New Japan Pro-Wrestling has not run a show since February 26th. They have repeatedly canceled events to safeguard their wrestlers and fans. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe recently extended the state of emergency in the country until May 31th.
Now, NJPW has announced the cancelation the Best Of The Super Juniors 27 Tour which was set to run from May 12th until June 6th.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s next show is scheduled for August 22nd when Wrestle Dynasty takes place at Madison Square Garden. That show is now in jeopardy too as New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that the city might not open up till September.
In a prepared statement, NJPW wrote:
“In response to the continuing Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, and in light of the extension of state of emergency measures across Japan, New Japan Pro-Wrestling has arrived at the decision to cancel all events on the Best of the Super Junior 27 tour that was scheduled between May 12 and June 6.
“We deeply apologize to fans who were looking forward to these events. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the disease. As eager as everyone at New Japan Pro-Wrestling is to return to the ring as soon as possible, the health and safety of our fans, wrestlers, and staff, as well as society at large is our utmost concern.
“We will make announcements about events scheduled after June 6 upon careful monitoring of this developing situation. We will soon announce refund procedures for the affected events.
“NJPW is continuing to explore the possibility of presenting matches without fans in attendance if staff and wrestler health and safety can be protected to the highest possible standard.
“Meanwhile, programs like the NJPW Together Project will continue to see wrestlers and staff come together to bring the best possible content to fans while we eagerly await the opportunity to entertain live crowds once more.”
