Breaking
Get to know B-Boy Issin
Read up on all the important facts you should know about Japanese b-boy prodigy Issin, the Red Bull BC One world champion of 2025.
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Dive deep into the world of breaking, focussing on one of its rising stars, B-Boy Issin. Here are 10 facts about the life of a young breaker who's redefining the game with his unique style, relentless dedication and unstoppable drive.
Watch Issin in action in the replay of the Red Bull BC One World Final 2025 below
Red Bull BC One World Final Japan
Feel the energy of Tokyo as the world’s greatest b-boys and b-girls battle for the ultimate title.
01
Issin's origins
In the heart of Japan, nestled amid the bustling life and colourful landscapes of Okayama, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, you'll find the home of Issin. Here, against the dynamic backdrop of this lively city, a young and audacious b-boy chose to challenge the conventional norms of breaking. Despite his youth and small stature, Issin had an unshakeable resolve and a dream that towered over his physical dimensions. He made his first foray into the world of breaking at the tender age of seven and with his arrival, he shattered the conventional mould, proving that breaking wasn't a field confined to the tall and robust alone.
Issin's journey is an inspiring testament to the adage that size doesn't matter. He embraced his smaller stature as a unique aspect of his identity, setting him apart in the breaking world. As a result, he's emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the breaking scene, taking the world by storm with his dynamic performances and defying the odds at every turn. His story serves as a reminder that in the realm of art and performance, it's talent, tenacity and passion that ultimately define one's success, not physical size or age. Indeed, Issin continues to show that a true b-boy's measure is found in their spirit, creativity and dedication to their craft.
B-Boy Issin hails from Okayama, Japan
© Jason Halayko/Red Bull Content Pool
02
What inspired Issin to pursue breaking?
A dance studio in Japan was the birthplace of Issin's extraordinary journey. It was there that he first laid eyes on the captivating world of breakers, a sight that transformed his life. The spectacle of dancers, their bodies twisting and turning in seemingly impossible ways, was mesmerising. The fluidity of their movements and the unchained athleticism exhibited by the performers lit up the young boy's eyes. The breathtaking artistry on display reached deep within Issin, stirring up a profound sense of wonder and awe.
This initial encounter was a turning point for Issin, a spark that set off a passion within him, birthing an irrevocable desire to emulate them and become a breaker himself. This fervent passion fuelled his early moves and continues to be the driving force behind his successful career. As a result, what started as a chance encounter in a dance studio has morphed into a powerful journey that took a young, awestruck boy and shaped him into an internationally acclaimed b-boy.
03
Issin's earliest competition victories
Issin's undeniable talent had already begun to pay off by the tender age of 11. In a remarkable display of skill and dedication, he conquered the U15 category at the Battle Of The Year Japan, proving himself a formidable contender in the world of breaking.
04
Crew life
Issin's impressive journey didn't stop there. He soared higher, joining the ranks of Japan's infamous Body Carnival Crew, which is renowned for boasting some of the world's most outstanding and original talent. Other breakers from that crew are the famous b-girl sisters Ayumi and Narumi, as well as Kazuki Rock - all former Red Bull BC One World Final contenders.
By May 2023, his prowess had earned him a place among the Red Bull BC One All Stars, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
Issin joined the Red Bull BC One All Stars in May 2023
© Jason Halayko/Red Bull Content Pool
05
Issin's secret to success
Issin's success rests on his dedication to breaking. A glimpse into his daily routine paints the picture of a committed artist who leaves no stone unturned in his pursuit of excellence. His days are characterised by a relentless training regime that bears testament to his commitment to perfecting his skills. Every beat, every move and every combo is painstakingly rehearsed, setting a gruelling pace that would deter many. Yet it's a challenge Issin readily embraces.
In his unwavering commitment to refine his breaking techniques, Issin often commuted to Kyoto during the latter years of high school to learn from his peers, soak up new experiences and bring a fresh perspective to his performances. No matter the hours spent or the distances travelled, Issin viewed it as a necessary investment towards his ultimate goal – to push the boundaries of breaking and solidifying his position among its greatest exponents. When he graduated high school, he moved to Kyoto to fully commit to breaking
06
Issin's unique breaking style
The world of breaking is rife with electrifying performances, but even among these, Issin's displays stand apart, pulsing with an energy that's uniquely his. His dance is a dynamic expression of his personality, skillfully blending speed, sharpness and a distinctive character that commands attention. Each execution is a carefully choreographed spectacle and a testament to his technical prowess, unlimited energy and creative ingenuity. The speed of his transitions, the precision of his movements and the sheer force of his power moves all converge in a dazzling display of talent, crafting a riveting experience with every performance.
