A Japanese-American wrestler and trainer, known for competing in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and training numerous wrestlers, including WWE champions. He's a behind-the-scenes figure in the world of professional wrestling.
Sakoda's journey began in the late 1990s, where he honed his skills in the NWA ZeroOne promotion in Japan. During this time, he also filled in as an instructor at Ultimate Pro Wrestling's (UPW) Ultimate University, rubbing shoulders with Japanese superstars Masato Tanaka and Shinjiro Otani as part of the faction Team Emblem.
Sakoda's big break came in 2003, when he made his first on-screen appearance for WWE on Raw as a judge for World Heavyweight Champion Triple H and Scott Steiner's pose down. Signing a developmental contract shortly after, Sakoda was eventually brought up to SmackDown's main roster, debuting alongside Akio as the heel tag team Kyo Dai, the yakuza-style henchmen of Tajiri.
Despite being released from his WWE contract in 2004, Sakoda continued to make waves in the wrestling world. Returning to UPW as a part-time trainer, he also made appearances in MTV's Wrestling Society X and worked as a server for Disney at the Grand California Hotel.
Sakoda was a pioneer in the fight for wrestlers' rights, filing a class-action lawsuit against WWE alleging that wrestlers sustained traumatic brain injuries while wrestling for the company, and that the company tried to conceal that information.
Ryan Sakoda's contributions to the world of professional wrestling go beyond his in-ring accomplishments. As a trainer, advocate, and trailblazer, Sakoda's impact will continue to inspire future generations of wrestlers.
57 Years Old
A legendary Olympic gold medalist and WWE Hall of Famer, known for his intense wrestling matches and charismatic persona.
61 Years Old
A legendary figure in the world of professional wrestling, known for his charismatic performances, impressive athleticism, and iconic matches that still thrill fans today.
57 Years Old
A legendary wrestler and actor, known for his iconic in-ring performances and backstage politics in the WWE, as well as his roles in films and TV shows.
46 Years Old
A third-generation professional wrestler, known for his athleticism and intense matches, holding multiple championships in the WWE.
49 Years Old
A charismatic WWE champion and Hollywood actor, known for his unstoppable wrestling persona and versatility in films and TV shows.
61 Years Old
A legendary figure in the world of professional wrestling, known for his intimidating presence, undefeated streak at WrestleMania, and iconic character that has captivated audiences for decades.
52 Years Old
A legendary wrestler and actor who entertained millions with his intense matches and charismatic performances, particularly in the WWE. He's a 11-time world champion and a member of the WWE Hall of Fame.
55 Years Old
A legendary wrestler known for his charismatic performances, iconic matches, and record-breaking championships in WWE and AEW. He's a six-time world champion and a pioneer of the industry.