New Japan Pro Wrestling released the following video featuring NJPW President and CEO Harold Meij who discussed the company’s plans moving forward and why they have not filmed any empty arena shows.

Meij said that there are high infection rates in cities such as Tokyo and that shows being held right now in the city are an unneccesary risk, noting that holding shows under these circumstances would reflect badly on themselves and on the industry noting that New Japan Pro Wrestling will not trade their reputation as a positive force for social good, even in the face of harsh economic realities.

Meij said that when the time is right, New Japan Pro Wrestling will move forward and that empty arena shows may be filmed when and only when the state of emergency restrictions are lifted, the number of new Coronavirus infections declines and when matches can take place in a properly disinfected and safe setting. Meij said that the first step of this would be to tape empty arena matches in Japan at the NJPW Dojo and in Los Angeles at the NJPW US Dojo, while the second step would involve fans being allowed to enter for their events. Meij said that all attendees will be given temperature checks upon entry to the building and will be forced to wear a mask and comply by social distancing requirements should they return to running shows.