What Is Japanese Deathmatch Wrestling?

Japanese Deathmatch Wrestling is a unique and intense form of professional wrestling that originated in Japan. It combines elements of traditional wrestling with hardcore, extreme, and often dangerous stunts. This style of wrestling pushes the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in the world of sports entertainment.

What Is Deathmatch Wrestling?
Deathmatch wrestling is a subgenre of professional wrestling that focuses on violent and dangerous matches. These matches often feature the use of various weapons such as barbed wire, glass panes, thumbtacks, fire, and even light tubes. The objective is to create a brutal and chaotic atmosphere, where the wrestlers put their bodies on the line for the sake of entertainment.

History
Deathmatch wrestling has its roots in Japan, where it gained popularity during the 1990s. Promotions like Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling (FMW) and Big Japan Pro Wrestling (BJW) were at the forefront of this unique style. FMW’s founder Atsushi Onita is considered one of the pioneers of deathmatch wrestling.

The Elements of Japanese Deathmatch Wrestling

1. Barbed Wire Matches
In a barbed wire match, sections of the ring ropes are replaced with strands of sharp barbed wire. The wrestlers can use these ropes as weapons or slam their opponents into them, resulting in bloody and painful encounters.

2. Light Tube Matches
Light tubes are thin glass tubes filled with fluorescent gas that shatter upon impact.

In light tube matches, wrestlers use these tubes to strike their opponents or even break them over each other’s bodies. The sight of shattered glass adds an element of danger and excitement to these matches.

3. Thumbtack Matches
Thumbtack matches involve covering parts of the ring with thousands of sharp thumbtacks. Wrestlers are thrown onto these tacks or slammed onto them, resulting in puncture wounds and a multitude of pain-inducing situations.

4. Fire Matches
Fire matches bring an element of danger and spectacle to deathmatch wrestling.

Wrestlers may set various objects, such as tables or even themselves, on fire. The use of fire adds an intense and visually captivating element to these matches.

The Appeal of Japanese Deathmatch Wrestling

Japanese deathmatch wrestling has garnered a dedicated following for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a departure from the more traditional forms of wrestling, providing fans with a unique and thrilling experience. The high-risk stunts and extreme violence create an atmosphere that is not easily replicated in other forms of sports entertainment.

Additionally, the wrestlers themselves are admired for their toughness and willingness to endure extreme pain for the sake of entertaining the audience. Their dedication to their craft is evident in their performances, which often leave spectators in awe.

The Controversy Surrounding Japanese Deathmatch Wrestling

Despite its popularity among certain circles, Japanese deathmatch wrestling has also faced significant controversy. Critics argue that the level of violence involved crosses ethical boundaries and poses serious risks to the wrestlers’ health and well-being. The long-term physical effects on performers who engage in these matches can be severe.

Ultimately, whether one appreciates or condemns Japanese deathmatch wrestling is subjective. It’s important to remember that this form of entertainment exists within the boundaries of scripted sports entertainment and should not be imitated outside of professional settings.

In Conclusion
Japanese deathmatch wrestling is an extreme and captivating form of professional wrestling that pushes the limits of what is considered acceptable in sports entertainment. With its unique combination of violence, spectacle, and dedication from its performers, it continues to captivate audiences around the world. However, it’s crucial to remember that this form of entertainment comes with risks and should be appreciated within the context of professional wrestling.