According to Realidad San Luis, which is a local news outlet in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, Gran Hamada, the founder of Universal Lucha Libre, has passed away at the age of 74.
Hamada was part of the first group of wrestlers to train in the NJPW’s dojo and then later make his debut for the promotion when in debuted in 1972. Hamada is also one of the very first Japanese wrestlers to train in lucha libre and to incorporate that style of wrestling in is own performances in the ring. He wrestled in both Mexico and and Japan throughout his pro wresting career.
Hamada worked in the Universal Wrestling Association beginning in 1979 and AJPW in 1981. He would go on to be the founder of Universal Lucha Libre in 1990. In 1993, he worked with Michinoku Pro Wrestling. He also made two appearances in the United States back in 1997. He wrestled at the WWE at the In Your House: D-Generation X PPV and ECW’s Barley Legal PPV.
Source: F4WOnline
At the time of this writing, there is no known cause of death.
Wrestleview sends it’s condolences to the family, friends and fans of Gran Hamada during this difficult and sad time.
