Remember MJ's First Trip to Japan? The Air Jordan 12 "Sumo" Does.

If you're not well-versed in Michael Jordan's first visit to Japan in 1996, we don't blame you—it's a more obscure part of the six-time NBA champion's lore. Jordan Brand, however, is looking to tell that story by way of the Air Jordan 12 "Sumo" retro exclusive to the Asian country.

Thirty years ago, "His Airness" and several Nike athletes traveled to Japan as part of the brand's Hoop Heroes Tour. MJ, Charles Barkley, Jason Kidd, and Michael Finley put on a spectacle for local crowds, famously playing an exhibition match against sumo wrestlers—yes, you read that right.

Here's proof:

The commemorative Air Jordan features a "Black/Night Purple/Metallic Gold/White" color scheme and arrives with numerous elements throughout that establish the Japanese connection thoroughly. Furthermore, the retro will launch exclusively in Japan in time for the 30th anniversary of Jordan's visit to the country.

Raffle entries for the pair are currently being accepted through the atmos Online Shop. An official release is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 23, at TOKYO23, select atmos stores, and the digital webstore.

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