Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Riki Choshu

Riki Choshu (長州力, Chōshū Riki; born Mitsuo Yoshida, December 3, 1951) is a Korean-Japanese retired best known for his extensive career in (NJPW), where he competed as a hardcore brawler and innovative booker who shaped the promotion's rivalry-driven storylines in the 1980s and 1990s. Born in Tokuyama, , , to immigrant parents, Choshu faced early discrimination but excelled in amateur , representing at the and winning Japan's national championships in 1973 before transitioning to . Debuting in NJPW in 1974 after training in , he gained prominence in the late through international excursions and returned in to lead the Ishingun stable, igniting intense faction wars that revolutionized booking by emphasizing outsider invasions and strong-style intensity, drawing from his real-life outsider perspective as a Zainichi . Among his key achievements, Choshu captured the three times between 1987 and 1992, popularized the Sasori-Gatame (Scorpion Deathlock) submission hold, and triumphed in the 1996 tournament at age 44, solidifying his legacy as a bridge between NJPW's foundational era and its modern global appeal.

Early Life and Background

Childhood and Family

Riki Choshu, born Mitsuo Yoshida (Korean name: Kwak Gwang-ung) on December 3, 1951, in Tokuyama, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, was the youngest of four sons in a working-class family. His father, a Korean immigrant from Chungcheongbuk-do province who had relocated to Japan in 1939 before World War II, worked as a garbage collector, reflecting the economic challenges faced by many Zainichi Korean households during the post-war period. Choshu's mother was Japanese, a detail that positioned the family within the complex dynamics of mixed-heritage Zainichi communities. The family's modest circumstances fostered an environment of from an early age, with Choshu adopting the Mitsuo Yoshida as a practical measure amid the pressures of in Japanese . This upbringing in a labor-intensive household, marked by his father's manual labor, contributed to the development of Choshu's disciplined , though specific childhood anecdotes beyond family structure remain sparsely documented in available records.

Ethnic Heritage and Naturalization

Riki Choshu was born Kwak Gwang-ung on December 3, 1951, in , then-capital of the Republic of , to parents of Korean ethnicity whose migration to traced to the era of Japanese imperial expansion into from to , when over 2 million Koreans relocated for coerced or incentivized labor in Japanese industries such as mining and manufacturing. As a second-generation Zainichi Korean—referring to ethnic Koreans and their descendants residing in post-colonial period—Choshu was raised primarily in after his family's return or relocation there shortly after his birth, holding the status of a special permanent resident (tokubetsu eijūsha), a legal category established in 1991 for Zainichi individuals to affirm long-term residency rights without conferring , amid a demographic of roughly 300,000–400,000 Zainichi Koreans as of the early 21st century who retained foreign nationality under the 1952 San Francisco Peace Treaty framework that excluded them from Japanese . This resident status stemmed from causal historical factors including wartime mobilization and postwar repatriation options, where many Zainichi opted to remain in due to established , economic opportunities, or North Korean repatriation campaigns that displaced over 90,000 to the DPRK between 1959 and 1984, leaving southern affiliates with South or stateless ties. Choshu's early adoption of a , Mitsuo Yoshida, and later the Riki Choshu in 1974 upon debut, illustrated personal agency in navigating identity, prioritizing professional integration over ethnic signaling in a field demanding public assimilation. Choshu's career trajectory, rising to become a marquee figure in despite documented Zainichi experiences of and , underscored meritocratic advancement through athletic prowess and market demand rather than reliance on ethnic narratives of perpetual victimhood, as evidenced by his sustained top billing from the onward amid a Zainichi where naturalization rates hovered below 1% annually prior to policy liberalizations. In April 2016, after 64 years of residency, Choshu as a citizen, a process requiring renunciation of prior nationality per Japan's single-citizenship rule, which he described in autobiographical reflections as a pragmatic administrative shift rather than identity overhaul. This occurred against a backdrop of increasing Zainichi naturalizations, facilitated by eased requirements since the , reflecting adaptive responses to legal and socioeconomic incentives over ideological stasis.

