(NOAH) "The reason is my selfishness", Masahito Kakihara, the man at the centre of controversy, explains the circumstances surrounding his departure from Noah

Weekly Pro 

12th September 2000 (Issue 994)

Masahito Kakihara, who left Pro Wrestling Noah after the inauguration on August 5th, held a press conference to explain the circumstances that led to his departure. According to Kakihara, his reasons for leaving where as follows; "It was just to my selfish wish. I was absent for half a year, but during that time I tried practicing not only martial arts, but also as an athlete in several places and I was able to have very stimulating training. I wanted to continue this situation, so I decided to become a freelancer. I'm grateful to Misawa-san for accepting my selfishness."

Kakihara emphasized that he was not fired by Noah, but rather that he had personally asked President Misawa to leave. He also said he was not leaving because of differences in fighting style.

As for future plans, they are completely blank, and he made it clear he was not in contact with anyone else; "As a matter of basic etiquette, I didn't want to have to go through any pre-negotiations (with other promotions) before I submitted my plans. Right now, I'm in a neutral position, so all pro wrestling promotions, including Mixed Martial Arts promotions (such as RINGS, Pancrase, PRIDE etc) are on my radar. I'm open to anything at this point". The reason why he participated in the inauguration was because, "I wanted to have a match that confirmed my feelings. I wanted to have a match to question my heart once again". It seems that Kakihara decided to leave Noah after August 5th. 

Perhaps Kakihara wanted to test his potential as an athlete in various sports, including professional wrestling. Misawa described Kakihara's departure to be like "going on a journey". Perhaps the separation between Noah and Kakihara, is similar to the relationship between New Japan Pro Wrestling and Kazuyuki Fujita*.

"I'd be lying if I said the success of my former juniors (such as Kazushi Sakuraba) hasn't inspired me. But I don't think I can become the same as them by doing the same things. As a teammate, I'm happy to see Sakuraba's success. I feel like I can't lose." At the press conference Kakihara added, "There have been many speculations in magazines and newspapers about the reason why I left, so I thought I would explain it myself." 

Kakihara has left Noah, and has chosen to sail alone. So, in which ring will we next see his heroic figure?* 

Picture blurbs

"It wasn't because of the style, I think professional wrestling encompasses all styles, and I don't want to categorize it based on style"

The press conference was held at the gym where Kakihara does weight lifting.

"I think the options will narrow down as I discuss various conditions, but as of now I am open to anything. Right now, I have nothing. I'll believe in my potential and do my best". 

He also spoke about Andy Hug*, saying that he never met him, but he was sorry to hear of his death, and that he would pray for his soul to rest in peace. 

Notes

Kazuyuki Fujita: Who would also come to Noah.  

Kakihara next moves: He went back to All Japan. 

Andy Hug: Swiss kickboxer who died suddenly in August 2000