WRITE THAT DOWN! A Professional Wrestling Podcast w/ Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper – Détails, épisodes et analyse

From Beauty Pair to Bull Nakano: The Evolution of Joshi Pro Wrestling

Dive into the rich history of Joshi Pro Wrestling in Japan with hosts Justin Knipper and Fumi Saito. In part two of this mini-series, we explore the evolution of women's wrestling from the 1980s through the 1990s. Discover the impact of legendary figures like Mimi Hagiwara, Jaguar Yokota, and the iconic Crush Gals. Learn about the rise of JWP and the pivotal role of Bull Nakano in transforming the wrestling landscape.

We also delve into the inter-promotional rivalries of the early 90s, the innovative matches that captivated audiences, and the unforgettable moments from events like the 1993 Yokohama show. With insights on the introduction of international talent like Medusa and the influence of various wrestling styles, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how Joshi Pro Wrestling became a phenomenon.

Join us as we recount the stories, matches, and characters that defined an era and set the stage for future generations of female wrestlers. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of Joshi Pro Wrestling, this episode is packed with fascinating details and nostalgic highlights.

Join us on an eye-opening journey as we delve into the rich and often overlooked history of Joshi Pro Wrestling in Japan. In this episode, hosts Justin Knipper and Fumi Saito explore the roots and evolution of women's professional wrestling, tracing its origins from the 1950s to the early 1970s.

Discover how legends like Mildred Burke and Fabulous Moolah influenced the Japanese scene, and learn about the unique development of Joshi wrestling, separate from men's wrestling in Japan. We cover the rise of iconic figures such as Maha Fumiake and the Beauty Pair, and how their incredible popularity shaped the sport.

If you're a fan of wrestling history or just curious about the distinct world of Joshi Pro Wrestling, this episode is a must-listen. 

For more insights and to join the conversation, follow Fumi Saito on Twitter at @Fumihikodayo and Justin Knipper at @JustinMKnipper.

Jump into the riveting world of celebrities stepping into the pro wrestling thrilling arena in this illuminating episode of Write That Down! Hosted by Wrestling Historians, Justin Knipper and Mr. Fumi Saito, we dive deep into the transformative impact of celebrities' involvement in professional wrestling. From Bad Bunny to Mike Tyson, discover how this trend has evolved and how fans' perception of celebrities in the sport has changed over the years.

Explore the fascinating career of Bam Bam Bigelow and his significant role in shaping the wrestling industry. Unravel Bigelow's unique wrestling style and his ability to work across language barriers, making him a beloved name in the sport both in America and Japan. Learn about the financial success and the lasting impact of Bigelow, and how his improvisational style has shaped the participation of other wrestling celebrities.

Dive into the mysterious five-year existence of the wrestling company 'Hustle' and its impact on the industry. Listen to engaging conversations about Naoya Ogawa's stint in HUSTLE, his rivalry with Shinya Hashimoto, and how even heroes like Nobuhiko Takada left a significant impression after acting in comical characters for the Hustle company.

Explore the increasing popularity of non-wrestling personalities in the wrestling scene, as we map MMA's rise in Japan and the involvement of heavyweight champions in wrestling matches. Understand the changing fan perceptions of non-wrestler involvement and how superstar personalities are influencing wrestling's popularity in mainstream culture.

Finally, explore the journey of Yuzupon, from starting as a one-time deal for a reality TV show to becoming a three-time Tokyo Sports Wrestler of the Year and her intriguing transformation into a bodybuilder. Understand the shifting landscape of wrestling, and its increasing intersection with mainstream fame and social media, as wrestlers chart out new paths for their careers, from YouTube celebrities to TV show appearances.

Whether you're a wrestling fan or someone fascinated by the intersections of sports and celebrities, this episode promises intriguing insights and engaging discussions. So, tune in and join the conversation on X and Facebook with your thoughts or suggestions.

