Kairi Sane became the inaugural Mae Young Classic winner after defeating Shayna Baszler in the final match of the tournament last night in Las Vegas.
I had the chance to speak with her about winning the tournament, her world famous elbow drop, and the differences between working in front of a Japanese crowd versus and American crowd.
Note: The interview was done through a translator
Me: What went through your mind as you stood in the ring as the first-ever winner of the Mae Young Classic?
Kairi: “I was very proud of myself to be there as one of the finalists. It was surprising that I made it so far. I felt nervous, but it was such a happy day for me.”
What made you want to peruse a career in professional wrestling?
“To help become a professional athlete, what’s been very important for me is my audience. They are there for me, watching me perform and I want to give them courage, challenge and then my vitality if possible, especially in this tournament.
My female fans, they touch my heart all of the time and I want to give them the message that women are strong.”
Your elbow drop has become world famous, how did you come up with such a unique variation of a move that’s been around forever?
“I’ve been doing this for about six years now and at first the diving elbow drop did not work. I got injured and it wasn’t my finisher at first, but the move was important to me. I wanted to win using my elbow, so now it has become my form. It’s my favorite thing to do when I perform.”
What are some differences between working in front of an American audience as opposed to a Japanese audience?
“I have to say American fans make me happier. I love their reactions. It’s very exciting and fun. It’s as if they’re fighting together with me.”
How has the world of acting helped you in the world of wrestling?
“It’s relevant because when I perform as a professional athlete, it’s very important to me that I encourage my audience and fans by giving them the vitality I have. I believe that’s my role. For example, my facial expressions will show if I’m happy and having fun or if I’m disappointed. I want to make sure that my audience sees those expressions.”
Twitter: @ScottDargis