A Japanese professional wrestler and boxer, known for his time in WWE and New Japan Pro-Wrestling, competing in various championships and tournaments.
Yoshi Tatsu, born Naofumi Yamamoto on August 1, 1977, is a Japanese professional wrestler, former boxer, and mixed martial artist, known for his dynamic career in the wrestling industry, spanning over two decades.
Yamamoto began his journey in the world of sports at a young age, exceling in boxing and jujutsu. His passion for professional wrestling led him to audition for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) in September 2001. After being selected, he began training at the NJPW dojo in March 2002 and later traveled to Los Angeles to further hone his skills.
Yamamoto made his in-ring debut on October 12, 2002, facing Wataru Inoue in Korakuen Hall. Initially, he worked low-card matches, gaining valuable ring experience and eventually participating in the 2004 Young Lion Cup, where he defeated Hirooki Goto, Akiya Anzawa, and Hiroshi Nagao to earn six points.
In 2007, Yamamoto signed with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), where he adopted the ring name Yoshi Tatsu. He spent two years in WWE's developmental territory before joining the main roster in 2009. During his time in WWE, Tatsu became a fan favorite, known for his high-energy performances and technical grappling skills.
After his release from WWE in June 2014, Yamamoto returned to NJPW in October of the same year, this time adopting the tweaked ring name Yoshitatsu. He continued to make a name for himself in the Japanese wrestling scene, participating in several notable matches and tournaments.
Following his departure from NJPW in late 2017, Yamamoto became a freelancer, working for various promotions, including All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW). In 2020, he signed a full-time contract with AJPW, where he remains an active competitor to this day.
Yamamoto is a private individual, keeping his personal life out of the spotlight. However, his dedication to his craft has earned him a reputation as one of the most respected and accomplished professional wrestlers in the industry.
Yoshi Tatsu's remarkable career has inspired a generation of professional wrestlers, demonstrating the importance of perseverance, hard work, and adaptability in the ever-changing world of sports entertainment. As he continues to compete at the highest level, his legacy as one of the most accomplished Japanese professional wrestlers of all time remains cemented in the annals of wrestling history.
49 Years Old
A legendary professional wrestler, known for his charismatic performances and iconic matches in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, earning him the nickname "The Ace."
42 Years Old
A professional wrestler known for his high-flying moves and championship titles in various promotions, including All Elite Wrestling and New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
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.
49 Years Old
A phenomenal wrestler renowned for his athleticism, charismatic performances, and championship titles in WWE and other promotions.
46 Years Old
A Japanese professional wrestler and mixed martial artist known for his charismatic persona, impressive in-ring performances, and iconic entrance music. He's a fan favorite in the WWE universe.
