What Happened to New Japan Pro Wrestling?

New Japan Pro Wrestling, also known as NJPW, has been a powerhouse in the world of professional wrestling for many years. With its unique blend of hard-hitting action and compelling storytelling, NJPW has captivated fans around the globe. However, in recent times, there have been some major changes and developments that have left fans wondering: what happened to New Japan Pro Wrestling?

The Expansion into the United States
One of the most significant factors that have contributed to the transformation of New Japan Pro Wrestling is its expansion into the United States. In 2017, NJPW made its mark on American soil with the launch of their subsidiary promotion, New Japan Pro-Wrestling of America (NJPW-USA). This move was aimed at reaching a wider audience and establishing a stronger presence in the American market.

Increased International Talent Exchange
Another key aspect that has impacted NJPW’s evolution is its increased focus on international talent exchange. In recent years, NJPW has formed partnerships with various promotions from around the world, including Ring of Honor (ROH) in the United States and Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL) in Mexico. These collaborations have allowed for cross-promotional events and talent sharing, resulting in fresh matchups and exciting storylines.

The Departure of Key Stars

However, along with these positive changes, NJPW has also faced some challenges. One significant setback was the departure of several key stars who played a vital role in establishing the promotion’s global reputation.

Wrestlers like Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks (Matt Jackson and Nick Jackson), and Cody Rhodes left NJPW to form their own promotion called All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Their exit created a void that NJPW had to fill with new talent and innovative ideas.

• The Rise of Homegrown Talent
• NJPW’s Response to the Departures

The Rise of Homegrown Talent

To fill the gaps left by the departing stars, New Japan Pro Wrestling turned its attention to nurturing and promoting homegrown talent. Wrestlers like Kazuchika Okada, Tetsuya Naito, and Hiroshi Tanahashi have become the faces of NJPW and continue to deliver exceptional performances in the ring. Their dedication and skill have helped maintain NJPW’s reputation as a top-tier wrestling promotion.

NJPW’s Response to the Departures

NJPW also responded to the departures by focusing on creating captivating storylines and introducing new international talent. They brought in wrestlers from various backgrounds, such as Will Ospreay from England, Jay White from New Zealand, and Kota Ibushi from Japan. These fresh faces injected new energy into NJPW’s shows and kept fans engaged.

The Impact of COVID-19
Just like every other industry, professional wrestling was heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. NJPW had to temporarily suspend its events and adapt to new safety protocols. This forced them to rethink their storytelling methods and find creative ways to connect with their audience.

The Return of Live Events
As restrictions eased, NJPW gradually resumed live events with limited capacity audiences. This return to normalcy has been welcomed by both wrestlers and fans alike. However, it will still take time for NJPW to fully recover from the financial impact caused by the pandemic.

The Future of New Japan Pro Wrestling

Despite all the changes that New Japan Pro Wrestling has undergone, one thing remains certain – its commitment to delivering high-quality wrestling entertainment. With a mix of established stars, rising talents, and international collaborations, NJPW is well-positioned for continued success in the future.

In conclusion, what happened to New Japan Pro Wrestling was a series of significant changes and developments. From expanding into the United States to the departure of key stars and the impact of COVID-19, NJPW has faced both opportunities and challenges. However, through strategic adaptations and a focus on delivering thrilling matches, NJPW continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional wrestling.