NJPW Cancel All Events Until May 4

Yesterday, Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe declared a state of emergency until May 6 because of a sharp rise in coronavirus cases in Tokyo and other urban areas across the nation. 

In response to this, New Japan Pro-Wrestling announced earlier today that they have taken the decision to cancel all events until May 4, which includes Wrestling Dontaku 2020. The promotion's next show will be on May 12 when The Best Of The Super Juniors begins.  

In a statement, NJPW wrote: 

"We deeply apologise to fans who were looking forward to these events. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the disease. As eager as everyone at New Japan Pro-Wrestling is to return to the ring as soon as possible, the health and safety of our fans, wrestlers and staff, as well as society at large is our utmost concern.

"We will make announcements about events scheduled after May 4 upon careful monitoring of this developing situation. We will soon announce refund procedures for the affected events.

"NJPW is currently exploring the possibility of presenting matches without fans in attendance; this would only happen if staff and wrestler health and safety can be protected to the highest possible standard. 

"Meanwhile, programs like the NJPW Together Project will continue to see wrestlers and staff come together to bring the best possible content to fans while we eagerly await the opportunity to entertain live crowds once more."