reminded me a lot of Gene Wolfe's The Knight! Just read between the lines and look carefully for the clues that are there.
Towards the end there were some things that were important for Enson to get clean with (like the relationship to his wife and son, or the way he was cheated) but they were not so interesting for me and I deduct 1 star.
If you have a slight interest in the life of a professional fighter then this book is for you.
July 10, 2014
A great book for MMA fans and fans of Japanese culture alike. Enson Inoue provides a unique point of view As a fullblooded Japanese from Hawaii Enson Inoue provides a unique point of view - not quite Hawaiian yet not quite Japanese. As a fighter in MMA's developmental stages, his story is MMA's story.
"Live a Man..." is honest and heartfelt. Although it's always interesting, it's not always well written. But Mr. Inoue's tone more than makes up for any typos or awkward wording. I really enjoyed his tale and philosophy..
"Live a Man..." is honest and heartfelt. Although it's always interesting, it's not always well written. But Mr. Inoue's tone more than makes up for any typos or awkward wording. I really enjoyed his tale and philosophy..
February 22, 2015
Great fast read about about a modern day MMA fighter (well, he actually fought in the last 90's-early 2000's) who embodies the samurai warrior spirit.
January 2, 2015
great book for MMA fans and anybody looking for direction and clarity in this crazy world.
June 5, 2016
Delves into the metaphysical aspect of things with his esoteric way of living and feeling
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews