Lucha Libre Popularity in Japan

[cmlandrus]

Hi Everyone,

I posted in the Lucha Libre section, but haven't seen any responses, so I thought I'd try a more general approach.

I'm doing some research on the popularity of Lucha Libre in Japan because I'm working on the next Mil Mascaras film.

I'm wondering if it's still a popular entity. Also are there any sources, websites or magazines or forums specifically for Japanese Lucha Libre. And what are some famous Japanese Luchadors?

If you have any input, I'd love to hear it.

Thanks for your help!

C.M. Landrus
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[Hisaharu Tanabe]

Here are some of the Japanese lucha libre groups and the current stars:
Michinoku Pro-Wrestling (local group in northeastern Japan) - The Great Sasuke, Jinsei Shinzaki (aka "Hakushi" in WWF), Rui Hyugaji, Yoshitsune, etc.
Osaka Pro-Wrestling (local group in Osaka) - Billy Ken Kid, Tigers Mask, Kuuga, etc.
Okinawa Pro-Wrestling (local group in Okinawa) - Super Delfin, Shiisa, Kaijin Habu-Otoko, etc.
Dragon Gate (they also run cards in the US as "Dragon Gate USA") - CIMA, BxB Hulk, Masato Yoshino, YAMATO, etc.

Mexican wrestlers who were popular in Japan include:
Mil Mascaras, Dos Caras, Canek, El Solitario, Perro Aguayo, Negro Casas, Dr. Wagner Jr., etc.

Also, some Japanese wrestlers were popular in Mexico. They include El Gran Hamada, Ultimo Dragon (Yoshihiro Asai), and Satoru Sayama.

In addition, someone commented to your post via facebook:

As far as Japanese lucha goes jushin Liger, ultimo dragon, great sasuke, and tiger mask 1, 2 and 4 comes to mind. CMLL and New Japan are currently sharing talent. I would try the homepages of both companies for more lucha info. You might have trouble reading Japanese or Spanish though. Google helps.

[cmlandrus]

Thanks for the input. I'll check out those suggestions. (My Spanish is fine, and I'm learning Japanese, so I have plenty of translators.)

C.M. Landrus