WWE is set to electrify Japanese wrestling fans this October with the highly anticipated WWE SuperShow Japan at Tokyo’s iconic Ryōgoku Kokugikan on October 17 and 18. The company announced a star-studded lineup featuring top Raw superstars including World Heavyweight Champion Gunther, AJ Styles, Rhea Ripley, Finn Bálor, and members of The New Day. However, the biggest surprise came when WWE Japan officially confirmed that CM Punk will be returning as part of the tour, signaling a major moment for WWE’s international push this year[6][1][3].
The Significance of WWE’s Return to Japan
After a hiatus in 2020-2023 and limited events in 2024, WWE’s return to Japan marks a renewed commitment to one of the world’s most passionate wrestling markets. The two-night event at Ryōgoku Kokugikan, often called the Sumo Hall, is a prestigious venue that has hosted legendary wrestling moments both in Japan and internationally.
According to a WWE insider, “WWE’s decision to bring back a big name like CM Punk to the Japan events is part of a larger strategy to reconnect deeply with Japanese fans. This tour isn’t just about a couple of shows; it’s about reestablishing WWE’s presence and growing the brand in a key international market.”
The announcement comes just a week after WWE’s Crown Jewel event in Perth, Australia, underscoring WWE’s ambitious global touring plans for late 2025[4].
CM Punk’s Return: What It Means for the SuperShow Japan
CM Punk’s presence on the Japan tour is a significant draw. Since making his return to WWE earlier this year, Punk has been involved in high-profile storylines and remains one of the most talked-about figures in pro wrestling.
Sources close to WWE revealed, “Having CM Punk on the SuperShow Japan roster elevates the entire event’s prestige. Japanese fans respect his work ethic and his status as a global wrestling icon resonates strongly here.” Punk’s combination of mainstream recognition and in-ring credibility makes him an ideal talent to headline these shows alongside other top names.
Considering that WWE’s Raw and SmackDown broadcasts are accessible in Japan through platforms like ABEMA—with Japanese commentary airing during prime time—fans will have ample opportunity to build anticipation before seeing stars like Punk live[3].
Full Star-Studded Lineup for the SuperShow Japan
The announced roster reflects WWE’s strong Raw brand representation, likely because of scheduling overlaps with SmackDown events in the U.S. at the same time. Notable confirmed superstars include:
- Gunther (World Heavyweight Champion)
- AJ Styles
- IYO SKY
- Rhea Ripley
- Jey Uso
- Finn Bálor & JD McDonagh (World Tag Team Champions)
- The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods)
- Sami Zayn
This mix offers a blend of dominant champions, fan-favorite veterans, rising stars, and international talent—ensuring diverse matchups for Japanese fans[1][3].
Tickets and Fan Experiences
Tickets for WWE SuperShow Japan went on sale August 30, 2025, and sold quickly due to high demand from Japan’s wrestling aficionados. Alongside standard tickets, WWE released special Meet & Greet packages, allowing fans to connect with their favorite WWE superstars in an intimate setting at the historic venue.
As per one Japanese fan who secured the meet-and-greet package, “WWE’s return to Japan with such a star power lineup is a dream come true. Meeting CM Punk and other big names is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
WWE’s Broader Global Expansion and Japanese Market Focus
WWE’s 2025 international strategy emphasizes global expansion beyond their traditional U.S. base, with successful recent events in Mexico City and Monterrey, as well as the upcoming Australia Crown Jewel. Their return to Japan fits into this broader context, targeting markets with deeply ingrained wrestling cultures.
A WWE official commented, “Japan remains a wrestling hotbed worldwide, and delivering live experiences here helps us connect more meaningfully with our global audience. Having CM Punk and other stars in Tokyo underscores WWE’s commitment to elevating international fans’ experiences.”
How WWE Programming is Accessible in Japan
To further support Japanese fans, WWE’s weekly shows Raw and SmackDown are broadcast free-to-air on ABEMA platforms with Japanese commentary shortly after U.S. airings. NXT is also available on demand, while all WWE Premium Live Events, including SuperShow Japan, stream live exclusively on ABEMA. This easy access to WWE content boosts storyline familiarity and engagement ahead of live shows[3].
WWE SuperShow Japan 2025 promises to be a landmark event combining historic venue prestige, a diverse lineup of top-tier superstars, and the major addition of CM Punk’s highly anticipated participation. Wrestling fans in Japan and worldwide eagerly await October to witness this thrilling chapter in WWE’s international expansion.