"Entertainment giant, Yuke's, today announced the purchase of Antonio Inoki's 27,800 shares, giving them controlling interest in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (51.5%). They are one of the most powerful media companies in Japan and are behind the Toukon DVD range and many famous New Japan video games, and their takeover of New Japan will have major ramifications. Antonio Inoki, who has forced many controversial decisions that many believe have held back New Japan in recent years, now has no power in the company, although may stick around as a presence, as New Japan announced his participation on the 12/6 "TOUKON FESTIVAL" today. The major restructuring in New Japan continues - new president, new matchmaker, new controlling company."

"Simon Inoki and President Taniguchi of Yukes held a press conference this afternoon at the Tokyo Dome Hotel to announce the sale. Taniguchi said this was in no way a hostile takeover, and in fact their purchase will end New Japan's financial crisis, which has happened due to sloppy management and become very serious in recent times. Taniguchi said Yukes has aimed for a long time (with their Toukon Retsuden series among other things, such as WWE titles) to enhance the pro wrestling industry through games, DVDs, and other products, and now it wants to lend its power to the Japanese industry leader, New Japan. Taniguchi said, "We are offering relief to the greatest professional wrestling organization in Japan, and will back New Japan in any way possible." Simon said that Yukes would have no influence on matchmaking, and that the company will still be run by he and Choshu, that TV Asahi would continue to support New Japan, and that the globalization attempt will continue."

Also, it should be noted that recently that Simon Inoki annouced that apparently they are done doing the annual January Dome show as well. Since they have had poor attendence on the event over the past few years..................it's probably a good idea.

Best move Inoki's made in years. With his touch gone they can finally start moving in the right direction.

Yeah, this is definately for the better. Doesn't Yukes make the WWE Smackdown games for Playstation?

Yep. Apparently they are the same Yukes company that makes the WWE games in the US.

Someone explain the "globalization attempt"

To eventually be like the WWE is. Worldwide as a wrestling company.

How are they planning this?

Well part of the plan is using TNA to get more influence in the United States. I think New Japan's eventual goal with them is to buy the company.