Breaking
It may not be as dire as 'now or never' for Shigekix. But now would certainly be a huge load off the shoulders.
This weekend, the Japanese B-Boy can secure a Paris 2024 quota in breaking at the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China, should he win the men’s event starting on Friday (6 October).
Shigekix had a shot at obtaining a spot at next year’s Olympic Games last month at the WDSF World Breaking Championships in Leuven, Belgium but came up short, settling for bronze. A gold would have made it happen.
If Shigekix were to miss out at the Asian Games, he must ice the realisation of his Paris dreams until next spring when the Olympic Qualifying Series will be held. So while it's not 'do-or-die,' it would be safer to get the job done with the excellent chance he has.
Following the World championships, Shigekix admitted that he felt like he let one get away, losing to Phil Wizard 3-0 in the semi-finals.
“Could’ve won it if I focused on me,” said the 21-year-old, whose given name is Nakarai Shigeyuki.
“The first thing that comes to mind and stands out is frustration.
“It was a good learning experience, in terms of strategy and feel.”
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As the face of Japanese breaking ever since the sport was included in the Olympic programme for Paris, Shigekix has grafted day in, day out for this moment.
He has been the ideal ambassador for him and his peers, always taking time with the media and promoting breaking, speaking with thought.
Ranked second worldwide in the Olympic race behind Phil Wizard, Shigekix is the prohibitive favourite in the men’s competition at these Asian Games.
Fellow top 10 B-Boys Wing from the Republic of Korea and Amir of Kazakhstan are also in the field but playing by the odds, the gold medal is for Shigekix’s to lose.
His status is saddled with immense expectations but rather than cave in under the pressure, Shigekix is getting up for it. The time has finally come to put his foot through the door.
“We’re at a point where everyone wants results,” he said. “It’s great for us to be getting so much attention which is why it’s all the more important to enjoy dancing and embrace the spirit of a challenger.
“I feel so happy to be in this qualification for Paris. I definitely can say I’m happy. This is the first time for breaking to be a part of the Olympics and it’s going to make history. And I’d like to be a part of history.
“I just got a bronze medal in Belgium. I can’t wait for Paris.”