SUMO wrestler legend and 11-time grand event winner Akebono Taro has died leaving WWE followers devastated.
His spouse of greater than 20 years, Christiane Reiko Kalina, introduced the star’s passing in a heartfelt message in April 2024.
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Who’s Akebono Taro’s spouse Christiane?
Christiane was born on a US army base in Japan to an American father and a Japanese mom.
She graduated from Indiana State in 1993.
And later went to work in administration on the College of Maryland’s campus on the Yokota Air Base.
How did Akebono Taro meet Christiane and when did they marry?
As a result of Akebono likes to maintain his private life non-public, it isn’t recognized how the couple met.
In February 1998, the wrestler introduced his engagement to Christiane.
The dazzling second occurred at a dinner at Tokyo’s New Sanno with the presence of the press.
Carrying a sublime inexperienced kimono he informed reporters what he requested his Christiane: “How would you wish to spend the remainder of your life with me?”
The WWE star’s spouse beforehand described Akebono as “an unusual man” who likes to eat ham sandwiches.
Do Akebono Taro and Christiane have any kids?
Akebono beforehand revealed a part of the explanation he fell for Christiane was her twin nationality, as they each might converse English and Japanese with their kids.
Earlier than the couple tied the knot, Christiane was greater than 5 months pregnant with their first baby.
The couple now share two sons and a daughter collectively.
How did Akebono Taro die?
Akebono Taro died from coronary heart failure on the age of 54 after spending a yr in hospital battling a cardiac sickness.
He beforehand collapsed in Kitakyushu in Japan seven years in the past and had reportedly been in hospital close to Tokyo.
Hawaii-born Akebono died whereas receiving therapy, his household mentioned.
His household mentioned: “It’s with disappointment that we announce Akebono Taro died of coronary heart failure earlier this month whereas receiving care at a hospital within the Tokyo space.”
The US ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, paid tribute to Akebono – describing him as a “big on the planet of sumo”.
He mentioned: “I used to be deeply saddened to study of the passing of Akebono, an enormous on the planet of sumo, a proud Hawaiian and a bridge between america and Japan.
“When Akebono grew to become the first-ever foreign-born grand champion, sumo’s highest rank, in 1993, he opened the door for different overseas wrestlers to seek out success within the sport.
“All through his 35 years in Japan, Akebono strengthened the cultural ties between america and his adopted homeland by uniting us all by sport.”
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