STARDOM CEO Rossy Ogawa Discusses International Touring And TV Deals

STARDOM has showed continued growth over the years and will take the next step in its progression on November 20 when the promotion teams with NJPW for Historic X-Over. 

Along with partnering with NJPW for a crossover event, the promotion is introducing the IWGP Women’s Championship to its stable of titles. STARDOM talent will also be part NJPW Rumble on 44th Street on October 28. 

Speaking to Monthly Puroresu, STARDOM CEO Rossy Ogawa discussed the potential of STARDOM touring internationally. 

“Previously, we had events in Los Angeles (2015) and New York (2019), and it was quite rewarding. American professional wrestling fans have great expectations for Stardom. Those past shows werenʼt about making a profit, it was about getting more recognition. Therefore, it takes a considerable amount of preparation time and a strong local partner to hold a profitseeking tour overseas. However, I am proud that Stardom’s professional wrestling is global, so I think it is possible,” he said.

During the interview, Rossy was also asked about STARDOM potentially securing a primetime TV deal in Japan. 

“Broadcasting on terrestrial television will always be a proposition. Although I donʼt deal directly with TV, the biggest publicity we can get is to broadcast in a time zone that is naturally noticeable. The video distribution service Stardom World has its limits on current servers. Professional wrestling with a video service like WWE is mainstream out in the world, but Stardom still wants our focus to be on our live touring events,” he said.

NJPW announcer Kevin Kelly recently said that he was hoping to bring English commentary to STARDOM events in an effort to attract more viewers. You can find his full comments by clicking here. 

Fans can keep up with the world of Joshi by checking out Scott Edwards’ Joshi Journal by clicking here.