(NOAH) Complete defeat, disappointment, but moving forward!

Weekly Pro 24th October 2000

(Issue No. 1000)

"I want to be able to showcase my strengths in singles matches" (Rikio) 

With the sound of Rikio being pinned after a chokeslam by Taue, a sigh of "ahhh" rippled through the audience. That sigh was less an expression of admiration for Taue's strength and more a look of dismay at Rikio being taken down by a single throat hold. This fact clearly demonstrates the high regard in which fans hold for Rikio. Rikio is a rookie with less than five months of experience since his debut, having only had two singles matches. Under normal circumstances, it's hard to imagine him beating a wrestler like Taue, who has been at the top for many years. In fact, even a singles match between them is extremely rare. Nevertheless, the fact that Rikio suffered a crushing defeat and sighed in disappointment shows just how highly his strength is regarded. It's the flip side of high expectations. Through his battles with Akiyama and Takayama, it seems that fans' perception of Rikio has already shifted from that of a rookie.

Of course, Rikio himself is well aware of this. "In order to be recognized as Kenta Kobashi's official partner, I have to work hard even when we're not teaming up, and I also want to be able to showcase my strengths more in singles matches". He is determined to do his best.

In the four months that have passed since his debut, Rikio has steadily grown stronger with each opportunity he has been given. While this match against Taue may have been a complete defeat, Rikio will undoubtedly use this experience to move forward. Just like his relentless forward facing fighting style, the word "retreat" is not in Rikio's vocabulary. 

There is only progress. 

Picture notes

Taue praised Rikio for his strength. 

Rikio admitted he, "didn't have any mental composure"

"Right now, being able to compete against higher ranked opponents is valuable, so I want to cherish this time" ~ Rikio