Japanese Celebrities Light Up MLB Opening Ceremony

On March 18, 2025, Japanese actor Watanabe K6 performed the ceremonial first pitch during the Major League Baseball (MLB) Japan Opening Series held at Tokyo Dome, alongside the highly regarded boxing champion Naoya Inoue, who made waves both for his sports accomplishments and his impactful attendance.

Watanabe, reflecting on the momentous occasion, remarked, "A big game out of 160-something games! I think Japanese customers are lucky to see it live." Feeling the weight of the event, he highlighted the importance of the opening game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs, stating how special it was for the spectators. The actor, known for his versatile roles, also expressed some amusement about the format of the pitch event, quipping, "I was puzzled about why I had to pitch when there were two pitchers already!" But he went on to throw the ball successfully, adding humorously, "I’m glad I wasn’t hit back (laughs)."

On the eve of the event, it was officially announced on March 17, 2025, by MLB officials, the role of Naoya for the official play-ball announcement. Having built his career as the unified super bantamweight world champion across four major boxing organizations, Naoya's presence at this opening ceremony highlighted the intersection of sports and entertainment on such a cultural platform. His accolades, including winning the prestigious Sugar Ray Robinson Award earlier this year, placed him alongside the honored traditions of American baseball.

Throughout the day, Japanese rock legend YOSHIKI from X JAPAN was also slated to fill the atmosphere with music, performing both the U.S. national anthem and Japan’s own "Kimigayo." This showcase of talent from different horizons aimed to epitomize the spirit of sportsmanship and cultural deference, creating an atmosphere charged with excitement.

For Naoya, having previously attended important MLB games, including witnessing the Yankees versus the Dodgers— dubbed as "famous confrontations"—he expressed gratitude for returning to such historical grounds. On one memorable visit, he spoke with Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, showcasing the rich connections between different sports. His participation at this event serves as another chapter tying boxing and baseball, two passionately followed sports across the globe.

Upon entering the world of boxing, where he has recently captured the imaginations of fans, Naoya is scheduled to face his next opponent, WBA super bantamweight No. 2 ranked Luis Nery, at the T-Mobile Arena on May 4, 2025 (May 5 Japan time). This lifelong dream of performing on the grand stage of boxing will hold significant meaning, especially as it marks almost four years since his last fight at this famed venue. Naoya reflected on his upcoming bout with enthusiasm and determination.

Speaking to the audience about possible reunions with other athletes, such as Shohei Ohtani, who crossed paths with him during past events, raises the anticipation for future encounters among great sports personalities. Fans expect to see how these celebrated figures expand both the realms of boxing and baseball as they continue captivating hearts and fostering passionate loyalties.

The MLB Japan Opening Series embodies the celebration of cross-cultural connections, with figures like Watanabe and Naoya illuminating this special occasion. The environment buzzed with enthusiasm as various attendees celebrated both sporting achievements and musical contributions, uniting for what has come to exemplify baseball's spirit within Japan.

Despite the competitive backdrop of two legendary sports—baseball and boxing—each event brings unique stories of human endurance, triumph, and interconnection, reminding the audience of the global power of sports to transcend boundaries.