On Saturday, NJPW announced the passing of Killer Khan (real name Masashi Ozawa) at the age of 76. Local media reports in Japan note that Khan collapsed while at his bar on Friday. His cause of death is listed as a ruptured artery. NJPW issued the following:
Former wrestler Masashi Ozawa, better known to wrestling fans as Killer Khan passed away on December 29 after collapsing in his bar in Tokyo. He was 76.
After training in sumo in the famed Kasukano stable, Ozawa joined the JWA in January 1971. Standing at an imposing 195 cm (6’6”), hopes were high for him as a prospect when he joined New Japan Pro-Wrestling in 1973. In 1978 on excursion to Mexico he transformed himself into a Mongolian inspired persona that sparked a hugely successful campaign in America in 1979 as Killer Khan.
Khan transitioned into the WWF in 1980, and after a famous knee drop that put Andre the Giant on the injured list with an injured right leg, instantly found himself the top heel in the organization, with big matches against Hulk Hogan ensuing.
On his return to NJPW he was in the top flight as he had been overseas, with an influence felt today- particuarly in the Mongolian Chops used in the years to come by Hiroyoshi Tenzan, Great-O-Khan and others.
In April 1982, the fifth MSG Series saw Antonio Inoki forced to withdraw with a right knee injury. Inoki nominated Khan to take his place in the final with Andre, and the result was a thrilling match that saw Khan advanced in status even in defeat.
In 1983, Khan joined Riki Choshu in Choshu’s influential Ishingun faction. From there, he would follow Choshu to Japan Pro-Wrestling in 1985, wrestling in the All Japan ring as a result as well as back in the WWF. Khan retired from pro-wrestling in November 1987 in New Jersey before running numerous bars and restaurants in Tokyo.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling sends it’s deepest sympathies to Killer Khan’s family, friends and fans.
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Killer Khan: Remembering a Wrestling Legend
On December 29, 2021, the wrestling world mourned the loss of a true legend. Masashi Ozawa, better known to wrestling fans as Killer Khan, passed away at the age of 76. The news of his passing was announced by New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), where Khan had made a significant impact throughout his career.
Killer Khan’s journey in the world of professional wrestling began after he trained in sumo at the renowned Kasukano stable. In January 1971, he joined the Japan Wrestling Association (JWA) and quickly caught the attention of fans and promoters alike. Standing at an imposing 195 cm (6’6″), Khan was seen as a promising prospect.
In 1973, Killer Khan made his move to NJPW, where he continued to impress with his unique style and persona. However, it was during his excursion to Mexico in 1978 that he truly transformed himself into the character that would define his career. Inspired by Mongolian culture, Khan adopted a Mongolian persona and embarked on a highly successful campaign in America in 1979.
Khan’s popularity soared when he transitioned to the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1980. One particular moment that solidified his status as a top heel in the organization was a knee drop that put the legendary Andre the Giant on the injured list with a right leg injury. This incident led to high-profile matches against Hulk Hogan, further cementing Khan’s reputation as a formidable competitor.
After his stint in the WWF, Killer Khan returned to NJPW, where he continued to make a significant impact. His influence can still be felt today, especially through the Mongolian Chops technique used by wrestlers like Hiroyoshi Tenzan and Great-O-Khan.
One of Khan’s most memorable moments came in April 1982 during the fifth MSG Series. Antonio Inoki, one of NJPW’s biggest stars, was forced to withdraw from the final match due to a knee injury. Inoki personally nominated Khan as his replacement to face Andre the Giant. The match was a thrilling encounter that elevated Khan’s status, even in defeat.
In 1983, Killer Khan joined Riki Choshu’s influential Ishingun faction, further solidifying his place in Japanese wrestling history. He also wrestled in the All Japan ring and made a return to the WWF. Khan eventually retired from professional wrestling in November 1987 in New Jersey.
Following his retirement, Killer Khan ventured into the hospitality industry, running numerous bars and restaurants in Tokyo. Despite stepping away from the ring, his impact on the wrestling world remained significant.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling expressed its deepest sympathies to Killer Khan’s family, friends, and fans upon his passing. The wrestling community will forever remember him as a larger-than-life figure who left an indelible mark on the sport.
As fans mourn the loss of this wrestling legend, they can find solace in knowing that Killer Khan’s legacy will live on through the memories and stories shared by those who were fortunate enough to witness his greatness.
Rest in peace, Killer Khan. Your contributions to the world of professional wrestling will never be forgotten.
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