Yoko Yamada, 27, nicknamed Iron Beauty, is the 2005 women's arm wrestling world champion in the 45-kg weight class and has won more than 35 gold medals, in both the Left- and Right-Handed Divisions. Yamada failed to qualify for the 2006 world championship because the minimum weight was raised to 50 kg, but she is currently gaining muscle and weight for this year's world championship. She is also the undefeated All-Japan Women's Arm Wrestling Champion, a title she has held since 2002. A pioneer in a sport dominated by men, Yamada is revered by fans for her combination of awesome power and cute looks, which have given arm wrestling a much-welcomed boost in interest.
Always look up. Being on top means I have to look down, at the contestants gunning for my spot, which feels more negative than positive. It is almost like bullying others, which I really hate, so I remind myself of how I felt years ago when I was at the bottom.
Don't live life for yourself. Dedicate yourself to the service of others. I cannot win for myself. I do it for my dad, who is sick, my friends, my trainer and my fans.