(NOAH) Naomichi Marufuji's "This is also Noah" comment sparks huge reaction: Fans debate "Noah theory" surrounding Mitsuharu Misawa's legacy
Miruhon.net
On May 9th, a major online discussion about "What Noah is" took off.
It began with a post by Naomichi Marufuji directly addressing a question from a fan. The atmosphere shifted when a fan asked Marufuji, "Is this current direction, like that of Yoshitatsu and OZAWA, really okay?" and "I feel like Mitsuharu Misawa's Noah is going to disappear." The fan expressed confusion about the difference between the old Noah, which strongly inherited the hard-hit style and the legacy of the Four Heavenly Kings era, and the current style, which actively incorporates unit matches, entertainment orientated elements, and external collaborations.
In response, Marufuji replied quietly, but with words of great significance, "I think he would say, "This is also Noah." Furthermore, considering his long-standing position alongside Mitsuharu Misawa, he continued, "I think Misawa-san would be happy that we've kept the name Noah, and are building it together."
This statement spread rapidly. The number of views exceeded 100,000, and the comments section became a scene of fans exchanging "Noah discussions." However, what was interesting was that the atmosphere wasn't simply one of conflict. Of course, there are those who say, "I liked the old Noah better." It's natural that fans who have a strong image of the era when Misawa, Kobashi, Akiyama, and Rikio engaged in fierce battles would be surprised by the current changes. However, on the other hand, many fans deeply resonated with Marufuji's words.
One quote that was frequently cited was that of Mitsuharu Misawa: "Without change, there is no future."
While using this phrase, many opinions were expressed such as, "Actually, this current diversity is what makes Noah unique," and "Misawa was someone who wasn't bound by preconceived notions."
What was even more impressive was the shared sentiment among many fans that "this isn't Noah, but 'this is also Noah'." Instead of clinging to the old style as the only correct approach, there was a prevailing atmosphere that Noah's spirit lies in its flexibility—evolving while embracing the nuances of each era.
In recent years, Noah has continued to take on various challenges under the CyberFight system. Unit rivalries, collaborations with other promotions, the rise of a new generation, and an increased emphasis on entertainment. Some aspects may surprise long-time fans. However, it's also true that the number of new fans is increasing, and the energy at the venues is changing.
That's why this exchange was so symbolic.
This wasn't simply a old-school vs. new-school argument. Rather, it was a discussion born from a deep love for Noah. And because Naomichi Marufuji, who was at the center of it, didn't shy away from the debate and responded, it became a genuine dialogue rather than just a flame war.
Professional wrestling changes with the times. New Japan, All Japan, and DragonGate have all changed their style with each era. Noah is also part of that trend. However, even amidst these changes, the desire to "protect Noah" remains the same for both fans and wrestlers. Marufuji's words had the power to reaffirm this sentiment.
Noah was created by Mitsuharu Misawa. And Noah is being created by the current wrestlers. It is because they love both that the discussion is so passionate. There is no doubt that the "love for Noah" that continues to this day is at play.
Comments
Post a Comment
Spam will be deleted immediately