Manabu Nakanishi, a Japanese professional wrestling icon, embarked on a remarkable journey in the world of sports, transitioning seamlessly from amateur wrestling to a storied career in professional wrestling.
Primarily affiliated with New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW),Nakanishi's impressive résumé boasts an array of accolades, including the coveted IWGP Heavyweight Championship, a G1 Climax title, and a trio of IWGP Tag Team Championships.
Throughout his illustrious career, Nakanishi has maintained a strong connection to his native Japan, while also venturing into other prominent promotions such as World Championship Wrestling, All Japan Pro Wrestling, Pro Wrestling Noah, and Pro Wrestling Zero1.
Despite a spinal injury in 2011, which marked the beginning of a gradual decline in his career, Nakanishi persevered, continuing to lace up his boots for an additional nine years before ultimately retiring on February 22, 2020.
Before turning to professional wrestling, Nakanishi made a name for himself in the amateur wrestling circuit, claiming a bronze medal in freestyle wrestling at the 1992 Asian Championships.
The following year, Nakanishi represented Japan at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain, where he finished an impressive eleventh overall, further cementing his reputation as a formidable grappler.
Nakanishi's remarkable journey, spanning both amateur and professional wrestling, serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion for the sport.