We give you a rare inside-look at the world of wrestling from the eyes of a seasoned journalist who has been tracking and shaping the industry for over four decades. We delve into insightful discussions about the influence of Japanese wrestling, debunking numerous baseless rumors floating on social media and readjusting unfair narratives from the likes of Kenny Omega or Tony Khan. Get ready to explore the connections between prominent industry figures and the groundless rumors they often find themselves tangled in.

This episode blows wide open the ill-defined allegations that often plague various figures in wrestling and shines a spotlight on the enigmatic world of the wrestling industry. Featuring an emphasis on the relationship and intricate interactions of Rossy Ogawa, one of the industry's stalwarts, expect some thought-provoking yield from this conversation.

We wade through the murky waters of wrestling journalism, exposing the unfortunate landscape marred by misinformation and ignorance fueled by social media. Also, we explore the clash between Japanese and Western wrestling fans, exposing the gaps in cultural knowledge and variances in perspective that often hamper international coverage of wrestling.

Be prepared to understand the nuances of talent ‘poaching’ and navigate challenging discussions around public perceptions and reputation defense on emerging public platforms. As we close the episode, we also discuss the grittier realities of the wrestling industry and emphasize the importance of rigorous fact-checking in an era ripe with misinformation.

Take a trip down memory lane as we break down the remarkable journey of Rossy Ogawa, the founder of the All Japan Women's Division, and his pivotal role in shaping the women's professional wrestling scene. Experience the unraveling of Rossy's unwavering determination to create a win-win culture in the industry, shedding light on the rise of Stardom, the challenges it faced, and the reputation it has built over the last 40 years.

Gain insights into Rossy's final business challenge: fostering a new wave of talent utilizing a dojo-style training module under distinguished coaches like Nanae Takahashi. We also look back at the unsuccessful business dealings between AEW and Stardom that led to a fallout. Despite these rifts, the undying spirit of the wrestling fraternity remains strong, as symbolized by Hana Kimura’s memorial show.

The episode further delves into the transformative influence of renowned journalist Dave Meltzer on wrestling journalism. From his innovative star system that revolutionized the industry to the shift towards digital platforms, this conversation covers it all. Also, enjoy anecdotes around significant personalities like Harold Sakata and tackle the unique challenges that summer wrestling tournaments present in Japan.

Brimming with wrestling history and insights, this episode is a must-listen for every fan and enthusiast looking to enrich their knowledge. Stay tuned!

https://www.podbean.com/media/share/dir-zasfz-13a0b29b?utm_campaign=w_share_ep&utm_medium=dlink&utm_source=w_share X: @fumihikodayo X: @justinmknipper Email: thisiswritethatdown@gmail.com

Welcome to this intriguing episode of "Write That Down" with Fumi Saito, where we delve deep into the profound influence of Lucha Libre on Japanese Pro Wrestling. From the 1930s till now, this episode provides an in-depth look at the fascinating history, traditions, and techniques adopted from Mexican wrestling.

Hear captivating stories about pioneers like Masahiko Kimura, younger wrestlers like Shinsuke Nakamura and Yujiro Takahashi, and female wrestling champions like Manami Toyotas and our very own Hana Kimura. Discover how each of these iconic figures brought back fresh ideas and innovative moves from Mexico, significantly shaping the wrestling landscape of Japan for decades.

This enriching narrative also explores the overlooked aspect of Japanese wrestling's influence in Mexico and vice versa, with a spotlight on iconic matches from Bret Hart's Mexico stint to the WWE ring. Learn about the cultural significance of masks, rule breaker vs good guy dynamics, mythologies, weight divisions and much more. A pivotal part of our tale revolves around Ultimo Dragon’s transformative journey, who creatively merged both wrestling cultures, bringing a unique highlight to the sport.

Uncover the rise of Michinoku Pro Wrestling, key contributions of Great Sasuke and explore the visionary birth and growth of independent wrestling companies in Northern Japan. The episode also discusses the trials and triumphs of these companies, influence of Lucha Libre and it's role in opening doors for the younger talent.

Join us, as we finally delve into the 90s era of lucha libre in Japanese wrestling, focusing on the training of prominent figures like Kazuchika Okada. An enticing journey into the past, present, and future of Japanese Pro Wrestling, especially for the history lovers and wrestling enthusiasts!

