On May 8th, NJPW announced that Kazuchika Okada had donated 5 million yen to the Nippon Foundation’s COVID-19 relief fund. When converted to USD, the donation comes out to about $47 000. This money will support the doctors, nurses, and volunteers in the fight against Coronavirus.
“I’m always grateful for NJPW fans’ support,” said Okada in a statement. “It’s my hope that I can get back to hearing the cheers of sold-out crowds as soon as possible. It’s usually me receiving the support and power of the people, but now I feel it’s my turn to lend support to medical staff fighting this disease.”
The 5-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion is no stranger to charitable actions. In 2014, Okada established The Rainmaker Fund, a charity helping the fight against childhood cancer. He was inspired to start the fund after his cousin and uncle were diagnosed with cancer that year. Since then, he has donated 30 000 Yen (about $281.50 USD) to the charity every time he wins a match.
This news follows an announcement earlier in the week. One that the Best Of The Super Juniors tournament was being canceled due to the global pandemic. New Japan Pro Wrestling has also had to postpone the Wrestle Dynasty show at Madison Square Garden to 2021. In a statement regarding the BOSJ Tour cancellation, NJPW said they are open to holding empty arena events. However, the company has been clear about putting the health and safety of its wrestlers and staff first.
Kazuchika Okada Donated 5 Million Yen to COVID.
Okada finished his statement by saying ‘I hope fans continue to stay home and stay healthy so that we can return to the ring as soon as possible.’
We here at Pro Wrestling Post would like to send our gratitude to all of the doctors, nurses, and volunteers at this time. We also encourage people to donate whatever they can towards Coronavirus relief.
