US-based manga and light novel publisher Yen Press has this week confirmed that their anticipated release of New Japan Academy will be available via select digital platforms from 10 November 2020. For those unaware, this is a manga by artist HIROKU which takes place in an alternate universe, telling the tales of some of Japan’s biggest stars in Japanese pro-wrestling in a high school environment. A physical release is expected to follow at a later date.
To coincide with this announcement by Yen Press, New Japan Pro-Wrestling figure Tetsuya Naito, one of the protagonists of New Japan Academy, has provided the following statement for those looking to pick up the first volume:
“Hey, you! That’s right—I mean you, the one who’s reading New Japan Academy right now!
Not only did you pick up New Japan Academy, you read it too. And I get the feeling…
…that it was all Destino.
This series was put together based on comments I’ve made and interviews I’ve given in the past, which makes for a lot of moments that take even me back.
I especially like the part where I injure my right knee, get surgery, and start rehabbing it.
There’s also all the ways I felt about Tanahashi and Okada…
I look back on my emotions from that period fondly, but I can also remember just how difficult those days were for me.
That said, I’m not turning my back on my past.
I’m where I am today because of all the pain and suffering in those days.
I wouldn’t be who I am today if not for what happened during those times.
It’s this past that made the present me, and that’s what I want people to learn from New Japan Academy.
Once they do, I want them to look at who Tetsuya Naito is right now.
I know all of this isn’t easy to convey to those who speak a different language…but with this edition’s release, I’m sure English speakers will be able to understand.
And now that you’ve read this volume, I bet it’s even more exciting to watch me, and to watch Los Ingobernables de Japon wrestle, no?
What’s that?
You can’t wait to read what’s next?
You’re not getting all worked up, are you?
It’s times like this when you need to remember those words.
Yeah, that’s right…
Tranquilo. Assen na yo.
Adios.”
