NJPW Cancel Best Of The Super Juniors 27 Tour

The coronavirus pandemic has wreaked havoc on New Japan Pro-Wrestling. The promotion hasn't run a show since February 26 as they have repeatedly cancelled events to safeguard their talent and fans. Now, NJPW has announced further cancellations as they cancelled the Best Of The Super Juniors 27 Tour which was set to run from May 12 until June 6.

The announcement came after Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe extended the state of emergency in the country until May 31.

New Japan's next show will now not be until August 22 when Wrestle Dynasty takes place at Madison Square Garden.

In a prepared statement, NJPW wrote:

"In response to the continuing Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, and in light of the extension of state of emergency measures across Japan, New Japan Pro-Wrestling has arrived at the decision to cancel all events on the Best of the Super Junior 27 tour that was scheduled between May 12 and June 6.

"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 June 6 upon careful monitoring of this developing situation. We will soon announce refund procedures for the affected events.

"NJPW is continuing to explore the possibility of presenting matches without fans in attendance 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."