Japanese wrestling, or Puroresu, is renowned for its diversity, artistry, and innovation. It encompasses a variety of distinct styles, each reflecting different philosophies, storytelling approaches, and in-ring execution.

From the hard-hitting realism of strong style to the aerial acrobatics of lucha-inspired wrestling, Puroresu has captured the imagination of fans worldwide. Here is an in-depth look at the main styles that define Japanese wrestling.

Strong Style (ストロングスタイル)

Strong style is one of the most iconic and widely recognized forms of Japanese wrestling. Emphasizing realism, this style features hard-hitting strikes, stiff kicks, and submission holds, designed to make matches resemble legitimate combat.

Wrestlers who employ strong style aim to blur the line between professional wrestling and martial arts, creating an intense and visceral experience for fans.

The origins of strong style can be traced back to Antonio Inoki, one of the most influential figures in Puroresu history and the founder of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). It later formed the basis of “Inoki-Ism”, which almost bankrupted NJPW in the 2000s.

Inoki’s vision was to present wrestling as a legitimate sport, often challenging martial artists to cross-disciplinary matches. Today, NJPW continues to be the home of strong style, with stars like Kazuchika Okada, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Tomohiro Ishii carrying the torch for this hard-hitting tradition.

King’s Road (王道, Ōdō)

While strong style focuses on realism, King’s Road emphasizes emotional storytelling and escalating drama. Matches in this style are structured to build tension gradually, with each moment increasing in significance until a climactic finish. High-impact moves are layered with meaning, and wrestlers push their limits to convey the physical and emotional stakes of the contest.

This style was popularized by All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) under the leadership of Giant Baba. In the 1990s, wrestlers like Mitsuharu Misawa, Kenta Kobashi, and Toshiaki Kawada elevated King’s Road to legendary status. Their matches often featured intense rivalries, breathtaking sequences, and a focus on the relentless pursuit of victory, making King’s Road a cornerstone of Puroresu history.

Lucha-Influenced Puroresu

Drawing inspiration from Mexican lucha libre, this style is characterized by high-flying maneuvers, agility, and aerial-based offense. It is particularly prominent in the junior heavyweight divisions, where wrestlers dazzle audiences with their speed, creativity, and athleticism. While retaining the excitement of lucha libre, this style incorporates Japanese storytelling and psychology, creating a unique hybrid.

Jushin Thunder Liger, one of the most celebrated junior heavyweights, epitomized this style with his innovative moves and charismatic presence. Today, wrestlers like El Desperado and Hiromu Takahashi continue to showcase the thrilling potential of lucha-inspired Puroresu, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Shoot Style

Shoot style takes inspiration from mixed martial arts (MMA), blending strikes, grappling, and submission techniques to create a realistic and intense atmosphere. Matches are often slower-paced but are infused with an aura of legitimacy that appeals to fans seeking a more grounded approach to wrestling.

This style emerged in the 1980s with promotions like the Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF) and later UWFi. Pioneers such as Kazushi Sakuraba, Minoru Suzuki, and Akira Maeda helped establish shoot style as a compelling alternative to traditional wrestling. Their matches often blurred the lines between scripted entertainment and genuine combat, leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of Puroresu.

Deathmatch Style

For fans of extreme wrestling, deathmatch style delivers unparalleled levels of violence and spectacle. Known for its use of weapons, blood, and high-stakes stipulations, this style prioritizes shock value and dramatic storytelling. Matches often feature barbed wire, glass, and even explosions, creating a visceral and unforgettable experience.

Deathmatch wrestling was popularized by Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling (FMW) under Atsushi Onita, whose charisma and willingness to endure brutal punishment made him a cult hero. Modern practitioners like Jun Kasai and Takashi Sasaki continue to push the boundaries of this style, cementing its place in the Puroresu landscape.

Joshi Puroresu (女子プロレス)

Joshi Puroresu, or women’s wrestling in Japan, is a vibrant and essential part of the wrestling scene. Known for its athleticism, intense rivalries, and fast-paced matches, this style showcases the incredible skill and dedication of female wrestlers. Joshi promotions like All Japan Women’s Pro-Wrestling (AJW), Stardom, and Ice Ribbon have produced some of the most iconic matches and performers in wrestling history.

Legends like Manami Toyota and Aja Kong paved the way for today’s stars, including Mayu Iwatani and Giulia. With a mix of strong style, lucha influences, and high work rates, Joshi Puroresu continues to captivate audiences both in Japan and around the world.

Technical Mastery

A style centered on precision and technical skill, this approach highlights reversals, counters, and seamless transitions between moves. Wrestlers who excel in this style often prioritize finesse over brute strength, creating intricate sequences that demonstrate their mastery of the craft.

Yoshinari Ogawa is a key figure in this style, inspiring a generation of technical wrestlers. Modern stars like Zack Sabre Jr. have taken this tradition to new heights, delivering matches that are both cerebral and captivating.

Hybrid Style

Hybrid wrestling combines elements from various styles, offering versatility and innovation.

This approach allows wrestlers to adapt to different opponents and scenarios, making their matches unpredictable and dynamic. Hybrid wrestlers often blend strong style with aerial maneuvers or technical expertise, resulting in a well-rounded and thrilling performance.

Stars like Kenny Omega, Kota Ibushi, and KENTA exemplify this approach, pushing the boundaries of what Puroresu can achieve. Their matches often defy convention, leaving fans in awe of their creativity and athleticism.

Comedy Style

While many Puroresu styles emphasize drama and realism, comedy wrestling offers a lighthearted alternative.

These matches prioritize humor and entertainment, often featuring exaggerated characters and absurd scenarios. Promotions like DDT Pro Wrestling have embraced this style, showcasing the versatility and fun of wrestling.

Toru Yano, Danshoku Dino, and Kota Ibushi (in his comedic matches) are masters of this style, bringing laughter and levity to the ring. Comedy wrestling demonstrates that Puroresu can be as entertaining as it is intense.

Hardcore Wrestling

Hardcore wrestling shares similarities with deathmatch style but focuses more on gritty brawls and improvisation. Weapons and unconventional tactics are often employed, creating chaotic and unpredictable matches. This style appeals to fans who enjoy the raw, unfiltered side of wrestling.

Tomoaki Honma’s early career and Takashi Iizuka’s wild antics are prime examples of hardcore wrestling in Puroresu. It remains a staple for fans seeking visceral and unapologetically brutal action.

Conclusion

The diverse styles of Japanese wrestling reflect the rich tapestry of Puroresu, offering something for every type of fan.

Whether it’s the realism of strong style, the drama of King’s Road, or the spectacle of deathmatches, each style contributes to the unique identity of Japanese wrestling.

By blending tradition with innovation, Puroresu continues to thrive as a global phenomenon, inspiring generations of wrestlers and fans alike.