Japanese Wrestling Star Kuniaki Kobayashi Dies at 68
NJPW legend Kuniaki Kobayashi passed away on September 9 at the age of 68. Kobayashi had a legendary career that spanned several decades. He was also known for his rivalry with the first and second Tiger Mask. After 25 years of fighting liver cancer, the Japanese legend passed away.
New Japan Pro Wrestling published an obituary on Medium, and issued this statement on social media:
“New Japan Pro-Wrestling is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, and Noge Dojo manager Kuniaki Kobayashi.
Our deepest sympathies go to Kobayashi’s family, friends and fans.”
Kobayashi broke into the wrestling scene as a teen when he joined the NJPW Dojo in 1972. He went on to make his official debut in January 1973. Kobayashi went on several international excursions through the 1970s, including to Mexico, and for NWA Los Angeles in the States.
Following his return from the US in 1982, he started his red martial arts gear that would become a signature and set his sights on the rising talent and fan-favorite Tiger Mask. Kobayashi appointed himself as NJPW’s ‘Tiger Hunter’ and competed in memorable matches.
Kobayashi headed to Japan Pro-Wrestling and AJPW, where he battled the second Tiger Mask Mitsuharu Misawa. He defeated Hiro Saito to become the second-ever World Junior Heavyweight Champion. He also had a run in the WWF/E as Chin Kobiashi.
During his in-ring career, Kuniaki Kobayashi was diagnosed with colon cancer. However, he returned to the ring after undergoing surgery. In the latter stages of his career, cancer spread to his liver. He started to wear a tank top to hide the scars from surgery which led to the former IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion’s retirement. He also underwent surgeries for lung cancer.
Following his retirement from in-ring competition, Kobayashi became the manager of the New Japan Dojo and helped in shaping the future of the emerging talents. He would make occasional special appearances. He also made an appearance at Wrestle Kingdom 11 kickoff Ranbo in 2017. He was extremely active in the management of the NJPW Dojo until his passing.
Tributes
Shinsuke Nakamura and William Regal expressed their remourse over Kobayashi’s passing, with Nakamura sharing that he learned many things at the Dojo.
A ten-bell salute will be held for Kuniaki Kobayashi before Road to Destruction event in Sendai.
