The successful “Bloodsport” brand of wrestling will make its debut in Japan later this year.
Josh Barnett revealed at a press conference this week that “Bloodsport Bushido” will take place at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo, Japan on June 22. He announced his plans for the card alongside Minoru Suzuki, who will compete on the show.
“Bloodsport” is a special series of wrestling cards that sees wrestlers compete under knockout or submission-only rules in a ring without ropes or turnbuckles. The change in rules and setting — along with the fact that MMA fighters like Barnett have competed on the shows — gives the event a stronger combat sports theme. GCW has been the promoter for the series, with it being referred to as “Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport” since the second event. It is not known currently whether GCW has an affiliation with the upcoming card.
“Bloodsport” has held nine events since 2018 and is expected to hold “Bloodsport X” as part of Wrestlemania weekend in April. The upcoming Japan show will mark the first time that the “Bloodsport” brand holds an event outside of the U.S.
Suzuki has appeared on three “Bloodsport” cards in the past, including the inaugural event in 2018.
Barnett competed in the main event of “Bloodsport 9” last year, losing to technical wrestler Timothy Thatcher.
