Konosuke Takeshita Bio
Early Life and Background
Konosuke Takeshita was born on May 29, 1995, in Osaka, Japan. He was an athletic child, participating in track and field during his school years. Takeshita developed a passion for professional wrestling early on, attending a DDT show at the age of 12, which solidified his desire to pursue a career in wrestling.
Takeshita attended Nippon Sport Science University, where he continued to hone his athletic abilities. His dedication to the sport began to take shape during his high school years, setting the stage for his future in professional wrestling.
Path to Professional Wrestling
In 2011, Takeshita began his training with DDT Pro-Wrestling, a promotion that would become central to his career. His early exposure to wrestling and the influence of mentors within DDT helped him navigate the complexities of the wrestling world. He made his official debut on August 18, 2012, at Tokyo’s Nippon Budokan, marking the beginning of his professional journey.
Takeshita quickly gained recognition, winning the Ironman Heavymetalweight Championship in a pre-debut exhibition match. This early success was a sign of his potential, as he would go on to achieve numerous accolades in the years to come.
Konosuke Takeshita Career
Early Career (2012–2015)
Takeshita’s early years in DDT Pro-Wrestling were marked by significant achievements. He was named Rookie of the Year by Tokyo Sports in 2013, becoming the first high school student to receive the honor. His first major title came on his 21st birthday when he won the KO-D Openweight Championship, making him the youngest champion in the title’s history.
During this period, he also formed a tag team with Tetsuya Endo, with whom he captured the KO-D Tag Team Championship. Takeshita’s performances established him as a rising star in the promotion, leading to multiple title reigns and accolades.
All Elite Wrestling Breakthrough (2021–Present)
Takeshita made his debut with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) during their first non-televised event in 2021, quickly becoming a fan favorite. His impressive matches against established stars, including Kenny Omega and Adam Page, showcased his skill and versatility in the ring. In 2022, he signed a contract with AEW while maintaining his commitments to DDT.
In 2025, he achieved a career milestone by winning the G1 Climax tournament in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and subsequently capturing the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. This victory marked a significant moment in his career, further solidifying his status as a top competitor in the wrestling world.
Current Team Era (2022–Present)
Since joining AEW, Takeshita has been a prominent member of The Don Callis Family, aligning himself with notable wrestlers and engaging in high-profile feuds. His performances have garnered critical acclaim, and he has successfully defended his titles against formidable opponents.
In 2025, he continued to build momentum, winning the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship and defending it against top contenders. His dynamic wrestling style and ability to connect with the audience have made him a standout performer in both AEW and NJPW.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Takeshita is known for his athleticism, technical prowess, and ability to adapt to various wrestling styles. His strategic approach in the ring, combined with his charisma, has made him a compelling figure in professional wrestling.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Takeshita has accumulated numerous titles, including multiple reigns as KO-D Openweight Champion and a significant victory in the G1 Climax. His ability to perform at a high level in both Japanese and American promotions has set him apart as a versatile and accomplished wrestler.
Konosuke Takeshita Career Wins
Takeshita’s career is highlighted by numerous championship victories across various promotions. His achievements include being a five-time KO-D Openweight Champion and a one-time IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, showcasing his dominance in the ring.
Current AEW Series Highlights
As of 2025, Takeshita has secured his place as a top competitor in AEW, winning the AEW International Championship and successfully defending it multiple times. His matches have been well-received, and he continues to be a key player in the promotion’s storyline developments.
Previous NJPW Series Achievements
In NJPW, Takeshita’s victory in the G1 Climax and subsequent championship reign have marked him as a significant figure in the promotion. His ability to compete at a high level against some of the best wrestlers in the world has further enhanced his reputation.
Konosuke Takeshita Family
Family Background and Wrestling Lineage
Takeshita is married to fellow wrestler Yuka Sakazaki, and their relationship has been a supportive aspect of his life and career. While details about his family background are limited, his connection to the wrestling community is evident through his marriage and professional collaborations.
Personal Life
Takeshita has expressed a passion for fitness, engaging in weightlifting and bodybuilding as part of his training regimen. His ambition to compete in the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics as a decathlete reflects his dedication to athletic excellence beyond wrestling.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a landmark year for Takeshita, highlighted by his victory in the G1 Climax and subsequent IWGP World Heavyweight Championship win. His performances have been characterized by high-stakes matches and intense rivalries, particularly in AEW, where he has faced off against top talents like Kenny Omega and Chris Jericho.
As the season progresses, Takeshita’s momentum continues to build, with successful title defenses and critical acclaim from fans and critics alike. His ability to navigate complex storylines and maintain a strong presence in both AEW and NJPW positions him as a key figure in the wrestling landscape moving forward.
