We now know some big news regarding cheering in NJPW.
NJPW has had a ban on cheering at full-capacity NJPW shows since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020. They had been following a clap-only mandate until the policy somewhat changed in September 2022. They announced that fans could cheer on reduced-capacity shows in September. Earlier this month, NJPW President Takami Ohmari attended a meeting with other combat sports figure heads in Japan and he requested the lifting of the vocal crowd noise ban. Now, during a press conference for Wrestle Kingdom 17 on December 15th, Ohbari announced that NJPW can now run events at 100% capacity for non-cheering crowds at 50% for cheering crowds. To clarify, the rules regarding no “loud voice” cheering have not changed, but the definition of cheering itself has been altered, following these consultations. He called the development an “in principle and effective” return to cheering at events. Ohbari explained that “long singing and rally songs” are not permitted, but “counting with a referee, cheering with a catchphrase… or chanting for wrestlers is allowed”. He also stated that fans will still be asked to wear masks to events in the interest of safety. Also, Ohbari noted that venues or municipalities may not follow NJPW’s guidelines, and some may not permit vocal crowds, but the Tokyo Dome will follow these rules. Lastly, Ohbari announced that there will be a limited section of socially distanced seats” for fans who want to cheer “even longer and louder” than the guidelines permit.
Ohbari simply tweeted, “Cheering is back!”
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