Thoughts on the Retirement of DDT's Solid Wrestler in Black Trunks, Kazusada Higuchi

DDT's heavyweight wrestler, Kazusada Higuchi, is retiring.

Honestly, I thought Higuchi was someone who could carry DDT on his shoulders (in fact, he has even won the KO-D Openweight Championship).
So, as a fan, his retirement is truly sad.

My image of Higuchi is someone who is faithful to manners and rules.

At an autograph session during one tournament, when a wrestler tried to skip the fan line to go to the autograph desk, he signaled with his eyes and presence, without saying a word, for them to 'go to the back of the line.'
I think this steadfastness is why he was trusted by so many fans.

Even during matches, while many wrestlers wear flashy costumes, Higuchi consistently wore black trunks.
His stance of respecting tradition is also very much like him.

In terms of moves, the Goten and Brain Claw are memorable.
The Brain Claw, in particular, is a move where you can feel the terror of him as a wrestler the moment he presses down on your face and head with his large hands.

I find it very unfortunate that he, someone with such a large presence in many ways, will be gone.

However, I think it was a blessing in disguise that his C1-C2 subluxation was discovered early.
If he had kept wrestling without noticing it, it might have ended not just his career, but his life.

This is a slight digression, but with his retirement, Harimao will also disband.

When I first watched a Harimao match, my heart raced to see all my favorite members together in the ring.
The memories of collecting their T-shirts, towels, and portraits to support them are still precious to me.

The Harimao last match was set up as a match against wrestlers with ties to Higuchi (Harimao vs. DNA 1st Generation).
It is deeply moving that this match was arranged at Higuchi's request.
I can't go to the venue, but I intend to burn it into my memory through the stream.

And, even after Harimao is gone, I think I will continue to wear my Harimao T-shirt to DDT tournaments.

Looking back, Higuchi's 'sincerity' shone through in everything: his posture in the ring, his moves, and how he interacted with fans.
I think he was a rare wrestler who gave viewers a sense of security and trust.

I don't know how his life will unfold from here, but knowing him, I believe he will face whatever path he chooses with sincerity.

Higuchi-senshu, thank you very much for all your hard work.
I will continue to enjoy DDT tournaments without forgetting your posture and your moves.
May your future be filled with happiness and peace.

In closing

The thumbnail image was created inspired by
Higuchi-senshu, who has a physique as large as a bear, and
the brown bear, which is only found in Hokkaido.

Please let me know your thoughts after reading this article, or share your memories of Higuchi-senshu and Harimao in the comments.
I'm also looking forward to your likes and follows!