Incredibly sad reports have emerged from Japan (via Middle Easy) stating that wrestling and MMA legend Yoshihiro Takayama was paralyzed from the neck down following an accident in the ring that took place back in May. The injury occurred following a botched attempt at a sunset flip during a match for DDT Pro-Wrestling promotion.
Takayama holds legendary status as a wrestler in Japan, having won a series of accolades during a career which stretched over 25 years. Takayama is better known to Mixed Martial Arts fans for his legendary bout with Don Frye in Pride all the way back in 2002.
Following an MMA career which failed to take off in the early 2000’s, Takayama returned to the sport in 2013 and picked up his first pro win at the age of 46, KO’ing Hikaru Sato at U-Spirits-Again.
Several pro wrestling personalities have expressed their support for Takayama during this troubling time.
Very saddened to learn of this news. A Warrior and a Gentlemen. My thought and best wishes to him during his recovery. https://t.co/upLgNk8tdh
— Samoa Joe (@SamoaJoe) August 6, 2017
This saddens me .A true warrior of the canvas wars and a lovely man.My best wishes to him. https://t.co/ZOT5pE3U6O
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) August 6, 2017
— KENTA aka Lil’K (@KENTAG2S) August 7, 2017
Takayama san…
Damn…
I hope he finds his way to his feet again.— MVP (@The305MVP) August 7, 2017
— FUNAKI (@shofufu824) August 6, 2017