AI Antonio Inoki Appears at NJPW G1 Climax 36 Semifinals
An AI version of late New Japan Pro Wrestling founder Antonio Inoki appeared at NJPW’s G1 Climax 36 semifinals show on Saturday at Ryogoku Sumo Hall, utilizing venue video screens to address the crowd following announcements regarding Wrestle Kingdom events.
The Debut of AI Inoki at Ryogoku Sumo Hall
During the G1 Climax 36 semifinals on August 15, 2026, spectators at Ryogoku Sumo Hall witnessed a digital likeness of Antonio Inoki. According to official New Japan Pro Wrestling reports, the projection followed an announcement regarding Wrestle Kingdom 21 in 2027 and Wrestle Kingdom 22 in 2028. The digital avatar delivered a traditional rallying cry to the audience.
A translation of AI Inoki’s comments captured by NJPW read: “How are you! If you have energy, you can do anything. If you are energetic, you can come to the ‘G1’ in New Japan! I’m Antonio Inoki, the original A.I. President Tanahashi, please take care of the New Japan Pro Wrestling from now on.”
Project Background and Development Goals
Antonio Inoki passed away on October 1, 2022, at the age of 79. Several corporate entities—including the Inoki Genki Factory—began developing an artificial intelligence version of Inoki designed to replicate his specific speech patterns and personality traits. Keisuke Inoki, the younger brother of the late founder, serves as the president of the Inoki Genki Factory. Project stakeholders state that the primary mission of the initiative is to “convey and inherit Antonio Inoki’s great thinking and existence to young people 100 years ahead.”
The digital persona specifically highlighted the upcoming milestone for the organization, noting that next year marks the promotion’s 55th anniversary. The translated remarks concluded with a call to action for the roster and fans: “From now on, please do your best, Show me a great game! Then, for the 55th anniversary next year, I would like to close with the one in the example. Let’s get through the hot summer with all our voices! Let’s go! 1, 2, 3, dah!”
Organizations embarking on large-scale technological and commemorative projects frequently require specialized operational support.
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