Francesco Akira Begnini

Biography

Francesco Begnini, better known by his ring name Francesco Akira, is an Italian professional wrestler who joined New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) in 2022, where he is a member of the United Empire stable. He has since become a three-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion and won the 2023 Super Junior Tag League alongside TJP as part of the tag team Catch 22. Begnini began his professional wrestling career in 2015 on the European independent scene before competing in All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW), where he won the AJPW World Junior Heavyweight Championship and the 2021 Junior Battle of Glory tournament.

Photo

Awards and Honors

Critical Favorites

2026Winner

Best Performance

AEW All In: London

2023Nominee

Best Performance

NJPW Dominion 6.4 in Osaka-jo Hall 2023

2026Winner

Best Performance

NJPW The New Beginning In Osaka 2026

Career Highlights

2022Highlight

Best Performance

NJPW Dominion 6.12 In Osaka-Jo Hall 2022

2026Highlight

Best Performance

NJPW G1 Climax 36 - Day 19 (Final)

Video

FeaturetteAEW All In: London - The Buy In

AEW All In: London