Before Marty Scurll assumed the role of lead booker of ROH, fans believed there was a fracture between ROH and NJPW. The two parties were strong to begin 2019, holding a successful G1 Supercard at Madison Square Garden in April, but as the year moved forward, the talent exchanges were few and far between.
Once Scurll became lead booker, things got back on track with Scurll making a surprise appearance during NJPW's USA Tour.
"The relationship with NJPW, I think there was a misconception that it broke down," said Scurll on ROHStrong. "I don't think that was the case. We had a lot of scheduling conflicts. NJPW running a lot more in the states, often the same time as ROH. If they were in the states and wanted any ROH talent, it wasn't something we could do because we need the guys for our shows. And for them lending us talent, they have their own market. For a little time period, it didn't work out so much. It was one of the first things I wanted to make sure I fixed and make sure I fixed and make sure both companies could benefit. One of the first things I did when I got my role was to ring up NJPW and start making things happen and make this working relationship really be a working relationship. That's something we can do to stand out among other companies, we can provide [fans] with dream matches. Fans love inter-promotional stuff."
NJPW talent was scheduled to compete at ROH Supercard of Honor during WrestleMania week, but the event was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Before it was announced that Scurll had re-signed with ROH, he made a surprise appearance at NWA Into The Fire to set up a future match with Nick Aldis.
"I really like the NWA product. They've done a great job standing out and they've done it with limited resources. Looking at a company like that, we can learn a lot from them. There's so much we can do for NWA, giving them that spotlight. There's a lot they can do for us as well. They clearly have an audience that's different to ours. It's a benefit for all parties. We both have a rich history and are both ground-breaking promotions. There are similarities being based on tradition and respect. It was a natural partnership and all my dealings with them have always been good. It was one of my first priorities to make that relationship strong again where both parties could benefit," he said.
Scurll was set to challenge Aldis for the NWA World Heavyweight Title at NWA Crockett Cup in April, but the Crockett Cup was another event canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Elsewhere during the podcast, Scurll discussed potentially working with AEW. You can find his full comments by clicking here.
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