Lion's Pride: The Turbulent History of New Japan Pro Wrestling

Lion's Pride traces the history of New Japan Pro Wrestling, beginning with the roots of professional wrestling in postwar Japan. Charlton follows the promotion from its founding in 1972 through the commercial boom of the early 1980s, its wider influence on the wrestling world during the 1990s, and the decline and comeback of the past twenty years. Detailed historical narrative is paired with essays on the mental side of Japanese wrestling and on the key figures who shaped the company. Written for devoted fans, it offers a behind-the-scenes look at a sport with a passionate following.