New Japan Pro-Wrestling has officially signed a decorated athlete from the world of international combat sports. During a press conference today, NJPW announced that Aaron Wolf, who won the gold medal in judo (100 kg) at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, has signed with the company.
The signing represents a significant acquisition for NJPW, bringing in an athlete with legitimate world-class credentials. In addition to his Olympic gold, Wolf also won the World Judo Championships in 2017. NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi confirmed that Wolf’s professional wrestling debut is already scheduled for the company’s biggest event of the year, Wrestle Kingdom, at the Tokyo Dome on January 4, 2026.
Speaking at the press conference, Wolf stated that he had just competed in his final judo tournament and was looking for a new challenge. He noted that as a college student, he was a fan of NJPW’s television program and saw wrestling as “a new way to express himself.”
Wolf confirmed he began training at the NJPW dojo this month. While he will not be living in the dorms with the other prospects, Tanahashi explained that he would be training alongside the Young Lions and attending NJPW events to learn before his official debut. Takaaki Kidani, CEO of NJPW’s parent company Bushiroad, said he was “very happy and appreciative” of Wolf’s decision.
Aaron Wolf has signed with NJPW!
Get the full report from his official press conference!https://t.co/dnx1qtyPkD#njpw @maronaaron0225 pic.twitter.com/EzExa7H0nL
— NJPW Global (@njpwglobal) June 23, 2025
