How Mina Shirakawa Defied Family Expectations to Chase Her Wrestling Dreams

Mina Shirakawa Opens Up on AEW’s "Close Up"

On the latest episode of AEW’s "Close Up" with Renee Paquette, newly signed AEW star Mina Shirakawa opened up about her remarkable journey into professional wrestling, offering a candid look at her past and her dreams for the future.

Early Life and Family Expectations

Born into a strict family environment, Mina Shirakawa was initially expected to follow in her father's footsteps and take over his IT company. "I grew up in a very strict family," Mina shared. "My father runs an IT company, so I was expected to study hard and someday take over his business." She attended a prestigious all-girls private school and later went to university, aligning with her family's expectations. 

However, despite securing a stable job as a wedding planner, Mina always harbored aspirations to enter the entertainment industry. "Deep inside, I had a dream. Ever since I was a child, I admired people I saw on TV. I wanted to be them," Mina explained.

Bold Decision to Follow Her Passion

Driven by a passion that could not be ignored, Mina Shirakawa bravely quit her wedding planning job to pursue modeling and acting. Her decision met with disapproval from her parents, leading to significant tension and ultimately forcing Mina to move out and forge her own path. 

That decision had a significantly adverse impact on Mina’s relationship with her parents, but it was a choice she knew she needed to make. "So me and my parents' situation was so bad. My feeling was so, mmm... yeah."

Mina Shirakawa Finding Her Calling in Wrestling

Her turning point arrived when she attended a New Japan Pro Wrestling event. Inspired by the raw emotion and relentless passion displayed by wrestlers in the ring, Mina Shirakawa realized she had found her calling. 

"Watching wrestling became my emotional support," she acknowledged. 

"One day, I asked myself, 'If I die tomorrow, would I be satisfied with my life?' The answer was no. I had to challenge myself and wrestle." 

Despite having no prior sports experience, she boldly decided to become a professional wrestler, committing wholeheartedly to the craft.

Rapid Rise and International Success

Adjusting to wrestling was challenging, yet Mina quickly found her footing after only one match. "My first match was tough, but afterward, I knew I wanted to keep going," Mina recalled. 

Her determination and natural charisma caught the attention of wrestling promoters, propelling her quickly into the international scene with her second match taking place in Mexico. Mina’s distinct entrance dances, inspired by her lifelong admiration of performers like Beyoncé and Michael Jackson, became iconic trademarks in Japan, making her a standout star.

Embracing Life in America with AEW

Now fully embracing life in the United States as an official AEW star, Mina Shirakawa has adjusted to the larger-than-life American lifestyle, complete with a love for rice crispy treats and the goal of buying her first car once she navigates the complexities of establishing credit and securing a social security number.

Mina’s Dream for Her Family

Looking ahead, Mina Shirakawa has a heartfelt goal: "I want to have my family finally see me wrestle live in America, ideally with a championship title around my waist, proving that my dreams and dedication were worth the sacrifices."

AEW fans have warmly embraced Mina, rallying behind the hashtag #WeWantMina, making it clear that Mina Shirakawa’s journey is one that resonates deeply with wrestling enthusiasts around the globe.

Indeed, EVERYONE WANTS MINA! And if you want to show your support for Mina Shirakawa, head over to ShopAEW.com right now to pick up your very own Mina shirt today! Just click here!