The Asian Games recently held their first inaugural breaking event in Hangzhou, China. The sport was added to the list of several others following the recognition of breaking as an official sport by the Olympics. As the Paris Olympics come closer, a B-Boy from Japan delivered a stellar performance that earned him not one, but two rewards.

Shigeyuki Nakarai, dubbed Shigekix in the realm of breaking, came out on top of all participants at the Asian Games. The 2023 iteration witnessed the B-Boy from Osaka impress the judges and triumph over other participants. In fact, the 21-year-old also managed to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics with his dynamic and stellar championship run.

Breaking into a golden venture

Shigekix powered through to the finals of the first-ever breaking event held at the 2023 Asian Games. The Japanese B-Boy faced off against South Korea’s Hong Ten to claim in a power-packed finals matchup. While the Korean B-Boy held seniority over Shigekix, he got beaten and took the silver home as Shigekix claimed the gold. Although breaking has its roots in hip-hop and was born in the West, Asia is home to some of the greatest breaking artists.

Speaking to the Olympics.com after his win, Shigekix said, “I’m just happy about the championship, winning a gold medal… Mentally, physically it was not easy but I managed to channel what I could into a good performance here.” The B-Boy further added, “I thought I was in the right of mind for the final. Breaking’s not only about technique but also an art form. You feel the energy flow from within and I think that came out to the fullest in the final.” The gold medal victory also served as his qualification ticket for the Olympics. 

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While Shigekix currently stands on top of everyone, his gold medal win wouldn’t have been possible without his sister. In fact, his sister is the very person who inspired the 21-year-old to pursue breaking.

Like brother, like sister 

Ayane is a world champion breaking B-Girl from Japan and the elder sister of Shigekix. Ayane picked up breaking when she witnessed how cool it was on TV. Her discipline towards the craft turned her into a breaking wizard, which also inspired Shigekix to pick up breaking. Ayane mentored her younger brother and also stood by his side during competitive events. In 2017, the B-Girl cheered for her brother as he created history and became the youngest Red Bull BC One World Final contestant. 

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Ayane later won the 2018 Battle of The Year B-Girl 1v1 final further solidifying her image before Shigekix. The siblings are highly competitive and constantly challenge each other to break away from their current molds every time. Their dedication and love for breaking, coupled with their hunger to grow has established them as global breaking icons. After getting a slot for the Olympics, Shigekix will look forward to setting things ablaze at the greatest sporting event. Will he be able to repeat his success in Hangzhou on the grand stage of Paris?

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