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Puroresu (プロレス) is a Japanese term used for professional wrestling in and outside of Japan. The term comes from the Japanese pronunciation of "professional wrestling" (プロフェッショナル・レスリング, purofesshonaru resuringu), which in Japanese is abbreviated to “puro” (プロ- “pro”) & “resu” (レス - an abbreviation of “wrestling”). The term became popular among English-speaking fans due to Hisaharu Tanabe's activities in the online Usenet community.[1][2] Growing out of origins in the traditional US style of wrestling, it has become an entity in itself. Japanese pro wrestling is distinct in its psychology and presentation of the sport and how it functions based on Japanese culture.[2] It is treated closer to a legitimate competition, with fewer theatrics; the stories told in Japanese matches are about a fighter's spirit and perseverance.[2] Pro wrestling in Japan led to the development of shoot wrestling and has been closely related to mixed martial arts (MMA) starting with Shooto and Pancrase, organizations which predate the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), along with influencing subsequent promotions such as RINGS and PRIDE. It is common for pro wrestlers and mixed martial artists in Japan to cross over.
- ^ Tanabe, Hisaharu (1992-11-12). "Chono vs. Takada (one of the earliest reference to "puroresu" by Hisaharu Tanabe)". Google Groups. Retrieved 2009-07-15.
- ^ a b c "Puroresu Dojo Introduction". Puroresu.com. 1995. Retrieved 2009-07-08.