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Makabe was respected as a talented man, with a good physique and remarkable power. During Makabe’s youth there were other strong young men who challenged him. One young stalwart was a man named Funakoshi. Funakoshi had gained a reputation as a brave strong fellow after pinning a fighting bull to the ground by twisting its head and holding it down by the horns.

The confrontation was held on the grounds of the Makabe residence. In preparation for the bout several shiijakata (referees) and a horde of excited young men had gathered in the courtyard to observe the exhibition. First the contestants were required to demonstrate their strength by lifting a ninety kilogram chikarasaashi (old style stones used in power training, similar to today’s barbells). First Makabe, without much effort, did twenty quick presses over his head before putting the apparatus back down on the ground. The audience remained collected as they knew Makabe trained every day. However, when it came time for Funakoshi to attempt the lift there was a pause. He was unfamiliar with the equipment and the conditions were different from what he was used to, and the audience sensed it too. Yet, in spite of the variations, Funakoshi attacked the chikarasaashi and rattled off the same amount of repetitions as did Makabe. The crowd was astonished by Funakoshi’s power and immediately showed its enthusiasm.