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New Japan Pro-Wrestling

New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is a Japanese professional wrestling promotion founded in 1972 by Antonio Inoki and based in Nakano, Tokyo.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is a Japanese professional wrestling promotion founded in 1972 by Antonio Inoki and based in Nakano, Tokyo. It is widely described as Japan’s largest and longest-running wrestling promotion, with television broadcasts on TV Asahi and a major role in puroresu, the Japanese style of professional wrestling.

History

NJPW was established in 1972 by Antonio Inoki as a separate professional wrestling promotion in Japan. Over time, ownership changed hands, with the company later becoming part of Bushiroad in 2012.

Operations and broadcasting

The promotion is headquartered in Nakano, Tokyo, and its broadcasts on TV Asahi have helped establish its national profile. It operates as one of Japan’s major wrestling companies and a central brand in puroresu.

Significance in professional wrestling

NJPW is widely recognized as the largest and longest-running professional wrestling promotion in Japan. It has also been described as one of the most prominent wrestling promotions globally.

Ownership and management

The company was originally founded by Antonio Inoki, later sold to Yuke’s, and then acquired by Bushiroad in 2012. Publicly reported leadership titles have included chairman and president roles.

Key facts

  • NJPW was founded on January 13, 1972, by Antonio Inoki.
  • The promotion is based in Nakano, Tokyo, Japan.
  • It is commonly abbreviated as NJPW or called New Japan.
  • Its programming has aired on TV Asahi.
  • NJPW is regarded as Japan’s largest professional wrestling promotion.

Frequently asked questions

What does NJPW stand for?
NJPW stands for New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
When was New Japan Pro-Wrestling founded?
It was founded on January 13, 1972.
Who founded NJPW?
NJPW was founded by Antonio Inoki.
Where is NJPW based?
NJPW is based in Nakano, Tokyo, Japan.
Who owns NJPW?
The promotion is owned by Bushiroad.
Why is NJPW notable?
It is one of Japan’s largest and longest-running professional wrestling promotions and has a major influence on puroresu.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Japan_Pro-Wrestling
    Supports: Founding date, founder, headquarters, and general description of NJPW as a Japanese professional wrestling promotion.
  2. Wikipedia — https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Japan_Pro_Wrestling
    Supports: Founding date, ownership by Bushiroad, and leadership details.
  3. Wikipedia — https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Japan_Pro-Wrestling
    Supports: Founding date, headquarters, TV Asahi broadcast relationship, and status as a major Japanese wrestling company.