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A Dream Amid the Storm –My Wrestling Journey to Japan (2013) By Andy Baker | Andy Baker Wrestling

2013 was one of the most emotionally intense and life-changing years of my journey—both in and out of the wrestling ring. For those who know my story as Andy Baker the Wrestler, this chapter represents a time of deep personal loss and unexpected opportunity that changed my life forever.

In January 2013, I lost my brother to breast cancer. That pain is something I still carry with me to this day. Just seven months later, my personal life took another major hit, and I went through a breakup that led to the end of my marriage. These events forced me to leave Florida and return home to the UK, shortly after my WWE NXT match in July 2013, where I faced Conor O'Brian WWE NXT MATCH LINK. Wrestling fans might remember this as my final appearance on the WWE NXT brand—one I gave everything to, despite the emotional weight I was carrying.

Andy Baker wrestling Osamu Nishimura in Tokyo Japan
But even in the darkest moments, light can still find its way through.

That August, I was offered a dream opportunity: to wrestle in Japan for the promotion WNC – Wrestling New Classic, run by former WWE star Tajiri. As Wrestling was still my passion and purpose, I grabbed the chance. Despite the chaos in my life, I flew to Tokyo, Japan, determined to honour this lifelong dream.

Before flying, I had to make a fast trip to London to secure my Japan visa. Thankfully, the Japanese embassy staff were incredibly helpful and processed everything the same day. I felt like things were finally falling into place—at least for a moment.

Andy Baker and Ryuji at Inoki restaurant
Landing in Japan didn’t go quite as expected. Due to a heavy monsoon, our plane had to divert from Narita Airport to Osaka. With no knowledge of Japanese and no plan B, I had to trust my instincts, navigate the Osaka airport, and jump on the Shinkansen bullet train. In just two hours, I was in Tokyo—a journey that usually takes 6–7 hours by car. The view of Mount Fuji from the train window was breath taking and gave me a rare, peaceful moment of reflection.


While in Tokyo, I spent time exploring the city before linking up with my friend Ryuji Walter—someone who trained in Florida under the legendary Great Malenko. Ryuji was a true brother who took care of me, showing me around the city and taking me to Antonio Inoki’s restaurant.

Andy Baker in Wrestling action with Nishimura
The highlight of the trip was wrestling Osamu Nishimura at Shinjuku Face—a technical wrestling classic. The energy of the crowd was amazing, and after our match, Nishimura-san praised me on the microphone, leading to a roaring ovation. It was a proud moment for me Andy Baker the wrestler, something I’ll never forget.

Also on the card was Serena Deeb, someone I came up with at Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW). We spent time reminiscing about our shared journey in pro wrestling, and a few days later, Nishimura-san treated us to a wonderful evening of food and drinks. He embodied respect, tradition, and kindness—a true legend. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing earlier this year (2025). Rest in peace, Nishimura-san.

Andy Baker with Serena Deeb and Osamu Nishimura on a Wrestling night outI would loved to have stayed in Japan longer, but real life called me back. Still, that short trip gave me priceless memories, meaningful friendships, and a sense of healing during one of my most challenging years.

 These are the memories I’ll carry with me until the day I’m no longer here. Wrestling is more than a career—it’s been my therapy, my identity, and my passion.

Thanks for taking the time to read this chapter of my journey.

– Andy Baker
Former Pro Wrestler | Wrestling Coach 


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