So according to my blog plan, I was set to release two blog posts this week looking at the lineup for the New Japan Cup. However, latest news has changed all of that and I assume you know what I'm going tot all about by the title. Hopefully this post will give you some more information on the status of both New Japan Pro Wrestling and DDT shows in the upcoming weeks.
Previously, certain promotions in Japan such as Stardom have cancelled their shows or made it an empty arena show because of the threat of the Coronavirus. However, this was only a few shows and not widespread.
However, today, New Japan issued this statement:
The statement basically explains that all of the NJPW events between March 1-15 have been cancelled due to recommendations by the Japanese Ministry of Health.
New Japan said: NJPW has reached this difficult decision after careful consideration. Ultimately, the health and safety of our fans, staff and wrestlers is our highest concern. We remain deeply appreciative of your support of New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
This means that not only will the Anniversary Show, which was meant to take place on the 3rd March featuring Tetsuya Naito v Hiromu Takahashi, be cancelled but also the first eight dates of the annual New Japan Cup. All tickets will be refunded to customers, however no further information has been released about when these shows will take place and how the announcement will impact the New Japan schedule.
On a similar note, Japanese promotion DDT have also issued a similar statement in regard to their upcoming shows in the next few weeks:
For DDT, they have cancelled all of their DDT, Joshi, Basara and Gambare shows from the 28th February until the 3rd March. Unlike New Japan however, there are no major shows that will be cancelled that would impact the rest of the shows and cause major disruption. However, it will be sad for fans who have bought tickets but these can be exchanged for future shows or refunded.
Unlike, New Japan however, DDT are offering non-spectator shows just like Stardom and here are the dates:
- February 28 (Friday) [DDT] No spectator game relay
, March 1 (Sunday) [DDT] No spectator game relay
, March 1 (Sun) [Tokyo Women's wrestling-free spectator game relay
-March 3 (Tuesday) [DDT] No spectator game relay
, March 7 (Saturday) [DDT] No spectator game relay
※ each relay start time and play cards Otte will be announced.
※ Ganbare ☆ relay of professional wrestling is under discussion.
However, just like with New Japan, these measures have been made after serious consideration and is ultimately the right decision. The main priority of the companies have to not only be the welfare of their wrestlers but the fans and it is too risky at the moment.
I know it might seem annoying now, but it is the right thing for these companies to do and like they and I have said, they wouldn't have done it unless they thought it was necessary. It's okay to be upset, but do not take this out on the companies or wrestlers as they are just doing what's best for the well-being and health of their talent and of course us as fans.
Make sure to follow the official accounts @NJPWGlobal and @DDTPro for all the latest updates because they will be relaying information to fans. In the mean time, sit tight and enjoy some of the amazing VOD content the sites have to offer!
Until next time,
Bye!
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