New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) announced the postponing of the upcoming Best of the Super Junior 27 (BOSJ) that was scheduled to take place between May 12 through June 6th. BOSJ has gained a reputation as being the most prestigious non-heavyweight tournament in professional wrestling. If the tournament ends up canceled it will be the first time since 1991; when the competition was known as Top of the Super Junior, that it won’t be held.
The NJPW website states the following regarding the announcement.
We deeply apologise [sic] to fans who were looking forward to these events. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the disease. As eager as everyone at New Japan Pro-Wrestling is to return to the ring as soon as possible, the health and safety of our fans, wrestlers and staff, as well as society at large is our utmost concern.
We will make announcements about events scheduled after June 6 upon careful monitoring of this developing situation. We will soon announce refund procedures for the affected events.
NJPW is continuing to explore the possibility of presenting matches without fans in attendance if staff and wrestler health and safety can be protected to the highest possible standard.
Meanwhile, programs like the NJPW Together Project will continue to see wrestlers and staff come together to bring the best possible content to fans while we eagerly await the opportunity to entertain live crowds once more.
In total, 19 events are canceled stretching over the three weeks. NJPW has reacted according to expert data in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, it’s unlikely NJPW will resume holding events until they believe their fans, roster, and staff are at minimal risk of coming into contact with COVID-19. As of now, NJPW still plans on hosting Wrestle Dynasty on August 22nd from Madison Square Garden in New York City.
