Announced in June, the collaboration between MUSCLE GATE and the Hokuto no Ken -FIST OF THE NORTH STAR- anime now has a date. The Hokuto no Ken × MUSCLE GATE bodybuilding competition will take place on Saturday, April 24, 2027, at Parthenon Tama, in Tama, western Tokyo. It is part of the “West Tokyo” leg of the MUSCLE GATE circuit, run by Gold’s Gym. Registration opens on November 1.
Six categories, from Kenshiro to Mamiya
The competition has six categories. Men compete as Kenshiro, Raoh, Toki, or “Tomo and Villains” (強敵＆悪党). Women compete as Yuria or Mamiya.
The word tomo is written with the kanji for “mighty enemy” but read as “friend.” It refers to the rivals Kenshiro comes to respect.
Physique over costume
The organizers stress one point. This is not a cosplay contest. The judges score muscle mass, overall balance, proportions and stage presence. They also look at how well each contestant embodies their character. Every contestant performs a front pose, a back pose and a free pose, which must capture the spirit of their category.
Costumes do not have to be faithful copies of the character’s outfit. Outfits that cover the whole body are banned, as are dangerous accessories and anything that looks like a weapon. Oil is not allowed on the day, but character-themed body paint is.
Registration and tickets
Registration runs on the official MUSCLE GATE website from November 1, 2026, at 10 a.m. until March 27, 2027. The entry fee is ¥5,800. The competition is open to anyone aged 16 and over, from beginners to athletes registered with the JBBF, Japan’s bodybuilding federation. Gold’s Gym membership is not required. Spots may be limited.
The schedule for the day will be set once registration closes. Spectator tickets will go on sale later on the MUSCLE GATE website. This is not the circuit’s first manga collaboration. It already held a ONE PIECE contest in 2025.