AJ Styles, a former WWE star, is calling on the company to explore the Japanese pro wrestling market, drawing parallels to their successful venture in Mexico. In a recent podcast interview, Styles expressed his enthusiasm for WWE's diverse brand portfolio and the potential for a massive WrestleMania event featuring all its performers. He envisions a WrestleMania spectacle, spanning two days, showcasing the best of Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and AAA under one roof.
However, Styles' main focus is on expanding WWE's reach into Japan, a market he believes holds untapped potential. He draws inspiration from WWE's partnership with AAA, emphasizing the importance of embracing local culture while adding their unique twist. Styles, who has firsthand experience in Japanese wrestling through his time in NJPW, hopes to see WWE replicate this success in Japan.
The pandemic has undoubtedly impacted NJPW, and Styles hopes for a swift recovery. WWE's current partnership with Pro Wrestling NOAH in Japan, where they've featured stars like Omos and Charlie Dempsey, has sparked speculation about a potential acquisition. Former WCW executive Eric Bischoff has hinted at this possibility, though he believes it might not significantly impact the US market.
AJ Styles' proposal is a strategic move, leveraging WWE's global appeal and brand recognition. By exploring the Japanese market, WWE could tap into a passionate fan base and potentially revolutionize the industry. However, it remains to be seen whether WWE will take up Styles' challenge, as the company's focus has primarily been on dominating the US and global markets.
In my opinion, WWE's expansion into Japan could be a game-changer. It presents an opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage and potentially attract new fans. The company's ability to adapt and embrace different cultures while maintaining its signature style could be a powerful strategy. As a wrestling fan, I'm intrigued by the prospect of seeing WWE's unique brand of entertainment in a new cultural context, and I eagerly await the company's decision on this potential venture.
