Are you able to name the original 151 Pokémon in 12 minutes? It seems a game intended for the most fans of the franchise, but it is true that Pokémon is so well known that the person most alien to it could try. However, not all followers know the origin of some Pokémon like Exeggutor and its macabre design inspired by a mythological tree. Behind these adorable creatures there are spooky stories that they take as a reference Japanese legends, proverbs and also popular characters of their culture And maybe it has come to mind Hitmonlee as a nod to Bruce Lee, but its origins have nothing to do with the martial arts master.
Indeed, his name in English, as we know him in our country, honors Bruce Lee, but the reality is quite different. The Japanese name of this Pokémon is Sawamular in a clearing tribute to the Japanese kickboxer Tadashi Sawamura, as explained by Twitter user Dr. Lava. This fighter achieved success in the 1960s after knocking out 95 percent of his opponents. This milestone earned him the nickname "The kickboxing demon and later a position in the pokédex with this curious creature.
Hitmonlee Origins:
Hitmonlee is based on Japanese kickboxer Tadashi Sawamura. Rising to prominence in the 1960's, Sawamura knocked out 95% of his opponents, earning him the nickname "The Demon of Kickboxing."
Hitmonlee's even named after him – his Japanese name is Sawamular. pic.twitter.com/tqN89RXV9V
– Dr. Lava's Lost Pokemon (@DrLavaYT) January 8, 2020
So initially Hitmonlee is based on Sawamura and not Bruce Lee as all western fans might think. It is not the first time that Pokémon pays tribute to one of its personalities, since Wobbuffet is inspired by a popular Japanese comic in the twentieth century. He even has the gesture that characterized him so much in his monologues.
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