WWE Japan website
Thanks to Sara for translating and sending through this article.
WWE executive, [Vince] McMahon's only son, and a wrestling superstar that knows no fear. A man with many faces, Shane McMahon made a impromptu visit to Japan, during which he sat down for a successful interview with WWE Mobile's website. Many things are asked, including questions from WWE Mobile members!
What was the reason behind you coming to Japan? How long are you staying?
Shane McMahon: (hereinafter: Shane) As you know, this year we opened an office in Japan after my visit last time. Japan is a very important market for us, so I need to know more. I'll get a deeper understanding of Japan through the office.
When was the last time you came to Japan? How many times is this now?
Shane: It's been a year and a half to two years. It's been a while, but I'll be fine. As for how many times I've been here, I lost count. I do remember that the first time I was here was in 1990. I stood in the ring as a referee at the Tokyo Dome.
Note: A WWE (at that time WWF), New Japan Pro Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling joint event was held on April 13, 1990 at the Tokyo Dome. (note from Sara: I had trouble translating this part, but from what I can gather, Hulk Hogan and Jimmy Snuka were on the card, as well as Japanese wrestler Kenta Kobayashi. As for what match Shane refereed, I'm not sure, but this was his first visit there.)
Such a thing won't be taking place this time when you stay, right?
Shane: No. This time, I'm here to experience the Japanese culture and enjoy the fall.
Did you eat some Japanese meals?
Shane: Yeah, I had real sushi for the first time. The puckerfish was interesting, too. That's the poison one, right? I'd be very timid with anyone other than professional cooks, but it tasted good. Japan and our family have had a connection all the way back to the 1970's, from the era of my grandfather. ...so I'm very glad to experience the culture of Japan.
How is the future of WWE expected to devolop as the news of the Japan office gets around to fans?
Shane: Of course, to ensure that more enjoy WWE is the objective, but now we have all kinds of various media to help. Our idea is to have more brand penatration in Japan through digital media, licensing and other terms of exposure.
Now here's where the questions from the WWE Mobile members come in!
To see the rest of the interview, visit WWE Mobile. (note from Sara: In order to see the rest of the interview, you had to have a Japanese cell phone and access to WWE Mobile)
Shane McMahon also signed a present for WWE Mobile at the time of the interview, which will be given away in July. Here also, you can see he's enjoying the environment.
Source: WWE Japan website