New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) officially unveiled the signing of Olympic Judo Gold Medalist Aaron Wolf. The 29-year-old judoka, who captured gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in the 100kg category, will embark on a new chapter in his decorated athletic career, with his in-ring debut slated for the prestigious Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4, 2026, at the Tokyo Dome.
The news was confirmed at a special press conference in Tokyo, attended by Wolf, NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi, and Bushiroad CEO Takaaki Kidani. The signing marks a significant coup for NJPW, as Wolf is not only an Olympic champion but also a 2017 World Judo Champion, making him a "Triple Crown" winner in the judo world (Olympics, World Championships, All-Japan Open Weight).
Wolf, who recently retired from competitive judo, expressed his lifelong passion for professional wrestling during the conference. He revealed that he had been a keen follower of NJPW's "World Pro-Wrestling" broadcasts since his college days and was drawn to the unique expression and charisma of professional wrestlers. "I always wanted to get into professional wrestling once I had nothing left to achieve in judo," Wolf stated, acknowledging the immense challenge ahead of him in transitioning to a new discipline.
NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi spoke with high expectations for Wolf, noting that he would be the first Japanese Olympic gold medalist to enter professional wrestling. While Wolf will not be living with the Young Lions, he will be training alongside them in the NJPW dojo, emphasizing a foundational approach to his wrestling education despite his elite athletic background. "I fully understand that I will be starting from zero," Wolf humbly admitted, underscoring his commitment to mastering the craft.
Bushiroad CEO Takaaki Kidani echoed the excitement, highlighting the symbolic significance of Wolf's debut at Wrestle Kingdom 20, which will also feature Hiroshi Tanahashi's retirement match. This confluence of events, Kidani suggested, signifies "the end of one era and the beginning of another" for NJPW.
The transition from judo to professional wrestling is not unprecedented, with notable names like Gene LeBell, Ronda Rousey, and Bad News Brown having successfully made the leap. However, Wolf's immediate celebrity status in Japan, combined with his Olympic pedigree, positions him as a potentially massive draw for NJPW. His fluency in both Japanese and English, owing to his Japanese mother and American father, further enhances his marketability on an international scale.
Fans and pundits are already buzzing about the potential impact of Aaron Wolf's arrival. While his debut at Wrestle Kingdom 20 is still several months away, the anticipation for how this world-class athlete will adapt his judo skills to the squared circle is palpable. The signing of Aaron Wolf is undoubtedly a bold and exciting move for New Japan Pro-Wrestling, potentially ushering in a new era of mainstream attention and unparalleled athleticism within the promotion.
