When it comes to the history of New Japan Pro Wrestling, one name stands above all else. Antonio Inoki was one of the biggest stars in the companies history, and the man who formed the company. However, at 79 years old – Antonio Inoki would pass away earlier today.
Antonio Inoki Changed The World Of Professional Wrestling
This news would reach the west through Yahoo Japan, confirming the passing of the professional wrestler turned politician. In professional wrestling, Inoki is someone who combined the worlds of combat sports with professional wrestling to invent “Strong Style”, which is still used by NJPW 50 years later.
He would become a three time IWGP Heavyweight Champion, four time NWF Heavyweight Champion, and two time WWF Worlds Martial Arts Heavyweight Champion. There is also a reign as WWF Heavyweight Champion, which is not officially recognized by WWE. Inoki was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2010 – and is one of the students of Rikidozan, the father of Puroesu. His fight against Muhammed Ali also brought him a ton of fame and attention.
Inoki is someone who was able to shape the professional wrestling throughout his career. It’s hard to imagine a world without New Japan Pro Wrestling, which alongside Giant Baba’s All Japan Pro Wrestling got international interest in the countries style of wrestling. His in-ring accomplishments come second to the changes he managed to push across the industry.
A Second Life In Politics
In addition to his time in the ring, he entered the world of politics in 1989 – following in his fathers footsteps. He was elected into the House of Councillors as a representative of his ow “Sports & Peace Party”. In 1990, Inoki travelled to Iraq in a one man diplomatic mission, and successfully negotiated with Saddam Hussein for the release of Japanese hostages after the Gulf War. He left politics for 18 years in 1994, and returned in 2013 for a second stint as part of the “Japan Restoration Party”, and stuck around until 2019.
Many overlook his time in politics, and focus on his time in the ring – but he spent equal parts of his life in both worlds. He’s been rarely featured on NJPW programming as of late, but showed up in a pre-recorded video for their 50th anniversary show.
What is your favorite moment from his career? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
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