Amateur Wrestling Career

Collegiate and National Achievements

Choshu enrolled at Senshu University, a prominent institution for wrestling in Japan, where he competed in the heavyweight division during the early 1970s. The university's demanding training regimen emphasized physical conditioning, technical drills, and competitive intensity, fostering his exceptional strength and grappling fundamentals that later defined his style. In 1971, competing as Mitsuo Yoshida, he secured the All-Japan Student Wrestling Championship and Japanese Collegiate Freestyle Championship in the 90 kg class, demonstrating dominance in through superior takedowns and control. This victory highlighted his potential and led to his selection for international competition. At age 21, Choshu represented South Korea at the 1972 Munich Olympics in the 90 kg freestyle wrestling category, marking his entry onto the global stage amid the event's heightened security following the tragic attacks. Although he did not medal, the experience refined his competitive resilience against elite international opponents. Following the Olympics, Choshu transitioned to heavier weight classes and claimed Japan's national titles in both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling in the 100 kg division in 1973, underscoring his versatility across styles and solidifying his status as a top amateur talent. These accomplishments, achieved under the strict oversight of Japan's wrestling federation, provided a foundation in leverage-based holds and explosive power that influenced his later professional techniques.

Transition to Professional Wrestling

Following his participation in the 1972 Munich Olympics, where he represented South Korea in the 90 kg freestyle wrestling category but failed to place, Choshu captured Japan's national amateur wrestling championship in 1973. With further Olympic contention appearing constrained by intensifying competition and his age of 22, he pragmatically shifted to professional wrestling, leveraging his robust physique and technical foundation amid the era's expanding market for strong-style promotions in Japan. Scouted directly by NJPW founder Antonio Inoki, Choshu signed with New Japan Pro-Wrestling in 1974, viewing it as a viable extension of his athletic capital into a field blending legitimate grappling with theatrical elements. Choshu's entry into NJPW involved rigorous dojo training under Inoki's oversight, which prioritized "strong style"—a regimen fusing submissions, stiff strikes, and endurance drills to simulate realism within scripted bouts, distinguishing it from more caricatured American counterparts. He adapted techniques like takedowns and holds to narratives, enduring early camps that tested physical limits through repetitive conditioning and sparring, often incorporating influences from pioneers. This preparation honed his transition from pure competition to performance, emphasizing power-based offense over aerial maneuvers. Debuting in August 1974, Choshu's initial appearances underscored his amateur-honed strength, with explosive lifts and ground control evoking credibility, though he lacked immediate breakout appeal. NJPW soon dispatched him to for seasoning, exposing him to varied styles under trainers like , which refined his adaptability without yielding stardom, instead building groundwork for sustained international viability rooted in his foundational athleticism.

Professional Wrestling Career

Debut and Initial Development (1974–1982)

Chōshū made his professional wrestling debut on August 8, 1974, in (NJPW), facing under the ring name Mitsuo Yoshida. Early matches positioned him in preliminary and midcard roles, where he honed foundational skills in striking, , and submission holds amid NJPW's emerging strong style, characterized by realistic, high-impact exchanges influenced by founder Antonio Inoki's vision. Over the subsequent year, he competed in multi-man tags and singles bouts against journeymen, building endurance and ring awareness without standout victories. In the mid-1970s, NJPW dispatched Chōshū to for seasoning, where he wrestled under his real name in promotions like George Cannon's Superstars of Wrestling, engaging in stiff, shoot-like contests that emphasized physicality and realism. These tours, spanning roughly 1976 to 1977, exposed him to territorial veterans and honed a rugged, no-nonsense approach, contrasting softer booking while aligning with Japanese preferences for credible athleticism. Returning stateside sharpened his adaptability, as he integrated variations and leg-targeting submissions—precursors to his signature Sasori-Gatame—into a repertoire suited for prolonged, grueling encounters. By 1979, reintegrated into NJPW's main roster, Chōshū aligned with Inoki's inner circle, serving as a dependable midcard in feuds against up-and-coming talents and foreign returnees. Matches against figures like in tags and early singles, such as collaborative bouts as early as 1978, tested his technical proficiency and foreshadowed rivalries, accumulating ring time through submission-focused chains and counters without propelling him to top contention. This phase solidified his role as a workhorse, refining efficiency in strong style's causal emphasis on wear-down tactics and incremental damage over flash.

Heel Invasion and Faction Leadership (1982–1987)

