The Japanese media are reporting that Fuji TV have cancelled their long standing contract with Dream Sage Entertainment.
In a recent press conference a Fuji TV representative stated that Pride committed an “improper event” and after consultation with their legal team they have decided to cancel the contract. No official line has been given on exactly what Pride did wrong but it is believed that it has something to do with the Yakuza Crime Syndicate connection allegation that has currently been rocking Dream Stage Entertainment.
This potentially has far reaching and devastating consequences for the organisation responsible for Pride Fighting Championships, Pride Bushido and the pro wrestling event, Hustle.
It is believed that the deal with Fuji TV nets Pride FC several hundred million Yen per year; money that was used to pay for some of the world’s most popular, successful and expensive fighters.
Worryingly without this kind of financial support, it is forecast that Pride FC may have to downsize dramatically.
But it is also best not get carried away either. It is rumoured that Pride, a massive TV ratings winner, already has another TV deal in the pipeline.
Pride’s president, Nobuyuki Sakakibara, will make an official announcement on this subject tomorrow.