It has been reported that the decision to replace Takami Ohbari as NJPW president with Hiroshi Tanahashi was influenced by Ohbari’s alleged issues with staff members, as well as his strained relationship with Kazuchika Okada.
According to Dave Meltzer, in a recent edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Ohbari’s perceived misuse of power and his lack of understanding and respect for the wrestling business played a significant role in the company’s decision.
The report suggests that Ohbari’s management style and treatment of staff members led to discontent within the organisation. It is unclear what specific issues arose, but these alleged problems with the staff influenced the decision to replace Ohbari as president.
Furthermore, the strained relationship between Ohbari and Kazuchika Okada, one of the most prominent and respected wrestlers in NJPW, was cited as another major reason for Ohbari’s removal. Meltzer’s sources indicate that Okada, along with others, wanted Ohbari out of the company. It was suggested that Ohbari failed to comprehend the intricacies of the wrestling business and did not appreciate the value and importance of Okada’s role as a top star.
One source even likened Ohbari’s perception of Okada to that of a lead actor in a touring show, indicating a lack of understanding and respect for Okada’s contributions to the company. Meltzer wrote:
Another key reason has been that there were issues with staff members and Ohbari’s usage of power over them. Another major reason was that Ohbari had heat with a number of people, including the company’s top star, Kazuchika Okada. Okada was said to have wanted him out. Others said that Ohbari never really understood the wrestling business and didn’t respect the value of Okada. One person said that Ohbari saw Okada as the lead role actor in a touring show.
When Was Hiroshi Tanahashi Appointed As NJPW President?
Hiroshi Tanahashi was appointed president of NJPW on December 23rd. Tanahashi will address the fans regarding his new executive role on January 4th at Wrestle Kingdom 18.
In recent news, Hiroshi Tanahashi has spoken about plans for future cross-promotional events with NJPW and other Japanese promotions.