WRITE THAT DOWN! A Professional Wrestling Podcast w/ Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper

30 Years of Extreme: The Legacy of ECW

In this episode, Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper delve deep into the history of Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) and its profound impact on the wrestling world. Join us as we explore the origins of ECW in the early 90s, Paul Heyman's takeover, and the creative revolution that followed.

They discuss Heyman's early career, from his teenage years as a wrestling photographer to his influential role at Studio 54. Learn about the transformation of Eastern Championship Wrestling into the hardcore haven known as ECW and the key figures who made it legendary, including Sabu, Terry Funk, and The Dudley Brothers.

Discover how ECW became a breeding ground for future stars like Chris Jericho, Eddie Guerrero, and Rey Mysterio, and how it influenced modern wrestling promotions. Fumi & Justin also reflect on the unique culture, creativity, and spirit of ECW that still resonates today.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of ECW, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the revolutionary promotion that changed wrestling forever. Tune in and relive the extreme legacy of ECW!

Join this episode as Fumi Saito chats with Justin Knipper about his recent chanko nabe lunch with shoot wrestling legend Shigeo "Yuko" Miyato. Delve into the fascinating discussion about the crossover between professional wrestling and mixed martial arts, and hear about the unique experiences of training sessions, the art of wrestling, and the camaraderie shared over traditional Chanko meals.

Fumi & Justin explore the rich history and influence of iconic figures like Billy Robinson, Carl Gotch, and the Gracie family. Discover the impact of key matches and events, such as the epic encounters between Nobuhiko Takada, Rickson Gracie, and Masakatsu Funaki, that shaped the landscape of MMA and pro wrestling.

Gain insights into the evolution of wrestling styles, the influence of international athletes, and the intertwining paths of wrestling and MMA. Reflect on the legacy of legends like Hiroshi Tanahashi and John Cena, and their roles in the ever-evolving world of sports entertainment.

Whether you're a fan of the technical aspects of wrestling or intrigued by the cultural and historical context of MMA, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the dynamic interplay between these two thrilling worlds.

(Recorded September 13th 2021)

In this captivating episode, we delve into the historic bout between boxing legend Muhammad Ali and Japanese wrestling superstar Antonio Inoki. Taking place on June 26, 1976, this match was not just a spectacle but a groundbreaking event that bridged the worlds of professional boxing and wrestling.

We explore the technological marvel of closed-circuit television that allowed fans across the United States to witness the event live from Tokyo, Japan. Discover the behind-the-scenes negotiations, the cultural impact, and the intricate rules that shaped this unique encounter.

Join us as we revisit the atmosphere of 1976, the anticipation, and the aftermath of a match that left a lasting legacy in both sports and entertainment. From the $6 million challenge to the strategic maneuvers in the ring, this episode offers a comprehensive look at a pivotal moment in combat sports history.

Join us this week as we dive deep into the illustrious career of Kenta Kobashi, one of pro wrestling's greatest babyfaces. Hosted by Japan’s leading pro wrestling author, Fumi Saito, we explore Kobashi's journey from a

00:00:00 Introduction

00:01:56 Early Struggles and Beginnings

00:21:25 Tradition and Discipline

00:24:47 Neon Orange Tights Origins

00:26:26 Transition and Evolution

00:28:39 Resilience and Determination

00:29:02 Changing Dynamics

00:31:19 "Ganbaru Spirit"

00:32:22 Main Event Spotlight

00:34:34 Tag Team Dynamics

00:34:46 Dominance in Tag Team Wrestling

00:38:15 Formation of Faction G.E.T.

00:40:33 Triple Crown Champion Legacy

00:45:13 Pro Wrestling NOAH Formation

00:48:13 Dream Matches and Cross-Promotion

00:49:24 Decade-Long Rivalry with Misawa

00:53:42 Emotional Return Post-Cancer

00:55:27 Battling Through Injuries

00:58:24 Transition to New Era in Wrestling

01:01:03 Legacy and Influence Post-Retirement

In this special episode of Write That Down, hosts Justin Knipper and Fumi Saito delve into the storied career of Japanese wrestling legend Jumbo Tsuruta. While originally scheduled to release the third part of their Rikki Choshi series, they instead present an extensive two-hour supercut focusing on Tsuruta's impressive journey.

Listeners will explore Tsuruta's transition from an Olympic wrestler to a revered figure in All Japan Pro Wrestling. The episode covers his early days training in Amarillo, Texas, his immediate impact upon returning to Japan, and his memorable matches against wrestling giants like Dory Funk Jr., Jack Briscoe, and Harley Race. Additionally, the hosts discuss Tsuruta's evolution from a golden rookie to a seasoned veteran, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping the careers of future wrestling stars.

