More details:
The main character preferred fighting unarmed, or with very short weapons, feeling that any long weapon could be countered by getting in close
This fighting style is unique to his clan, whose name begins with an M (yes, I'm 100% sure of that)
The main character's final fight was with another good-guy, whose skill was on par with his own
This other good-guy carried both a katana and a wakizashi (slightly shorter sword), and in one case used one of them as a throwing weapon
The "other good guy" wore a blue kimono
The genre is both historically inspired, but slightly "shonen-ized".
I think these details combined are unique to this particular anime.
Looking for the name, but also an opportunity to re-watch. Any helpful links are also appreciated!
I'll keep adding details as I remember them, until someone correctly names it!
Update
As Dario guessed, it was Shura no Toki. I highly recommend this one because of its similarity to certain historical characters and events.