Episode 73: Shinjuku FACE
May 14, 2026
Recently, a special event hosted by the United Japan Pro-Wrestling (UJPW) was held at Shinjuku FACE.
Young wrestlers from numerous promotions participated in the show. Getting to team up with athletes they usually don't work with, or facing opponents they never normally encounter, must have been an incredible stimulus for them.
The event centered around wrestlers with roughly three years of experience. It was fascinating to see the distinct differences in style and flair from each promotion. As I said in the ring after the matches, I am certain that the future stars who will carry their respective organizations on their shoulders will emerge from this group. The speed at which wrestlers grow is truly remarkable.
What I hope for in these "young generation" events is for the athletes to become keenly aware of their peers in other promotions. Of course, they are already aiming for the top within their own home turf, surrounded by rivals with the same ambitions... but I want them to set their sights even higher. In my generation, I was immensely motivated and inspired by wrestlers like Naomichi Marufuji (NOAH) and Suwama (All Japan).
Another great effect of this event was that fans got to experience the unique "colors" and characteristics of each promotion. I believe everything—from individual maneuvers to the overall flow of the matches—felt fresh and exciting for the audience.
The United Japan Pro-Wrestling federation was originally established during the hardships of the pandemic. Its purpose was to coordinate with government agencies to ensure the flame of professional wrestling was never extinguished. Having made it through those times, the role of the federation is evolving into a new phase. I am deeply grateful that we were able to hold an event like this.
I believe that the wrestlers who competed that day learned a great deal and will carry that momentum forward into the future.
By the way, the four representatives from New Japan Pro-Wrestling—Matsumoto, Nagai, Yasuda, and Nakahara—all competed in simple black short tights and black ring shoes. Seeing that, I felt the unmistakable spirit of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and as President, it made me feel incredibly proud.