7 More NJPW Wrestlers Test Positive For COVID-19
NJPW have released a statement regarding multiple new positive COVID-1tests.
Seven more New Japan Pro-Wrestling wrestlers have tested positive for COVID-19.
It was reported earlier this week that two performers had tested positive for COVID-19 after showing up to the May 4 Wrestling Dontaku day two event with high temperatures and being quickly tested after this.
Now, a statement released by the promotion last night has revealed that another seven stars have tested positive for the virus in the wake of further testing following the aforementioned positive tests.
NJPW's statement reads as follows:
"As a result of PCR testing conducted across the roster following the May 4 Wrestling Dontaku event in Fukuoka, New Japan Pro-Wrestling has learned of seven positive tests for COVID-19.
As previously reported, two wrestlers who presented with a fever on the day of the May 4 event were immediately tested in accordance with COVID protocols, with the tests returning positive.
In light of this news, all those who had close contact with the infected parties, in addition to every wrestler on the roster, received PCR tests, with a further seven wrestlers testing positive.
All those who tested positive are experiencing mild symptoms or are asymptomatic. According to protocols and under medical advice, all are isolating and receiving appropriate treatment."
Stars such as Kazuchika Okada, Yoshinobu Kanemaru, Minoru Suzuki, El Desperado, SHO, and YOH were all pulled from the second night of the Wrestling Dontaku event upon the promotion's discovery of those initial two positive tests. This led to several matches being changed and even the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship match between YOH and El Desperado being removed altogether.
In light of these tests, the company also revealed earlier in the week that the stadium shows scheduled to take place in Yokohama and Tokyo were both set to be postponed due to Japan's current state of COVID-19 emergency having been extended through to the end of May.
As always, we'll provide more updates on the situation as and when they develop.