Episode 25: Gold’s Gym Business Dinner

February 27, 2026

Business Dinners (Kaishoku). They happen quite often. I decided to look it up.

"A business dinner is a setting where two or more people gather to eat for the purpose of socializing, exchanging information, or building relationships with clients (entertainment). It holds more significance than just a simple meal and serves as an important business tool for establishing trust."

• Purpose is relationship building... φ(･･

• Holds more significance than just a meal...

• It’s a business tool... ＿φ(￣ー￣ )

As I thought, if you don't approach it with a clear "purpose," you won't get results.

Even with training, having a goal like "What am I training for?" and "What is the desired outcome?" is vital.

For example, if it's chest day, do you want to thicken the pectorals or build the upper pecs? If so, you'd choose incline-based exercises...

Wait, why am I suddenly talking about this? It's because just the other day, I went out for dinner with Mr. Tezuka, the President of Gold’s Gym Japan.

I had met President Tezuka several times at parties and was already acquainted with him.

He always carries himself with a powerful, steady presence—he truly radiates that "Gold’s Gym President" energy.

The reason he invited me this time was to celebrate my retirement.

While enjoying delicious drinks and food, I was able to hear a lot about their future store expansions and the current state of the gyms.

Since there isn't a Gold’s Gym in Gifu yet, I almost suggested a franchise with Tanahashi as the owner... but I stopped myself (lol).

Looking back, my very first outing after my debut in 1999 was to Gold’s Gym Otsuka.

I have nothing but great memories, like meeting the legendary Muscle Kitamura and seeing my body grow rapidly.

During our dinner, we had a very productive talk about gym access and support for New Japan Pro-Wrestling wrestlers.

I’ll make sure to tell all the athletes to use the facilities with a renewed sense of gratitude.

Alright! Time for my own physical transformation! (Sounds suspicious, I know).