London Olympics wrestling gold medalist Obara dies at 44
The Aomori Prefecture native helped Japan's women dominate the sport alongside icons Kaori Icho and Saori Yoshida. Obara was crowned world champion six times in the 2000s in the 51-kg category before claiming the title at 48 kg in 2010 and 2011.
Obara was inducted into the United World Wrestling Hall of Fame in September 2022 along with four-time Olympic gold medalist Icho and three-time winner Yoshida.
She had been coaching youngsters in recent years and became a board member of the Japan Wrestling Federation in 2021. She was also part of the Japan team's coaching staff preparing for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
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