Forget the stereotypical Japanese values of reserve and delicacy. The Japan that Kris Hernandez has pinned her dreams on is more about body slams, sweat, and garish costumes — the world of professional women's wrestling.

"I fell in love with it — the drama, the excitement," the 31-year-old American said of her first encounter with this unusual side of Japan.

"I was on the edge of my seat with every move, thinking, 'Oh my God, how come they are not dead? Can I make a living doing this?' "