In late 1982, Riki Choshu executed a pivotal turn in (NJPW) by attacking following a match loss on October 8, establishing himself as the promotion's first prominent native "traitor " and challenging Inoki's dominant loyalist structure. Shortly thereafter, Choshu departed NJPW to co-found Japan Pro-Wrestling (JPW) with Animal Hamaguchi, returning as an invading outsider faction dubbed the "Revolution Army." This group positioned itself against Inoki's inner circle, employing aggressive tactics and Choshu's newly emphasized sasori-gatame (scorpion hold) submission—a bridging figure-four innovated from amateur roots and popularized by Choshu as a devastating finisher to symbolize rebellion against the status quo. The invasion angle disrupted traditional booking hierarchies, fostering worked shoot-style confrontations that heightened realism and fan engagement through Choshu's portrayal as an disruptor. By June 1983, amid frustrations over exclusion from the inaugural tournament, Choshu officially formed the Ishin Gundan (Revolution Corps) upon a brief and return to NJPW on July 1, recruiting allies including Hamaguchi, , , and later Yoshiaki Yatsu to amplify his insurgency. The 's operations emphasized rapid, hard-hitting strikes and post-match brawls, as seen in high-tension events like the April 3 Korakuen Hall clash with Fujinami, where Choshu's interference and group assaults incited near-riots among spectators, underscoring the causal link between their dynamics and renewed intensity. Ishin Gundan's internal warfare against NJPW's establishment figures eroded Inoki's , empirically boosting event draw through polarized that prioritized over individual heroism. In 1985, Choshu relocated Ishin Gundan remnants to (AJPW) for a cross-promotional invasion starting December 8, 1984, at an AJPW event where he confronted , escalating into sustained feuds with AJPW's core like . This outsider aggression mirrored prior NJPW tactics, with Choshu and partners like Yatsu targeting AJPW's strong-style dominance via sasori-gatame applications and multi-man ambushes, contributing to attendance surges from the novelty of inter-promotional conflict—evidenced by sold-out Budokan cards amid the narrative. On April 5, 1986, in , Choshu defeated to claim the , a key AJPW title, holding it until dropping it later that year and solidifying his role in elevating invasion angles' commercial viability before departing in 1987.

NJPW Return, Booking, and Prime Years (1987–2002)

Choshu returned to (NJPW) in early 1987 after departing , bringing select associates and re-establishing himself as a leading figure in the promotion. Positioned as a prominent babyface, he rapidly ascended the card, culminating in his first victory on July 14, 1989, against . This reign highlighted his resurgence, followed by additional title wins, including an awarded championship in 1990 and a successful defense scenario leading into 1992 matches. Throughout the late and , Choshu assumed significant booking responsibilities, influencing NJPW's creative direction during a period of expansion that included high-profile events. He headlined multiple Dome shows, such as the January 4, 1993, Fantastic Story event against , drawing substantial crowds and contributing to the promotion's status as Japan's premier wrestling entity. His booking emphasized the "strong style" approach, characterized by stiff strikes and submissions like the Sasori-Gatame, while facilitating international crossovers, including WCW and collaborations such as the 1990 Wrestling Summit. In the 1990s, Choshu's backstage role propelled talents through strategic matchmaking, notably featuring marquee bouts like his August 2, 1996, clash with , rated highly for its intensity and Choshu's resilient performance despite age. He also oversaw faction revivals, such as the Heisei Ishingun, echoing earlier revolutionary groups to inject fresh dynamics into storylines. Health challenges, including accumulating injuries from his hard-hitting style, necessitated periodic adjustments, though specific interventions like hip procedures are not prominently documented in contemporary accounts. NJPW's growth during this era, marked by consistent sellouts and global outreach, aligned with Choshu's tenure, though direct revenue attribution remains inferential from event successes rather than precise financials.

Post-Prime Appearances and Retirement (2002–present)

Following his departure from (NJPW) in 2002 amid key talent exits including Keiji Mutoh and , Riki Choshu adopted a sporadic in-ring schedule across multiple promotions, shifting from full-time competition to selective legends-style bouts. He maintained ties to NJPW through occasional appearances, such as at on January 4, 2010, where he joined , , and in an eight-man victory over , Takashi Iizuka, , and , lasting 9 minutes and 37 seconds. These outings emphasized ceremonial veteran participation over sustained athletic output, aligning with his age-related physical decline after decades of high-impact matches. In the 2010s, Choshu freelanced in smaller circuits, including Dradition Pro-Wrestling and LEGEND The Pro Wrestling, logging limited matches such as three appearances for Dradition in 2017. He also promoted self-produced events under the Power Hall banner, culminating in his announced retirement at age 67. His final bout occurred on June 26, 2019, at Korakuen Hall during Power Hall: New Journey Begins, teaming with and against , Keiji Mutoh, and ; Choshu submitted to Makabe's King Kong Knee Drop, concluding a 45-year career with emotional farewells from peers. Post-2019, Choshu has eschewed active wrestling entirely, limiting involvement to non-competitive capacities like advisory consultations and event cameos, underscoring a transition to elder statesman status amid evident mobility constraints from long-term ring wear. This semi-retired phase reflects his enduring NJPW affinity without reclaiming competitive relevance, as evidenced by absence from major cards since his exit.

