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New Japan Pro-Wrestling: Japanese Talent Can’t Obtain Visas For ‘The New Beginning’ Due To US Gov’t Shutdown

New Japan Pro-Wrestling issued the following statement, announcing they were unable to obtain working visas for Japanese talent due to the ongoing government shutdown in the United States:

Regarding THE NEW BEGINNING in USA

It is with great disappointment that we must announce that due to the ongoing 2018–19 United States federal government shutdown, we were unable to obtain visas for our Japanese talent who were looking forward to seeing our US fans at the New Beginning in USA. 

We are excited to still be able to share a great line-up with our US fans, regardless of visa issues. The IWGP US Champion, Juice Robinson, is defending his title against Barretta and The Great O-Kharn, who is flying in from England, will be debuting in New Japan! What’s more, this show will highlight the talent and potential of our Young Lions, who have been working hard in the NJPW LA dojo. We are looking forward to being able to celebrate the abilities of the exciting new generation of young NJPW wrestlers.

Related: NJPW New Beginning In USA Cards Revealed: Roppongi Vice Reunites, IWGP US Title, + More

Full cards for the tour were announced last night, with many of the company’s top names being noticeably absent on the events. New Japan Pro-Wrestling presents ‘The New Beginning’ next week with stops in Los Angeles, Charlotte and Nashville.

Read More: New Japan Pro Wednesday (1/23) Road To New Beginning…Begins

The United States federal government shutdown has been ongoing since Saturday, December 22nd, with one key point of contention being President Trump’s inability to get $5.7 billion in funding for his proposed border wall in Mexico. More than 800,000 federal employees are out of work or continue without pay; at 34 days and counting, it is the longest shutdown of its kind in United States history.

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