Episode 69: The Young Lions
May 4, 2026
In New Japan Pro-Wrestling, wrestlers who have just debuted are called "Young Lions." They wear simple gear—black tights and black boots.
Once upon a time, I was a Young Lion too. I suppose now I’m a "Senior Lion"? Actually, since I’m retired, maybe I should go with 【Legend Lion】. That sounds pretty cool, doesn't it?
Anyway, this is a traditional style passed down through the generations at NJPW. Right now, we have so many Young Lions, and even more trainees working hard to make their debut. As a result, the Dojo’s expenses are going up, up, and away! (Laughs).
Joking aside, I had my own Young Lion days. I fractured my hand just six months after my debut, so I really only wore those black short tights for a very brief period.
Back then, I was mostly in the first match. Specifically, I loved being the very first person to walk out for that opening bout. In 1999, I entered the Dojo weighing 90kg but bulked up to 101kg by my debut. I had this immense pride: "If the rookie with the least experience coming out for the first match has a physique of this level, just imagine how incredible the seniors coming out later are going to be!"
Even as a rookie, I felt like I was setting the bar high for NJPW. Yeah... what an annoying young man I was! (Laughs).
But they say history repeats itself, and today’s Young Lions are truly impressive. Starting with Matsumoto, and Nagai as well—they have great physiques. Most importantly, all of them possess that "unyielding fighting spirit" that every young wrestler needs. They are the hope and the greatest assets of New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
Pro-wrestling is something you can enjoy on your very first watch without any prior knowledge, but by following it long-term, you get to enjoy the growth and evolution of the wrestlers. That’s exactly why I want you to pay close attention to NJPW events starting from the very first match.
Once these guys go on their overseas excursions and make their "triumphant return," they’ll be thrust into the title picture before you know it. So, I recommend "buying stock" in them now while they’re still fresh. Don’t worry, you won’t lose any money!
Above all, the role of the opening match is to explain the rules—to show people "this is what pro-wrestling is." If the first match gets the crowd fired up, it sets the whole event on fire for the rest of the night.
So, everyone, I would be so happy if you could give our Young Lions lots of support!