Yuto Nakashima

Yuto Nakashima (born January 7, 1997) is a Japanese professional wrestler. He is signed to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). Known for his martial arts background, he has competed internationally, including notable appearances in Revolution Pro Wrestling (RevPro) and Westside Xtreme Wrestling (wXw).

Early life

Nakashima was born in Ogaki, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. He trained in judo from a young age, achieving black belt status before transitioning to mixed martial arts and then professional wrestling.

Professional Wrestling Career

New Japan Pro-Wrestling (2021–present)

Young lion (2021–2024)

Nakashima made his debut for NJPW on February 14, 2021, during the Road to Castle Attack event, facing Yuji Nagata. However, the match was stopped after Nakashima dislocated his elbow.

Following his recovery, Nakashima participated in NJPW's Young Lion matches, frequently competing against wrestlers like Ryohei Oiwa and Kosei Fujita. He achieved his first victory on April 20, 2022, defeating Oiwa.

In 2023, Nakashima formed a tag team with Oskar Leube, known as "Young Blood".

In January 2024 at New Year Dash!!, Young Blood wrestled their final match as young lions before embarking on learning excursion (as is customary for NJPW Young Lions), losing to El Phantasmo and Hikuleo.

Foreign excursion (2024–present)

In early 2024, Nakashima embarked on an excursion to Europe, wrestling for the likes of Revolution Pro Wrestling (RevPro) and Westside Xtreme Wrestling (wXw). At RevPro’s High Stakes 2024 event, Young Blood defeated Kieron Lacey and Mark Trew in a tag team match. Young Blood also participated in a tag team match to defeat David Francisco and Goldenboy Santos in a street fight at a subsequent RevPro event. In wXw, Young Blood won the wXw World Tag Team Championship at the World Tag Team Festival in October 2024, defeating KXS (Axel Tischer and Fast Time Moodo) in the finals.

Personal life

Nakashima’s background in judo and MMA has heavily influenced his wrestling style. His in-ring persona is often described as stoic and disciplined, focusing on technical grappling.