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'Beast' of Japan - or Peter Pan?

'Beast' of Japan - or Peter Pan?

She was dubbed "The Assassin" after winning gold at the London 2012 Olympics, but Kaori Matsumoto prefers to be known as "Beast." Her coach, however, says she is more like Peter Pan -- and the judo star herself claims she once saw a fairy like Tinker Bell.

Up the creek with a paddle

The advert that changed a life

Riding her own wave

Meet the 'mermaid' of Barcelona

About Human to Hero


Human to Hero gets to the heart of what it takes to be a sporting star. The show explores the discipline, dedication and determination involved, as well as the sources of inspiration for the world's best athletes.

Watch Human to Hero at these times (all GMT):
Every Wednesday on World Sport at 1600 and 2130, and Thursdays on World Sport at 0400.
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The men from Marseille

'Wild sport' meets 'strict & square'

Up next: African adventure


Human to Hero next meets Gael Bigirimana, a professional footballer from Burundi.

The 19-year-old is living a dream with English Premier League club Newcastle, having started out playing on the streets of Bujumbura.

He moved to Uganda and was separated from his mother due to the war, but has been reunited with her in Britain.


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