Hollywood veteran Arnold Schwarzenegger has paid tribute to Japanese martial artist Kiyoshi Yamazaki, who had trained the actor for sword fights in the 1982 action-adventure film Conan the Barbarian, following the 83-year-old’s passing on Wednesday.

Sharing pictures from his sword-play training with Kiyoshi on the set of Conan the Barbarian, Schwarzenegger expressed his condolences and gratitude towards his former sensei. “He played an important role in my life, he was a dear friend, and my thoughts are with his family,” he wrote.

Kiyoshi Yamazaki Kaicho served as the overseas chief instructor and president of Japan Karate-Do Ryobu-Kai, an organisation committed to the instruction and promotion of classical Japanese karate. He was born on August 16, 1940, in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, and received his early martial arts education from his father who was a kendo teacher.

Yamazaki dedicated his life to the promotion of traditional Japanese karate not only in Japan but also around the world. His unwavering commitment led him to work in several Hollywood films, including Schwarzenegger’s fantasy film Conan the Barbarian.

“He was a wonderful man and a fantastic teacher who made me believable as Conan the Barbarian with his sword training,” wrote the 76-year-old actor, recalling how Kiyoshi had a massive impact on his character, Conan, from the film.

The Terminator star and former governor of California further emphasised on his philosophy that “no one is self-made” and that Yamazaki had helped make his character realistic and successful. “When I say no one is self-made, this is what I mean. Who knows if Conan would have been a success if Sensei Yamazki didn’t make my swordplay realistic?” the actor wrote.

The 1982 film Conan the Barbarian, directed by John Milius and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger in the titular role, catapulted the actor to the spotlight. It follows the epic journey of Conan, a young Cimmerian boy whose peaceful village is ravaged by the merciless Thulsa Doom and his cult of followers. The film showcases Conan's growth from a vengeful survivor to a powerful and determined hero.