- Published on DATE
Mondai Ryu
Toki City, Japan - In the world of professional wrestling, few individuals have achieved success through sheer force of personality and unorthodox style as Mondai Ryu, better known to fans as The Problem Dragon. Born Daisuke Kimata in 1982, Ryu's journey to pro wrestling stardom was marked by a series of unconventional twists and turns.
Ryu's early life was spent playing rugby and baseball, two sports that would later influence his wrestling style. It wasn't until he turned 24, however, that he set foot in a professional wrestling ring for the first time. That fateful day, December 9, 2006, marked the beginning of Ryu's allrounder journey.
A Comedy of ErrorsRyu's early days as Super Shenlong, his initial ring name, were marked by mishaps and misadventures. His comedic timing, honed through years of playing rugby, often got the better of him, leading to more laughter than cheers from the crowd. Despite this, Ryu persevered, eventually adopting the moniker Mondai Ryu and refining his comedy-gimmick style.
As he gained traction in Osaka Pro Wrestling, Ryu's stock began to rise. His unorthodox moveset, featuring signature moves like the Mondai Ryusei, Mon Nelson Buster, and Mon Knee, quickly became fan favorites. Salt Attack, a move that would become synonymous with his persona, left opponents reeling.
The Rise of APE KimataRyu's fortunes continued to soar when he joined CHIKARA in 2009. As APE Kimata, he became an integral part of the promotion's roster, competing against some of the best wrestlers from around the world. His success in this environment caught the attention of Pro Wrestling ZERO1, who soon came calling.
The Problem DragonIt was during his time with ZERO1 that Ryu truly found his footing as Mondai Ryu. Adopting a new persona, he became known as The Problem Dragon - a nod to his unorthodox style and penchant for causing chaos in the ring. As this character took hold, Ryu's popularity soared, making him one of the top draws in Japanese professional wrestling.
Today, Ryu continues to thrill crowds as part of Dragongate Japan Pro-Wrestling, his current home. With over a decade under his belt, he has established himself as one of the most beloved and unpredictable wrestlers in the sport. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and a healthy dose of humor - essential ingredients for any successful pro wrestler.
Born on September 22, 1982, Mondai Ryu's journey is one that will continue to captivate fans for years to come. As The Problem Dragon, he remains an enigmatic force in professional wrestling, always ready to shake things up and leave a lasting impression.