Harry Smith Talks All Japan Run, Differences Between Japanese and American Wrestling Styles

Harry Smith — best known to many fans as Davey Boy Smith Junior — recently sat down with legendary wrestling journalist Bill Apter to reflect on his current run in All Japan Pro Wrestling and share his perspective on what separates the Japanese wrestling scene from its American counterpart.

Smith has been carving out a meaningful presence in AJPW, and in the interview he addressed the distinct philosophies and environments that define wrestling on each side of the Pacific. The conversation touched on what makes working in Japan a unique experience compared to performing for audiences in the United States.

Beyond breaking down those stylistic and cultural differences, Smith also expressed his desire to return to All Japan before the year is out, signaling that his relationship with the storied Japanese promotion is far from finished. AJPW has a rich history as one of the foundational companies in Japanese professional wrestling, and Smith’s continued involvement there places him squarely within that tradition — one his late father, the British Bulldog Davey Boy Smith, helped build during his own celebrated career.

For a second-generation talent who has worked across multiple continents throughout his career, Smith’s ongoing commitment to All Japan speaks to both his versatility and his passion for the craft in its many forms. Whether he secures that return appearance before year’s end remains to be seen, but it’s clear he values what AJPW offers him as a performer.