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Steven Fernandes sent word that Japanese media reports this evening have stated that Chadwick Haheo Rowan aka Akebono, who parlayed an amazing career in sumo wrestling into professional wrestling, has passed away at the age of 54. The report cause of death was heart failure. He had been ill for several years.
In the United States, his highest profile appearance would have been WWE Wrestlemania 21 in Los Angeles, where he defeated The Big Show inn a Sumo Match. He also appeared on several WWE live events in Japan, including teaming with Big Show to defeat Carlito and Matt Morgan.
The Hawaiian native debuted in sumo wrestling in 1988 and ascended to the level of Yokozuna in 1993 before injuries led to his retirement from sumo. He transitioned into professional wrestling after a number of MMA appearances including a massively viewed fight against Bob Sapp in Japan for K-1. He initially opened a restaurant post-sumo but when that didn't work out financially, he returned to combat sports.
In 2005, Akebono debuted for All Japan Pro Wrestling, where he held the Triple Crown several times. He was trained by Keiji Muto and Riki Choshu for professional wrestling and while it appeared he would be a novelty gimmick before debuting, he became a pretty damn good pro wrestler over time. Debuting for All Japan Pro Wrestling as Great Muta's tag team partner to feud with the Voodoo- Murders stable, Akebono improved considerably over his run. He and Muta went to the finals of the 2005 Real World Tag League tournament, losing in the finals to Team 3D (Dudley Boyz). Tokyo Sports awarded Akebono Rookie of the Year for 2005.
Akebono moved to New Japan Pro Wrestling in 2006, where he was aligned with veteran Riki Choshu. At one point, he was nicknamed Bono Tiger and teamed with Tiger Mask IV while wearing a mask himself. In New Japan Pro Wrestling, he wrestled Brock Lesnar and Masa Chono, among others.
For a time, he promoted under the Ōdō banner alongside Motoko Baba. He also made appearances for a number of other companies. He last wrestled in 2017 before the onset of health issues.
The United States Ambassador to Japan, Statement by Ambassador Rahm Emanuel, issued the following statement:
"I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Akebono, a giant in the world of sumo, a proud Hawaiian and a bridge between the United States and Japan. When Akebono became the first-ever foreign-born grand champion, sumo’s highest rank, in 1993, he opened the door for other foreign wrestlers to find success in the sport. Throughout his 35 years in Japan, Akebono strengthened the cultural ties between the United States and his adopted homeland by uniting us all through sport. I send my sincerest condolences to his family and friends and to sumo fans everywhere."
PWInsider.com sends our deepest condolences to the family, friends and fans of Akebono.
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