Recently, it was announced that New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is closing its American branch, New Japan Pro-Wrestling of America Inc. In response, GCW promoter and former Bloodsport promoter Josh Barnett revealed on social media that he had offered to take over the entire U.S. operation before the decision to shut it down was made.
Barnett shared on X (formerly Twitter) that his proposal included overseeing training, classes, local shows, and more. He felt that NJPW possessed a valuable but underutilized asset in the U.S. market which, with proper management, could have become a marquee element for the company. However, due to what seemed like overwhelming costs and debt, NJPW decided that closing the subsidiary was the best option.
In his message, Barnett concluded with, “onward though, as always.” Earlier this year in April, following Bloodsport XV during WrestleMania 42 weekend, he announced the event would take a break, though he made clear it wasn’t permanently finished. Additionally, NJPW has confirmed it will also be closing its NJPW Academy in Los Angeles. Despite these closures, NJPW stated that North American events will continue as part of a new phase in their global expansion, fully supported by their new owner, the TV Asahi group, which took over in May.
Fan Take: This development is significant for pro wrestling fans because it signals a major restructuring of NJPW’s presence in the U.S., a key growth market for the sport. How NJPW adapts with these changes could reshape the North American wrestling scene and influence the future opportunities for homegrown talent and local promotions.
Source: www.wrestlinginc.com
