[Illegal Online Casino Scandal] Exclusive Interview with “Reiwa Roman” Kuruma & “Toro Salmon” Kubota

About 50 comedians and employees of Yoshimoto Kogyo are targeted

The scandal involving the M-1 champion is causing a major stir.

On February 14, “Mainichi Shimbun” reported allegations of involvement in illegal online casinos against “Reiwa Roman”’s Kuruma Takahira (30) and “Toro Salmon”’s Kazunobu Kubota (45), among others. The following day, Kuruma admitted to the allegations and apologized on his YouTube channel. Since then, his appearances have been replaced in programs, and he has withdrawn from stage performances. Additionally, it was announced that Kubota’s regular program on the 18th would also be replaced.

“The Metropolitan Police Department’s investigation is still ongoing, and Yoshimoto Kogyo is believed to have about 50 people under scrutiny, including comedians and employees. Some comedians have reportedly undergone thorough interrogations lasting up to three hours.

On the other hand, despite reports of Kubota’s involvement, no concrete evidence has surfaced, making it difficult to charge him. His interrogation, conducted in the presence of a lawyer, reportedly lasted only about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, among those considered prime suspects by authorities, there is a well-known mid-career comedian who openly declares his love for gambling and frequently appears on television. He might be feeling more anxious than anyone else.” (National newspaper social affairs reporter)

Cases of illegal online casino crackdowns have surged in recent years. According to the National Police Agency, 279 people were prosecuted in 2024, a 2.6-fold increase from 107 in 2023, marking a record high. Many young people have been lured in by claims that “since the servers are overseas, gambling in Japan won’t get you arrested.” Kuruma reportedly made a similar statement in his testimony, but that does not change the fact that it is an illegal act.