Josh Barnett Talks Mark Cuban’s Endorsement Of NJPW, AXS TV Showing

New Japan Pro Wrestling's week was a major success domestically and internationally, but it's not done yet.

Last year, New Japan Pro Wrestling gained a major endorsement from AXS TV owner Mark Cuban after airing on the network for quite some time. In an interview Cuban, revealed that he'd paid a hefty fee in order to get Wrestle Kingdom 12 on his network just a couple of days after it airs on New Japan World. Josh Barnett, who spoke to Fightful about his commentary duties on the show, thinks it's a good sign.

"To be honest, I'm not sure what it means besides that we're doing a good job on on his channel. Maybe he's a big fan. I hope he starts endorsing us publicly more," Barnett told me.

Barnett revealed that he and Jim Ross were aware of the idea for a while, and that the turnaround in producing the show was very quick, by necessity.

"We've known for some time. This was the next best option to being there and calling it live, so I'm happy to do it. We essentially called it on the fourth to have it ready by Friday or Saturday,"

In addition to calling wrestling, Barnett has found himself in the wrestling ring while serving time on a USADA violation in the UF

"Basically all that is, is a chance to get to work with my students. Friends of mine happen to be running shows, so I help them out. I like wrestling, and if it's the right person, I like the opportunity to get in the ring with them," said Barnett.

New Japan Pro Wrestling's Wrestle Kingdom 12 will air on AXS TV Saturday, January 6, and then weekly on Fridays after that.