10 Things Japanese Wrestling Does Better Than WWE

This is a major problem that many promotions in the US, especially WWE, possess. There is an enormous gap between what WWE presents and what’s really believable. Week in and week out, the same wrestlers put on the same matches with the same spots, yet fans are expected to believe that something different will happen. 

This leads to moves not looking dangerous or even painful in some cases, and some wrestlers are given terrible finishers (i.e. Big Show’s Knockout Punch) that stretch things too far.

This is where Japanese promotions succeed. If you were to watch any Japanese wrestling match, especially from the 1990s, you’ll see how maneuvers are done in a way that makes the moves look devastating. No camera tricks, no pulled moves; everything you see in the ring demonstrates exactly why you shouldn’t attempt wrestling in your own home.

If you look back at some of the most dangerous or exciting moves in wrestling history, from the most impressive aerial maneuvers, to the most painful-looking submission holds, to the most devastating ‘head drop’ moves in history the majority were first created by Japanese wrestlers. 

These moves helped make each match more dramatic, and added an additional ‘wow’ factor to what was being shown in the ring.

As a result, you have wrestlers who become known around the world, sometimes unintentionally, for their incredible skill, creative maneuvers, and unmatched toughness. It’s no wonder that so many North American wrestlers emulate their Japanese brethren…