https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWF1it7Ydfw Hayabusa was a phenomenally talented, high-flying Japanese star in the 1990s. He got his start in Atsushi Onitas rebellious Frontier Martial Arts promotion. FMW was often considered the ECW of the Far East, as the Japanese company was well known for its extreme matches -- many included barbed wire and explosions. The risk-taking Hayabusa made a notable trip to the United States to compete for ECW at their Heatwave 1998 pay-per-view. There, he teamed with his frequent tag partner, Jinsei Shinzaki to do battle with the ECW Tag Team champions, Rob Van Dam and Sabu. It was a dream contest for professional wrestling fans, and it did not disappoint. Hayabusas career would be relatively short-lived, however. In 2001, the masked man would be severely injured while competing against Mammoth Sasaki. Hayabusa attempted a springboard moonsault off the ropes -- similar to Chris Jerichos Lionsault. Unfortunately, Hayabusas feet slipped off the rope just as he prepared to take off. He arched his back and neck in preparation for the backward flip, but instead fell straight back. Hayabusas head slammed against the mat at an incredibly awkward angle, immediately breaking it and paralyzing him. Hayabusa would never wrestle again, and has been confined to a wheelchair ever since. The legendary Japanese wrestler has remained active in the world of sports entertainment since his injury, however. He ran his own promotion for a short while and was actively involved with the Dragon Gate company for some time.
Douglas Scarpa is a freelance writer, independent filmmaker, art school graduate, and pro wrestling aficionado -- all of which mean he is in financial ruin. He has no backup plan to speak of, yet maintains his abnormally high spirits. If he had only listened to the scorn of his childhood teachers, he wouldn't be in this situation.