Iwamori of the Open Fist

Iwamori of the Open Fist was originally introduced in the 2004 Saviors of Kamigawa expansion, reflecting the Japanese mythology-inspired setting of that block. The character represents a legendary monk whose design emphasizes the mechanical trade-off of offering an opponent a significant advantage in exchange for his own high power and toughness, a thematic reflection of a balanced martial artist's philosophy.

The version from the Masters 25 set, released in 2018 to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of Magic: The Gathering, features artwork by Paolo Parente. Parente, a prolific illustrator known for his dynamic and muscular character work, portrays Iwamori with a grounded, stoic intensity that aligns with the set's goal of highlighting iconic or flavorful cards from the game's extensive history. As an uncommon rarity card in this reprint set, it serves as a nod to the enduring design language of the Kamigawa era.