SEScoops

Category: NJPW

  • Cards Set for ‘Road To’ Tokyo Dome Events (12/14 and 12/15)

    Cards Set for ‘Road To’ Tokyo Dome Events (12/14 and 12/15)

    New Japan Pro Wrestling are heading into their biggest season of the year. January’s Tokyo Dome show is the top event in their calendar and Wrestle Kingdom 13 is set to be absolutely massive.

    There are just a few more events before the January 4th spectacular. These are the traditional Korakuen Hall ‘Road To’ Tokyo Dome that take place this weekend 14th/15th. New Japan has now released the official cards for these events and they are as follows:

    FRI. DECEMBER. 14. 2018

    • KUSHIDA, Tiger Mask, Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger and Tomoaki Honma vs Yuya Uemura, Ren Narita, Ayato Yoshida and Toa Henare
    • Shota Umino vs Shingo Takagi
    • Rocky Romero and Hirooki Goto vs Takashi Iizuka and Minoru Suzuki
    • SHO, YOH and Tomohiro Ishii vs El Desperado, Yoshinobu Kanemaru and Taichi
    • BUSHI, SANADA, EVIL and Tetsuya Naito vs Taiji Ishimori, Tanga Loa, Tama Tonga and Bad Luck Fale
    • Kazuchika Okada vs Gedo
    • Toru Yano, Togi Makabe, Will Ospreay and Hiroshi Tanahashi vs Chase Owens, Yujiro Takahashi, Kota Ibushi and Kenny Omega

    SAT. DECEMBER. 15. 2018

    • Ren Narita and Teruaki Kanemitsu vs Shota Umino and Ayato Yoshida
    • Toa Henare, Tiger Mask and Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger vs SHO, YOH and Rocky Romero
    • Hirooki Goto and Tomohiro Ishii vs Takashi Iizuka and Minoru Suzuki
    • SANADA and EVIL vs Chase Owens and Yujiro Takahashi
    • Shingo Takagi, BUSHI and Tetsuya Naito vs El Desperado, Yoshinobu Kanemaru and Taichi
    • KUSHIDA, Tomoaki Honma, Toru Yano, Togi Makabe and Kazuchika Okada vs Taiji Ishimori, Gedo, Tanga Loa, Tama Tonga and Bad Luck Fale
  • Wrestle Kingdom 13: Full Card For January 4th

    Wrestle Kingdom 13: Full Card For January 4th

    New Japan Pro Wrestling has revealed the entire card for their upcoming Wrestle Kingdom 13 showcase.

    Wrestle Kingdom 13 takes place at the legendary Tokyo Dome, Tokyo, Japan on January 4th 2019. Interestingly, the traditional New Japan Rumble and tag-team gauntlet that opens the show seem to have been replaced this year.

    Instead, there will be a gauntlet match where the winning team become the number one contenders for the NEVER six-man championships. The belts are currently held by the Guerrillas of Destiny (Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa) and Taiji Ishimori.

    The January show has developed into a stacked event, filled with major title challenges that could help shape New Japan Pro Wrestling as a company going forward.

    Wrestle Kingdom 13: Full Card

    IWGP Heavyweight Championship
    Kenny Omega (c) vs Hiroshi Tanahashi

    IWGP Intercontinental Championship
    Chris Jericho (c) vs Tetsuya Naito

    Kazuchika Okada vs Jay White

    IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship
    KUSHIDA (c) vs Taiji Ishimori

    IWGP United States Championship
    Cody (c) vs Juice Robinson

    RevPro British Heavyweight Championship
    Tomohiro Ishii (c) vs Zack Sabre Jr.

    IWGP Tag Team Championships
    Guerrillas of Destiny (c) vs The Young Bucks vs. EVIL and SANADA

    IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championships
    Yoshinobu Kanemaru and El Desperado (c) vs Roppongi 3K vs BUSHI and Shingo Takagi

    IWGP NEVER Openweight Championship
    Kota Ibushi (c) vs Will Ospreay

    WrestleKingdom 13 Pre-Show
    Gauntlet Match to become Number One Contender for the NEVER Six-Man Titles

    Which match are you looking forward to the most? What do you hope NJPW do post-Wrestle Kingdom?

  • Wrestle Kingdom 13: Updated Card For January 4th

    Wrestle Kingdom 13: Updated Card For January 4th

    New Japan held the last night of their World Tag League tour earlier today. As well as crowning SANADA and EVIL as the WTL Champions there were some huge bouts confirmed for January 4th. Tanahashi vs Omega was already confirmed as the main event following Tanahashi’s G1 Climax win and subsequent defence of the briefcase.

    The Young Bucks have now been confirmed for the show. Will Ospreay will be taking on Kota Ibushi and EVIL & SANADA will challenge for the IWGP Tag Team Championships.

