22 WWE Stars From The 2000s That You Totally Don't Remember

18. Sakoda

Ryan Sakoda signed a WWE developmental contract in September 2003 after impressing officials with his work in the Japanese Zero-One promotion. Sakoda was short, but he also had a good physique and a solid ring style. Sadly, he wouldn't get to show much of either during his short run in the company. He debuted alongside Akio at No Mercy 2003, helping Tajiri defend his Cruiserweight Championship against Rey Mysterio. The stable, later called 'Kyo Dai', were split up after only a few months after Tajiri refused WWE's suggestion that they portray the group as something akin to the Yakuza. Tajiri (rightly) felt that it would anger the real-life mafia and could cause trouble for WWE. After the split Sakoda had a very brief run as a singles wrestler, mainly competing on Velocity (including a loss to John Cena). He was released in August 2004 and retreated to the indies. Sakoda is one of several wrestlers currently suing the WWE for allegedly covering up evidence of traumatic brain injuries.