New Japan Pro Wrestling And AXS Reach Major Extension, Show Sees Impressive Numbers

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter is reporting that AXS TV and TV-Asahi have reached a major, multi-year agreement to continue airing New Japan Pro Wrestling on Friday nights.

Technically in it's second season, the third season will run from August 14 through December 11, with a break being taken over Thanksgiving weekend. There will also be a month's worth of programming featuring matches from this year's Wrestle Kingdom 9.

The Observer reports that both parties are thrilled with viewership thus far, as the program has averaged 200,000 viewers for a Friday night broadcast of shows that have sometimes been a year or two. The report also notes that the companies hope to reduce the lag between the matches actually happening and when they air.

The NJPW block will also likely be increased to two hours, with a repeat of the previous week's show airing at 8 pm, with a new edition running at 9.

We've reached out to AXS TV for comment, and will keep you updated on any additional information. This week we interviewed NJPW color commentator Josh Barnett, which will be up soon.

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

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