Ikuhisa Minowa (美濃輪 育久 Minowa Ikuhisa, born January 12, 1976) is a Japanese mixed martial artist and professional wrestler currently competing in IGF as Minowaman (ミノワマン Minowaman). A professional MMA competitor since 1996, he was a longtime veteran of PRIDE and Pancrase and has also competed in other mixed martial arts promotions such as K-1 Hero's, Cage Rage, the SFL, Vale Tudo Japan, UFC, DREAM, and DEEP. He is the former DREAM Openweight Grand Prix Champion (Super Hulk). Often undersized and a huge fan favorite in Japan, Minowa earned his nickname "The Giant Killer" by participating in many openweight contests, often submitting much larger opponents. Also renowned for his durability, he is a veteran of 115 fights, and is known for his trademark red speedo and mullet.
Professional wrestling career[]
In 2010, Minowa turned his attention to professional wrestling. On 22 February 2010, Minowaman made his debut for Antonio Inoki's IGF facing and defeating Necro Butcher in a 10-minute match.[1]
Minowa has also undertook some additional professional wrestling training under the tutelage of Satoru Sayama, the original Tiger Mask. On July 18, 2010, Minowa debuted as the fifth generation Tiger Mask.[2]
On September 5, 2019 it was announced that Minowa would face Timothy Thatcher on Saturday September 14, 2019 as part of Josh Barnett's GCW Bloodsport 2 event.[3]
Personal life[]
Minowa attended the Toyama College of Health and Science.
- ↑ 411MANIA | Into the Indies 03.16.10: Most Unusual Matches .
- ↑ UFC News: MMA News and Rumors | Fight Coverage .
- ↑ Catch as Catch Can action. Pancrase legend with 114 fights takes on modern Catch Wrestler. Minowa vs Thatcher LIVE on @FiteTV @GCWrestling_ #Bloodsportpic.twitter.com/jTuOkesM1s (2019-09-05).