YAMATO has quickly risen as a main player for Dragon Gate USA. In Japan, he has slowly climbed the ladder and is now primed to challenge for Dragon Gate's top belt. You know him for his scary charisma, hard-hitting style and submissions. Now we'll take a personal look at YAMATO.

YAMATO's first fighting experience came in the MMA world in the Pancrase promotion. However, pro wrestling was always his passion. YAMATO's goal from a young age was to be a pro wrestler.

"Being a pro wrestler lets me express who I am," YAMATO said. "That's how I felt from the very first time I watched pro wrestling."

YAMATO was able to ease into pro wrestling due to his extensive athletic background. He had four years of MMA experience and had played baseball at a high level for eight years when he walked into the Dragon Gate dojo. He would go on to become the 5th graduate of the dojo. The choice to join Dragon Gate was an easy one for YAMATO.

"When I compared Dragon Gate with other organizations," YAMATO said, "I felt they were the most professional. I still feel that way."

YAMATO spends his days in the gym, working on both his conditioning and in ring technique. He has a tireless work ethic and is constantly striving to improve. YAMATO is known as one of the hardest workers in Japan. YAMATO's intense training could pay off on March 22nd when he heads into the biggest match of his career as he challenges Naruki Doi for the Open The Dream Gate Title in Tokyo.

"My strongest weapon is my submissions," YAMATO said. "Practicing and thinking of new moves is an everyday task. I love it so much."

There are no facades when it comes to YAMATO. He stated that his personality inside the ring reflects who he is outside of the squared circle. 2010 could be YAMATO's year with his rise in prominence in North America in Dragon Gate USA and his upcoming title shot on March 22nd in Japan.

"What you see in the ring is who I am," YAMATO said. "Listen to me American and Canadian fans! I am THE YAMATO of Dragon Gate! You guys just need to come watch my match, OK? That's all you need to watch!"

YAMATO is scheduled for action on the Dragon Gate USA events in Phoenix on March 26th and 27th. Tickets are now on sale in the DGUSA.tv Store or by calling 267-519-9744.