In an engrossing episode, wrestler Debbie Malenko takes us through her extraordinary wrestling journey. From her debut at the Malenko Wrestling School to exploring the world of Japanese women's wrestling, Debbie shares her challenges, lessons, and triumphs. Discover how a young American wrestler navigates the intricate and demanding world of profes…

Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with Speaking of Strong Style! The pair talked about the recent batch of Best of the Super Juniors matches, focusing on how the standings could shake out to the end of the tournament. They talked about TJP and Hiromu Takahashi's recent run of good results and if it will result in a semifinal appearance for …

Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with Speaking of Strong Style! The pair discussed the recent Resurgence show, featuring an excellent match between Jon Moxley and Shota Umino, and how the match was done differently than most mentor-student battles. They also talked about the chaotic tag team situation, Jeff Cobb's terrific TV title match…

Jump into the riveting world of celebrities stepping into the pro wrestling thrilling arena in this illuminating episode of Write That Down! Hosted by Wrestling Historians, Justin Knipper and Mr. Fumi Saito, we dive deep into the transformative impact of celebrities' involvement in professional wrestling. From Bad Bunny to Mike Tyson, discover how …

Jeremy Finestone is back with Steven Conway for Speaking of Strong Style! This week, the pair talked about the two nights of Dontaku in Fukuoka, including Jon Moxley's title defense against Ren Narita, Jeff Cobb's win over Zack Sabre Jr., plus Nic Nemeth's wild ride versus Hiroshi Tanahashi and David Finlay. They also discussed the All Together sho…

We give you a rare inside-look at the world of wrestling from the eyes of a seasoned journalist who has been tracking and shaping the industry for over four decades. We delve into insightful discussions about the influence of Japanese wrestling, debunking numerous baseless rumors floating on social media and readjusting unfair narratives from the l…

This week, Steven talked about the recent shows in Kagoshima and Hiroshima and how Yuya Uemura's win could change what we see from the KOPW title. He also previewed Dontaku, featuring title matches such as Jon Moxley versus Ren Narita, Jeff Cobb versus Zack Sabre Jr., Shingo Takagi facing Gabe Kidd, and Nic Nemeth defending against Hiroshi Tanahash…

Welcome to this intriguing episode of "Write That Down" with Fumi Saito, where we delve deep into the profound influence of Lucha Libre on Japanese Pro Wrestling. From the 1930s till now, this episode provides an in-depth look at the fascinating history, traditions, and techniques adopted from Mexican wrestling. Hear captivating stories about pione…

Dive into a fascinating exploration of the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) Championship’s rich history and significance in Japan in this riveting podcast episode. Revisit an epic timeline that stretches from the late 1950s to the early 2000s, featuring legendary wrestling icons like Lou Thesz, Ric Flair, Dory Funk Jr., Harley Race, and Jack Brisc…

Scott Edwards joins Steven this week to discuss Jon Moxley's IWGP title defense, TJP's big night uniting the Empire and a look ahead to two title matches in Hiroshima and two more at Satsuma no Kuni. They also discussed Jake Lee's surprise attack on Tetsuya Naito, plus looked at the state of STARDOM going into its big show, All-Star Grand Queendom,…

Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with Speaking of Strong Style! This week, the pair looked at the Wrestling World show from Taiwan, and how Oleg Boltin exceeded any expectations for a Young Lion by winning a belt before his theoretical "graduation." They also looked at how Hiroshi Tanahashi and Satoshi Kojima were welcomed by the crowd and…

This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of Rossy Ogawa's newly announced wrestling company called MARIGOLD. Gain first-hand information about the company, its wrestlers, and upcoming events, while also exploring various speculations and rumors in this fascinating discourse on the current state of the wrestling industry. Discover the nuances of…

Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with a special edition of Speaking of Strong Style covering Windy City Riot! The guys were joined by Josh from the We Work Stiff podcast just after end of the big event from Chicago. Josh gave his thoughtful perspective on New Japan's storylines and how they shape the upcoming year in NJPW. The trio discu…

Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway are celebrating their 100th episode! This week, the pair were joined by Justin Knipper, an expert on the Japanese wrestling scene and the co-host of "Write This Down" with Fumi Saito. Justin has also been on the NOAH English commentary team, so he was the perfect guest to bring on to discuss two NOAH wrestlers par…

Revisit the fascinating career of pro wrestling legend, Haku, in today's scintillating discussion. Tracing his origins from the tranquil island of Tonga to his presence in the sports entertainment industry, delve deep into Haku's incredible evolution as a fighter and a wrestler.This episode shines a spotlight on his early wrestling days in the Worl…

This week, Steven and Jeremy previewed the Sakura Genesis card, headlined by the IWGP World Heavyweight title match between Tetsuya Naito and Yota Tsuji. They looked at possibilities for the rest of the matches, including SHO versus YOH for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight title, a three-way match for the junior heavyweight tag team titles, Bishamon cha…

This week, Jeremy and Steven were joined by "Filthy" Tom Lawlor who discussed his time with New Japan Pro Wrestling as the first NJPW Strong Champion, his time as an entrant in the G1, favorite memories working with STARDOM talent, and goals for his career moving forward. After, Steven and Jeremy discussed All Together, the cooperative between NJPW…

In this illuminating episode, we embark on a deep dive into the sensational journey of Bull Nakano, the first female Japanese wrestler inducted into the prestigious WWE Hall of Fame. Well known for marking an undeniable imprint on women's wrestling globally, we explore Nakano's rise to stardom and her substantial contribution in shifting perception…

This week, Steven and Jeremy talked about the finale of the New Japan Cup, and how the story of Yota Tsuji and Hirooki Goto gave the company a strong finish to a weak tournament. They also looked at how far Goto was going to go, and whether David Finlay's illness changed the company's plans for the tournament. They also discussed some upcoming matc…

Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with Speaking of Strong Style! The pair discussed the past week's New Japan Cup action, with EVIL, Ren Narita, Jack Perry and the rest of House of Torture making a big impact on the bracket. They also talked about who is more likely to win among contenders such as David Finlay, Shingo Takagi, SANADA and Zac…

This week Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper offer up a thorough review of the film, 'Iron Claw - The Von Erich Family Story.' They highlight the movie's retelling of tragic tales plus the vital historical moments that may have been left out of the film, and the challenges of recreating events from wrestling history. Discover how the film captures signifi…

Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are joined by Chris Samsa for the latest edition of Speaking of Strong Style! The trio looked at the first two nights of action from the New Japan Cup, one of which was the 52nd Anniversary show. They discussed Tetsuya Naito's drawing power after a strong crowd showed up for the heavyweight champion's match agains…

The New Japan Cup is approaching, and Jeremy and Steven discussed their thoughts on the bracket and who might advance to the final. Jeremy had some interesting thoughts on TJP versus David Finlay, while Steven just hoped for Tomohiro Ishii versus Hirooki Goto in the second round. They also talked about the Shota Umino-Jack Perry first round matchup…

Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with Speaking of Strong Style! The pair review the two New Beginning in Sapporo shows from New Japan Pro Wrestling, featuring a mixed bag of matches. STARDOM stole the show on the first night with a title defense by Mayu Iwatani. A pair of former WWE wrestlers, Nic Nemeth and Matt Riddle, made their debut…

This week, Steven and Jeremy looked to two major shows in the next couple of days, as New Beginning in Sapporo approaches. These shows could point toward a new course for the company, and they previewed the shows match-by-match. That preview included a slew of title matches featuring Tetsuya Naito, SANADA, Nic Nemeth and David Finaly in main events…

Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper took an in-depth look into the life and career of Rossy Ogawa, a prominent figure in the world of Japanese professional wrestling, and his journey in Stardom. Delving into Rossy Ogawa's rich history from the '70s to today, they celebrated his prolific contribution to shaping budding talents into widely acclaimed wrestlin…

