The world of professional wrestling mourns the loss of Osamu Kido, a stalwart member of the original New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) roster, who passed away at the age of 73 on December 11. Kido’s family announced his demise on Thursday, revealing that he had been battling cancer for several years, undergoing treatment to fight the relentless disease.
Osamu Kido was born on March 18, 1950, in Kagoshima, Japan. His journey in the world of professional wrestling began in the late 1960s, where he quickly gained recognition for his exceptional skills and dedication to the craft. Kido was one of the founding members of NJPW, an organization that would go on to become one of the most prominent wrestling promotions in the world. Kido’s impact on NJPW was profound, as he played a crucial role in establishing the foundation of the promotion. During the early years, he showcased his wrestling prowess and technical expertise in the ring, earning the respect of both colleagues and fans alike. Kido was not just a performer; he was a mentor to many young talents, passing on his knowledge and contributing to the development of the next generation of wrestlers.
Known for his technical prowess, Kido was a master of traditional Japanese wrestling styles. His matches were a display of skillful grappling, intricate submission holds, and a deep understanding of the psychological aspects of the sport.
Kido’s contributions helped shape the identity of NJPW, emphasizing the importance of technical excellence in a world often dominated by power and spectacle.
In recent years, Kido faced a formidable opponent outside the ring – cancer. The wrestling legend valiantly fought the disease, undergoing treatments and maintaining a resilient spirit throughout the challenging journey. Despite the hardships, Kido remained an inspiration to many, proving that his fighting spirit extended beyond the squared circle Following the announcement of Osamu Kido’s passing, tributes from the wrestling community and fans flooded social media.
Colleagues and contemporaries acknowledged his immense contributions to the sport and expressed their condolences to the Kido family. The wrestling world united in honoring the legacy of a true pioneer.
Osamu Kido’s impact on the world of professional wrestling, particularly in the early days of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, is immeasurable. As we bid farewell to a legend, let us remember and celebrate the life and career of Osamu Kido – a trailblazer, mentor, and one of the foundational pillars of Japanese professional wrestling.
His legacy will continue to inspire generations of wrestlers and fans alike, ensuring that his contributions are never forgotten in the annals of wrestling history.
