Japanese professional wrestling legend Antonio Inoki, who once fought boxing icon Muhammad Ali, has died aged 79.
Inoki's company, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, confirmed his death and said: "New Japan Pro-Wrestling is deeply saddened at the passing of our founder, Antonio Inoki.
Antonio Inoki: 1943-2022
"His achievements, both in professional wrestling and the global community are without parallel and will never be forgotten."
The mixed martial arts pioneer died of heart failure after battling with amyloidosis for several years and spending his last days confined to a wheelchair.
Inoki will be remembered by most for taking part in perhaps the most high-profile mixed-rules bout ever when he fought heavyweight boxing champion, Muhammad Ali, on June 26, 1976.
Ali vs. Inoki was one of the most watched fights of its generation. Not only did a 14000-strong crowd watch the bout live at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, but it also aired on televisions across the globe.
The bout ended in a draw and was something of a stalemate for all 15 rounds. Inoki spent most of the fight on his back, kicking at Ali's leg which he hit more than 100 times causing considerable damage.
While the fight was somewhat of a disappointment, the attention it garnered pathed the way for a more fluid and all-encompassing style of fighting that ultimately evolved into MMA which is more popular than ever in 2022.
Ali was not prepared for the onslaught Inoki gave his legs
Ali vs Inoki was ahead of its time
Inoki parlayed his popularity into a political career and won a seat in the upper house, one of Japan's two chambers of parliament, in 1989.
He headed the Sports and Peace Party, travelling to Iraq in 1990 to help win the release of Japanese citizens who were held hostage there.
Inoki also staged a pro-wrestling match in North Korea after building a personal connection with the country and visiting on several occasions to help the two countries reach peace.
Tributes have been pouring in for Inoki from some of the most prominent names in professional wrestling who are remembering the WWE Hall of Famer following his passing.
a true wrestling icon
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