On the latest episode, Fumi & Justin casted light on the much talked-about and rather controversial match between Kota Ibushi and Naomichi Marufuji at Pro Wrestling NOAH last month. In their discussion, Fumi & Justin discussed the pushing boundaries of the wrestling narrative. They debunked criticisms and emphasized the emotional & human aspects of…

After the emotional and sometimes brutal New Beginning in Osaka, New Japan took a lighter-hearted turn this week with Fantasticamania, when the stars of CMLL come to Japan for a brief tour filled with their brand of exciting lucha libre. It's also a time for some New Japan stars to loosen up, with Taiji Ishimori, Hiromu Takahashi, El Desperado, Hir…

Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway are back with a special edition of the pod to break down the New Beginning in Osaka card! Topics covered include: Will Ospreay's farewell as a New Japan-contracted wrestler with a main event that set new standards for violence in today's NJPW, but was it a good match? How Ospreay and Francesco Akira and TJP worked…

Jeremy and Steven were joined by Scott Edwards, one of the top experts on the Japanese women's wrestling scene to discuss STARDOM's firing of Rossy Ogawa and how it may impact New Japan. They discussed the issues Ogawa had with Bushiroad (the same conglomerate that owns New Japan), and the dilemma STARDOM wrestlers face between staying with the cou…

Steven and Jeremy discussed some recent New Japan results and previewed the upcoming Korakuen Hall shows, featuring the United Empire squaring off with the War Dogs in a series of matches, plus a special gauntlet match with Tetsuya Naito's Los Ingoberable faction facing SANADA's Just 5 Guys. They also discussed why they don't think we'll be seeing …

Join our final and rather captivating discussion about Keiji Muto's phenomenal legacy in the world of professional wrestling. This episode dives into Muto's multifaceted career, dissecting the various aspects of his work, comparable to a saga like Star Wars or Lord of the Rings. We discuss Muto's significant gimmick match with Atsushi Onita, giving…

Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return to talk about New Japan's New Beginning tour, and how it has a more literal meaning than ever. The pair discussed a rough Nagoya show that didn't hit on any cylinders, followed by two Korakuen Hall shows that went much better. They talked about an excellent main event featuring Shota Umino and Ren Narita, t…

In this episode of 'Write That Down,' we trace the transformative journey of legendary wrestler Keiji Muto and his profound influence in shaping the landscape of professional wrestling. Joined by industry experts Justin Knipper and Fumi Saito, we explore significant events and eras of wrestling in Japan, moving from the 'Dark Age' in the new millen…

Part Two of our series on all-things Keiji Muto is here. On today’s episode, we picked up from part one and covered: New Japan, the NWA title & WCW 1991–1996: -The Fujinami vs. Flair NWA title changes in Japan & USA -The Great Muta vs. Masahiro Chono for the NWA title, Jan. 4 1993 -Muta vs. Antonio Inoki during Inoki’s retirement tour, Wrestling Do…

Jeremy and Steven are back with an emergency episode following the news of Kazuchika Okada's decision to leave New Japan Pro Wrestling. Topics covered include: Discussion of the factors at play, Japan's economic conditions and the state of American wrestling today. A look at why Okada should be a special case and not treated the way other Japanese …

This was recorded only an hour or two before the news of Kazuchika Okada leaving was posted on the New Japan site. We will have more reaction to that huge new soon. In this episode, Jeremy and Steven talk Battle in the Valley! Jeremy attended the show in person, and saw an outstanding night of wrestling. They discuss Okada v Will Ospreay, Eddie Kin…

This episode of Write That Down! is about all-things Keiji Muto. The 58-year-old legend captured Pro Wrestling NOAH’s GHC title at their Destination iPPV held in Tokyo Budokan in February '21. In part one, Fumi and Justin discussed: -Pro Wrestling NOAH: Destination 2021: Muto wins GHC -Muto's NJPW debut in ’84 vs Masahiro Chono -His first excursion…

