Antonio Inoki passes away, age 79

[Big Nasty Edison]

https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/34698840/antonio-inoki-famed-combat-sports-trailblazer-dies-79

Antonio Inoki, a combat sports trailblazer, influential politician and larger-than-life figure in his native Japan, died Friday at the age of 79. The announcement was made by New Japan Pro-Wrestling, the promotion he founded.

First Gene Lebell, and now Inoki?

 

[drstrangelov]

I can’t believe Vince outlasted Inoki, I thought they’d both live to be 140.

 

[cabal]

Sad ...I almost idolize the guy in the early eighties

 

[RichardPriors]

I still remember the first time watching Inoki, on the Kings of the Ring VHS tape, against Tiger Jeet Singh, Andre, Backlund and Ali. Been a fan ever since.

 

[Cantalope]

The most important person in Japanese wrestling history and wrestling in general.

 

[Max Power]

RIP. A legit legend.

 

[TennBJJ]

There needs to be a word beyond legendary that describes a guy like Inoki, hell Judo Gene as well. His wikipedia reads a cheesy unbelievable move script: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Inoki

Trained under Rikidozan (God Tier)
"Fought" Muhammad Ali
Founded arguably the most successful wrestling company in Japan's history
Successfully negotiated with Saddam Hussein for the release of Japanese hostages before the outbreak of the Gulf War
Went on peace missions to North Korea while in politics to promote unity

I bow my chin in a moment of silence for one of the true greats.

 

[White Whale]

Nice tribute to a very important person in pro wrestling history.

 

[Thrawn33]

Judo Gene reffing that match between him and Ali....

To Valhalla

 

[Big Nasty Edison]

Judo Gene reffing that match between him and Ali....

To Valhalla

Time for a rematch.

 

[Frank23]

 

[Frank23]

 

[Ubeja Vontell]

The most important person in Japanese wrestling history and wrestling in general.

Rikidozan
Sholhi "Giant" Baba
Antonio Inoki

Japanese wrestling royalty.

 

[Frank23]

 

[ThunderL1ps]