Before Asuka became one of the top names in WWE, she rose to stardom in Japan as Kana.
Though Japan has a strong Joshi market, companies often keep men's and women's wrestling separate instead of integrating them like in the US.
Speaking to Nikkan Sports, Asuka discussed the differences between how women's wrestling is handled in American and Japan.
"When I was in Japan, there weren't many women coming to see me, so it was really nice to be a fan. At that time, I was conscious of trying to increase the number of fans who are watching male professional wrestling. The world of female professional wrestling is like a small village. I was thinking of getting the fans to be fans, and I thought that if they didn't become happy players, they wouldn't reach the level that would be accepted in the world," she said. “I feel that athletes with good motor skills tend to be evaluated especially in Japan, but there is no point for being recognized in WWE. You can do such a thing, you can do that, alone in the United States I mean, it's like if you are a fan of the world. It is important that you are fashionable and have a strong individuality. Of course, wrestling technology is necessary, but the atmosphere and humanity that attracts fans are important. WWE has wrestling technology and there are quite a few people who can move but are not popular at all. In Japan, people with careers are great, but here people are the most popular."
Asuka's charisma and personality have shined through in WWE, leading her to multiple women's championships, including her current reign as the Raw Women's Champion.
