AEW and NJPW are taking their working relationship to the next level with "Forbidden Door," a pay-per-view event set for June 26.
The two companies have had a working relationship since the start of AEW as AEW talents would travel to Japan for major NJPW events and NJPW started appearing on AEW television during the pandemic.
Speaking to Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, NJPW CEO Takami Ohbari commented on the upcoming show and working with AEW.
“The theme of our 50th anniversary year has been not just to celebrate alongside our fans, but to give something back to everyone who has supported us over the decades,” said Ohbari. “Especially as we bounce back from the effects of the global pandemic, I feel we really have to go the extra mile. It’s on us to make those dream matches and situations come true, to bring the power of professional wrestling to the people, and emerge into a bright new era. At this point in time, with AEW and their tremendous talent getting increasing notice around the world, including among Japanese fans, they make the ideal partner for us to do just that and to unite fans worldwide. AEW has undergone tremendous growth in a very short timeframe. From a fan’s perspective that has a lot to do with meeting the ‘unmet needs’ of the consumer. Creative matchmaking and exciting wrestling have been able to satisfy fans who had been left disillusioned by the American wrestling landscape. From a business standpoint, for a new entrant into the field to be able to leverage a fresh identity and sculpt such an effective media strategy, it is very impressive."
Bushiroad is the parent company of not only NJPW, but STARDOM as well. STARDOM has had a presence in recent years at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom and Ohbari isn't ruling out STARDOM coming to AEW.
“This is an AEW-NJPW event," said Ohbari. “But the key phrase here is, ‘Never say never.’ Really nothing is off the table, and who knows what the future may hold for AEW and Stardom.”
STARDOM has its "Fight In The Top" event on June 26.
Fans can learn more about AEW Forbidden Door by clicking here.
If you missed anything from AEW Dynamite, check out Fightful's full report on the show by clicking here.
