Pro-Wrestling Sashimi 7/15/2024: Earth Warrior vs. Yamashita

The highlight of the night was a highly anticipated sport form rules bout between Earth Warrior and Takashi "Demon Hunter" Yamashita, both MAX-J ambassadors. Earth Warrior is signed full-time to compete in POSEIDON-1 while Yamashita, a freelancer, was invited to compete by virtue of his status as an ambassador. This match promised to showcase the best of shoot-style wrestling, with both competitors known for their technical prowess and intense dedication to the sport.

As the Round 1 commenced, both fighters approached the center of the ring with caution, their eyes locked in a mutual understanding of the stakes involved. Earth Warrior, hailing from Yokohama, and Yamashita, from Akita prefecture, bowed respectfully before assuming their stances.

The opening moments were marked by a series of calculated moves, with Earth Warrior leveraging his background in gymnastics and jiu-jitsu to execute quick feints and agile maneuvers. Yamashita, the former police officer known for his tenacity and strong faith, countered with a steady, disciplined approach, rooted in his mixed martial arts training.

Earth Warrior took the initiative, launching a flurry of open-hand strikes aimed at Yamashita's midsection and head. The precision of his strikes, combined with his exceptional speed, forced Yamashita to adopt a defensive posture, blocking and parrying as best he could. The crowd's excitement grew as Earth Warrior's relentless assault began to wear down his opponent.

Recognizing the need to change tactics, Yamashita attempted to close the distance, seeking a clinch to transition into a takedown. However, Earth Warrior anticipated the move, sidestepping gracefully and countering with a swift roundhouse kick to Yamashita's ribs, the impact reverberating through the hall. Without the mandatory kickpads required by the sport form rules, such a kick may have put Yamashita down for the count.

Yamashita, visibly shaken, stumbled backward, and Earth Warrior seized the moment. With the crowd on the edge of their seats, he launched anotherr roundhouse kick that connected squarely with Yamashita's jaw. Despite the covering of the kickpads, the force of the blow sent Yamashita reeling, and the referee quickly stepped in to assess the situation. Seeing that Yamashita was unable to defend himself effectively, the referee called for a stoppage, declaring Earth Warrior the winner by technical knockout at 3:42 of Round 1.


In a post-match interview, Earth Warrior expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, saying that he'd learned a lot about stiff, sharp kicks from METAL HERO and crediting the training with his growing confidence ahead of the Sports Lightning Cup tournament at the upcoming CRUISERWORLD II show. "Tonight's victory is a testament to my hard work and dedication," he stated. "Takashi-san is a formidable opponent, and I respect him greatly. This win gives me the momentum I need going into the Sports Lightning Cup. I'm feeling more confident than ever and ready to give my all."

The victory in Shimonoseki not only bolstered Earth Warrior's confidence but also highlighted his evolution as a competitor. His ability to adapt and execute a strategic game plan under the sport form rules demonstrated his growth and readiness for the challenges ahead.

The Kanmon Straits Hall may have returned to its serene coastal calm after the event, but the impact of Earth Warrior's victory echoed through the wrestling community, setting the stage for an exciting CRUISERWORLD II and the highly anticipated Sports Lightning Cup. Less than two weeks away, all eyes are now on Earth Warrior as he prepares to compete in the tournament against other junior heavyweight fighters. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if his newfound confidence and sharpened skills will propel him to further success in the tournament...


1. Sport Form Rules: Earth Warrior defeats Takashi Yamashita (R1 3:42) via technical knockout (roundhouse kick).