As the episode unfolds, fans will gain insight into Tsuruta's wrestling style, his relationship with contemporaries, and his legacy within the sport. This comprehensive profile is a must-listen for anyone interested in the history and development of Japanese professional wrestling.

Don't forget to subscribe to the Fight Game Media Network podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your preferred platform, and check out Justin Knipper book on Amazon for a detailed guide to New Japan Strong matches.

In this riveting episode of Write That Down! join Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper for an enlightening conversation with Madusa Micelli, the trailblazing professional female wrestler. From her humble beginnings to her journey to Tokyo, Madusa unfolds an inspiring story marked by resilience, adaptability, and a lifelong passion for wrestling. Discover how she transitioned from nursing to wrestling, built an exceptional career, and broke the glass ceiling in this male-dominated sport.

Relive her struggles and triumphs in the vibrant world of Japanese wrestling. Get a firsthand account of her intense training sessions, dramatic showdowns in the ring, and the cultural shocks she experienced. Listen to how she forged relationships with legends of the Japanese wrestling scene, and how these experiences shaped her personally and professionally.

Delve into the evolution of women's wrestling through Madusa's insightful perspective. Engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the drastic changes and potential future of female wrestling. Gain a diverse understanding of the wrestling world, from its adrenaline rushes to the roadblocks faced on the path to glory. Also, explore the prospects of universal wrestling broadcasting for an immersive global audience experience.

Finally, get an exclusive teaser of Madusa's upcoming book 'The Woman Who Would Be King', and her latest movie 'Champion'. Through this episode, listeners receive a rare glimpse into the life of an iconic and resilient personality whose experiences span a thrilling career in wrestling and beyond.

Welcome to a special episode featuring a heartfelt reunion with wrestling legend Sean Waltman (aka X-Pac aka 123 Kid aka Syxx) and co-host Mr. Fumi Saito, all the way from Tokyo. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of Sean's wrestling career, from his early days training under Malenko in Florida to his transformative experiences in Minnesota and beyond.

Listen in as Sean reminisces about his time in Japan with Universal Wrestling, sharing the ring with iconic luchadores, and his unforgettable tours with New Japan Pro Wrestling. Discover the stories behind his pivotal moments in the WWE, including his legendary run as the 1-2-3 Kid and his eventual return as X-Pac.

We also touch on the dynamics of the wrestling world, the evolution of televised wrestling, and the enduring friendships formed along the way. Don't miss this candid conversation filled with nostalgia, insights, and the passion that has defined Sean Waltman's illustrious career.

00:00:19

Welcome

00:13:58

Minnesota Wrestling Scene

00:20:53

Diesel’s Rise to Stardom

00:26:22

Universal Pro Wrestling

00:31:32

Future Superstars’ Beginnings

00:35:26

Healing and Reflecting in Burbank

00:35:35

WWE Negotiations

00:43:54

The Evolution of Television

00:50:31

The Strong WWE Tour Lineup

00:53:37

Madusa vs. Bull Nakano

00:57:47

Wrestling Tours Around the World

01:00:40

Writing a Memoir

01:03:05

Reflecting on Personal Growth

01:04:20

Fond Memories of Wrestling in Mexico

01:06:56

Future Wrestling Plans

01:08:59

Social Media Detox

In an engrossing episode, wrestler Debbie Malenko takes us through her extraordinary wrestling journey. From her debut at the Malenko Wrestling School to exploring the world of Japanese women's wrestling, Debbie shares her challenges, lessons, and triumphs. Discover how a young American wrestler navigates the intricate and demanding world of professional wrestling, embracing diverse cultural experiences and defying barriers.

Experience Debbie's life in the famous All Japan Women's building, the thrill of her 300-night wrestling schedule, and her secret training routines. Engage in an intriguing reflection on her tag-team dynamics, the adoption of ‘Malenko’ in her ring name, and how her signature moves came into the spotlight. Find out how she cleverly breaks down cultural and language barriers and pays homage to the ancient art of wrestling.

The episode offers a unique exploration of the back-stages and larger-than-life figures of the wrestling universe. It delves into the evolution of Japanese women's wrestling in the 90s, drawing attention to renowned figures and elaborating upon distinctive styles. The conversation also highlights how the digital shift has shaped the sport and paints a vivid socio-economic picture of Japan's bubble economy era.

