Japanese wrestling promotion World Wonder Ring Stardom has confirmed through Twitter that Hana Kimura has passed away. It is feared the 22-year-old took her own life after posting self-mutation images on her Twitter account, and in a since-deleted tweet wrote:
Nearly 100 frank opinions every day. I couldn’t deny that I was hurt. I’m dead. Thank you for giving me a mother. It was a life I wanted to be loved. Thank you to everyone who supported me. I love it. I’m weak, I’m sorry. I don’t want to be a human anymore. It was a life I wanted to be loved. Thank you, everyone. I love you. Bye.Hana Kimura on Twitter
She was said to be very depressed after being the victim of cyberbullying, following the airing earlier this year of an incident where she slapped another contestant on the Japanese dating/reality television show Terrace House.
Kimura grew up around the wrestling business as her mother is retired wrestler Kyoko Kimura who fought in Big Japan, Ice Ribbon, and Stardom, among other promotions. Many puroresu aficionados believed Hana Kimura would become a big star in the wrestling business over the next few years, and she made history in January by competing in a dark match at Wrestle Kingdom 14. This was notable because it was the first women’s match at the Tokyo Dome in 18 years.
Many of the biggest stars in women’s wrestling have commented on her tragic passing, including Asuka, Natalya, Tessa Blanchard, and others.
I don’t know where to put this sad feeling and I can’t find the words to say … I remember when Hana was still a little girl, she always came to the venue with her grandmother.
AsukaI just heard this news and I’m truly saddened by it. Heartbreaking. Prayers for #HanaKimura and her family.
Natalya NeidhartIt absolutely breaks my heart how cruel people can be on social media. It was an amazing honor to know Hana Kimura. She was an amazing girl with the kindest soul and immense passion and work ethic. I’m at a loss of words over this tragedy. Rest In Peace my friend.
Tessa BlanchardI was able to notice her tweet right away because it was afternoon in the United States by the time difference (midnight in Japan time) and I called Jungle Screamer and Rossi Ogawa with Io immediately. Kyona went with all her might. However… I didn’t make it in time.
Kairi SaneI will always love and miss you, my friend. You are my little sister. The Swanns send our love and condolences to Hana Kimura, her family, and loved ones. I will never forget you. So much I want to say… my heart is broken.
Su Yung
James is a pro wrestling blogger as well as the webmaster and YouTube manager for
Chris Jericho &
FOZZY.
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