7.1. How did pro wrestling get its start in Japan?
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This article is from the Pro-Wrestling FAQ, by macika@emunix.emich.edu (Dominic Macika) with numerous contributions by others.
7.1. How did pro wrestling get its start in Japan?
Pro-wrestling in Japan dates back nearly as far as it does in the
US. In 1883, former sumo, Shokichi Hamada, left to tour the US as
the first Japanese pro-wrestler. In 1887, Hamada brought 20
American wrestlers to Tokyo for a series of shows. The first show
sold-out, but subsequent shows failed to draw any crowds.
Several attempts were made to spark an interest in wrestling in
Japan, none of which were successful until the 1950's. Rikidozan,
who retired from Sumo in 1950, became Japan's first big name male
drawing card. He made his debut in 1951. In 1953, he formed the
Japan Wrestling Alliance. He continued to wrestle until his death
in December, 1963.
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