Red Bull BC One

**Interests:** Visiting the hot springs. **Credo: **Keep making an effort! **Titles** - **2005 1st Place** UK B-Boy Championships, Japan - **2006 participation ** Red Bull BC One, Brazil - **2007 1st Place ** UK B-Boy Championship, Japan - **2007 1st Place** R-16 Show - **2007 1st Place ** Dance Delight, Japan - **2009 2nd Place** Dance Delight, Japan **Profile** Born in 1986, in Nishinomiya in Hyogo, Japan, Kakutani Naoto aka KAKU began B-Boying at the age of 15. A year later, he joined two crews: Mortal Combat and Cube. Because of his crazy power moves and the fact that he is an excellent dancer, KAKU cites fellow Mortal Combat crewmember Yosshi as having the greatest influence on him as a B-Boy. Mortal Combat represented Japan at the Battle of the Year International in 2004 and 2006. While not initially supportive of KAKU’s desire to become a professional B-Boy, his family is now proud of him for representing Japan in battles and shows worldwide. He is delighted to have turned his passion into his profession and to have earned his family’s approval with his aspirations. When he is not traveling across the globe to battle and perform, KAKU makes his living in Japan as a B-Boy dance instructor. Power moves are his favorite element of B-Boying and KAKU is known for his mastery of headspins. He is also able to do about 20 rounds of a 2001, a rapidly spinning handstand where both hands are placed on top of each other. His signature combination is a headspin into a 2001. KAKU’s power, flavor and original moves make him an extraordinary B-Boy. What he enjoys most about B-Boying are the battles. He cites that attitude and a strong mentality are the most important. He believes that one must have a stronger determination than his opponent to win. KAKU’s strategy is to understand his rival, get into his mind and try to predict what he will do next. He explains that his own personal battle etiquette is, “Do not diss the other B-Boy’s moves. Especially when he hasn’t done anything.” KAKU is excited to be battling for his second time in the RED BULL BC ONE exclaiming, “I thought I had no chance this year and I was so happy when I found out!!!” He extends his gratitude to everyone involved with his selection. He admits that he did not do as well as he wanted in the 2006 RED BULL BC ONE which took place in Sao Paulo, Brazil and explains, “I was not perfect. I was injured, so I would like to do my best this time and enjoy it as much as I can.” Simply stated, his goal is to win every battle. As the RED BULL BC ONE is taking place in New York City, he also looks forward to learning more Hip Hop history during his visit.