My beloved professional wrestler, Osamu Nishimura, passed away on February 28, 2025.
He dedicated himself not only to classic wrestling but also to food education through school meals, contributing to the well-being of the Japanese people.
In memory of Osamu Nishimura, I have created this video.
I would be grateful if you could take the time to watch it.
Career:
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As a Professional Wrestler: Osamu Nishimura debuted with New Japan Pro-Wrestling in 1991 and subsequently contributed to various organizations, including the establishment of MUGA World Pro-Wrestling and participation in All Japan Pro-Wrestling.
As a Politician: In 2011, he was first elected to the Bunkyo City Council, balancing his duties as a councilor with his wrestling career, thereby contributing to his local community.
Battle with Illness and Final Days:
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In March 2024, due to health issues, he missed an All Japan Pro-Wrestling event and was subsequently diagnosed with esophageal cancer.
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Despite his illness, he maintained his passion for wrestling, participating in an electric explosion death match in August of the same year.
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He passed away on February 28, 2025, at the age of 53.
Fighting Style:
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Nishimura was renowned for his classical style, emphasizing submission holds and ground techniques, often referred to as the “Nishimura World,” which garnered substantial support from fans.
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He embodied the philosophy of “Muga” (selflessness) advocated by Tatsumi Fujinami, showcasing the beauty of traditional wrestling.
Food Education Initiatives:
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At the age of 26, after battling cancer, he recognized the importance of traditional Japanese diets, such as brown rice and vegetarian meals.
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As a Bunkyo City Council member, he worked on policies related to food education, including improving school lunches and promoting local produce consumption.
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Notably, he introduced “Japanese Food Promotion Day” in all elementary and junior high schools within Bunkyo Ward, striving to improve children’s eating habits.
Personal Battles with Illness:
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First Cancer (1998): At 26, he was diagnosed with a retroperitoneal tumor and took a one-year hiatus before returning to wrestling.
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Recurrence (2024): In March 2024, he was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, he continued to participate in matches, demonstrating his resilience to fans.
Personal Message:
Mr. Nishimura’s tenacious and classical fighting style brought immense joy, embodying the essence of professional wrestling. His dedication to promoting food education as a politician was also deeply inspiring. His untimely passing at 53 is profoundly regrettable; however, his pursuit of classical wrestling will forever remain etched in the hearts of fans who cherish traditional wrestling. We are grateful for Mr. Osamu Nishimura’s devoted life and hope that his message continues to resonate with generations of Japanese pro wrestling fans who seek to preserve the essence of classical wrestling.