Devil Masami

When discussing the pioneers of women's professional wrestling in Japan, one name that often gets overlooked is Devil Masami. A technician with a penchant for pain and a reputation as one of the toughest competitors on the circuit, Devil Masami left an indelible mark on the sport.

Born on January 7, 1962, in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan, Masami Yoshida was destined to make waves in the world of wrestling. She began her career in 1979, working for various promotions including All Japan Pro Wrestling, Big Japan Pro-Wrestling, and Sendai Girls' Pro Wrestling.

As Madama Devil, she quickly earned a reputation as one of the top female wrestlers on the continent. Her signature moves, including the Fire Thunder Bomb and Fire Valley (a vicious reverse piledriver), left opponents reeling and fans in awe.

Throughout her career, Masami held multiple championships, including the AAAW Championship, AAAW Tag Team Championship, WCW World Women's Championship, JWP Openweight Championship, and WWWA World Championship. She was a force to be reckoned with, taking on all comers and emerging victorious more often than not.

But it wasn't just her in-ring prowess that earned her the nickname "Devil- sama" - she was also known for her cunning and ruthlessness. Masami had no qualms about bending (or breaking) the rules to get ahead, earning her the moniker "Super Heel Devil Masami."

Despite her tough-as-nails persona, Masami's dedication to her craft and her fans earned her a special place in the hearts of many. She worked tirelessly to improve her skills, studying the best male wrestlers and incorporating their techniques into her own arsenal.

Masami's career spanned over three decades, with her final match taking place on December 30, 2008. Though she may be retired from active competition, her legacy lives on as one of the greatest female wrestlers in Japanese history.

As we look back on the illustrious career of Devil Masami, it's clear that this pint-sized powerhouse left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. Though she may be gone from the ring, her spirit and legacy continue to inspire a new generation of wrestlers - and fans alike.