Yamakayaka (Earth-616)
Yamakayaka was a sumo wrestler from Japan who was captured and imprisoned by the Chinese in 1945 near the end of World War II. As a prisoner he was forced to engage in sumo wrestling matches for his captors amusement. He as undefeated in battle for many years. When the Korean War broke out, Yamakayaka was forced to go there with his captors where he continued to be forced to battle those captured by the Chinese army, any loss in battle would have cost him his life.
Eventually, his captors captured American soldiers Combat Kelly and Cookie Novak. Combat was forced to battle Yamakayaka in the ring in exchange for his and Cookie's freedom. Although Yamakayaka tried his best, Kelly was able to beat him in a sumo match, despite Yamakayaka's superior strength and skill. Having lost, Yamakayaka was almost executed by his captor but was rescued by Combat Kelly. In return, Yamakayaka helped Combat and Cookie fight off the Chinese forces barring their escape. In gratitude for saving his life, Yamakayaka vowed to be loyal to Combat and Cookie. Combat refused his offer, instead inviting him back to the American base as his equal.
Appearances
- Combat Kelly Vol 1 10
- Combat Kelly Vol 1 11
- Combat Kelly Vol 1 13
- Combat Kelly Vol 1 15
- Combat Kelly Vol 1 16
- Combat Kelly Vol 1 19
- Combat Kelly Vol 1 20