NJPW Cancel All Shows Until March 15 In Wake Of Coronavirus Outbreak

Last week, Joshi wrestling promotion

announced they had cancelled all but one of their upcoming shows until March 14. Even the one show that was going ahead was set to be broadcast from an empty Korakuen Hall.

Since then, the Coronavirus has continued to spread across the world, with over 80,000 cases having been reported and over 2,700 deaths.

Now, Japan's biggest wrestling promotion

has announced they have cancelled all of their shows until March 15 in light of recommendations from the Japanese Ministry Of Health.

NJPW only announced the bracket for the New Japan Cup yesterday, but their plans will evidently have to change as the first seven shows in the tournament will no longer take place. The March 16 show from the Takaoka Techno Dome in Toyama, Japan was originally scheduled to host a quarter-final matchup, but the promotion could either decide to reduce the number of competitors or to move the whole tournament to a later date.

New Japan issued the following statement with the announcement:

"In light of recommendations made on February 26 by the Japanese Ministry of Health connected to the new Coronavirus COVID-19, New Japan Pro-Wrestling has arrived at the decision to cancel all live events scheduled between Sunday March 1 and Sunday March 15.

"Further announcements will be made at a later date. All ticket holders will be refunded. Please check njpw1972.com and social media in the coming days for details on the refund procedure.

"NJPW has reached this difficult decision after careful consideration. Ultimately, the health and safety of our fans, staff and wrestlers is our highest concern. We remain deeply appreciative of your support of New Japan Pro-Wrestling."