On March 23, 2025, Sakae Tsukada, who was found innocent in the notorious 1966 Shizuoka Prefecture family murder case, attended a boxing event in his hometown of Hamamatsu City, marked a special occasion with enthusiastic spectators. The 89-year-old Tsukada, who had spent nearly half a century wrongfully imprisoned, received a hero's welcome when he was celebrated in the ring.
The event, sponsored by a local boxing gym, featured several professional matches which Tsukada watched intently. His past as a former professional boxer, who ranked 6th in the Japan featherweight category during his career, likely added to his appreciation of the sport.
As the crowd erupted into cheers and applause upon hearing the ring call, "Winner, Sakae Tsukada," he proudly raised his hand to acknowledge the support he has received from the community over the years.
Among the attendees, Tsukada’s 92-year-old niece, Hideko, took a moment during the intermission to speak to the audience. Expressing heartfelt gratitude, she said, "Tsukada was acquitted because of everyone's support." This highlight of the event underlined the enduring spirit of kinship and public backing that Tsukada had relied on throughout his long fight for justice.
Reflecting on the struggles of the past, she also shared the emotional weight of their family's journey, mentioning, "I want Tsukada to be outside the detention center," acknowledging the long and arduous battle following his wrongful conviction and subsequent years of confinement.
Tsukada was initially arrested in the 1966 family murder case—a crime that shocked the nation and has been the subject of public and media scrutiny ever since. After spending about 47 years and 7 months behind bars, he was finally exonerated in 2023, affirming the resolve and efforts that had been put forward by his family supporters and legal advocates.
The boxing event served as a triumphant moment not just for Tsukada but also for the local community that rallied behind him, acting as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of wrongful imprisonment.
This gathering showcased not only Tsukada's indomitable spirit but also a community united in purpose and pride, celebrating the return of a man who had so unjustly been deprived of his freedom.
The event was a glimpse into the future as Tsukada continues to adapt to life outside of prison, encouraged by the love and support of those who stood by him during his lengthy confinement. His story has raised profound questions about the justice system and has called for better safeguards to prevent wrongful convictions in the future.
As spectators left the venue, many carried with them a renewed sense of hope and belief in the importance of justice and the sanctity of freedom. Tsukada’s journey is a testament to the will of those wrongfully accused and the impact a supportive community can make.
In the months ahead, Tsukada plans to continue engaging with boxing, likely attending more events and possibly sharing his experience and insights with upcoming generations. The hopes of his family and supporters are that he can live freely and fully, embracing each moment after nearly five decades away from the world.
