What Is the Biggest Wrestling Company in Japan?

When it comes to professional wrestling, Japan has a rich history and a thriving industry. There are several wrestling companies in Japan, but one stands out as the biggest and most influential – New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW).

The Birth of NJPW

NJPW was founded in 1972 by Japanese wrestling legend Antonio Inoki. Inoki had gained fame and recognition as a wrestler himself before he decided to establish his own promotion. His vision was to create a company that would showcase the best of Japanese wrestling talent and provide a platform for them to compete against international stars.

Key Figures in NJPW

• Antonio Inoki: As the founder of NJPW, Inoki played a crucial role in shaping the company’s early years.
• Hiroshi Tanahashi: Known as the “Ace” of NJPW, Tanahashi has been instrumental in carrying the company forward with his incredible in-ring skills and captivating personality.
• Kazuchika Okada: Okada is widely regarded as one of the best wrestlers in the world today. He has held the prestigious IWGP Heavyweight Championship for a record-setting number of times.

The Strong Style Revolution

NJPW is known for its unique style of wrestling called “Strong Style.” Strong Style emphasizes hard-hitting strikes, realistic grappling, and intense physicality. This style has attracted fans from all over the world who appreciate its authenticity and hard-hitting action.

NJPW’s Major Events

• G1 Climax: This annual tournament is considered one of NJPW’s biggest events. It features top wrestlers competing in a round-robin format, with the winner earning a title shot at Wrestle Kingdom, NJPW’s equivalent of WrestleMania.
• Wrestle Kingdom: Held every January 4th at the Tokyo Dome, Wrestle Kingdom is NJPW’s flagship event. It showcases the best matches and storylines of the year and often features international guest stars.

NJPW’s Global Expansion

In recent years, NJPW has made significant strides in expanding its reach beyond Japan. The company has partnered with various promotions around the world, allowing their talent to compete on a global stage and attracting international audiences. NJPW also holds annual shows in the United States and has established a strong presence in North America.

The Influence of NJPW

NJPW’s success has not only influenced other wrestling companies in Japan but also had an impact on the global wrestling scene. Their unique style of wrestling and emphasis on athletic competition have inspired wrestlers from all over the world to incorporate elements of Strong Style into their own repertoire.

Conclusion

In summary, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is undoubtedly the biggest wrestling company in Japan. With its rich history, iconic events, and global expansion, NJPW continues to captivate audiences with its unique brand of hard-hitting action and compelling storytelling.