(This episode first aired in May 2021)

Dive into a fascinating exploration of the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) Championship’s rich history and significance in Japan in this riveting podcast episode. Revisit an epic timeline that stretches from the late 1950s to the early 2000s, featuring legendary wrestling icons like Lou Thesz, Ric Flair, Dory Funk Jr., Harley Race, and Jack Brisco.

Understand the profound impact the NWA Championship had, not only in the United States but also on the Japanese wrestling scene. Gain insight into renowned title matches, thrilling rivalries, and the altering dynamics of wrestling scenes over the years. Learn how Japan's wrestling scene profoundly contributed to the NWA title's global appeal and influence.

Explore the era of Dory Funk Jr.'s reign as the NWA Champion and the indispensable role the Funks played in carving the trajectory of Japanese wrestling history. Get a glimpse of the interesting power shifts during Giant Baba's establishment of All Japan Pro Wrestling in 1972, illuminating the intricate dynamics of the wrestling world. For dedicated wrestling fans and ardent researchers, this episode unveils deep insights into the backstage works of wrestling promotions, alliances, and industry dynamics.

This episode takes listeners through the significant evolution the NWA underwent as wrestling shifted focus. Discover how the organization navigated through the changing wrestling landscape, grappling with its identity and reputation, and ultimately its impact on Japan's wrestling industry. Despite its challenges, the NWA remains a distinctive figure in wrestling history due to its vital role in shaping the global wrestling scene.

Trace the convoluted journey of the NWA World Title, navigating through the maze of American and Japanese wrestling history to its current place in the larger wrestling universe. Discover the influential times when the NWA World Title shifted hands, examine legendary bouts, and delve into hall-of-fame careers, shaping the title's legacy. Finally, the episode reflects on the evolution of wrestling consumption and technology's role, discussing how these changes influence the title’s prestige in the booming global market. (This episode first aired in August 2022)

This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of Rossy Ogawa's newly announced wrestling company called MARIGOLD. Gain first-hand information about the company, its wrestlers, and upcoming events, while also exploring various speculations and rumors in this fascinating discourse on the current state of the wrestling industry.

Discover the nuances of the speculated Giulia-Rossy link and learn about the possible appearances of renowned WWE superstars in MARIGOLD. Understand the economic implications of the company's launch on the wrestling industry and compare it with the American and Japanese wrestling landscapes. Find out how renowned wrestling talents internationally are joining MARIGOLD and the excitement this move has generated among fans.

Get insights into the surprising collaborations MARIGOLD is engaging in, like the debut of ActWres Girls, who have finally found their place in the wrestling world. Meet renowned wrestlers joining the ranks of MARIGOLD, like Utami Hayashishita, MIRAI, and Mai Sakurai. This, and much more, in this riveting episode packed full of wrestling knowledge and interesting encounters.

Also, uncover the intriguing journey of Rossy Ogawa in the wrestling business, get to know his visionary ideas for MARIGOLD, and track major milestones in his career like the foundation and sale of Stardom. Learn about the player dynamics, understand the vision Rossy holds for MARIGOLD, and also uncover the calculated steps Rossy is taking to etch a mark on the global women's wrestling landscape.

Don't be left out of the loop! Join us as we take you right into the heart of the wrestling industry, shedding light on the exciting happenings taking place within MARIGOLD.

Revisit the fascinating career of pro wrestling legend, Haku, in today's scintillating discussion. Tracing his origins from the tranquil island of Tonga to his presence in the sports entertainment industry, delve deep into Haku's incredible evolution as a fighter and a wrestler.This episode shines a spotlight on his early wrestling days in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), the transformational years in Japan as a Sumo wrestler, to his rise to stardom in America's wrestling circles.

