Antonio Inoki Named Honorary Lifetime Chairman of NJPW

Recently passed founder of New Japan Pro-Wrestling Antonio Inoki has been honored with a new title by the company that he helped to create.

The company posted an update on their website after Inoki’s passing, revealing their plans for the former chairman as part of the company’s 50th Anniversary celebrations.

The company posted the following statement on its website:

“New Japan Pro-Wrestling wishes once again to express profound grief at the passing of founder Antonio Inoki, and our deepest sympathies to fans, family and friends.

“As part of our 50th Anniversary celebrations, and to celebrate Antonio Inoki’s role as a founder, wrestler and beyond, NJPW had planned to name Mr. Inoki the Honorary Lifetime Chairman of New Japan Pro-Wrestling. After Antonio Inoki graciously accepted the invitation, he was officially named Honorary Lifetime Chairman on September 1 2022.

“This information was due to be made public on October 10 at Declaration of Power in Ryogoku Sumo Hall. It is to our deep sadness that this announcement cannot take place as previously planned. However, in accordance with Mr. Inoki’s wishes, all of us at New Japan Pro-Wrestling will continue to move forward and lead the professional wrestling world to the utmost of our abilities.”

Inoki founded New Japan Pro-Wrestling in 1972. He is a one-time WWE Heavyweight World Champion, though his reign is not recognized by the company. The influential figure was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2010.

Inoki passed away on October 1 at the age of 79 of natural causes.