New Japan Pro Wrestling has taken action against Kota Ibushi, Takami Ohbari, and a member of its staff.
As many of you know by now, Ibushi went public regarding his issues with several NJPW executives last month, taking to the social media app “LINE” to accuse talent relations member Kikuchi of sexual harassment. He also said Kikuchi threatened to fire him and then refused to let him out of his NJPW contract when he asked. Ibushi also said several of his bosses were dealing with the Yakuza. He later went on to say that Kikuchi and Ohbari refused to apologize or meet with him. Due to this, his mother reportedly attempted suicide.
NJPW issued a statement on Sunday following a press conference to address the matter. The statement read,
“Kota Ibushi is, and will remain a key member of the New Japan Pro-Wrestling roster. This kind of severe disagreement between company and talent should not happen again; in order to prevent any such instances in the future, and ensure the best possible working environment for talent, we will be actively engaged in discussion with Mr. Ibushi about improving company policy and implementing proper procedure. We again would like to apologise to fans, wrestlers and personnel for the concern and the disruption caused in the middle of the Best of the Super Jr. tour.”
Additionally, it was announced that Ibushi has been fined 10% of his pay for three months. The same goes for Ohbari. Also, an unnamed member of the NJPW staff received a 10% fine for three months and is being transferred to a different position in the company.
You can check out the official announcement below:
Regarding Penalties to Kota Ibushi and related parties
During a press conference on May 27 2022 regarding events concerning Kota Ibushi and a member of NJPW staff (henceforth “The Official”), it was announced that both Mr. Ibushi and The Official would be subject to penalties as a result of their actions. Upon consideration, these penalties have been determined, and in the interest of transparency, are outlined below.
KOTA IBUSHI: A ten percent (10%) reduction in pay for the three month period between July and September 2022 as a result of a breach of contract.
Representative Director TAKAMI OHBARI: A ten percent (10%) reduction in pay for the three month period between July and September 2022 as a result of executive responsibility.
THE OFFICIAL: A ten percent (10%) reduction in pay for the three month period between July and September 2022, as well as a transfer to a different position as a result of inappropriate comments toward a wrestler representing a breach of duty.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling would like to once again apologise for the concern and inconvenience caused by these events, and humbly ask for your continued support.
