Minoru Tanaka (wrestler)

Minoru Tanaka (田中 稔, Tanaka Minoru, born November 29, 1972) is a Japanese professional wrestler. He is primarily known for his accomplishments in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) as a junior heavyweight, Pro Wrestling Noah, and All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW).

Tanaka debuted in NJPW in 1994 after graduating from their dojo. He initially wrestled under his real name before adopting the masked persona "Heat" in 1997, competing in WCW as well as NJPW. He returned to his real name in 2000 and became a prominent figure in the junior heavyweight division, winning the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship and the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship.

In 2003, Tanaka left NJPW and became a freelancer, working for various promotions including Pro Wrestling Noah, where he achieved significant success, holding the GHC Junior Heavyweight Championship and the GHC Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship. He also held the AJPW World Junior Heavyweight Championship on multiple occasions, showcasing his versatility and skill across different wrestling styles.

Known for his technical prowess and submission skills, Tanaka has been a respected and influential figure in Japanese professional wrestling for over two decades. He continues to wrestle actively.