Backstage Unrest At NJPW Reaches ‘Tipping Point’

The unhappiness on the NJPW roster continues to grow and has reportedly reached a “tipping point” given recent developments.

As reported by Voices of Wrestling, NJPW wanted former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Will Ospreay to remain in Japan for treatment on his neck injury, but he refused because he’d already decided to return to the UK.

Some talents in NJPW actually believe that, while Ospreay is indeed injured, the neck injury could be a “cover reason” from management for Ospreay leaving Japan to hide the fact it’s actually out of frustration.

There has been a lot of unrest on the roster stemming from the company’s handling of COVID-19, and that apparently reached a “tipping point” when New Japan announced its return to touring without telling the wrestlers first.

Members of the roster were reportedly told they’d be able to return home, but then at the “last minute” were informed they’d have to stay because shows were resuming.

Even Japanese members of the roster aren’t happy with the lack of communication, and the quarantine guidelines have been a source of frustration too.

Veteran members of the roster went to Dick Togo with their concers, but Togo blamed upper management and said the company was waiting for COVID-19 test results before booking cards.

According to Voices of Wrestling more than one source has described the situation as a “potential mutiny”.

One member of the roster we know has been evaluating his options is David Finlay, as his father Fit Finlay mentioned he was looking at other companies recently.

What are your thoughts on the above story? Let us know in the comments on Twitter or Facebook.

• COVID-19
• Backstage
• NJPW
• Will Ospreay

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