Shaheen becomes first Arab wrestler to compete for New Japan Pro Wrestling

On Saturday, October 7, 2023, some unique pro wrestling history was made. At the New Japan Dojo in Carson, California, as part of the NJPW Academy Summer Showcase, Shaheen made his debut for New Japan Pro Wrestling, taking on LA Dojo coach Fred Rosser in singles action. While he would come out on the losing end in his debut, in doing so, Shaheen became the first Arab pro wrestler to compete for New Japan Pro Wrestling, a fact that has been confirmed by New Japan themselves.

Shaheen got his start in professional wrestling in his hometown of Dubai and was a monumental piece in building the professional wrestling scene in the United Arab Emirates that exists today. He played a major role in Dubai Pro Wrestling, WrestlingME and WrestleFest DXB, even becoming the first Dubai World Wrestling Champion during his time appearing at WrestleFest.

Image courtesy of Shaheen’s Instagram page

Shaheen relocated to Los Angeles back in August and enrolled in the NJPW Dojo. While this was the first we’ve seen of Shaheen in New Japan, it likely will not be the last. And who knows, this could potentially mark the first of many future Arab wrestlers to step in the NJPW ring and beyond on an international level.