Shota Kubo Turns Pro for Dogtown



Words - Dan Levy / Juice Magazine
Photos - Dan Levy, Heavy Metal Chuck, Lance Dalgart and Eileen

On September, 16, 2022, Shota Kubo was knighted into an elite club by the founding statesmen of skateboarding, forever cementing his life’s work into the distinction of merit we define as Dogtown. While Shota’s father, Shogo, was being honored with a tribute skateboard to celebrate his contributions to our culture, Shota was unknowingly about to hit a milestone very few achieve. 

Jim “Red Dog” Muir, founder and fearless leader of Dogtown Skateboards and maestro of surf skate culture, hosted what was to become one of the most significant nights in skateboarding history with the presentation of the Shogo Kubo tribute board at Common Space Brewery in Hawthorne, CA. The artwork created to celebrate Shogo was emitted with heart and soul by the legendary artist, Axis, who honored this opportunity by bringing some of his best work to date, respecting the traditions on which Dogtown was built. 

Eric Dressen, who is undeniably one of the best skaters to rise from the gritty streets to a globally recognized force in skateboarding, took to the stage to the soundtrack of admiring applause by the incredible crowd on hand. Under the cloak of what was thought to be a tribute speech about Shogo Kubo, Eric began to speak as Shota unsuspectingly stood behind the stage listening. 

With one sentence, Eric changed Shota’s life forever with the ultimate surprise simply saying, “We are not only here to honor Shogo Kubo and the new board release and beer, we are here to celebrate his son, Shota Kubo – continuing the family legacy, the new Dogtown pro, Shota Kubo!”

As the crowd erupted with cheers of validation, Jim Muir held a skateboard over his head and Shota stood speechless and in total shock, as he was honored with the well-deserved status of pro skater for Dogtown Skateboards. As Red Dog stated, “I want to personally tell you how much I love Shota Kubo. He’s family and I am so proud to have the honor to give him this pro model skateboard.” 

What a fun night was had by all. Shota's new model is available for sale now as well as his Dad Shogo's 'Tribute' model and the Shogo Kubo tribute dry hopped pilsner beer can be purchased directly from Common Space brewery here.