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Quoted By: >>9038869 >>9038875 >>9039540 >>9039630 >>9039908 >>9039927 >>9040929 >>9041948 >>9043176 >>9043444
Understanding and appreciating Japanese pro-wrestling requires an understanding of Japanese culture.
Publications such as the Wrestling Observer prioritized "work rate" and "match quality" over other aspects of pro wrestling such as storytelling, character development and cultural significance.
As a result, the wrestling industry in Japan (from an overseas perspective) is often reduced to a narrow set of criteria that ignores the complex social and cultural factors and has no proper context.
One consequence of this narrow focus is that certain eras and promotions are often overhyped and celebrated without proper context. For example, many people view the All Japan of the 1990s as a "holy era" of pro wrestling, when in fact New Japan was at the forefront of the industry during that period.
New Japan's focus on strong characters, storytelling and cultural relevance has allowed the promotion to remain relevant and influential in the world of pro wrestling to this day. In contrast, All Japan, which failed to keep up with the times, is in a state of decline, with a dwindling fan base and limited, if any, cultural impact.
In short, those who claim to be experts on Japanese pro-wrestling based solely on their consumption of narrow and incomplete sources like the Wrestling Observer are doing themselves and the industry a disservice.
Recommended resources for learning about Japanese culture include the works of Donald Richie and Donald Keene.
Additionally, understanding the Nenko System and Taiikukaikei can provide insight into the hierarchy and approach to physical education and sports in Japan, respectively.
By studying Japanese culture and the various elements that have influenced pro-wrestling, you can gain a true appreciation for this unique sport.
Publications such as the Wrestling Observer prioritized "work rate" and "match quality" over other aspects of pro wrestling such as storytelling, character development and cultural significance.
As a result, the wrestling industry in Japan (from an overseas perspective) is often reduced to a narrow set of criteria that ignores the complex social and cultural factors and has no proper context.
One consequence of this narrow focus is that certain eras and promotions are often overhyped and celebrated without proper context. For example, many people view the All Japan of the 1990s as a "holy era" of pro wrestling, when in fact New Japan was at the forefront of the industry during that period.
New Japan's focus on strong characters, storytelling and cultural relevance has allowed the promotion to remain relevant and influential in the world of pro wrestling to this day. In contrast, All Japan, which failed to keep up with the times, is in a state of decline, with a dwindling fan base and limited, if any, cultural impact.
In short, those who claim to be experts on Japanese pro-wrestling based solely on their consumption of narrow and incomplete sources like the Wrestling Observer are doing themselves and the industry a disservice.
Recommended resources for learning about Japanese culture include the works of Donald Richie and Donald Keene.
Additionally, understanding the Nenko System and Taiikukaikei can provide insight into the hierarchy and approach to physical education and sports in Japan, respectively.
By studying Japanese culture and the various elements that have influenced pro-wrestling, you can gain a true appreciation for this unique sport.