Championships and Accomplishments

Other Media and Public Appearances

Choshu has made appearances in several video games beyond traditional wrestling simulations, including the Yakuza series, where he is featured as a character in Yakuza Kiwami 2's Clan Creator mode. He also appears in wrestling-focused titles such as the Fire Pro Wrestling series and NJPW-licensed games like Wrestle Kingdom 2: Pro Wrestling Sekai Taisen (2007). Additional early video game inclusions feature him as a character in the 1987 Famicom title New Humanity. In Japanese television, Choshu has guested on variety programs, including episode 257 of Sukatto Japan in 2014 and the 2013 special Gaki no Tsukai No Laughing Batsu Game: Defense Force. He portrayed a role in the 2010 film . Choshu participated in actor Riki Takeuchi's music video, extending his presence into Japanese pop culture. Public discussions of Choshu's career have appeared in English-language podcasts, such as the December 2024 Write That Down episodes "Unveiling A Legend: Riki Choshu's Journey (Part 1)" and "Unpacking A Legacy: Riki Choshu's Journey (Part 2)". These outlets highlight his cultural footprint outside , though primarily through retrospective analysis rather than direct participation.

Legacy and Reception

Innovations, Influence, and Achievements

Choshu popularized the sasori-gatame submission hold, a bridging figure-four also known as the Deathlock, which he frequently applied as a finisher during his matches in (NJPW) throughout the 1980s. Although the hold's origins trace to wrestlers like and , Choshu's repeated use elevated it to a staple of strong style, influencing its adoption by subsequent generations and its eventual export to North American promotions as the . As leader of the heel faction Ishin Gundan (Revolutionary Army), Choshu spearheaded NJPW's invasion of (AJPW) starting in 1984, marking one of the earliest high-profile inter-promotional angles in history. This feud, pitting Choshu against AJPW aces like and , generated intense fan interest through unauthorized incursions and cross-promotional clashes, directly contributing to heightened attendance and revenue during NJPW's mid-1980s expansion amid the broader boom. Choshu's booking tenure in NJPW from 1987 onward emphasized a faster-paced evolution of strong style, incorporating his strike-and-sprint approach and mat-based submissions to differentiate from rivals like AJPW's king’s road. His decisions, including extended title reigns as IWGP Heavyweight Champion (e.g., and 1989–1990), aligned with NJPW's attendance surges, such as sellouts exceeding 50,000 at events like the IWGP finals, fostering the promotion's dominance in the late and early . This stylistic shift influenced later NJPW juniors by prioritizing resilient, submission-infused offense over pure brawling.

Criticisms, Controversies, and Backstage Dynamics

Choshu's in-ring has drawn for its limited variety, relying heavily on power-based strikes, suplexes, and stiff kicks rather than a diverse technical arsenal, which some analysts contend suited him primarily for shorter, high-impact matches under 15 minutes rather than endurance- epics common in Japanese promotions. This approach, while effective in building his aura as a relentless aggressor, reportedly frustrated opponents expecting more fluid exchanges, particularly in extended feuds during the . Backstage, Choshu earned a reputation as a polarizing figure known for assertive political maneuvering, including leading faction exoduses that disrupted promotions amid personal rivalries. In 1984, escalating tensions with NJPW founder —stemming from booking disagreements and perceived favoritism toward Inoki's allies—prompted Choshu and his Ishingun stable (including Hideo Naka, , and Yoshiaki Yatsu) to depart NJPW abruptly, forming the short-lived Japan Pro-Wrestling (JPW) promotion. This move fueled semi-real invasions of (AJPW) events, such as the December 8, 1984, incident where Choshu and allies attacked AJPW wrestlers post-match, blurring lines and straining inter-promotional relations until JPW's collapse by 1987. The fallout highlighted Choshu's self-interested strategy to leverage faction loyalty for leverage, though it drew accusations of undermining industry stability without broader corroboration of malice beyond participants' accounts. The Inoki-Choshu rivalry extended beyond scripted angles into genuine animosity, with Inoki reportedly viewing Choshu's JPW ventures as a direct challenge to NJPW's dominance, while Choshu positioned himself as a reformer against Inoki's authoritarian booking. Upon his 1987 return to NJPW as a booker, lingering resentments contributed to internal power struggles, including Choshu's role in marginalizing Inoki loyalists, though these dynamics reflected mutual ambitions in a competitive system rather than isolated fault. Peers from combat sports backgrounds, such as shoot-style wrestlers, have recounted hostile encounters with Choshu, describing him as a "locker room " intolerant of perceived threats to his . Allegations of personal misconduct, including claims of misogyny leveled by wrestler in informal discussions, lack legal substantiation or multiple contemporaneous reports, remaining anecdotal amid Choshu's documented combative interpersonal style.

