TOKYO - Guts Ishimatsu, the first Japanese boxer to win a lightweight world title and later a household name as a TV personality and actor, has died, his management company said Thursday. He was 76.
Ishimatsu, whose real name was Yuji Suzuki, died of pneumonia at a Tokyo hospital on June 2, according to the company.
A native of Tochigi Prefecture, eastern Japan, Ishimatsu made his professional debut in 1966 at age 17. He knocked out WBC champion Rodolfo Gonzalez of Mexico in 1974 on his third attempt to win a world title.
Ishimatsu defended the belt five times before losing it in 1976 and eventually retiring. He compiled a record of 31 wins, including 17 by KO, against 14 losses and six draws.
Even during his fighting career, Ishimatsu made frequent TV and movie appearances. He later became a popular TV personality known for his off-beat personality and appeared in several films made in Japan and overseas.
His major film credits include "Black Rain" and "Empire of the Sun."
