New Japan Streaming Service May Get English-Language Expansion

– According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, New Japan’s “New Japan World” online streaming service had a very successful launch. The site reports that NJPW owner Takaaki Kidani was “blown away” with how many customers came from outside of Japan.

The company has an initial goal of 100,000 subscribers and the majority of them are expected to come from the Japanese audience. There are plans to expand internationally and possibly add English commentary for major events. An English version of the website may be available soon.

Kidani said at the press conference announcing New Japan World that while they’re #2 to WWE in terms of business, they want to close the gap. The company is looking at the upcoming Tokyo Dome show, which will air on PPV in the US and be announced by Jim Ross, as a measure of how successful they can be to break into the market.