Join Justin Knipper and Fumi Saito in the fourth installment of their deep dive into the illustrious career of Antonio Inoki. This episode navigates the intricate events of the 1970s through the mid-1980s, shedding light on the business relationships Inoki forged with Vince McMahon Sr. and his rivalry with Bob Backlund. Delve into the layered interactions between New Japan Pro Wrestling and the WWF and uncover the undercurrents of Inoki’s matches that left their mark on wrestling history. Discover how media narratives were spun differently for Japanese and American audiences and explore the enduring legacy of Inoki's matches against iconic figures such as Stan Hansen and Hulk Hogan. Listen in to understand how these historical moments impacted both Japanese and international wrestling landscapes.

This episode explores the profound impact of Hana Kimura, a rising star in Japanese women's wrestling, and the legacy she left behind. From her vibrant beginnings to her tragic end, it delves into the intimate details of her life, including the influences of her mother, Kyoko Kimura, a former wrestler. The narrative weaves through Hana's experiences both in and out of the ring, highlighting the challenges she faced in a world that often blurred the lines between reality and performance.

The account sheds light on the heartbreaking effects of cyberbullying, which played a crucial role in Hana's demise, juxtaposed against her rich, albeit short-lived, career that resonated within and beyond the pro-wrestling community.

Through insights from notable figures in the wrestling community and moving tributes from friends and family, the episode paints a picture of Hana Kimura as a vivid symbol of both the promise and peril of fame, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

Welcome to another thrilling episode of Write That Down, hosted by Justin Knipper and Japan's renowned pro wrestling expert, Fumi Saito. In this third part of our series, we explore the pivotal years of Antonio Inoki's career, spanning from the mid-70s to the early 80s. We delve into the intense rivalries and groundbreaking moments that elevated Inoki to international fame.

Join us as we discuss the historic matches that defined an era, including Inoki's fierce bouts against Strong Kobayashi, his strategic rivalry with Tiger Jeet Singh, and the unprecedented showdown with the legendary boxer, Muhammad Ali, heralded as the world's first MMA fight. We'll also touch on Inoki's global reach, from his partnership with the WWWF to his international presence in places like Madison Square Garden.

Tune in for a detailed exploration of how television and media shaped the landscape of pro wrestling in Japan, and how Inoki's influence transcended borders, forever intertwining Japanese pro wrestling with global pop culture. Don't miss this exciting installment as we gear up for more insights on Inoki's collaboration with global icons like Hulk Hogan and Stan Hansen in the upcoming episodes.