The world's oldest man is 112-year-old Japanese Yukichi Chuganji, of Ogoori, Fukuoka Prefecture, according to the Guinness Book of Records.
Chuganji received the distinction after Antonio Todde, an Italian who held the title also at the age of 112, died in early January.
"I never expected to live this long but it indeed makes me happy," Chuganji was quoted as saying.
Guinness Book officials notified Chuganji in late January via the Ogoori Municipal Government Office, said his first daughter, Kyoko, 72, with whom he lives.
Chuganji was born March 23, 1889, in the prefectural city of Chikushino. He was recognized as the oldest man in Japan in 2000 and 2001.
Although he no longer goes out, due to his poor eyesight, Chuganji remains in good shape, his daughter said.
Italy's Todde, who had held the crown of "The Oldest Living Man on Earth" in the Guinness Book of Records, died on the island of Sardinia, relatives said Jan. 4.