Jeremy Finestone is joined by guest host Paul Fontaine of the Wrestling Observer and Fight Game Media to discuss the week that was in New Japan. Jeremy and Paul discussed the major news and notes out of Wrestle Kingdom and New Year Dash before previewing Battle in the Valley and the announced matches for New Beginnings. Full video episode here: htt…

Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are working on short sleep, but they're happy to break down the wonderful WrestleKingdom 18 card. New Japan delivered an emotional, exciting event, with each match bringing something different to the table, along with some surprises. They break down all aspects of the show, from SANADA facing Tetsuya Naito in the …

Chris Samsa joins Steven and Jeremy for part two of the WrestleKingdom Week preview! The trio looks at the year that was in New Japan, looking at key moments, big matches and important angles that made for an eventful year in NJ history. They also talk more about New Japan's new president, Hiroshi Tanahashi, and what we can expect from him in his n…

Scott Edwards from the "Five Star Joshi Show" and "Stardom Road" joins Steven and Jeremy for part one of a two-day preview of WrestleKingdom week. The trio discussed Hiroshi Tanahashi's appointment as the new president of New Japan, previewed STARDOM's Dream Queendom, NOAH's New Year show and of course, WrestleKingdom itself. They also talked about…

Today, the two took a closer look at the origins of All Japan Pro Wrestling's Triple Crown, which has a somewhat complex history compared with other Japanese pro wrestling titles throughout history. Listen to Fumi & Justin talk about the history of how the International, PWF & UN championships came to be, and later on how they became joined togethe…

Fumi & Justin return to complete their Championship Origin series, wrapping it with a talk on the origin of NOAH's GHC Heavyweight title. From the ashes of All Japan came the Ark and the GHC Heavyweight Championship, and Fumi & Justin went over what led to the GHC title coming to fruition and how it relates to the AJPW Triple Crown championship. (A…

Sean Waltman joined Fumi & Justin for the latest edition the show. Waltman talks about the upcoming autobiography he’s working on, plus his memories of UWA Japan, early ’90s Minnesota times with Fumi, the Monday Night Wars, his relationship with HHH, his time in WWE & WCW and tons more! (Airdate 2/9/23)…

From working in AJW Japan early on in her career to her legendary matches vs. Bull Nakano in the WWF to her current position as producer at NWA, Madusa joins Fumi Saito and Justin Knipper to talk a variety of topics ahead of Madusa’s upcoming book release this spring. (Airdate 2/2/23)By Justin Knipper

This is a special classic edition of Write That Down! With an original airdate of April 6, 2021, Fumi & Justin went over Stan Hansen’s storied career in this special archive edition of Write That Down! The two went over Hansen vs. Bruno Sammartino at Shea Stadium & MSG before diving into his early years as a pro wrestler in 1973, when Hansen debute…

This is a special classic edition of Write That Down! With an original airdate of April 6, 2021, Fumi & Justin went over Stan Hansen’s storied career in this special archive edition of Write That Down! The two went over Hansen vs. Bruno Sammartino at Shea Stadium & MSG before diving into his early years as a pro wrestler in 1973, when Hansen debute…

On this week’s episode, Fumi & Justin talked about pro wrestling and its relationship to print media both in Japan and in the English-speaking West over the years. (Airdate: 11/10/22) 今週のエピソードでは、フミとジャスティンが、長年にわたる日本と英語圏の欧米におけるプロレスと活字メディアとの関係について語りました。By Justin Knipper

Fumi and Justin began their profile series on “Mr. Puroresu” himself, Genichiro Tenryu. In Part One, they went over Tenryu starting sumo at 14, then transitioning to Giant Baba’s AJPW a decade later. They also detailed Tenryu’s early career in the US, teaming with Billy Robinson and Jumbo Tsuruta, Tenryu’s legendary rivalry with Riki Choshu and the…