Episode 11: “How does Akira spend his free time?”
March 22, 2025
The NEW JAPAN CUP is over. I didn't participate this time, and unfortunately none of the members of United Empire were able to win.
It's been about two weeks since my last match, and I can't wait to get back in the ring.
I lost the title match against Desperado, but of course I'm not going to stop. I want to get back up and keep fighting again and again. But at the same time, this is the first time I've had a proper rest in a long time. I was competing in almost every tournament last year, so I didn't have time to think about anything other than wrestling.
It's not easy living abroad, away from family and friends. I've realized that it's important to create an environment where I can feel comfortable, and I feel like I'm finally starting to achieve that.
So, regarding the title of this diary, "How does Akira spend his free time?",
Yes, I am working out. I want to get bigger and stronger, so I go to the gym a lot.
I also study Japanese almost every day. Japanese is not easy, but it's very rewarding. In recent classes, I was able to have many conversations with my teacher about various topics, and I was happy to receive praise for my progress.
I think I'll be able to do a lot more once I'm fluent. I'm actually thinking about some projects I want to do in the future, and I'd love to share them with you all another time. I'm sure you'll enjoy them!
Recently, I've also started volunteering. I help an organization that works to prevent food waste and deliver food to people in need. Seeing how much food goes to waste every day, I wanted to help out in some small way.
The volunteers are all really nice, and they're always surprised when I tell them I'm a professional wrestler (laughs). From the moment I first came to Japan, this country has welcomed me and given me the chance to live a dream life. That's why, now that I have the time, I want to give back in my own way. I'm not saying this to brag, it's just a new experience that I'm really enjoying.
Recently, I often meet up with friends and go out to eat and drink together. Japan has become my true **home** now, and I feel like I'm slowly creating a place that feels like my hometown. That makes me really happy.