A Japanese wrestling legend who founded the Dradition wrestling promotion, known for his iconic in-ring style and contributions to the sport.
Tatsumi Fujinami, born December 28, 1953, is a Japanese professional wrestler renowned for his illustrious career, spanning over four decades, and his numerous accolades, including six IWGP Heavyweight Championships. Nicknamed "The Dragon," Fujinami is credited with inventing the dragon sleeper and the dragon suplex, moves that have become synonymous with his legendary status in the world of professional wrestling.
Fujinami's journey in professional wrestling began at the tender age of 17, when he joined the Japanese Wrestling Association (JWA) under the guidance of Antonio Inoki. When Inoki was fired from JWA in 1971, Fujinami, along with a few others, followed him to form a new promotion, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). This marked the beginning of Fujinami's long and fruitful association with NJPW, where he would go on to become one of the promotion's most decorated and revered wrestlers.
In the late 1970s, Fujinami's career gained momentum as he began competing in various international promotions, including Mexico's Universal Wrestling Association (UWA) and the United States' Jim Crockett Promotions. His stint in the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF), now known as WWE, where he won his first title, the WWWF Junior Heavyweight Championship, on January 23, 1978, catapulted him to fame.
Fujinami's impressive résumé boasts an astonishing nine world championships across NJPW, NWA, UWA, and WCWA. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2015 and serves as an ambassador for the company. Bret Hart, a wrestling legend in his own right, has praised Fujinami, saying, "I always wanted to be the great wrestler that Tatsumi Fujinami was."
Fujinami's influence on professional wrestling is undeniable. He is credited with inspiring a generation of wrestlers, including the likes of Bret Hart and others. His innovative moves, such as the dragon sleeper and dragon suplex, have been adopted by many, and his contributions to the sport have earned him a revered place in the annals of professional wrestling history.
After retiring from active competition, Fujinami went on to establish his own wrestling promotion, Dradition, which has become a platform for emerging talent. His association with WWE, where he serves as a legends contract holder, has enabled him to remain involved in the sport he loves, albeit in a different capacity.
While Fujinami's professional life has been well-documented, his personal life remains relatively private. However, it is known that he is involved in various charitable initiatives, using his platform to give back to the community.
Fujinami's remarkable career, marked by numerous achievements and accolades, has cemented his status as a legend in the world of professional wrestling. His contributions to the sport continue to inspire new generations of wrestlers, and his legacy will undoubtedly endure for years to come.
83 Years Old
A pioneering Japanese professional wrestler, mixed martial artist, and politician who promoted interpromotional matches and founded New Japan Pro-Wrestling. He's known for his intense wrestling style and promoting international wrestling events.
88 Years Old
A pioneering Japanese professional wrestler and promoter who founded a prominent wrestling organization, revolutionizing the sport in Japan. He's revered for his in-ring accomplishments and entrepreneurial spirit.
Born in 1916
A legendary wrestler and trainer who dominated the sport in the mid-20th century, holding multiple world championships and influencing generations of grapplers.
Born in 1926
A pioneering wrestler and trainer who dominated the ring in the 1950s and 1960s, known for his charismatic persona and innovative grappling techniques.
91 Years Old
A legendary wrestler, sportscaster, and actor who entertained audiences with his charismatic persona and impressive in-ring skills, earning multiple championships and a place in the WWE Hall of Fame.
