Episode 9: IWGP Road to the Junior Heavyweight Title

February 22, 2025

Hello everyone! I'm writing this diary entry right after I finished working out. As you can see from the title, I'm now concentrating on preparing for my match against El Desperado, my challenge for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship! 

I'm training twice a day for the match, pushing my limits and getting into the best condition possible. For me, this match is not just a title match. It's also a testament to the efforts I've made over the past 10 years since my debut. All the joy, pain, and suffering I've experienced so far have led to this moment. Of course, this is just the beginning; I want to show everyone the new Francisco Akira. I can't wait for this match!

Two weeks have passed since my last diary entry. I had a great time in Osaka again, every time I have a day off, I go to Osaka Castle (lol). No matter how many times I go, I never get bored. 
 

I'm very interested in Japanese history and love learning about it. I especially love the era of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and his impressive life, how he unified Japan from nothing and became one of the most important figures of his time.

I would like to learn more about not only him, but also about Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu. If you have any recommended books, please let me know! 

Also, I had some spare time so I tried my hand at a UFO Catcher and got a panda mask! I've been so addicted to UFO Catchers lately that I end up spending way too much money (lol).

I spent Valentine's Day by myself, wandering around Tokyo and going to the cinema.

In Italy, it's common for boys to give chocolate to girls, but in Japan, it's the other way around. I thought that was really interesting! 

I'll be uploading lots of photos as usual, but really, I wanted to share with you how I'm feeling right now. It's been almost a year since I moved to Japan and got my own house. Sometimes I feel lonely and miss my family. 

But I'm really grateful for all the love I've received in Japan and from everyone here. Japan has become my home. 

I want to become the best wrestler possible and let more people know how great New Japan Pro-Wrestling is and build a bridge between Italy and Japan.

On March 6th, I will be giving it my all in this match. I would be thrilled if you could come and cheer me on! If you can't come, please be sure to watch it on NJPW World!