References

  1. [1]
    Riki Choshu | INTERNATIONAL PRO WRESTLING HALL OF FAME
    As a testament to his popularity in the 1980s, Choshu also captured three of the ten Fighting Spirit awards bestowed during that decade, and three consecutive ...Missing: achievements | Show results with:achievements
  2. [2]
    Riki Choshu - Pro Wrestlers Database - The SmackDown Hotel
    Other Accomplishments · International Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame (class of 2022) · NJPW Super Grade Tag League Winner (1992) (with Shinya Hashimoto) · NJPW Six Man ...
  3. [3]
    https://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/riki-choshu-609.html
  4. [4]
    Wrestle Kingdom Rewind: Riki Choshu's Last Drive For Glory
    Nov 8, 2024 · Kensuke Sasaki would develop under Choshu's watching brief before winning four IWGP Tag team Championships in the early part of the 1990s, two ...
  5. [5]
    Riki Choshu - Facts @ Wrestlingdata.com
    Riki Choshu ; Tournament Wins. NJPW Arm-Wrestling Tournament (23rd April 1993) ; Tournament Wins · NJPW G1 Climax 1996 (6th August 1996) ; Tournament Wins · WMG Tag ...
  6. [6]
    Riki Choshu | Historica Wiki | Fandom
    Kwak Gwang-ung was born in Tokuyama, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan on 3 December 1951 to a Korean father and a Japanese mother, and he faced discrimination as a ...
  7. [7]
    Riki Choshu was born Kwak Gwang-ung (later changed to Mitsuo ...
    Jul 3, 2019 · Riki Choshu was born Kwak Gwang-ung (later changed to Mitsuo Yoshida). He was the youngest son of a Korean immigrant who worked as a garbage ...Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
  8. [8]
    Choshu Riki (長州力) - MyDramaList
    Choshu Riki is a Japanese retired professional wrestler. Real name Mitsuo Yoshida. Born in Tokuyama, Yamaguchi Prefecture to a Japanese mother and Korean ...
  9. [9]
    Zainichi: The Korean Diaspora in Japan
    Zainichi means “residing in Japan” and can refer to non-Koreans, but the term has become synonymous with the ethnic Korean population in Japan.Missing: Riki Choshu<|separator|>
  10. [10]
    Riki Choshu - AsianWiki
    Born: December 3, 1951 ; Birthplace: Seoul, South Korea ; Height: 184 cm. ; Blood Type: O ; Notes. Riki Choshu, born as Kwak Kwang-Woong (곽광웅), is a Korean- ...
  11. [11]
    Zainichi Koreans in Japan: Exploring the Ethnic Minority's Challenges
    Feb 26, 2024 · “Zainichi” here refers to the descendants of the Korean diaspora that migrated to Japan before and during the war era, distinct from the more ...Missing: Riki Choshu
  12. [12]
    The Special Permanent Residents In Japan: Zainichi Korean
    Jan 15, 2019 · Since then, many Zainichi Koreans acquired South Korean nationality. According the the agreement, only those of South Korean nationality could ...Korean Residents In Japan · Nationality And Politics · Change In Zainichi IdentityMissing: demographics | Show results with:demographics
  13. [13]
    Riki Choshu | Puroresu Representin' - WordPress.com
    He is of Zainichi Korean descent, as he was born in Seoul, South Korea but is a permanent resident of Japan. Choshu started wrestling on a major scale in 1972, ...Missing: reliable sources
  14. [14]
    Riki Choshu - Luchawiki
    Jul 26, 2024 · Real name, Mitsuo Yoshida (Japanese Name), Kwak Kwang-ung (Korean ... Birth date, location, December 3, 1951 - South Korea. Obituary date.Missing: nationality | Show results with:nationality
  15. [15]
    Riki Choshu « Wrestlers Database « - Cagematch
    Also known as Mitsuo Yoshida, Mitsu Yoshida ; In-ring experience: 44 years ; Wrestling style: Allrounder ; Trainer: Antonio Inoki, Masa Saito & Karl Gotch.Missing: amateur Nihon University
  16. [16]
    From the Olympics to the Pros - Slam Wrestling
    Sep 29, 2000 · Besides his success in the ring – 3 time IWGP Heavyweight champion, 3 time IWGP World tag with 3 different partners – Choshu was the longtime ...
  17. [17]
