Do Japanese fans of NJPW tend to watch other promotions as well?

3 comments

1. In my experience, Japanese wrestling fans are very dedicated to one promotion, often one that runs their area often. Everyone is aware of what NJPW is doing. Everyone knows where legends/veterans have ended up. But by and large, they are really into one over the others. Case in point was that recent Despe-ran show which featured talent from all over. Each wrestler essentially had their own fanbase come to that show to support them. It’s niche but not as tribalistic as western wrestling.

2. Someone already put out a great response, but Japanese fans tend to focus on one promotion. And even within those who watch more than one, it’s uncommon to see someone who watches different types of wrestling; for example, someone that watches New Japan doesn’t tend to watch joshi wrestling.

   Within the New Japan context I don’t think it accentuates as much, but you can really see it within female companies, especially in the past (just look at the storm caused by Giulia’s defection from IR to Stardom).

3. Too expensive as well vs japanese wages.