Japan’s Top Wrestling Promotions Unite to Form ‘United Japan Pro Wrestling’

The biggest names in Japanese pro wrestling are officially joining forces. On January 20, New Japan Pro Wrestling led a press conference announcing the formation of United Japan Pro Wrestling (UJPW)—a new incorporated association aimed at strengthening the industry and showcasing the power of wrestling worldwide.

The group is chaired by Sanshiro Takagi and includes major promotions like All Japan Pro-Wrestling, Big Japan Pro-Wrestling, DDT Pro-Wrestling, DRAGONGATE, Ganbare Pro-Wrestling, Kyushu Pro Wrestling, NJPW, NOAH, STARDOM, and Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling. Takagi made it clear that this isn’t just about business—it’s about building a stronger, more unified wrestling industry in Japan.

“The mission is to support the people of Japan through professional wrestling,” Takagi stated, explaining that the idea for UJPW was inspired by the struggles the industry faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the importance of having a “unified point of call” for the industry in times of crisis while also improving communication between promotions.

UJPW won’t be a money-making organization—it’s a non-profit focused on governance, transparency, and industry growth. New promotions can apply to join, but there are strict requirements. Promotions must be active in Japan, legally recognized, have at least one contracted wrestler, bring in an annual revenue of 50 million yen, and follow corporate compliance guidelines.

Takagi laid out four major goals for UJPW:

• Introducing more people to pro wrestling and elevating its status in society.
• Expanding charity efforts, including continued support for Noto earthquake survivors.
• Bringing more international attention to Japanese wrestling culture to drive tourism.
• Doubling the size of the Japanese wrestling industry within the next decade.

The immediate focus for UJPW will be working with the Japanese government on wrestler health and safety policies, as well as strengthening cooperation between promotions. Takagi promised more updates soon, including opportunities for additional promotions to join as supporting members.

With Japan’s top wrestling companies now working together, UJPW could reshape the industry for years to come.

Will United Japan Pro Wrestling make Japanese wrestling stronger, or will the differences between promotions make this a difficult alliance? Let us know what you think in the comments!