Puroresu: The Evolution of Japanese Wrestling and Its Global Impact

Japanese wrestling, or puroresu, is more than just an alternative to WWE—it’s an entirely different beast. With a hard-hitting in-ring style, deep-rooted traditions, and some of the most compelling storytelling in sports entertainment, puroresu has evolved into a global phenomenon. From the pioneers who laid its foundation to the revolutionary women who reshaped the industry, let’s dive into the past, present, and future of Japanese wrestling and what sets it apart from its Western counterpart.

The Birth and Evolution of Puroresu

The story of Japanese wrestling begins in the post-war era with Rikidōzan, the “Father of Puroresu.” A former sumo wrestler, Rikidōzan introduced professional wrestling to Japan in the 1950s, using it as a symbol of national pride. His battles against American wrestlers weren’t just entertainment—they were a cultural statement, helping Japan rebuild its spirit after World War II.

Following his untimely death in 1963, two of his disciples took different approaches to wrestling and, in doing so, shaped the industry forever. Antonio Inoki, the founder of New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), championed Strong Style—a brutal, strike-heavy approach that blurred the lines between wrestling and real combat. Meanwhile, Giant Baba, the founder of All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW), developed King’s Road, a more methodical, storytelling-based style where matches built up to dramatic, high-impact climaxes.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, puroresu reached new heights. NJPW’s Inoki booked legendary matches against MMA fighters and global stars, while AJPW created some of the most celebrated matches of all time, thanks to icons like Mitsuharu Misawa, Kenta Kobashi, and Toshiaki Kawada. Meanwhile, promotions like Pro Wrestling NOAH and DDT emerged, pushing the boundaries of both serious and comedic wrestling.

The Rise and Importance of Joshi Wrestling

While men’s wrestling was thriving, Joshi Puroresu was carving out its own legacy. Women’s wrestling in Japan wasn’t just a sideshow—it was a movement. The 1980s and ’90s saw the golden age of All Japan Women’s Pro-Wrestling (AJW), featuring pioneers like Manami Toyota, Aja Kong, and Bull Nakano, whose matches were faster, harder-hitting, and more physically intense than most men’s bouts at the time.

Unlike WWE, where women’s wrestling was often treated as an afterthought until recent years, Japan consistently presented its female wrestlers as legitimate athletes. Promotions like Stardom and Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling (TJPW) continue this legacy today, creating superstars like Mayu Iwatani, Giulia, and Miyu Yamashita, who have influenced the global wrestling scene. Even WWE and AEW have taken notice, signing talent from the joshi world and adopting its more athletic approach.

How Puroresu Differs from Western Wrestling

What makes Japanese wrestling so different? Let’s break it down:

• In-Ring Style: Puroresu leans heavily into realism. Strikes are stiff, suplexes are brutal, and the action often looks as real as it gets. There’s also a greater emphasis on long-term storytelling, where feuds and rivalries can build over years rather than weeks.

• Presentation & Storytelling: Unlike the entertainment-first approach of WWE, puroresu is treated more like a sport. Post-match promos are often done in press conference settings rather than scripted monologues in the ring.

• Respect & Audience Culture: Japanese crowds are famously more reserved, reacting to big moments with quiet appreciation rather than constant chants. This creates a unique atmosphere where every move and counter carries weight.

• Women’s Wrestling: While WWE only started giving women’s wrestling serious attention in the last decade, joshi puroresu has been producing high-caliber matches for decades, with women often main-eventing shows.

The Global Influence and Future of Puroresu

Today, puroresu continues to thrive. NJPW has expanded globally, hosting events in the U.S. and forming partnerships with AEW and Impact Wrestling. Stardom has put joshi wrestling on the world stage, with WWE and AEW regularly scouting its stars. Even independent promotions in Japan, like DDT Pro and Dragon Gate, are pushing the envelope with unique match styles and innovative storytelling.

Puroresu is no longer just Japan’s best-kept secret—it’s a global force. With its rich history, dedication to athleticism, and deep storytelling, it continues to inspire wrestlers and fans alike across the world. If you’ve never watched puroresu before, now’s the perfect time to start—because this movement isn’t slowing down anytime soon.