For subscribers: Dave Meltzer’s obituary for Hisashi Shinma

Subscribers can get an early look at Dave Meltzer’s obituary for Hisashi Shinma who passed away at 90 years old.

Here’s an excerpt:

“Hisashi Shinma, one of the most influential figures in the history of pro wrestling, as a promoter, booker, business manager and political figure who had a long association with Antonio Inoki, passed away on 4/21 at the age of 90.

Shinma was a key figure from the start of New Japan Pro Wrestling in 1972.  New Japan was started by Inoki after he failed in a takeover attempt of the JWA, the top promotion in Japan.  He is historically credited with so many concepts that led to building New Japan into the largest grossing pro wrestling company in the world in the early 80s.  His reputation is that he put together many of the most iconic matches and concepts.

Other historians claim that he was perhaps the most overrated figure and most of what he was credited for were ideas of Inoki.  The idea is that with Inoki as an active wrestler and top star, he could not publicly be associated with the idea he was the key business decision-maker.”

Click here to read the full obituary.