Haku's journey was not without setbacks, though, yet his tenacity kept him striving. After an abrupt exit from the world of Sumo, he found himself back in Tonga where fate propelled him towards Giant Baba's All Japan Pro Wrestling. The episode further takes you on a tour of Haku's memorable matches, thrilling audiences worldwide with his in-ring violence and 'tough-guy' persona. Tune in to discover more about his tag-team collaborations, particularly with the Barbarian.

Through this episode, gain insight into Haku's mastery on the wrestling mat and his subtle charisma off it. Explore his long-held prominence in the wrestling world, and soak up the details of his career milestones. Still a formidable figure in sports entertainment, Haku's legacy continues to inspire upcoming wrestlers, his humble demeanor resonating with fans globally. This is an absolute must-listen for those passionate about wrestling history and the influential stars who have ruggedly shaped it.

In this illuminating episode, we embark on a deep dive into the sensational journey of Bull Nakano, the first female Japanese wrestler inducted into the prestigious WWE Hall of Fame. Well known for marking an undeniable imprint on women's wrestling globally, we explore Nakano's rise to stardom and her substantial contribution in shifting perceptions of the sport.

We journey back to the '80s and '90s, chronicling the growth and evolution of women's wrestling in Japan while highlighting the tremendous achievements of the Crush Gals. In this spotlight, we focus on Nakano's pivotal role in attracting male audiences to the sport, "changing the narrative," as the kids say.

Our episode puts Nakano's glorious career front and center, starting with her impressive first wrestling match which made a transformative impact on the sport. We delve into the intricate details of her wrestling career, including ground-breaking matches, winning the Red Belt WWWA Champion title at an early age, and leading new wrestling factions.

Apart from her extraordinary wrestling prowess, Nakano's talents weren't limited to the ring. Her charisma and unique style maintained a long-lasting imprint on the wrestling scene in both Japan and the United States. From being the face of several promotions to headlining over 300 shows annually, Nakano's era in wrestling was undeniably phenomenal.

The episode sets the stage for exploring Nakano's journey from All Japan Women's Wrestling to WWE. We delve into Nakano's riveting rivalries, significant retirements, memorable wins, and world tours that shaped the sport. The episode also touches on Nakano's surprising shift to pursue professional golfing and her exciting comeback to the wrestling scene.

We round off the episode with an exciting discussion about Nakano's long-deserved induction into the WWE Hall of Fame and her enduring legacy as a pioneer in the wrestling industry. Packed with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and insights, this episode is a must-listen for wrestling enthusiasts and those intrigued by the fascinating world of women's pro wrestling.

This week Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper offer up a thorough review of the film, 'Iron Claw - The Von Erich Family Story.' They highlight the movie's retelling of tragic tales plus the vital historical moments that may have been left out of the film, and the challenges of recreating events from wrestling history. Discover how the film captures significant events, including fatal accidents and victories that shaped the Von Erich's wrestling legacy. Their analysis covers major characters from the World Class territory in Dallas who played a large role in the Von Erich family story, talking Bruiser Brody, Chris Adams, and Gino Hernandez, among others.

Fumi & Justin's review acknowledges the film's remarkable reconstruction of the Dallas Sportatorium as well as its authentic soundtrack, capturing the late '70s and early '80s era charm. It's not just a wrestling movie, but an emotional story about family, tragedy, and survival. It is a testament to the passion for the sport and the legacy of the wrestling family, the Von Erichs. Today's show offers a unique perspective on the remarkable, yet tragically brief, careers, the controversies, and the unique elements of the Von Erichs' story not generally covered in mainstream media.

The two also uncover lesser-known details of the story, like Kerry Von Erich's resilience in the face of adversity, his reputation as an instant sensation as fan favorite "Texas Tornado" in WWF. They also explored the Von Erichs' stint in New Japan and their global tours during their WWE tenure, their friendship with other superstar wrestlers, and their tragic family saga. The film  demystifies the backstage world of wrestling which culminates in a bittersweet reunion in the afterlife – a metaphorical representation of the family's long-awaited peace. Despite the heartbreaking history, Fumi & Justin's discussion ends on a positive note, encouraging listeners to watch this eye-opening depiction of the Von Erichs' legacy.

(AI + JK)