Kosho Shinogi, a Japanese martial artist specializing in Himokiri Karate—a ruthless discipline centered on surgical strikes to sever nerves, blood vessels, and lymph ducts—stands as the perpetually overshadowed younger brother of Kureha Shinogi, a luminary in both combat and medical fields. His lithe yet defined physique measures 177 cm (5'10") and 84 kg (185 lbs), with pale skin contrasting against either long, wavy brown hair tinged violet or vibrant crimson locks across adaptations. He dons a deep violet karate gi, sleeves casually rolled, secured by a black belt; alternate portrayals trade violet for scarlet, hair and gi blazing in unison. From youth, Kosho lingered in the shadow of his elder brother Kureha, whose protection from bullies and academic guidance nurtured both simmering insecurity and an unrelenting drive to eclipse his sibling. Relentless training under an enigmatic Himokiri Karate master culminated in Kosho inheriting the style, marked by the ritual severing of two fingers—a grim testament to his mastery. Debuting at Tokyo Dome’s Underground Arena, he confronts Baki Hanma, severing the opponent’s right-hand nerve and blinding an eye with calculated cord-cutting strikes. Though defeated, the brutal clash forges mutual respect and sparks an enduring rivalry. During the Maximum Tournament, Kosho is pitted against Kureha. Hesitating initially, his resolve ignites, driving him to blind his brother mid-match. Kureha retaliates with impromptu ocular surgery, restoring vision, while Kosho collapses into trembling apologies. Kureha forfeits, securing Kosho’s advancement. Subsequent battles test his limits: outmaneuvered by jujutsu veteran Gouki Shibukawa, then nearly killed facing cyborg convict Hector Doyle, whose implanted explosive engulfs Kosho in flames. Only Kureha’s surgical expertise reconstructs his charred flesh. Kosho embodies traditional martial pride, rigidly adhering to honor and discipline. Cerebral elegance masks controlled fury when challenged, his ruthless pragmatism evident in risking mangled hands for victory. His signature cord-cutting technique dissects neural and vascular networks, paralysis and agony following each strike. Fingers function as steel talons—rending flesh, splintering timber, felling bulls through skulls. Foundational karate prowess amplifies his lethality, complementing exceptional speed and endurance. Kosho’s arc traces a warrior’s path through psychological scars and shattered bonds, each rivalry and injury fueling his unbroken march toward martial transcendence.