Professional wrestling is known for its athleticism, drama, and storytelling, but it also carries significant risks.
Japan, a hub of legendary wrestling traditions, has seen some of the most iconic—and tragic—moments in wrestling history. Over the years, countless wrestlers have pushed their bodies to the limit, resulting in injuries that changed their lives forever.
This article delves into The Worst Wrestling Injuries in Japanese Wrestling History, exploring stories that range from career-altering incidents to moments of unbelievable resilience.
Each case sheds light on the inherent dangers of the sport and the indomitable spirit of its performers. Read on to learn about the injuries that shaped Japanese wrestling and the legacies they left behind.
Katsuyori Shibata Nearly Died After Headbutting Kazuchuka Okada
Disaster struck at NJPW Sakura Genesis in 2017 after one of the greatest wrestling matches of all time. While attempting to dethrone Kazuchika Okada as the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, Katsuyori Shibata landed a crunching headbutt the world will never forget.
A trickle of blood ran down his face, and a dazed look came over the Japanese star. He continued the match and collapsed backstage. Shibata was promptly rushed to hospital due to injuries to his brain and required multiple brain surgeries.
Despite being paralysed and almost dying, The Wrestler would make a full recovery. He was forced into retirement for some years before making a full-time comeback with AEW half a decade later.
Hayabusa Was Paralysed After A Botched Springboard Moonsault
Disaster struck during an FMW event in 2001 when Hayabusa, one of the most innovative high-flyers in wrestling history, attempted his signature springboard moonsault. The move went horribly wrong, as Hayabusa slipped and landed directly on his neck.
The crowd watched in horror as the beloved wrestler lay motionless in the ring, unable to move. Rushed to the hospital, it was revealed that he had suffered a severe spinal injury, leaving him paralysed from the neck down.
While Hayabusa never wrestled again, his determination and resilience inspired fans worldwide. After years of recovery, he regained some mobility, walking with assistance in a heart-warming moment before his untimely death in 2016.
Act Yukasawa Had Her Face Broken When Yoshiko Shot On Her In Stardom
In February 2015, a Stardom match between Act Yasukawa and Yoshiko turned into one of the most infamous incidents in wrestling history. Yoshiko shockingly went off-script, attacking Yasukawa with real punches and brutalizing her in front of a stunned audience.
The match was stopped as Yasukawa was left battered and bloodied, suffering multiple facial fractures. The incident led to Yoshiko’s suspension and tarnished Stardom’s reputation, leaving fans questioning the safety of the performers.
Though Yasukawa’s injuries healed, the traumatic event cut her wrestling career short.
Mistuharu Misawa DIED After Taking A Suplex In His Final Match
Tragedy struck on June 13, 2009, during an AJPW match in Hiroshima when Mitsuharu Misawa, one of Japan’s greatest wrestlers, took a routine back suplex.
The move resulted in catastrophic damage to his cervical spine, and Misawa collapsed in the ring.
Despite medical staff rushing to his aid, Misawa tragically passed away that night. His death sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, highlighting the toll the sport takes on its performers.
Misawa’s legacy remains unmatched, with fans remembering him as a hero who gave his life to wrestling.
Kota Ibushi’s Career As A Top Star Was Ended By An Injury In The G1 Climax Final
The 2021 G1 Climax Final was meant to be another milestone in Kota Ibushi’s legendary career. Instead, it became the moment that derailed it. While executing a phoenix splash, Ibushi landed awkwardly and dislocated his shoulder.
The match was abruptly stopped as Ibushi writhed in agony, his hopes of winning the tournament dashed. Though he attempted to return to the ring, lingering injuries and backstage disputes saw Ibushi part ways with NJPW, effectively ending his run as a top star.
KENTA came into the WWE as a huge star from Japan. He was welcomed by Hulk Hogan and William Regal, and the promotion was set to strap a rocket to him.
There were plans for KENTA (then known as Hideo Itami) to win the NXT Championship in Japan soon into his NXT career. However, a brutal shoulder injury ended those chances and severely hampered his wrestling ability.
He spent the next five years on the shelf with a variety of injuries before being granted his release and return to Japan in 2019.
Yoshihiro Takayama Was Paralysed After A Simple Move Went Horribly Wrong
Disaster struck during a heated match in 2001 when Takayama, known for his hard-hitting style, faced off in a brutal contest.
In a shocking turn of events, a seemingly routine move went awry, and Takayama suffered a severe neck injury, leaving him motionless in the ring. The crowd stood in stunned silence as medical staff rushed to his aid. It was later revealed that he had been paralyzed, forever changing the course of his career.
Despite the overwhelming odds, Takayama’s spirit remained unbroken. His determination to walk again captured the hearts of fans, but his injury ended his active wrestling career.
Naohiro Hoshikawa Suffered Head Trauma During A Match And Is Confined To A Wheelchair
Naohiro Hoshikawa’s promising wrestling career came to a tragic end in 2004 during a match in Osaka Pro Wrestling. A stiff kick to the head caused traumatic brain injuries that left Hoshikawa in a coma.
Though he miraculously survived, the injuries left him permanently disabled, confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. The incident was a sobering reminder of the physical risks wrestlers take each time they step into the ring.
Learn more about Naohiro Hoshikawa’s tragic injury and the challenges he has faced since.
Trends and Lessons From These Injuries
Japanese wrestling, renowned for its strong style and intense physicality, has often walked a fine line between spectacle and danger.
Many of the injuries discussed highlight recurring themes that defined wrestling in Japan’s past—extreme physical exertion, high-risk maneuvers, and at times, an alarming lack of safety protocols.
Strong style, characterized by stiff strikes and realistic grappling, often placed immense strain on wrestlers’ bodies. Incidents like Katsuyori Shibata’s near-fatal headbutt exemplify the dangers of this style.
Wrestlers pushed themselves to the brink, often ignoring early warning signs of injury, to meet fans’ high expectations. In the case of Mitsuharu Misawa, his insistence on continuing to wrestle through years of accumulated injuries ultimately led to his tragic death.
In recent years, these incidents have forced the wrestling industry to reconsider its practices. For example, Shibata’s injury led to a notable decline in the use of dangerous headbutts in NJPW.
Similarly, the tragedy of Hayabusa brought attention to the risks of high-flying manoeuvres, prompting some promotions to impose stricter guidelines on such spots.
These tragic injuries have underscored the need for evolution in wrestling, not just as a form of entertainment, but as a profession that safeguards its performers.
Conclusion
The injuries and tragedies that have plagued Japanese wrestling are a stark reminder of the physical and emotional costs borne by its performers.
These moments have not only shaped the careers of the individuals involved but also transformed the industry as a whole, prompting necessary changes in safety protocols and cultural attitudes.
Through these stories, fans and wrestlers alike can reflect on the resilience and dedication of the athletes who risk their lives for the sport they love. While the scars of these incidents remain, their legacy ensures a safer and more sustainable future for wrestling.
Want to learn more about the lives and legacies of these legendary wrestlers? Check out our dedicated articles on each injury.
