Koji Kitao

The Monster Machine

Deep within the heart of Japan, there existed a force to be reckoned with in the realm of professional wrestling. His name was Koji Kitao, and his presence was akin to a thunderstorm on the horizon - it commanded attention, struck fear into the hearts of those around him, and left an indelible mark once the storm had passed.

Standing at 6'6" and weighing a formidable 304 pounds, Kitao was the epitome of power. His wrestling style was a testament to his sumo-ringen and judo background, with a focus on raw strength and unrelenting aggression. The Monster Machine, as he was affectionately known, was a force to be reckoned with in any ring.

Kitao's career spanned nearly a decade, from his first match in 1989 to his final bout in 1998. During that time, he worked for various promotions, including World Wrestling Entertainment, New Japan Pro Wrestling, and Big Japan Pro-Wrestling. His signature moves, the Thunderstorm (a giant swing) and the Kitao Driller (a piledriver), left opponents reeling.

But it was his work in tag team matches where Kitao truly shone. He held multiple championships, including the Tenryu Project Six Man Tag Team Championship and the MFPW Tag Team Championship, a testament to his ability to adapt and thrive in any situation.

Kitao's passing on February 10th, 2019, was met with widespread sadness throughout the wrestling community. The cause of his death was chronic kidney disease, a reminder that even the strongest among us are not immune to the ravages of time.

Despite his untimely departure from this world, Koji Kitao's legacy lives on. He remains one of Japan's most beloved and respected professional wrestlers, a true giant in every sense of the word. His matches continue to be celebrated by fans around the globe, a testament to the enduring power of his unique style and unyielding spirit.