Filled with nostalgia, this enthralling episode is an invaluable peek into the wrestling world. It advises aspiring wrestlers and offers riveting conversations for enthusiasts. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of wrestling as a sport and art form, where Debbie Malenko masterfully guides you through her adventure in Japanese women's wrestling.

Jump into the riveting world of celebrities stepping into the pro wrestling thrilling arena in this illuminating episode of Write That Down! Hosted by Wrestling Historians, Justin Knipper and Mr. Fumi Saito, we dive deep into the transformative impact of celebrities' involvement in professional wrestling. From Bad Bunny to Mike Tyson, discover how this trend has evolved and how fans' perception of celebrities in the sport has changed over the years.

Explore the fascinating career of Bam Bam Bigelow and his significant role in shaping the wrestling industry. Unravel Bigelow's unique wrestling style and his ability to work across language barriers, making him a beloved name in the sport both in America and Japan. Learn about the financial success and the lasting impact of Bigelow, and how his improvisational style has shaped the participation of other wrestling celebrities.

Dive into the mysterious five-year existence of the wrestling company 'Hustle' and its impact on the industry. Listen to engaging conversations about Naoya Ogawa's stint in HUSTLE, his rivalry with Shinya Hashimoto, and how even heroes like Nobuhiko Takada left a significant impression after acting in comical characters for the Hustle company.

Explore the increasing popularity of non-wrestling personalities in the wrestling scene, as we map MMA's rise in Japan and the involvement of heavyweight champions in wrestling matches. Understand the changing fan perceptions of non-wrestler involvement and how superstar personalities are influencing wrestling's popularity in mainstream culture.

Finally, explore the journey of Yuzupon, from starting as a one-time deal for a reality TV show to becoming a three-time Tokyo Sports Wrestler of the Year and her intriguing transformation into a bodybuilder. Understand the shifting landscape of wrestling, and its increasing intersection with mainstream fame and social media, as wrestlers chart out new paths for their careers, from YouTube celebrities to TV show appearances.

Whether you're a wrestling fan or someone fascinated by the intersections of sports and celebrities, this episode promises intriguing insights and engaging discussions. So, tune in and join the conversation on X and Facebook with your thoughts or suggestions.

We give you a rare inside-look at the world of wrestling from the eyes of a seasoned journalist who has been tracking and shaping the industry for over four decades. We delve into insightful discussions about the influence of Japanese wrestling, debunking numerous baseless rumors floating on social media and readjusting unfair narratives from the likes of Kenny Omega or Tony Khan. Get ready to explore the connections between prominent industry figures and the groundless rumors they often find themselves tangled in.

This episode blows wide open the ill-defined allegations that often plague various figures in wrestling and shines a spotlight on the enigmatic world of the wrestling industry. Featuring an emphasis on the relationship and intricate interactions of Rossy Ogawa, one of the industry's stalwarts, expect some thought-provoking yield from this conversation.

We wade through the murky waters of wrestling journalism, exposing the unfortunate landscape marred by misinformation and ignorance fueled by social media. Also, we explore the clash between Japanese and Western wrestling fans, exposing the gaps in cultural knowledge and variances in perspective that often hamper international coverage of wrestling.

Be prepared to understand the nuances of talent ‘poaching’ and navigate challenging discussions around public perceptions and reputation defense on emerging public platforms. As we close the episode, we also discuss the grittier realities of the wrestling industry and emphasize the importance of rigorous fact-checking in an era ripe with misinformation.

Take a trip down memory lane as we break down the remarkable journey of Rossy Ogawa, the founder of the All Japan Women's Division, and his pivotal role in shaping the women's professional wrestling scene. Experience the unraveling of Rossy's unwavering determination to create a win-win culture in the industry, shedding light on the rise of Stardom, the challenges it faced, and the reputation it has built over the last 40 years.

Gain insights into Rossy's final business challenge: fostering a new wave of talent utilizing a dojo-style training module under distinguished coaches like Nanae Takahashi. We also look back at the unsuccessful business dealings between AEW and Stardom that led to a fallout. Despite these rifts, the undying spirit of the wrestling fraternity remains strong, as symbolized by Hana Kimura’s memorial show.

The episode further delves into the transformative influence of renowned journalist Dave Meltzer on wrestling journalism. From his innovative star system that revolutionized the industry to the shift towards digital platforms, this conversation covers it all. Also, enjoy anecdotes around significant personalities like Harold Sakata and tackle the unique challenges that summer wrestling tournaments present in Japan.

Brimming with wrestling history and insights, this episode is a must-listen for every fan and enthusiast looking to enrich their knowledge. Stay tuned!

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