The wrestling icon who brought Japan and Mexico together
The wrestling world is in mourning following the passing of Hiroaki Hamada, better known as Gran Hamada. The legendary wrestler died on February 14, 2025 at the age of 74. His daughter, Ayako Hamada, confirmed his departure after a long battle with health problems. Known as the wrestling icon who united Japan and Mexico. His legacy lives on in the hearts of fans, leaving an indelible mark.
A pioneer in the ring
Born on November 27, 1950 in Maebashi, Japan, he began his wrestling career on March 16, 1972. His debut was in New Japan Pro Wrestling(NJPW) against Tatsumi Fujinami. Although he was only 1.68 meters tall, his unmatched agility and innovation made him an outstanding wrestler.
Due to the limitations imposed on smaller wrestlers in Japan, he decided to seek opportunities in Mexico. His transition to Mexican wrestling changed his career completely. He quickly mastered the aerial style that would define his legacy. Thanks to his quick moves, spectacular attacks and great technique, he became a sensation. Thus was born the legendary Gran Hamada.
The birth of a revolutionary
During the 1970s, Hamada became a bridge between Japanese and Mexican wrestling. By the 1990s, he focused his attention on training a new generation of wrestlers. With this goal in mind, he founded Universal Lucha Libre, combining the philosophy of Japanese and Mexican wrestling. He also played a key role in the creation of Michinoku Pro Wrestling. Thanks to his work, he laid the groundwork for future stars, ensuring that his influence transcended the ring.
Combats and outstanding achievements
Hiroaki Hamada (浜田 広秋, Hamada Hiroaki), better known by his wrestling name Gran Hamada (グラン浜田, Guran Hamada), was the first Japanese wrestler to adopt the aerial style of Mexican wrestling. Throughout his career, he wrestled in NJPW, Universal Wrestling Federation, Michinoku Pro and All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW). In addition, he made appearances in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW).
Some of his most memorable bouts include:
- He starred in multiple legendary battles in Empresa Mexicana de Lucha Libre (EMLL), where he earned the name El Gran Hamada.
- He won the UWA Junior World Semi-Completeweight Championship five times.
- He had a historic rivalry with El Signo, which included a scalp vs. scalp wrestling match in 1975.
- He participated in the One Night Eight Man Tag Team Tournament (1994) along with Shinjiro Otani, El Samurai and Great Sasuke.
Hamada also won multiple championships, including:
- BJW Heavyweight Championship
- WWF Semi-Completeweight Championship (twice)
- UWA World Couples Championship (three times)
- NWA World Middleweight Championship
- He was recognized by PWI as one of the 500 greatest wrestlers in history in 2003.
An eternal legacy
Gran Hamada’s contributions transcended beyond his accomplishments in the ring. He served as a mentor to numerous wrestlers, including his daughters Xochitl and Ayako Hamada, who continued his legacy. His impact was felt in promotions around the world, from NJPW and AJPW to Lucha Libre AAA.
In his later years, Hamada faced serious health problems. According to his daughter Ayako, he underwent multiple surgeries and was hospitalized for three months. He was finally discharged weeks before his passing. Despite his difficulties, he remained a symbol of dedication and passion for the sport.
Tributes from the wrestling community
Following the announcement of his passing, wrestlers and fans around the world paid tribute to his legacy. Wrestling legend El Hijo del Santo expressed his grief:
“I deeply regret the passing of my dear colleague and excellent fighter, Gran Hamada. My deepest condolences to his family.”
On the other hand, Lucha Libre AAA also issued a statement:
“We mourn the passing of Gran Hamada. His contributions to wrestling will never be forgotten.”
A memorial service will be held on February 16 at Arena Mezquital in Apodaca, Nuevo Leon. Fans are invited to pay tribute and celebrate the legacy of one of the most innovative wrestlers in history.
A legend never dies
Gran Hamada was more than a wrestler. He was a visionary who united two wrestling cultures and changed the sport forever. His influence will continue to inspire generations of wrestlers who will seek to follow in his footsteps.