    Riki Choshu (Wrestling) - TV Tropes
    Riki Choshu (born Kwak Gwang-ung, later Mitsuo Yoshida, December 3, 1951) is a Japanese zainichi Professional Wrestler, famous for his work in New Japan ...Missing: biography reliable
  18. [18]
    Riki Choshu | Puroresu System Wiki - Fandom
    ... born December 3, 1951), better known by his ring name Riki Choshu (長州 力, Chōshū Riki), is a Korean-Japanese professional wrestler who is most known for ...Missing: nationality | Show results with:nationality<|separator|>
  19. [19]
    Riki Choshu retires in Korakuen Hall | NEW JAPAN PRO-WRESTLING
    Choshu began his career in New Japan on August 8, 1974. He would go on to wrestle for promotions across Japan, including events he promoted himself. Yet it ...<|separator|>
  20. [20]
    NJPW Roster in 1979: Full List of Wrestlers, Teams, Champions
    Riki Choshu. Seiji Sakaguchi. Riki Choshu & Seiji SakaguchiRiki Choshu & Seiji Sakaguchi. Won: June 15, 1979: Tokyo, Japan | Big Fight Series: 199+ days. 199+.
  21. [21]
    Riki Choshu & Yoshiaki Yatsu vs. Genichiro Tenryu & Jumbo ...
    Feb 28, 2023 · He formed his own stable Ishin Gundan (Revolution Army), and also formed his own promotion, JPW (Japan Pro Wrestling). Choshu then invaded ...r/njpw - October 8th, 1982 one of the most pivotal matches in the ...Atsushi Onita had a thing for being absolutely reckless in his topes ...More results from www.reddit.com
  22. [22]
    Riki Choshu, the innovator of the Sasori Gatame aka Sharpshooter ...
    May 7, 2019 · Riki Choshu, the innovator of the Sasori Gatame aka Sharpshooter. Around his waist is the original IWGP Title. In the background, young lion Hiroyoshi Tenzan.31 Days of Move Origins #16 - Riki Choshu's Sasori - RedditHonest opinions on Riki Choshu, the OG “cool heel/anti-hero ...More results from www.reddit.comMissing: introduction | Show results with:introduction
  23. [23]
    The Wrestling Classic #9: Riki Choshu vs. Tatsumi Fujinami (April 3 ...
    Nov 16, 2021 · Riki Choshu was the new WWF International Heavyweight Champion and, more importantly, had finally defeated Tatsumi Fujinami.
  24. [24]
    Riki Choshu invade AJPW (December 8, 1984) - YouTube
    May 6, 2022 · Riki Choshu invade AJPW (December 8, 1984). 5.1K views · 3 years ago ...more. ClassicsPuro83. 20.1K. Subscribe. 93. Share.Missing: heel 1982 Kawasaki
  25. [25]
    History of Puroresu Part 3: The 1980's - Mastodon Wrestling Blog
    Sep 27, 2020 · Finally Vader's reign ended at the hands of Riki Choshu circling everything back on August 19, 1990. ... She used this fame into transitioning ...
  26. [26]
    PWF World Heavyweight Championship - Puroresu System Wiki
    Title History ; 10, Stan Hansen, 2, July 30, 1985, Fukuoka ; 11, Riki Choshu, 1, April 5, 1986, Yokohama, Kanagawa ...
  27. [27]
    Riki Choshu - Puroresu Central
    Weight: 265 lbs. Debut: 1974. Background: Old School Wrestling Promotion History: New Japan (1974 to 1986), All Japan (1986 to 1987), ...
  28. [28]
    [1993-01-04-NJPW-Fantastic Story in Tokyo Dome] Genichiro ...
    Feb 18, 2011 · Two greats of the 80's collide in this interpromotional battle. Despite being in the Dome it had heat. There was a strong rivalry and they paced ...
  29. [29]
    WWF/AJPW/NJPW Wrestling Summit - Wikipedia
    ... NJPW team of Masa Saito and Shinya Hashimoto defeated Masahiro Chono and Riki Choshu to retain the IWGP Tag Team Championship. Individual matches featuring ...
  30. [30]
    Riki Choshu vs. Shinya Hashimoto « Matches « - Cagematch
    Shinya Hashimoto. Date: 02.08.1996. Promotion: New Japan Pro Wrestling. WON rating: ****1/2. Match type: Singles. Event: NJPW G1 Climax 1996 - Tag 1 (Card with ...
  31. [31]
    The Week that Was in NJPW World History (May 11-17)
    May 17, 2019 · Heisei Ishingun was a revival of the Ishingun group that Riki Choshu spearheaded a decade earlier. Shiro Koshinaka and Tatsutoshi Goto's group ...
  32. [32]
    [1996-08-02-NJPW-G1 Climax] Riki Choshu vs Shinya Hashimoto
