Whenever WWE locks down a truly unique, freak-of-nature athlete, you have to pay attention. Ok, you don’t, but it’s a Sumo Wrestler! Come on, that’s fun!
According to a report from PWInsider Elite, WWE has officially signed Japanese sensation Hidetora Hanada to an NXT developmental deal.
If you haven't heard of Hanada yet, his athletic background reads like a custom video game character:
World-Class Sumo Foundation: Born in Japan, Hanada dominated the world sumo stage, competing in the 2018 World Games in Japan, the 2019 Games in Taiwan, and the 2022 World Games in Alabama.
The Gridiron Pivot: In 2022, he took a wild leap across the globe to play American college football as a defensive tackle for Colorado State.
NFL Ambitions: Hanada eventually gave the NFL a shot through their international pipeline, but after going unpicked by a pro team, his next massive leap lands him directly in a wrestling ring.
More About Hanada
Standing 6-foot-1 and tipping the scales at 280 pounds, Hanada brings an insane mix of explosive sumo leverage, college gridiron power, and elite international agility.
Seeing how WWE molds a standout athlete with this exact hybrid toolset under the NXT spotlight is going to be something special.
