NJPW's Katsuyori Shibata Talks Fundamental Changes To Professional Wrestling

Ahead of his long awaited in-ring return at this week’s upcoming Wrestle kingdom 16, NJPW’s Katsuyori Shibata has spoken about his time away from the ring, and how he feels wrestling has fundamentally changed.

Speaking with Sports Illustrated, ‘The Wrestler’ said the following:

“I think a lot of today’s wrestlers are very focused on big, flashy moves, and modern wrestling has gotten away from the fundamentals. Those fundamentals and that base are what is most important to New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and that is what I am constantly looking to further.”

Retiring in 2017 after developing a subdural hematoma at Sakura Genesis, Shibata proceeded to direct NJPW’s LA Dojo, and admitted he was thankful for the opportunity, seeing it as a silver lining to his retirement:

“If I had not been injured, the L.A. Dojo would not have come about,” said Shibata. “I was not able to have a match, but I was wrestling in spirit with all the L.A. Dojo boys. That kept me strong, and it will bring new opportunities for so many who love New Japan Pro-Wrestling. So a lot of good has come from this.”