Hiroshi Tanahashi Expresses Envy Over WWE’s Development Strategy

One Big Thing

Hiroshi Tanahashi, the newly appointed President of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), openly admires WWE’s ability to rapidly develop wrestling stars, contrasting with the slower, more traditional approach of Japanese promotions.

Key Insights

• Tanahashi was named President of NJPW following a board and shareholder meeting on December 23, 2023.
• He praised WWE’s development strategy for its efficiency in creating new wrestling stars from a wide pool of talent.
• WWE’s approach contrasts with NJPW’s more traditional, gradual development of talent.

Why It Matters

This admiration speaks volumes about the global influence of WWE’s development system and opens conversations about potential collaborations between WWE and NJPW, merging the best of both worlds for wrestling fans globally.

Tanahashi’s Thoughts

In his words on Pivot Talk, Tanahashi highlighted:

“I guess one thing that is helpful is that it’s open to both men and women, regardless of age. Also, the speed at which star wrestlers keep coming out. This is a little bit different from the way it is done with Japanese promotions. Well, I do feel envious of that.”

Looking Forward

The possibility of a working partnership between NJPW and WWE is tantalizing for fans, potentially blending the strengths of both promotions for an unprecedented wrestling experience.

Do you think a partnership between NJPW and WWE would benefit the wrestling world? Share your thoughts in the comments below.