NJPW Lays Out Guidelines For Wrestlers And Fans Upon Impending Return

New Japan Pro-Wrestling is set to return on June 15 with its first event since February. The company suspended operations due to the coronavirus pandemic, but with Japan lifting its State of Emergency, they have deemed the situation safe enough to return to live events.

Of course, NJPW will take plenty of precautions as they run empty arena events. The company posted a set of guidelines that wrestlers and staff will have to adhere to as events start again. 

* Wrestlers will take their temperature twice a day and log their activity of who they have been in contact with. If any COVID-19 symptoms are present, staff should be notified and the wrestler should immediately quarantine. 

* Attendance will be minimized at the venue and times will be kept shorter. All wrestlers and staff must wear a mask at the venue and logs will be kept of how long they are at the venue. Wrestlers must also leave the venue after “their objective has been completed” and conversations should be limited.

* Locker rooms will be zoned with staggered entry. Wrestler’s food and drink will have their name written on it and buffet-style catering will not be available. NJPW will individually pack containers for wrestlers.

* The ring and ringside area will be cleaned and disinfected between matches.

On July 11 and 12 at Osaka Jo Hall, NJPW will allow fans into the arena at 33% capacity. Guidelines have also been put in place for fans.

* All fans must wear a mask and no intentional physical should be made with wrestlers. No loud cheering. If COVID-19 symptoms are present two weeks after an event, NJPW must be notified. 

You can view the full list of guidelines by clicking here.