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All Japan Pro Wrestling star Atsushi Aoki has passed away following a motorcycle accident at age 41.
Reports from Japanese press indicate Aoki was was killed after crashing his motorcycle after hitting the wall inside a tunnel while riding on an expressway. Aoki was reportedly wearing a helmet, but succumbed to injuries due to the crash.
Aoki defeated Koji Iwamoto on May 20 to win the AJPW Jr Title.
Many members of the pro-wrestling world have issued statements following his death.
It is with great sadness we confirm Atsushi Aoki has passed away. Thank you for everything. May you rest in peace. 💙 pic.twitter.com/GmMGpK4sMT
— 全日本プロレス (English) (@alljapan_eng) June 4, 2019
R.I.P… Atsushi Aoki
— Shinsuke Nakamura (@ShinsukeN) June 4, 2019
Shocked. I’m reading that Atsushi Aoki has passed away in Japan after a motorcycle accident. I had the privilege to share the ring with Aoki many times. Phenomenally talented, good hearted. Damn. This is stunning. https://t.co/xBviFx5005
— WRESTLING GENIUS (KASH-US) (@KassiusOhno) June 4, 2019
Really Saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Atsushi Aoki.
I had the chance to wrestle him and be around him training and at shows. a top pro who from watching him and training with him made me get the most out of everything.
1/2 pic.twitter.com/Q5QZMl3j8g
— Joe Coffey (@Joe_Coffey) June 4, 2019