An AI recreation of Antonio Inoki appeared during NJPW’s G1 Climax 36 semifinal event on Saturday at Ryogoku Sumo Hall, but the unusual tribute has caused controversy and upset among some wrestling fans.

The late New Japan Pro Wrestling founder was digitally recreated on the venue’s video screen following an announcement concerning Wrestle Kingdom 21 in 2027 and Wrestle Kingdom 22 in 2028.

While the project is intended to preserve Inoki’s legacy for future generations, the decision to present an AI version of the legendary wrestler following his death has divided opinion. Some fans have expressed discomfort and upset over seeing Inoki recreated in this way, while others have viewed it as an attempt to keep his spirit and influence connected to NJPW.

A translation of the AI Inoki message 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.

New Japan Pro Wrestling will also be passed on to the new generation,

It’s already the 55th anniversary next year… It’s early.

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!”

The AI Antonio Inoki project

Inoki passed away on October 1, 2022, at the age of 79, leaving behind one of the most influential legacies in Japanese professional wrestling.

The appearance forms part of a wider project involving several companies, including the Inoki Genki Factory, which has been working on an AI recreation designed to reproduce aspects of Inoki’s voice, speech patterns and personality.

Inoki’s younger brother, Keisuke Inoki, serves as president of the Inoki Genki Factory. Those behind the project have previously explained that its mission is to “convey and inherit Antonio Inoki’s great thinking and existence to young people 100 years ahead.”

However, Saturday’s presentation has demonstrated how sensitive the use of AI recreations of deceased wrestling personalities can be. The appearance has prompted debate among fans over whether technology can provide a meaningful way of preserving a legend’s legacy or whether recreating someone after their death crosses an uncomfortable line.

What did you think of NJPW using an AI recreation of Antonio Inoki? Was it a fitting tribute to his legacy, or did it go too far? Let us know your thoughts in the new WNS comments section.

なんと8.15両国大会のビジョンに「AIアントニオ猪木」が登場！
引退を迎えた天山選手にメッセージ！最後は新日本“55周年”に向けて「1、2、3ダーッ!!」締め!!https://t.co/pXTiND5AHl#AIアントニオ猪木 #天山引退 pic.twitter.com/PcNMvOLwcW

, 新日本プロレスリング株式会社 (@njpw1972) August 15, 2026