The tournament to crown the first champion was held over four nights, from August 2 to August 5, 1996, the same dates that New Japan Pro-Wrestling's annual G1 Climax event took place, promoting two major tournaments on one tour. Jushin Thunder Liger is credited with coming up with the idea for the J-Crown.
The competition to establish the inaugural champion was conducted over four nights, from August 2 to August 5, 1996, coinciding with New Japan Pro-Wrestling's annual G1 Climax tournament, which promoted two major tournaments on a single tour. Jushin Thunder Liger is credited with conceiving the idea for the J-Crown.