Sumo wrestling legend Akebono Taro, who won a match at WWE Wrestlemania 21, has died at age 54, according to reports.
Akebono died of heart failure in early April after receiving treatment at a hospital in Tokyo, Japan, according to The New York Times.
“It is with sadness that we announce Akebono Taro died of heart failure earlier this month while receiving care at a hospital in the Tokyo area,” the family told the Associated Press in a statement. “The family kindly asks for privacy during this time of mourning.”
The Hawaiian-born Akebono became one of the greatest sumo wrestlers in Japan, becoming the first non-native to ever reach the highest rank in sumo. He moved to Tokyo in the 1980s, won his first of 11 grand championships in 1993, and retired from sumo in 2001. At the prime of his career, the 6-foot-8 Akebono was reported to weight 500 pounds, according to AP.
In 2005, Akebono competed in WWE’s annual crown jewel event Wrestlemania 21, squaring off against the Big Show in a traditional sumo match. He won the match when he threw the 7-foot-tall Big Show out of the ring.
“Known for his imposing size, natural charisma, and indomitable fighting spirit, Akebono left an unforgettable mark on combat sports,” WWE said in a statement. “WWE extends its condolences to Akebono’s family, friends and fans.”
Akebono is survived by his wife, Christine, daughter and two sons.