    Dec 5, 2010 · Hashimoto was literally kicking Choshu so hard he kicked him out of the ring. Choshu kept getting back up. The Old Man was not going down just ...[1996-12-01-NJPW-Final Battle] Shinya Hashimoto & Junji Hirata vs ...[1997-01-04-NJPW-Wrestling World in Tokyo Dome] Riki Choshu vs ...More results from forums.prowrestlingonly.com
  33. [33]
    NJPW Wrestle Kingdom IV in Tokyo Dome (2010-01-04)
    Jan 4, 2010 · Wrestle Kingdom Special 8 Man Tag Match - The legend never rots. Terry Funk, Riki Choshu, Masahiro Chono and Manabu Nakanishi defeated ...
  34. [34]
    Career « Riki Choshu « Wrestlers Database « - Cagematch
    Also known as Mitsuo Yoshida, Mitsu Yoshida ; 1977, New Japan Pro Wrestling (160 Matches) ; 1976, Atlantic Grand Prix Wrestling (2 Matches) ; 1975, National ...
  35. [35]
    Power Hall 2019 New Journey Begins Results 6.26.19: Riki Choshu ...
    Jun 26, 2019 · Tatsumi Fujinami, Keiji Muto, and Togi Makabe beat Riki Choshu, Tomohiro Ishii, and Shiro Koshinaka when Makabe pinned Choshu after the King ...
  36. [36]
    https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=145
  37. [37]
    IWGP Heavyweight Championship « Titles Database « - Cagematch
    Riki Choshu (3) 04.01.1992 - 16.08.1992 (225 days) Matches Tokyo, Japan. #11. Tatsumi Fujinami (4) 04.03.1991 - 04.01.1992 (306 days) Matches Hiroshima, Japan.
  38. [38]
    PWF Heavyweight Championship | Pro Wrestling Title History
    Riki Choshu 1. April 5 ... April 18, 1989; Unified Into AJPW Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship.
  39. [39]
    Riki Choshu - Wikipedia
    a South Korean-Japanese retired professional wrestler who is best known for his longtime work in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) as both a wrestler and a booker.Missing: reliable sources
  40. [40]
    Antonio Inoki, Riki Choshu inducted into Japan Wrestling Hall Of Fame
    Sep 14, 2021 · The 2021 Japan Wrestling Hall Of Fame inducted six new members. The class consisted of Antonio Inoki, Giant Baba, Jumbo Tsuruta, Tatsumi Fujinami, Riki Choshu, ...
  41. [41]
    IPWHF announces Class of 2022 - Slam Wrestling
    Mar 13, 2022 · Dory Funk Jr. Riki Choshu Genichiro Tenyru Mildred Burke (the first woman inducted). The second IPWHF induction weekend will be August 26-28, in ...
  42. [42]
    Wrestlers That Have Appeared in the Yakuza Games
    Feb 25, 2023 · Wrestlers That Have Appeared in the Yakuza Games ; 3 Genichiro Tenryu ; 2 Riki Choshu ; 1 Kenny Omega.
  43. [43]
    Wrestler appearances in other video games | Critical Club: Fire Pro ...
    2nd BOUT was first Fire Pro game to feature Big Van Vader. that resemble series staples Riki Choshu and Antonio Inoki. (which you can view on page 50 of this ...
  44. [44]
    Wrestle Kingdom 2 | WWE Games & Wrestling Games Database
    Wrestle Kingdom 2: Pro Wrestling Sekai Taisen is a wrestling game, developed and published by Yuke's, released in Japan in 2007.<|separator|>
  45. [45]
    riki choshu - NamuWiki
    Aug 12, 2025 · riki choshu ; real name. Korean name: Kwak Gwang-woong (郭光雄) Real name: Mitsuo Yoshida[2] 吉田 光雄 ( よし だ みつ お ) ; birth date. 1951. 12.
  46. [46]
    Riki Chôshû - IMDb
    Riki Chôshû was born on 3 December 1951 in Seoul, Korea. He is an actor, known for Hoshizuna no shima no chiisana tenshi: Mermaid's smile (2010), Yakuza Kiwami ...
  47. [47]
    Unveiling A Legend: Riki Choshu's Journey (Part 1) - YouTube
    Dec 9, 2024 · Unveiling A Legend: Riki Choshu's Journey (Part 1) 1. Introduction to the Series: 00:00 2. Riki Choshu's Early Life ... New Japan Pro Wrestling ...
  48. [48]
    Unpacking A Legacy: Riki Choshu's Journey (Part 2) - YouTube
    Dec 9, 2024 · ... career of Riki Choshu in the second part of this insightful series on 'Write That Down'. This episode explores the pivotal moments in Choshu's ...
  49. [49]
    Unveiling A Legend: Riki Choshu's Journey (Part 1)
