Japan Pro Wrestling: News And Updates

Hey guys! Welcome to your ultimate guide to the wild and wonderful world of Japanese pro wrestling, or Puroresu as it's lovingly called by fans around the globe. This isn't just any wrestling; it’s an intense, dramatic, and uniquely Japanese take on the sport. Whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newbie, this article will keep you up-to-date with everything happening in the vibrant Puroresu scene. We will explore everything from the history of Puroresu to the main wrestling promotions, the wrestlers, and where you can watch Puroresu.

A Brief History of Puroresu

Puroresu has a rich and fascinating history, deeply intertwined with the cultural and martial arts traditions of Japan. It all began in the post-World War II era when Japanese promoters sought to create a wrestling style that was both entertaining and reflective of Japanese values. One of the most influential figures in Puroresu history is Rikidōzan, often considered the father of Japanese pro wrestling. Rikidōzan, a Korean-born wrestler, gained immense popularity in Japan during the 1950s, becoming a national hero with his televised matches against American wrestlers.

Rikidōzan's success paved the way for the establishment of the Japanese Wrestling Association (JWA), which became the premier wrestling promotion in Japan. The JWA featured a blend of wrestling styles, incorporating elements of American wrestling, catch wrestling, and traditional Japanese martial arts. This fusion helped shape the unique identity of Puroresu, emphasizing realism, athleticism, and storytelling. After Rikidōzan's death in 1963, his students, including wrestling legends such as Giant Baba and Antonio Inoki, carried on his legacy. Inoki and Baba eventually founded their own promotions, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and All Japan Pro-Wrestling (AJPW), respectively, which would become the two dominant forces in the Japanese wrestling scene for decades.

Major Puroresu Promotions

The Puroresu landscape is diverse, with several major promotions each offering its unique style and flavor of wrestling. Let's dive into some of the top players:

New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)

NJPW is arguably the most internationally recognized Puroresu promotion. Known for its strong style wrestling, which emphasizes hard-hitting strikes and realistic grappling, NJPW has captivated audiences worldwide. Strong Style is a unique and celebrated aspect of Japanese professional wrestling, particularly within New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). It is more than just a wrestling style; it embodies a philosophy, an attitude, and a set of principles that define the essence of Puroresu. Founded by wrestling legend Antonio Inoki in 1972, NJPW has always emphasized realism, athleticism, and intensity in its matches. Inoki, influenced by his background in martial arts, wanted to create a wrestling style that was both entertaining and reflective of the values of strength, discipline, and honor. Wrestlers like Kazuchika Okada, Hiroshi Tanahashi, and Kenny Omega have become global stars through their work in NJPW.

NJPW's signature events, such as Wrestle Kingdom at the Tokyo Dome, draw massive crowds and are considered must-watch events for wrestling fans. The promotion has also gained attention for its partnerships with international wrestling organizations, including Ring of Honor (ROH) and All Elite Wrestling (AEW), leading to exciting cross-promotional matches and storylines. NJPW's influence on the wrestling world extends beyond its in-ring product. The promotion has also been praised for its long-term storytelling, character development, and commitment to showcasing a diverse roster of talent. NJPW has helped elevate the status of professional wrestling as a legitimate and respected form of entertainment. As NJPW continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to upholding the principles of strong style wrestling and delivering high-quality matches to fans around the world.

All Japan Pro-Wrestling (AJPW)

AJPW, founded by Giant Baba, is another cornerstone of Puroresu. While it has gone through changes over the years, AJPW is known for its King's Road style, which combines elements of traditional wrestling with dramatic storytelling. The King's Road style is a distinctive and influential approach to professional wrestling that is closely associated with All Japan Pro-Wrestling (AJPW). It is characterized by its emphasis on realism, athleticism, and storytelling, creating a unique and captivating in-ring product. Founded by Giant Baba in 1972, AJPW quickly established itself as one of the premier wrestling promotions in Japan, attracting top talent and cultivating a dedicated fan base. The King's Road style is rooted in the belief that professional wrestling should be presented as a legitimate and competitive sport. Matches are structured to build drama and tension, with wrestlers using a combination of technical wrestling, hard-hitting strikes, and high-impact maneuvers to gain an advantage.

Mitsuharu Misawa, Toshiaki Kawada, and Kenta Kobashi are just a few of the legends who made their names in AJPW. AJPW has a storied history and continues to produce exciting wrestling events, attracting fans with its blend of tradition and innovation. The King's Road style emphasizes the importance of long-term storytelling and character development. Wrestlers are portrayed as complex and multifaceted individuals, with their motivations and relationships driving the narrative forward. Matches often serve as chapters in a larger story, with each encounter building upon previous events and shaping the destinies of the performers involved. The King's Road style has had a profound impact on the world of professional wrestling. Its emphasis on realism, athleticism, and storytelling has influenced countless wrestlers and promotions around the world.

Pro Wrestling NOAH

Pro Wrestling NOAH was founded by Mitsuharu Misawa after he left AJPW. NOAH is known for its own brand of hard-hitting and fast-paced wrestling. Pro Wrestling NOAH has a unique and celebrated approach to professional wrestling, blending elements of tradition with innovation. Founded by Mitsuharu Misawa in 2000 after his departure from All Japan Pro-Wrestling (AJPW), NOAH quickly established itself as a major force in the Japanese wrestling scene. NOAH's wrestling style is characterized by its emphasis on fast-paced action, hard-hitting strikes, and innovative maneuvers. Matches are structured to keep fans on the edge of their seats, with wrestlers showcasing their athleticism and technical skills in a series of high-impact sequences.

