New Japan Pro Wrestling has announced that they are returning to live events after several postponements of shows due to positive COVID-19 cases in the company.
NJPW has confirmed they will run the first of these return dates on May 22nd with a show in the Nagoya Conference Center Event Hall. That show will be followed by shows on the 24th, 25th, and 26th of May in the famous Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.
As well as announcing the events, New Japan Pro Wrestling also gave more information about the positive COVID-19 cases and what actions the company has taken to prevent the spread of the virus.
The NJPW statement read:
“On May 5 and 9, announcements of positive COVID-19 tests among the NJPW roster caused a great deal of concern. Infected wrestlers have all continued to display minor or no symptoms, and have isolated and received appropriate medical treatment. Additionally, wrestlers who had contact with the infected, or had any reason to be concerned, have also independently isolated and taken relevant measures. Wrestlers who have completed their isolation period are being allowed to resume training.”
“Wrestlers and staff will only be allowed to participate in events to follow after diligent screening, and on consultation with medical professionals and training staff, including on any after effects that may arise from a lengthy period of isolation. We ask for your understanding and patience in awaiting further announcements.”
The company also drew attention to their own COVID-19 event policy which gives fans further information on what the company is doing to ensure a safe working environment for their wrestlers as well as fans attending shows.
The Road To Wrestle Grand Slam begins now in Nagoya on the 22nd of May before Wrestle Grand Slam itself takes place on the 29th of May in the Tokyo Dome. At Wrestle Grand Slam the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, currently Will Ospreay, will defend their title against Kazuchika Okada.