Shivangi Sinha
Netflix’s ‘Final Draft,’ originally titled ‘Fainarudorafuto,’ is packed with intense physical challenges that aren’t meant for the average person. The show brings together former professional athletes who once enjoyed legendary careers in various sports but have since stepped away from the spotlight. Now, they return to test their strength, stamina, and skill all over again, proving to themselves and others that they still have what it takes. In its first season, baseball players, football stars, and athletes from other disciplines entered the arena, tackled grueling obstacles, endurance-based trials, and high-pressure skill tests designed to push them to their limits.
Yoshio Itoi is an Inspiration to Many Even Today
Yoshio Itoi, the former professional baseball player, enjoyed an exceptional run during the season and won the competition. Known for his consistency and speed as an outfielder, he played for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, the Orix Buffaloes, and the Hanshin Tigers. Representing Japan in the 2013 World Baseball Classic, his standout performances against Brazil and China are still remembered today. Over his career, he earned multiple Golden Glove and Best Nine awards across three Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) teams. In 2016, at 35 years old, he became the oldest player in history to win the Stolen Base Leader Award, racking up an impressive 53 steals that season. After 18 seasons, he retired in 2022 and has since pursued his own ventures. Serving as the Kyoto Cultural Tourism Ambassador, Itoi is often referred to in pop culture as “superhuman.” He continues to give interviews, make public appearances, attend games, occasionally provide commentary, and inspire as a lifestyle and fitness influencer.
Hozumi Hasegawa Wants to Share His Knowledge and Skills With Others
Hozumi Hasegawa secured a well-deserved spot as one of the three finalists, thanks to his impressive performance throughout the season. A former professional boxer, he is a three-division world champion, having claimed titles in the bantamweight, featherweight, and super bantamweight categories, defending the latter ten times. He earned MVP honors from the Japan Boxing Commission in 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2009. In December 2016, Hasegawa announced his retirement and has not returned to the ring. Today, he works as a trainer and coach, runs his own fitness and gym center, and regularly shares coaching tips and fitness content on YouTube. His popular radio show, ‘Pound For Pound,’ continues to attract listeners. Beyond sports, he has appeared in stage plays like ‘Sad Angels,’ as well as in dramas and films. Offstage, he enjoys time with his close friends and his children, son Hiroto and daughter Hono, while also going on biking trips, treks, and other adventures.
Yuya Shozui is Enjoying Life as a Newlywed
Yuya Shozui had an impressive run this season. He proved himself during the redemption challenge to earn a spot in the top six and ultimately finished as one of the three finalists. His athletic career spans five seasons as a professional baseball player, competing in the Western League, Central League, Pacific League, and several independent leagues. In recent years, he has shifted his focus to coaching, frequently working with X Body Lab and occasionally offering boxing training whenever the opportunity arises. Away from sports, Shozui recently celebrated a major personal milestone, which was his marriage in 2024. The beautiful ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter, and he is now enjoying a more settled, fulfilling life while still remaining active in the athletic community.
Ryudai Onikura is an Accomplished Actor and Performer
Ryudai Onikura has completely transformed his life and his relationship with athletics. He began as a professional boxer in 2017, making his debut in Fukui against Yuito Moriwaki. Two years later, in 2019, he stepped into the ring again for a major match against Ren Umemura in Akune. Though he did not win these bouts, Onikura realized he wanted to explore a different path. In 2020, he transitioned into acting, debuting in the film ‘Knockout.’ Since then, he has built a solid career in entertainment, appearing in popular productions such as ‘Kamen Rider Revice’ in 2021, ‘Kamen Rider Gotchard’ in 2023, and ‘The Diamond Sleeping in the Sea’ in 2024. With several of his shows still streaming, he has become a recognizable face, and while a boxing return seems unlikely, he insists that he will never say never.
Katsuma Yonemura is Proudly Raising Two Daughters Today
Katsuma Yonemura introduced himself as a former professional judo player. He is best known for winning gold at the 2019 European Open in Odivelas. His career also saw podium finishes at other major competitions, including two bronze medals and one silver at the National Championship Seniors, as well as successes in the Junior division. After retiring from competitive judo, Yonemura pursued his true passion, hairdressing, and now works in the field with the dream of one day opening his own salon. He credits his wife for her unshaking support throughout his journey, both in sports and beyond. Together, they are parents to two daughters, though they have also endured the heartbreaking loss of another child. Life has not been easy for him, but he is someone who has always approached it with a smile.
Takashi Kurihara Offers Coaching Services Through His Academy
Takashi Kurihara, a former member of the Japan national American football team, has transitioned from the field to a career in coaching and content creation. Now based in Hawaii, he frequently travels to Japan to share his expertise. He runs TK Academy, offering both in-person fitness training and comprehensive online coaching programs that focus on high-performance techniques. Through his website, Kurihara sells specialized digital learning materials for wide receiver skills, blending his deep knowledge of the sport with modern, accessible teaching methods. His online presence includes instructional videos, workout plans, and motivational content aimed at helping athletes elevate their game. Married with two children, Kurihara has built a life where his passion for sports continues to inspire others worldwide.
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