    Dec 9, 2024 · Known as one of Japan's most influential wrestling figures, Choshu's journey from his early life as a young Korean-Japanese athlete to his rise ...Missing: family immigrant<|control11|><|separator|>
  50. [50]
    Unpacking A Legacy: Riki Choshu's Journey (Part 2)
    Dec 9, 2024 · This episode explores the pivotal moments in Choshu's wrestling journey from 1984, including his influential 'jump period' from New Japan to All ...Missing: endorsements public events
  51. [51]
    10 Unique Moves Created By Wrestlers (& Who Invented Them)
    Jun 2, 2021 · But it was Japanese legend, Riki Choshu who popularized the Sasori-Gatame in New Japan. 4 Ace Crusher / Diamond Cutter / RKO - Johnny Ace.
  52. [52]
    Riki Choshu & Yoshiaki Yatsu vs. Genichiro Tenryu & Jumbo ...
    Feb 28, 2023 · Choshu then invaded AJPW and brought massive heat and ticket sales to the promotion. Standing in Choshu's way was AJPW Ace Jumbo Tsuruta ...Why did Riki Choshu leave NJPW... that answer is wowwing - RedditNew Japan in the 80s : r/njpw - RedditMore results from www.reddit.com
  53. [53]
    Ishin Gundan « Stables Database « - Cagematch
    Ishin Gundan invading AJPW is one of the most iconic angles of the decade, where Riki Choshu spearheaded the group. Excellent and revolutionary." www.CAGEMATCH.
  54. [54]
    [1985-02-21-AJPW] Riki Choshu vs Genichiro Tenryu
    Mar 29, 2017 · Choshu & Co. invaded All Japan at the beginning of 1985 leading to first ever native vs native feuding in All Japan Pro Wrestling history. This ...
  55. [55]
    Who was the booker of NJPW in the 80's? : r/SquaredCircle - Reddit
    Feb 24, 2021 · At some point around 1987 Riki Choshu took over as booker and he's the guy that really booked NJPW's prime years from the late 80s until start of the 2000's.A beginners guide to classic NJPW - King of Sport : r/SquaredCircleHonest opinions on Riki Choshu, the OG “cool heel/anti-hero ...More results from www.reddit.comMissing: 1990s | Show results with:1990s
  56. [56]
    https://puroresugate1972.wordpress.com/2019/07/17/retro-reviews-jumbo-tsuruta-genichiro-tenryu-vs-riki-choshu-yoshiaki-yatsu/
  57. [57]
    [1997-01-04-NJPW-Wrestling World in Tokyo Dome] Riki Choshu vs ...
    Jul 11, 2013 · Look at Choshu, he looks like the starting point if you did a CAW in a video game. Black trunks, white boots, no knee pads or elbow pads. He is ...Riki Choshu - Nominees - Pro Wrestling Only[1996-08-02-NJPW-G1 Climax] Riki Choshu vs Shinya HashimotoMore results from forums.prowrestlingonly.comMissing: criticisms | Show results with:criticisms
  58. [58]
    Retro Reviews: Jumbo Tsuruta & Genichiro Tenryu vs. Riki Choshu ...
    Jul 17, 2019 · It turned out that the problems between Inoki and Choshu were more than kayfabe, when Choshu and the rest of Ishingun including young star ...Missing: controversies rivalry<|separator|>
  59. [59]
    [Professional Wrestling] The 1.4 Incident Or When New Japan Pro ...
    Feb 7, 2022 · Things returned to normal-ish when retired wrestler Riki Choshu (who was now working as Inoki's booker, the person responsible for laying out ...
  60. [60]
    Ask 411 Wrestling: Could Hannibal Be Prosecuted for the Blood ...
    Dec 26, 2021 · Somewhat coincidentally, the Choshu/Inoki heat resulted from Inoki's belief that Choshu, who was helping run NJPW, created the situation ...
  61. [61]
    HostilityOnTheSet / Professional Wrestling - TV Tropes
    Riki Choshu is an infamous locker room terror who has stories of hostility with basically everybody, especially wrestlers from combat sports backgrounds or ...
  62. [62]
    Honest opinions on Riki Choshu, the OG “cool heel/anti-hero ...
    Mar 30, 2025 · [30 Days of G1 Climax Winners - Riki Chōshū, G1 Climax 6] After being overcome by a beating from fourth-time finalist Masahiro Chono and then ...Riki Choshu & Yoshiaki Yatsu vs. Genichiro Tenryu & Jumbo ...Should Riki Choshu have returned to AJPW following his exit from ...More results from www.reddit.com