NJPW President Harold Meij remains positive about his company direction during the Coronavirus pandemic
Sports Illustrated‘s Justin Barrasso spoke with Meij about just that, who believes pro wrestling is a beautiful way to bond in times of uncertainty.
“The coronavirus has impacted the entire world,” said Meij. “However, throughout our 50-year history we have experienced and overcome numerous crises, not only emerging stronger as an organization, but also as a good social beacon bringing hope and excitement worldwide. NJPW sincerely believes professional wrestling will once again unite us all very soon, sharing our passion for wrestling together.”
Keeping with that optimism, Meij states that NJPW employees want to get back to work the company’s self-imposed postponement of business operations, but just like everyone else, wants to be sure it is safe to do so.
“At this moment in time, our events, up to and including March 21, have been cancelled,” stated Meij. “Everyone involved in this situation wants to get back to business as usual immediately afterward, and we are working toward that. The situation is fluid, however, and we have to act responsibly.
“The Coronavirus has dramatically affected how sports and events-based businesses worldwide are able to operate. Being the biggest professional wrestling organization in Japan put a spotlight upon us and gave us a significant social responsibility. It has been our duty to not just act in the best interests of our fans, wrestlers and staff, but of society at large.”
A question that is always asked to Meij is the possibility of forming a business relationship with AEW and he gave an answer that didn’t rule out such, but didn’t indicate anything either, stating that loyalty is key with them and they plan to continue with the partnerships they currently have:
“Throughout our 50-year history we have had numerous relationships with other wrestling promotions,” said Meij. “Japanese mentality is one of loyalty. We work under a long-term principle that, ‘Once in, you’re in for a lifetime.’ AEW has made tremendous inroads and is establishing their unique brand of wrestling with their vision of what wrestling should be. We continue to watch with interest how AEW continues to evolve their brand.”
Although AEW is not one of NJPW’s current partners, Meij is very pleased with the current relationships New Japan has with companies around the globe.
“NJPW continues to have a strong relationship with Ring of Honor, and we foresee the relationship, including talent exchanges, to continue as have our relationships with CMLL in Mexico and RevPro in the U.K.,” said Meij. “All our partnerships help expand NJPW’s global footprint and help bring the best possible experience to our fans worldwide.”
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