While some of the smaller promotions in Japan have returned to shows, the leader in the region is remaining safe. New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) has officially cancelled their shows through April 11th. This only effects two shows, but the one set for March 31st is one of their biggest shows of the year. Sakura Genesis, which was scheduled to take place Tuesday March 31 in Ryogoku Sumo Hall has been cancelled, alongside a single ‘Road To’ show which was scheduled for April 11th.
NJPW Provided A Statement
As per usual, NJPW has issued a statement to their fans on the NJPW1972 website. “We deeply apologise to fans who were looking forward to these events. Ultimately, the health and safety of our fans, wrestlers and staff, as well as society at large is our utmost concern, and we will make announcements about events scheduled after April 11 upon careful monitoring of this developing situation.”
With the situation seemingly starting to improve in Asia, we can hope this will be the last of the cancellations for NJPW. They are playing things very safe, and even if things are improving running a show at a huge arena like Sumo Hall would be reckless.
Their Talent Is Getting A Much Needed Break
While for fans this hiatus means they don’t get to see some of their favorite wrestlers do what they do best, this gives a great chance for rest within NJPW. Talent will often be working through minor injuries due to the intense schedule and the nature of the company. You can only have so many hard hitting matches before you have a list of nagging injuries. While this is most common following tournaments like the G1 Climax & Best Of Super Juniors Tournaments, any chance they can get should help a ton. This will ensure that once things are back to the status quo, we will see the best versions of the NJPW locker room. Hopefully in these dim times, that gives something to look forward too. On April 11th we will hopefully have another update from NJPW, and we’re hoping for good news.
Do you think New Japan Pro Wrestling is smart to have remained shutdown for these extra three weeks? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
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