Masayuki Shimabukuro has trained in the arts of judo; karate; Okinawan kobudo; Japanese shito-ryu; and iaido, the art of samurai swordsmanship. He is the international director for the Nippon Kobudo Jikishin-kai martial arts organization and represents authentic eishin-ryu samurai swordsmanship worldwide. He holds the title of hanshi--the highest recognition in traditional Japanese martial arts--and has been named "Black Belt" magazine's Weapons Instructor of the Year. He is the author of "Flashing Steel" and "Living Karate," He lives in San Diego.