Manabu Nakanishi was present to cut the ribbon at the new NJPW shop in Suidobashi, just one minute from the JR Suidobashi station!

Fans flocked from all over Japan and even from overseas just to be present at the grand re-opening of the Tokon Shop in Suidobashi on Sunday November 10.

With so many customers expected, New Japan drafted Manabu Nakanishi to step in as store manager for the day. The former IWGP Heavyweight champion cut the commemorative ribbon with a smile and broke open the “kusudama” ball welcoming in the eager crowd.

With so many people waiting outside, an orderly line was formed and people started entering the much larger shop in good time. Nakanishi was sporting a personalised apron with “Monster Morning” on the front.

Standing behind the register, he welcomed fans and handed out free gifts of bottled water to those making purchases.

Nakanishi stayed for more than two hours shaking hands with the fans and creating an exciting atmosphere for the grand re-opening.

“I want to thank all the fans who came from all over Japan and around the world. As a wrestler, I’ll do what I can to make everyone happy with my work in the ring. I’ll do my best in the World Tag League and get everyone excited through my matches!”

■ New Tokon Shop in Suidobashi

Address: VORT Suidobashi II 1F, Kanda Misaki-cho 3-3-20, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0061

Opening hours: 11 am – 8 pm