Yet, the allure of Issin's style extends beyond the purely physical. His performances are not merely feats of athleticism - they're masterfully told stories communicated through the medium of dance. His facial expressions, in particular, serve as potent vehicles of emotion, further amplifying the impact of his routines. From the raw intensity in his gaze to the defiant tilt of his chin, every tiny detail enhances the overarching narrative of his performance, drawing spectators into his world. Regardless of the stage, Issin's dance is a compelling dialogue, a tale of passion, dedication and unrelenting ambition that reverberates across audiences worldwide.
Issin's approach to breaking oozes energy and power
© Jason Halayko/Red Bull Content Pool
07
Competition highlights
2022 marked a turning point in Issin's career, when he took the Red Bull BC One Cypher Japan title and debuted at the Red Bull BC One World Final in New York. He secured a spot in the semi-finals and took home the coveted MVP Award of the Last Chance Cypher, earning global acclaim.
Issin won Red Bull BC One Cypher Japan in 2022 and went on to New York
© Suguru Saito/Red Bull Content Pool
He then went on to make it into the top eight at the WDSF Breaking For Gold series in 2023. He also returned to the Red Bull BC One World Final in 2023, where he only lost to Phil Wizard, who eventually took second place behind legendary Hong 10. But his rise to fame would not stop there.
08
Taking the Red Bull BC One title in Tokyo 2025
In 2025, Issin came prepared to the Red Bull BC One World Final in Tokyo – but he wasn't the only one. The lineup was full of next-gen talent. Former Red Bull BC One champion Shigekix, Lee, Hiro10 and Issin's own crew-mate, Haruto, were also part of the top 16.
Issin won the Red Bull BC One World Final in 2025
© Little Shao/Red Bull Content Pool
Issin's path to victory led him to battle former Red Bull BC One champion Amir in the first round. In a clash of two unique styles he took the win and made the crowd roar. In his second battle, Issin defeated Icey Ives in a match of swagger and groove versus energy and power. In the semi-final he met Shigekix. Both breakers crowd-favourites from Japan, they threw flawless moves with rhythmic precision at each other. The crowd was divided, half of them chanting for Shigekix, half for Issin. The judge's weren't divided: Issin took the win and moved on to a historic final between crew-mates.
Haruto, who advanced through the Last Chance Cypher after winning Red Bull BC One Cypher Japan, defeated Hiro10, FE and Mighty Jake before meeting Issin in the final. Their crew, Body Carnival, is known as a crew that brings forth unique styles and one-of-a-kind characters in breaking. So, it didn't come as a surprise that this final was a firework of creativity and energy. In the end, Issin won over his long-time friend and training partner. This was also the first Red Bull BC One belt for Body Carnival, which has a long list of Red Bull BC One competitors.
Issin and Haruto in the final battle of Red Bull BC One 2025
© Dean Treml/Red Bull Content Pool
09
Issin has a life outside of breaking
Issin's grounded nature allows him to connect with the world beyond breaking, providing a crucial balance that fuels his creative spirit. It's in these moments of relaxation, in the laughter shared with friends or the intrigue stirred by a compelling movie, that Issin finds the refreshing breather essential for any passionate artist. Far from a single-minded focus on dance, he embodies the diversity of experiences that form a holistic teenager's life.
This balance between rigorous practice and leisure time fosters his creativity, reminding us that Issin isn't just a world-renowned breaker, but a well-rounded individual with a life as vibrant off the dance floor as it is on.
B-Boy Issin represents Body Carnival and the Red Bull BC One All Stars
© Jason Halayko/Red Bull Content Pool
10
Issin remains humble and grateful for the support
Amid his escalating success, Issin's humility shines through. Grateful for the support he's received along his journey, he remains down-to-earth and dedicated to his craft. More than anything, he aspires to introduce breaking to people worldwide, eager to share his passion for the dance form with those yet to discover its exhilarating allure.
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