New Japan Pro-Wrestling

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New Japan Pro-Wrestling

Japanese Pro Wrestling: Powerful Action, Electrifying Entertainment

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Founded in 1972 by Antonio Inoki, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is one of Japan’s leading professional wrestling promotions. It has produced stars such as Jyushin Thunder Liger, Kenny Omega, and Tiger Mask, and has established IWGP championships and tournaments such as G1 CLIMAX.

Central to NJPW’s tradition is Strong Style, a philosophy of pursuing pro wrestling as a martial art. One of its major attractions is watching highly trained wrestlers take their opponents’ attacks head-on and clash in intense matches. At the same time, distinctive personalities, costumes, entrance music, and theatrical production make it compelling live entertainment.

At Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall, a revered venue for combat sports, NJPW regularly stages live events. The close proximity to the ring lets you experience each exchange and the crowd’s energy up close. NJPW also holds events at Tokyo Dome, Ryogoku Kokugikan (Ryogoku Sumo Hall), and gyms and arenas across Japan.

Highlights

  • NJPW was founded by Antonio Inoki in 1972.
  • It carries on the philosophy of Strong Style.
  • It features IWGP championships and tournaments such as G1 CLIMAX.
  • Wrestlers’ personalities, dramatic entrances, and the crowd’s shared excitement are part of the appeal.
  • Events are held throughout Japan, including at Korakuen Hall.

New Japan Pro-Wrestling Videos

Photos

  • Antonio Inoki vs. Karl Gotch at NJPW’s inaugural event in March 1972

    Antonio Inoki vs. Karl Gotch at NJPW’s inaugural event in March 1972

  • Korakuen Hall, a spiritual home of pro wrestling

    Korakuen Hall, a spiritual home of pro wrestling

  • Around 30 NJPW shows take place at Korakuen Hall each year

    Around 30 NJPW shows take place at Korakuen Hall each year

  • The major Tokyo Dome event held every January 4

    The major Tokyo Dome event held every January 4

  • Ryohei Oiwa, winner of the 2026 G1 CLIMAX

    Ryohei Oiwa, winner of the 2026 G1 CLIMAX

  • Pro wrestling for fans of all ages

    Pro wrestling for fans of all ages

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

How can I buy tickets to NJPW events?

A

Select the event you’d like to attend from the schedule and ticket listings on the official website, then buy tickets through one of the agencies listed on the event page. Fan club presales are available for some events.

Q

Where can I buy NJPW merchandise?

A

In addition to merchandise stands at events, you can shop at the official online Tokon Shop or locations such as Suidobashi Tokon Shop.

Q

Can I pick up merchandise ordered online at the event venue?

A

For selected events, you can collect items purchased from Tokon Shop at the venue on the day of the show. Check the official website for eligible events, order deadlines, and pickup times.

Reviews

Details

Japanese Name
新日本プロレス
Founded
1972
Founder
Antonio Inoki
Main Venues
Korakuen Hall, Tokyo Dome, Ryogoku Kokugikan, and other venues across Japan
Official Website
Official Website (English)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa