Does Kanoh Agito Know Niko Style? A Deep Dive into the Deadly Martial Art

As an avid Kengan fan and martial arts enthusiast, I‘ve done extensive research into the mysterious Niko style used by toku2 characters like Tokita Ohma and the elusive ‘Other Niko‘. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll unravel the origins of Niko style, analyze how much Fang of Metsudo Kanoh Agito knows, and compare it to real-life MMA. Strap in for this wild ride!

History and Development of the Niko Style

The Niko style was developed by the legendary Mukaku Gaoh sometime during the 20th century. Gaoh wanted to create the ultimate combat system – a ‘starter style‘ that would arm apprentices with fundamental techniques to enhance any martial art.

Niko style is based on Gaoh‘s studies of ancient Chinese kempo, Jiujitsu from Honshu, and traditional Okinawan karate. By fusing principles from these styles, Gaoh developed a versatile fighting system balanced in both striking and grappling.

The style was then passed down from Gaoh to his apprentices using the shared moniker ‘Tokita Niko‘ to preserve its secrecy. Only two students fully completed Niko style training under Gaoh himself:

• The mysterious ‘Other Niko‘
• Ohma‘s unnamed master, killed by Tiger Niko

Core Techniques and Katas of Niko Style

Niko style is comprised of four core ‘katas‘ or sets of techniques, each named after natural elements:

Water Kata – Fluid techniques to redirect and absorb attacks

Flame Kata – Explosive striking and kicking powers

Redirection Kata – Using opponents‘ momentum against them

Adamantine Kata – Toughening the body to withstand impacts

These katas provide a solid foundation for any fighter. Advanced Niko techniques build on these fundamentals, like Ohma‘s indestructible, flashing steel, and demonsbane.

Agito‘s Arsenal of Niko Style Techniques

Kanoh Agito is not a true Niko style master, but has incorporated some key techniques:

• Indestructible – His signature Adamantine Kata move for defense

• Other techniques – Likely picked up Formless from studying under the ‘Other Niko‘

During his time in the Gu ritual, Agito was exposed to Niko style by the ‘Tiger Niko‘ and his disciple Lu Tian. Though not fully revealed yet, Agito may have copied some more Niko moves then.

Overall, Agito‘s blend of Niko, Formless, and martial arts makes him incredibly adaptable and dangerous. He can switch styles mid-fight to keep opponents guessing!

Comparisons to Ohma‘s Niko Style

Unlike Agito, Tokita Ohma utilized complete Niko style thanks to years of harsh training under his nameless master. This granted him incredible versatility:

Striking – Flame kata techniques like ironbreaker and flashing steel

Defense – Adamantine moves like indestructible and demonsbane

Control – Water kata for redirection and throws

Ohma seamlessly chains Niko techniques for combinations. His demonsbane is also a one-of-a-kind counter.

While not as refined, Agito compensates with unpredictability and Formless techniques from Niko‘s other student. Their Niko styles differentiate based on creative application.

Applications for Self-Defense and MMA

Many Niko concepts translate well to real-world martial arts like MMA or self-defense:

• Redirecting momentum to counter stronger attackers
• Using all limbs dynamically for strikes
• Maximizing torque generation in techniques
• Toughening body to receive blows
• Controlling pace and spacing of fights

Top MMA gyms utilize similar training theories – Lyoto Machida excels at evasion like Niko‘s Water Kata.

However, insane durability boosts from Adamantine training remain fictional! No conditioning can make you as resilient as Agito or Ohma.

Concluding Thoughts on This Unique Martial Art

The Niko style indelibly shaped Kengan Ashura with its versatile, well-rounded moveset. While quite exaggerated, it takes inspiration from practical concepts and philosophies.

Agito wisely incorporated Niko techniques to diversify his Formless. Together, they make him an unpredictable foe. Meanwhile, Ohma displays the pinnacle of Niko style.

I hope this guide has provided lots of insight into the Niko style and its connections to real-life martial arts. Let me know your thoughts in the comments – I‘m always happy to chat more Kengan with fellow fans!