“A Life Well Lived” – Riki Choshu Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Hulk Hogan
Tombstone 2025] This year, too, a national star, a famous actor, and a famous host passed away. We bring you his words of regret along with his treasured photos.
Hulk Hogan
Passed away on July 24, aged 71
He was also active as a bassist in a rock band during his university days. In 1980, he visited Japan for the first time and teamed up with Antonio Inoki, among other achievements.“Reunion with the Florida Bandman”
—Riki Choshu (former professional wrestler)
“When I first joined New Japan Pro-Wrestling, I was sent to Florida for training and often had dinner at Masao’s (former referee Tiger Hattori) house. But loud rock music always came from the second floor of the house next door. One day, the guy living there showed his face. That was Hogan. A few years after returning to Japan, a new foreign wrestler making his first visit came to our company. Then Masao said, ‘That’s the Florida Bandman.’ I was shocked that the connection went that far (laughs).
When I wrestled him, I realized he was surprisingly skilled. I was amazed during the match thinking, ‘He can do this too.’ It was good for Hogan that his first promotion was New Japan. He learned a hard-hitting style, took it back to America, and it was a hit there. That style didn’t exist over there. Other wrestlers probably hated it a lot (laughs).
There were troubles and scandals too, but that’s because he became a superstar. That’s why even Trump asked for his support. Looking back, I really think he had a good life. He did everything he wanted to do, and there aren’t many people who can live a life like that. It’s amazing.”
—From “FRIDAY”, combined issue December 19 & 26, 2025
Interview and text by： Masashi Hosoda