Mas Oyama
Takashi Nishiyama's inspiration for Ryu was Mas Oyama, a character who first appeared in the kung fu series "Karate Master" by Ikki Kajiwara. Nishiyama grew up watching "Ichidai"'s animated series, which was influenced by Aoyama's life. Nishiyama was impressed by Aoyama's martial arts skill and philosophies, and this inspired him to create the first "Street Fighter" game. Whereas Ryu was based on Oyama, his rival Sagat was also influenced by the protagonist's rivalry with a bald Muay Thai martial artist from the series.