International Wrestling Enterprise was a Major pro wrestling promotion based in Tokyo, Japan.
The IWE promotion was founded on October 5, 1966 by Isao Yoshihara, and it ceased operations on September 30, 1981.
IWE was affiliated with the American Wrestling Association (AWA) and had connections with Canadian and European promotions. In 1972, IWE was the first Japanese promotion to host European wrestler André the Giant.
The promotion collaborated with All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), culminating in a significant interpromotional event at Budokan Hall in 1979. After IWE's closure in 1981, its wrestlers joined AJPW and NJPW, contributing to the development of the first "invasion" angle in wrestling history. IWE is also noted for popularizing Rusher Kimura and for holding Japan's first steel cage match. Isao Yoshihara later worked as a booker for NJPW until his death in 1985.
International Wrestling Enterprise: Info
- Promotion Type Major
- Continent
Asia - Country
Japan - Location Tokyo, Japan
- Date Established October 5, 1966
- Date Retired September 30, 1981
- Founder Isao Yoshihara
- Owners
- Real Name Isao Yoshihara ( October 5, 1966 - September 30, 1981)
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Promotion Names
- International Wrestling Enterprise - IWE ( October 5, 1966 - September 30, 1981)
- Logo History
- October 5, 1966 September 30, 1981
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