Fred Rouhling is probably still most well known for his first ascent of Akira back in 1995. The proposed grade of 9b (5.15b) has long been a source of controversy as many people have questioned the veracity of his ascent. Almost 15 years later Rouhling is still at the top of his game, opening new routes in the so-called 9th grade of climbing (5.14+ and harder).