Antonio Inoki Provides Update On His Health

Antonio Inoki is doing just fine. 

Inoki has been in the hospital for a chunk of 2021 due to issues with his lower back, diabetes and systemic transthyretin amyloidosis, which impairs blood circulation. He underwent emergency surgery in the summer  as a result of a volvulus (An obstruction due to twisting or knotting of the gastrointestinal tract). 

Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Inoki offered an update on his health. 

“I’m often asked that question, but all I can say is, ‘I’m fine (bitter smile). There are times when I can’t sleep. As with everyone, the more I try to sleep, the more I can’t sleep. When the schedules overlap, they overlap, so I’d like to sleep well before that. I was hospitalized repeatedly… Even though I’m here now, I’ve been cornered in a mysterious situation. I can’t get salt (meal). Because it swells. There really isn’t a handful (the amount that can be ingested). But the people around me are careful and (the food is) delicious. It wasn’t hot or cold because I couldn’t go out much. Well … in other words, this year was a good year (smiles),” he said.

Inoki last wrestled in an exhibition match in 2000. His last non-exhibition bout took place against Don Frye in 1998. 

He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2010. 

Fightful will continue to update fans on Inoki’s condition as more is known.