Mario and several other iconic Japanese characters made surprise appearances in the Rio 2016 Olympic closing ceremonies. The iconic Nintendo mascot was not the only video game character considered for the role, however, as Pokémon was actually rumored to make an appearance. According to the Buzzfeed Japan, via an anonymous member of the Olympic/Paralympic committee member, the decision was finalized back in January to go with Mario. The mustachioed marvel was considered more internationally recognizable than Pokémon, with his series of games out doing the Pokémon series by about 120 million. Another factor may have given the Italian plumber an edge, however, as it was also revealed by Nikkan Sports that the committee wanted to make a pun with “Mario” and “Rio.”

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