Inoki

Antonio Inoki, also known simply as Inoki, was a Japanese professional wrestler, promoter, and politician whose career helped shape modern professional wrestling in Japan. He co-founded New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) in 1972 and built it into one of the world's leading wrestling promotions, renowned for blending sport and spectacle. His in-ring persona and his pursuit of a more athletic, martial arts-inspired style influenced generations of wrestlers.

One notable moment was the 1976 exhibition match with boxing legend Muhammad Ali in Tokyo, which drew global attention and helped popularize cross-disciplinary combat sport. Beyond wrestling, Inoki pursued politics and served as a member of the Japanese House of Councillors from 1989 to 1995.

In 2008 he established Inoki Genome Federation (IGF), a promotion focusing on martial arts-inspired competition and cross-promotion with other organizations. His influence extended into sports diplomacy and popular culture; he remained a central figure in Japanese wrestling for decades. Inoki died on December 1, 2022, leaving a lasting legacy in how pro wrestling intersects with martial arts and entertainment.