Monami Toyota Interview
Posted by David Damage on Saturday, December 3, 2011
Under: Interviews
Who was your favorite opponent of all time
Manami mentioned enjoying wrestling larger wrestlers, which are hard to come by in Japan. She identified Aja Kong and Kyoko Inoue as two of her favorites.
What was it like working in New York City?
Manami very much enjoyed the New York show, and was surprised that she was so well known. She has only been to America one time before, but hopes to return.
What made you decide to become a wrestler?
Manami identified the Crush Girls, and an event in which she saw them live (video here) for inspiring her to get into wrestling.
How did you create your signature moveset?
Manami developed the Japanese Ocean Cyclone Suplex by via ring experimentation. Manami stated that it was important for her to create an original moveset. She created the Queen Bee finisher because she wanted a move that would look impressive against larger opponents.
After a fan mentioned enjoying her double missile dropkick to Sara Del Rey and Claudio Castagnoli from the turnbuckle to the outside of the ring, Manami laughed and joked about she makes sure to only utilize that manouver when there is padding on the floor.
Were you surprised at the fan reaction?
Manami once again emphasized how shocked she was to see how many fans knew her. She was also excited about how far some people had travelled to see her and that we wished to eat dinner with her.
What do you think of Sara Del Rey?
Manami mentioned that she had previously faced Del Rey in Japan in 2005 (DVD on Sara’s site and on sale at all indy shows at which Sara makes an appearance) ), and said that her style has changed and she is improved. She also acknowledged that she kicks quite hard, which she seemed to appreciate
Do you watch American wrestling?:
Manami does not watch American wrestling, or men’s wrestling in general (you and me both sista’). However, she was very impressed with CHIKARA and would like to watch more of their shows in the future. She feels she may have a lot to learn from American wrestlers.
How do you select your fashions? (Guess who asked this)
Manami had a private designer for all of her ring costumes. Unfortunately, he recently passed away and she is at a loss as to who to utilize next.
Toyota then stopped to ask why nobody was drinking. She explained that she enjoys it very much and enjoys beer which she will then follow up with sake. As the only other drinker in the crowd, this led to my own personal Manami moment as I was invited to do a shot of hot sake with her.
What was your best match?
Manami was unable to select a best match because as she is very critical and judgemental of her own work. This attitude is shared by Sara Del Rey, largely regarded as the best American female professional wrestler working today.
Manami was also unable to remember individual matches and events, which is understandable for a 20+ year veteran.
Would you like to come back to America?
A definite theme of the night, this question was a fitting conclusion to the Q&A portion of the meal. Manami seemed touched at her American wrestling experience and stated that she hopes to come back.
In : Interviews