New Japan is running shows in America again, according to new reports.
As New Japan Pro-Wrestling prepares to return to live action in its homeland, a secret American television taping was held under the company banner on Saturday, June 13 in Los Angeles, California.
NJPW filmed at least nine matches for a show called Lion's Break Collision, according to a new report by Mike Johnson of PWInsider. The show, which is yet to receive a confirmed release date, was filmed on a closed set with social distancing guidelines adhered to at all times.
Only American talent was utilized during the event including the debuting former MLW World Champion, Tom Lawlor. Other names reportedly utilized include Jeff Cobb, TJP, Rocky Romero, Clark Connors, Alex Coughlin, Karl Fredericks, and Misterioso.
PWInsider would later report that Ring of Honor was also involved with the taping as a match between Brody King and Bateman was filmed in Los Angeles as well for later airing on Ring of Honor programming.
It is also reported that the tapings were held at the Oceanville Pavillion in Port Hueneme with the production team of the NWA’s Dave Marquez's Championship Wrestling from Hollywood overseeing the happening.
Prior to the global COVID-19 pandemic, New Japan Pro-Wrestling was scheduled to run a major United States event in August, called Wrestle Dynasty, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. That event has been rescheduled to 2021.
NJPW will be running shows in Japan for the first time in months beginning on Monday, June 15. You can learn more about the return to action in Japan and see a full schedule at this link.
