Why is K9999 almost identical to Tetsuo Shima?


I was watching [this video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YeTs5oHAwg) which
shows the similarities between both characters. I suppose it must be a kind of
tribute, or maybe is just a vile copy (I don't think so). Anyone knows the
reason?




[Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K9999#NESTS_Team) says

> and K9999 (pronounced K Four-Nine), a clone from Kyo entirely based on
> Tetsuo Shima from Akira, able to transform his arm into a long tentacle like
> Tetsuo's. Due to copyright issues, for the King of Fighters 2002 remake he
> was replaced with a similar character.

but gives no sources.

