We are saddened to report that legendary Japanese wrestler Gran Hamada has passed away at the age of 74. The news was first reported by San Luis Potosí.
Hamada was a pioneer in professional wrestling, founding Universal Lucha Libre and making a significant impact across multiple promotions. He competed for New Japan Pro-Wrestling, All Japan Pro Wrestling, Michinoku Pro, and many others during his illustrious career.
In the 1980s, Hamada held the WWF Light Heavyweight Championship, solidifying his place in wrestling history. He was also a decorated champion in the Universal Wrestling Association (UWA), capturing the UWA World Junior Light Heavyweight Championship, UWA World Light Heavyweight Championship, and UWA World Middleweight Championship.
Beyond Japan and Mexico, Hamada made appearances in the United States, including a brief but memorable run in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). One of his standout moments came at ECW Barely Legal 1997, where he teamed with Masato Yakushiji and The Great Sasuke in a high-energy match against Dick Togo, TAKA Michinoku, and Terry Boy.
Gran Hamada’s contributions to professional wrestling, particularly in blending Japanese strong style with lucha libre, have left an enduring legacy. His influence can still be seen in the high-flying, hybrid styles embraced by wrestlers around the world today.
His last match took place in 2018.
RIP Gran Hamada
November 27, 1950 – February 15, 2025
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