Wrestlers like Kenta, Naomichi Marufuji, and Go Shiozaki have been instrumental in shaping NOAH's identity. NOAH continues to be a promotion to watch, with its dedication to delivering exciting and memorable matches. NOAH places a strong emphasis on respect and sportsmanship. Wrestlers are expected to conduct themselves with honor and integrity, both inside and outside the ring. This emphasis on respect extends to the fans, who are treated as valued members of the NOAH family. Wrestlers often take the time to interact with fans after matches, signing autographs and posing for photos. NOAH has had a significant impact on the world of professional wrestling, inspiring countless wrestlers and promotions around the world. Its emphasis on fast-paced action, hard-hitting strikes, and innovative maneuvers has influenced the style of wrestling in many different countries.

Dragon Gate

Dragon Gate stands out with its high-flying, acrobatic style. Combining lucha libre influences with Japanese wrestling sensibilities, Dragon Gate offers a visually stunning and exciting product. The promotion emphasizes tag team wrestling and features a roster of talented and athletic performers. Dragon Gate is a distinctive and influential promotion in the world of professional wrestling. Founded in 1997 as Toryumon Japan, Dragon Gate has evolved into a unique and innovative wrestling organization. Dragon Gate is known for its high-flying, fast-paced, and acrobatic wrestling style. Matches often feature a dazzling array of aerial maneuvers, intricate sequences, and innovative tag team combinations. This emphasis on athleticism and creativity has made Dragon Gate a favorite among fans who appreciate exciting and visually stunning wrestling.

Wrestlers like CIMA, Masaaki Mochizuki, and Shingo Takagi have been key figures in Dragon Gate's success. If you're a fan of high-flying action, Dragon Gate is definitely worth checking out. Dragon Gate places a strong emphasis on teamwork and camaraderie. Wrestlers often form close bonds with their teammates, working together to achieve common goals. This emphasis on teamwork extends to the fans, who are encouraged to participate in the Dragon Gate experience. Wrestlers often interact with fans during matches, leading cheers and chants. Dragon Gate has had a significant impact on the world of professional wrestling, inspiring countless wrestlers and promotions around the world. Its emphasis on high-flying, fast-paced, and acrobatic wrestling has influenced the style of wrestling in many different countries. Dragon Gate is a celebration of athleticism, creativity, and teamwork.

Top Wrestlers to Watch

The talent pool in Puroresu is incredibly deep, with a mix of veterans and rising stars. Here are some names you should definitely know:

• Kazuchika Okada: Known as the "Rainmaker," Okada is one of the biggest stars in NJPW history. His matches are legendary for their drama and intensity. Okada is one of the most influential wrestlers of the modern era, known for his charisma, athleticism, and storytelling ability. He has had a profound impact on the world of professional wrestling, inspiring countless wrestlers and promotions around the world. Okada has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time.
• Hiroshi Tanahashi: The "Ace of NJPW," Tanahashi is a charismatic and skilled wrestler who has been a top star for over a decade. His matches are known for their technical prowess and emotional storytelling. Tanahashi is a true icon of Japanese professional wrestling, known for his charisma, athleticism, and unwavering dedication to his craft. He has had a profound impact on the world of professional wrestling, inspiring countless wrestlers and promotions around the world. Tanahashi has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time.
• Tetsuya Naito: The leader of Los Ingobernables de Japón, Naito is a rebellious and charismatic figure. His matches are known for their intensity and unpredictability. Naito is a true innovator in the world of professional wrestling, known for his charisma, athleticism, and willingness to take risks. He has had a profound impact on the world of professional wrestling, inspiring countless wrestlers and promotions around the world. Naito has cemented his legacy as one of the most exciting and unpredictable performers in the business.
• Kento Miyahara: The top star in AJPW, Miyahara is a modern-day King's Road wrestler, known for his toughness and determination. Miyahara is one of the most exciting young stars in Japanese professional wrestling, known for his athleticism, technical skill, and charisma. He has quickly risen through the ranks of All Japan Pro-Wrestling (AJPW) to become one of the promotion's top stars. Miyahara has the potential to become one of the biggest names in Japanese professional wrestling.

Where to Watch Puroresu

Thanks to the internet, it's easier than ever to watch Puroresu from anywhere in the world. Here are some of the best options:

• NJPW World: NJPW's official streaming service offers a vast library of past and present NJPW shows, including live events. The service also features exclusive content, such as interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. NJPW World is the best option for fans looking to immerse themselves in the world of New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
• Wrestle Universe: This streaming service features content from several Japanese promotions, including Pro Wrestling NOAH, DDT Pro-Wrestling, and Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling. Wrestle Universe is a great option for fans looking to discover new and exciting wrestling promotions. The service offers a diverse range of content, from classic matches to current events.
• FITE TV: FITE TV is a streaming service that carries live events from various wrestling promotions, including some Puroresu companies. FITE TV is a great option for fans looking to watch live wrestling events from around the world. The service offers a variety of subscription options, including pay-per-view events and monthly subscriptions.

Conclusion

Japanese pro wrestling is a unique and captivating form of entertainment that has gained a dedicated following around the world. With its emphasis on realism, athleticism, and storytelling, Puroresu offers a refreshing alternative to mainstream wrestling promotions. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of Puroresu, there's never been a better time to explore this exciting and dynamic form of professional wrestling. So grab your snacks, tune in to a show, and get ready to experience the intensity and excitement of Japanese pro wrestling! You won't regret it!