"It was all Destino": Words of Thanks from Tetsuya Naito—the Hero of New Japan Academy.

Last month, we released New Japan Academy, a kickass alternative-universe manga that takes the biggest stars from New Japan Pro-Wrestling and places them in a tough and gritty high school. With the rise of New Japan Pro-Wrestling in the West, this release was greatly appreciated by wrestling fans all over the world. But it wasn't only the fans who appreciated this release—Tetsuya Naito, the leader of New Japan Pro-Wrestling's Los Ingobernables de Japon faction and the protagonist of New Japan Academy, was also happy to see this manga shared with English-speaking audiences!

Here is a statement from Tetsuya Naito to the fans who have supported the Yen Press release of New Japan Academy:

“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.” -Tetsuya Naito

On behalf of Tetsuya Naito, New Japan Academy creator HIROKU. and New Japan Pro-Wrestling, we'd like to extend a big Yen Press thanks to all of you who have supported New Japan Academy!

If you haven't checked out New Japan Academy yet, be sure to check out the first volume of this amazing manga that is currently available on digital platforms!