Jiro Kaneda

The Red Lion, as he is commonly known, is far from the ideal of the Kuritan Mechwarrior. Loud, uncouth and vulgar, he maintains his honor and position as lead of the Yamato Daishi stable on Solaris VII through sheer skill.

Info
Rank: Former Champion, Fighter

DoB: 3-22-3009

Homeworld: Pesht, Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine

Stable: Yamato Daishi (Kurita)

Height: 5'9" (175cm)

Mech: Warhammer "Kakurine"

History
Dismissed from service with the 2nd Sword of Light following the War of 3039 for conduct unbecoming of an officer, Tai-sho Kaneda took his family's heirloom 'Mech, a 75 ton Warhammer named "Kakurine" to Solaris VII. Once on planet he fought his way through the planet's less reknowned tournaments for three years before his skill was finally recognized by a high standing Kuritan stable.

In 3045 Kaneda gained the title of Champion by defeating then Champion Michael Bolland of Marik's Camelot stable in an unorthodox three-on-one combat. All three opposing MechWarriors died in the engagement. Kaneda then chose not to defend his title, instead stepping away from the games entirely and living off of his winnings in what many Combine citizens called "A disgraceful manner". Arrested on charges of murder, but later aquitted, Kaneda returned to the games in 3047 with none of his old zeal.

Though still considered one of the most skilled Mechwarriors on Solaris VII, he has shown little enthusiasm for the games, often competing half heartedly. He's known more for his rude and antagonist behavior towards the sport than anything else, these days.