New Japan Pro Wrestling has released a statement announcing a personnel change in company management, following a meeting of its Board of Directors and shareholders.
Among the newly-appointed officials are Hiroshi Tanahashi as President and Representative Director, Hitoshi Matsumoto as Director (Chief of Business Production, TV Asahi), and Taro Okada as Director (President & CEO, Bushiroad Fight).
The release noted that Okada’s position is on a part-time basis.
President Takami Ohbari and Director Michiaki Nishizawa have stepped down from their respective roles, per the statement.
Tanahashi takes on the role after a career of nearly twenty-five years and counting, becoming the “Ace” of New Japan with a number of accolades in the company, including eight reigns as IWGP Heavyweight Champion.
A press conference is set to be held on 12/26 at 1PM JST (11PM Eastern) concerning the changes, and Tanahashi will address fans directly in his new role at Wrestle Kingdom 18 at the Tokyo Dome on January 4, 2024.
