Episode 55: Responding to Your Messages
April 9, 2026
Thank you for reading my Presidential Diary. I’m squeezing every bit of inspiration out of my brain to write these, hoping they can provide even a little bit of energy for you.
Lately, I’ve received a lot of feedback, opinions, and requests from all of you. I want to share them here so we can work on improvements... and by declaring it publicly, I'm cutting off my own escape route! Here it comes: my "walk the talk" personality!
【Information regarding remaining ticket types is hard to understand.】 We will work on creating a system that is clear for everyone—both for those checking the mobile site and homepage, and for those looking at the ticket booth displays at the venue on the day of the event.
【It’s so hard to win front-row tickets...】 I am very sorry. For events like Korakuen Hall, the Fan Club pre-sale often goes to a lottery due to high demand. I’ll send you some energy so you win next time. Ei! (Hah!)
【Please come to regional areas more often!】 Thank you for supporting NJPW. Currently, we hold about 150 matches a year, including international events. I’ll consult with our sales staff—I want us to visit every corner of Japan. We appreciate your continued support.
【The "Third Place"】 Regarding my previous post about wanting NJPW venues to be a "Third Place," I received a comment saying, "It already is!" Hearing this directly makes me so happy. Hiroshi Kangeki! (Hiroshi is deeply moved!)
【The "Elongated Name" Theory】 Regarding the Ryogoku event, someone sent a joyful message saying, "O-Khan showed up after the IWGP Tag Title match!" Thank you. I really want O-Kaaa-haaan to do his best.
【Laundromats】 This was another comment regarding the "Third Place" topic. I agree, the time spent waiting for your laundry to wash and dry is quite nice, isn't it? Back when we were Young Lions, we went to the laundromat every single day carrying all the seniors' laundry. It brings back memories of Shibata-san, Inoue-san, and Kenzo-san. There’s just something about laundromats... maybe they wash your soul, too.
【I want a ring for my "Pyonsuke" plushies!】 Thank you! Yes, I will convey this to the Merchandising Department immediately. However, we have to consider things like production lots and manufacturing costs... so... if you could... give us... a little... time... (Voice gradually gets quieter).
【KOB (King of Bench)】 A request for a restock of the "Spinning Acrylic Stand" of KOB. These were very well-received and sold out instantly. We are currently working on a restock, so please bear with us. By the way, there are no plans to release an acrylic stand of Tanahashi moving up and down while playing air guitar (laughs).
【Baseball T-shirts】 A request for more varieties featuring different units. I agree! They’re fashionable, easy to throw on, and dry quickly after washing. I’ll let the Merchandising Department know!
Thank you so much for all your opinions. Whether it’s merchandise or our service at the venues, I will do my best to ensure that watching our matches is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
P.S. Please send any requests for Tanahashi merchandise directly to the office. Let my feelings reach you!