In Japan, Christianity has always been in the minority, currently at only 2% of the population. As a result, Christmas is not really celebrated other than in a consumeristic fashion where couples exchange presents or children are given them. Christmas cards are generally not sent. However, New Year’s cards, in postcard form are sent by almost everyone, and not just to family and friends. All sorts of colleagues and business associates send and receive them.
Most people make personalised cards with photos of themselves and their families, and there’s a variety of software out there to make them cute or funny in the way Japanese are so famous for. This one caught my attention today when Sadaharu Tanigawa, president of K-1, posted on Twitter the top 5 New Year’s cards that he received having the greatest impact on him. Two in particular caught my attention and raised a smile.
I wasn’t sure how serious Mr. Saiki was with this one, so I’ll hold off on my own comments, but Mr. Tanigawa found it somewhat amusing!
And the second, Sumo Yokozuna, Asa Shoryu, with the English at the top almost hinting that he would like to fight in K-1. Now that would be something!
Continuing on the topic of DEEP, an old friend and occasional training partner, Keith Vargo took part in the recent DEEP X (in Japanese) event on January 5th, winning by judge decision over Satoshi Honma. DEEP has produced some world class fighters over the last 10 years, including UFC fighter Ryo Chonan. MMA-in-Japan.com is looking forward to this year’s DEEP events with interest.
Asa Shoryu in k-1 would be something to watch. He likes the attention, wouldn’t be surprised if he wanted to be part of it.
I reckon he’d be fantastic. I doubt he’d be able to kick very well but his speed, power and killer instinct would make him exciting to watch.