“Second Life”: What are the thoughts behind this title?

Hello, I am Sunny-chan from PR.

As previously mentioned in the SUNNY SIDE UP News section, Masakiyo Maezono, who is represented by our company, released his book “Second Life” on Thursday, March 17.

This is his first book since returning to the public eye following a four-month hiatus after an incident two years ago. It is an essay in which he honestly chronicles his life from “that incident” to the present day. He reflects on his actions, critiques himself, and vows to “become a person who is needed by others.” Incidentally, the book reportedly sold out on Amazon on its very first day of release! We are truly delighted.

I have also read the book, and it portrays his true self, including stories from his days as an active player. His sincere feelings, which cannot be fully conveyed through television or news reports, come across clearly.

I initially thought about simply introducing “Second Life” on this blog, but I decided to ask Mr. Maezono himself if he would be willing to speak with us. To my surprise, he graciously accepted, and we were able to conduct a brief interview!

Here is a summary of our conversation.

PR: Mr. Maezono, I would like to ask you a few questions about your book. What were your thoughts regarding this publication?

Maezono: When I was first approached with this offer, I hesitated, wondering if it might be too soon. However, since I haven’t had many opportunities to speak in detail about that time in my own words, I decided to publish the book because I wanted to convey my honest feelings.

PR: You have written very candidly, haven’t you? That really came across in the text. It felt like a piece that truly conveys your personality.

Maezono: I intended to be completely honest and reveal my feelings without any pretense or falsehood.

PR: Being truthful is essential, but for those who knew your “tough guy” persona from your playing days, this must have been quite unexpected. I was personally impressed that you could present yourself so authentically. Being your true self is something that often seems easier said than done.

Maezono: Some people who read the book told me, “It is amazing that you can convey your feelings so honestly without embellishment,” but I felt there was nothing to embellish, and there was no point in trying to look cool. During my playing days, there was a part of me that couldn’t maintain my composure unless I acted that way (the “tough guy” persona). However, after reflecting on myself following the incident two years ago, I decided to do what I can now, and I believe this is the result.

PR: Why did you choose the title “Second Life”?

Maezono: Considering my retirement from professional sports, “Third Life” might technically be more accurate, but the reason I am who I am today is that the incident made me realize that “the ordinary is not to be taken for granted.” Therefore, I consider that day to be my new start, which is why I titled it “Second Life.” While I am not condoning the incident, it allowed me to reflect on myself; without it, I might never have been able to let go of that “tough guy” persona. It may be late, but realizing that I am not alone and that I am supported by many people has been significant for me.

PR: So that was the sentiment behind it. You mentioned that you have had more failures than successes in your life from your playing days until now, but I found many parts of this book very helpful—specifically how you turned those failures into positives and what you thought and did at those times. The reason I wanted to introduce this book was not just because it candidly tells the facts, but because I felt it could serve as a solution for those currently facing obstacles or worries.

Maezono: I would be happy if people read it with that in mind. I hope my own experiences can provide some kind of hint or inspiration for them.

PR: Thank you very much, Mr. Maezono!

I am very grateful to him for graciously accepting my sudden request despite his busy schedule.

I believe he had various internal conflicts about releasing this book. As a company, we do not condone what happened at that time. However, I believe that “acknowledging one’s own weaknesses” and “learning from failure,” as described in the book, are challenges that everyone faces. I organized this project in the hope that it might serve as a catalyst for people with such concerns to turn their lives in a positive direction.

Please, everyone, give it a read!