[1] Hosoi started skating at seven or eight years old with veterans such as Shogo Kubo, Tony Alva, Stacy Peralta, and Jay Adams as his idols.

His father, Ivan "Pops" Hosoi became the manager of the Marina Del Rey Skatepark, and Christian quit school and spent his time there where he developed his skill.

Hosoi faced bankruptcy after financial difficulties with a series of failed skateboard companies like Tuff Sk8s, Sk8 Kultur, Milk, and Focus, in addition to a growing addiction to drugs.

He was sentenced to ten years' incarceration, of which he served four and was released from the San Bernardino Central Detention Center in June 2004.

Hosoi continues to be open about his new-found faith, having become ordained as an associate pastor, and has resumed his skateboarding career.

Hosoi was the subject of the 2006 documentary film, Rising Son, that detailed his initial success, drug addiction, and conversion to Christianity.