New Japan Pro-Wrestling Steps Into the Ring with BAD IDEA

On Saturday, July 11, 2026, NJPW brings the opening night of G1 CLIMAX 36 to NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, marking the tournament’s return to the United States for the first time in six years. To commemorate this historic night, NJPW and BAD IDEA will release an exclusive edition of PLANET DEATH, the groundbreaking sci-fi epic from John Wickscreenwriter Derek Kolstad, New York Times best-selling writer Robert Venditti, and critically acclaimed artist Tomás Giorello. The special NJPW variant cover will be produced in a strictly limited run of 1,000 copies, available only at the venue on the day of the event.

This one-night-only collectible celebrates the shared spirit of NJPW and BAD IDEA — bold characters, high-stakes battles, passionate fandom, and unforgettable storytelling.

“We are extremely excited to collaborate with BAD IDEA, an innovative comic brand powered by world-class creators,” said Hiroshi Tanahashi, President of NJPW.

“This summer, the best wrestlers in the world will come to Chicago for G1 CLIMAX, the most grueling tournament in all of professional wrestling, to determine the Strongest of the Summer. Like American comics, G1 CLIMAX is driven by larger-than-life personalities, intense rivalries, and unforgettable moments. NJPW’s edgy, hard-hitting spirit is a strong match for BAD IDEA’s fearless creative identity, and we look forward to bringing these two fan communities together.”

“We are thrilled to bring PLANET DEATH to G1 CLIMAX 36 through this exclusive NJPW variant cover,” said Dinesh Shamdasani, Founder, CEO & Chief Creative Officer BAD IDEA.

“With more than one million copies sold, PLANET DEATH has become the largest-selling independent comic book in over 30 years. Both NJPW and comics are built on combat, character, rivalry, and spectacle, and this collaboration gives fans a unique way to experience that shared energy on one historic night.”

Event: G1 CLIMAX 36
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Venue: NOW Arena
Location: Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Doors Open: 5:30 PM CDT
Bell Time: 7:00 PM CDT
Tickets: On sale now (https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0400646AE39194F6)
Streaming: Live on NJPW World with English coverage (https://www.njpwworld.com/)
Special Item: PLANET DEATH #1 NJPW Edition
Print Run: 1,000 copies
Availability: Distributed at the venue on event day, while supplies last

Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets now, arrive early, and be part of history as G1 CLIMAX 36 begins in the United States with an unforgettable night of Strong Style action and an exclusive venue-only collectible.