    Here’s the confirmed card for the Tokyo Dome spectacular as it stands. There are of course a few more ‘Road To’ shows to establish some more matches before January:

    IWGP Heavyweight Championship
    Kenny Omega (c) vs Hiroshi Tanahashi

    IWGP Intercontinental Championship
    Chris Jericho (c) vs Tetsuya Naito

    IWGP United States Championship
    Cody (c) vs Juice Robinson

    Kazuchika Okada vs. Jay White

    Rev Pro British Heavyweight Championship
    Tomohiro Ishii (c) vs Zack Sabre Jr

    NEVER Openweight Championship
    Kota Ibushi (c) vs Will Ospreay

    IWGP Tag Team Championship
    Guerrillas of Destiny (c) vs The Young Bucks vs. EVIL and SANADA

    IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship
    KUSHIDA (c) vs. Taiji Ishimori

    IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship
    Yoshinobu Kanemaru and El Desperado (c) vs. Sho and Yoh vs. Bushi and Shingo Takagi)

  • Will Ospreay vs Kota Ibushi set for Wrestle Kingdom

    Will Ospreay vs Kota Ibushi set for Wrestle Kingdom

    New Japan now has an official match for the NEVER Openweight Championship at Wrestle Kingdom. Kota Ibushi defeated Hirooki Goto to become the NEVER Champion at today’s World Tag League finals. Will Ospreay also defeated Taichi to become the Number 1 contender to the NEVER Championship. So the dream match is on…Kota Ibushi vs Will Ospreay for the NEVER Title inside the Tokyo Dome on January 4th.

    This bout has been a long time coming. Ospreay was initially expected to win the belt against Taichi but had to forfeit the Championship match due to his ongoing rib injury. Hirooki Goto took his place in that bout and won the belt, he then goaded Ibushi into a match for the title that he then lost earlier today. Ospreay has been in a race against time to be ready for the Tokyo Dome match, having to rehab a difficult and frustrating injury. It does appear as though Ospreay is ready for January, even if he may not be 100%.

    This NEVER Openweight Title is Ibushi’s first championship reign since 2014. It is likely that Ospreay will go on to win the belt and establish a new era for the division, going beyond the ‘traditional’ Strong Style roots and bringing in some Junior division flavour. If Wrestle Kingdom wasn’t exciting enough already this might just tip the scale.

  • NJPW World Tag League Finals in Iwate (12/09) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Finals in Iwate (12/09) Results

    NJPW’s World Tag League tour has finally come to an end. The final tour before the big January 4th Wrestle Kingdom show featured some top teams in New Japan. The winner of the World Tag League will now receive a shot at the IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Champions on 01/04.

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Iwate (12/07):

    • Hiroyoshi Tenzan, Satoshi Kojima, Manabu Nakanishi & Yuji Nagata b. Ayato Yoshida, Shota Umino, Toa Henare & Togi Makabe – Kojima took the win after hitting the Lariat on Yoshida
    • Minoru Suzuki, Takashi Iizuka, Lance Archer and Davey Boy Smith Jr b. Beretta, Chuckie T, Jeff Cobb & Michael Elgin – Chuckie T got his team Disqualified 
    • Tomohiro Ishii, SHO and YOH b. El Desperado, Yoshinobu Kanemaru and Zack Sabre Jr – Ishii took the win after hitting the Vertical Brain Buster on Kanemaru
    • Tetsuya Naito, BUSHI and Shingo Takagi b. Chase Owens, Yujiro Takahashi and Hangman Page – Naito took the win after hitting Destino on Owens
    • Bad Luck Fale, Taiji Ishimori and Jay White b. KUSHIDA, Toru Yano and Kazuchika Okada – Fale took the win after hitting the Grenade on Yano
    • The Young Bucks, Kenny Omega and Marty Scurll b. Ryusuke Taguchi, David Finlay, Juice Robinson and Hiroshi Tanahashi – The Bucks won after hitting the Indytaker on Taguchi
    • NO.1 CONTENDER MATCH FOR NEVER OPENWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – Will Ospreay b. Taichi – Ospreay took the win after hitting the Storm Breaker
    • NEVER OPENWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH – Kota Ibushi b. Hirooki Goto – Ibushi took the win after hitting the Kamigoye 
    • WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 FINAL: SANADA and EVIL b. Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa – SANADA took the win after hitting the Rounding Body Press on Tonga
  • Final Card For Last New Japan Pro Wrestling World Tag League Show

    Final Card For Last New Japan Pro Wrestling World Tag League Show

    New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) has announced the match card for their final World Tag League 2018 event. The show goes down on December 9th, and the Tag League finals will be contested between IWGP Tag Team Champions Guerrillas of Destiny and the team of EVIL and SANADA.

    Also on the card, Will Ospreay will take on Taichi for the Numer One Contenderhsip for the NEVER Openweight Championship. The NEVER Openweight Championship will also be defended, as champion Hirooki Goto defends against Kota Ibushi. Check out the full card below:

    • Togi Makabe, Toa Henare, Ayato Yoshida, and Shota Umino vs. Hiroyoshi Tenzan, Satoshi Kojima, Manabu Nakanishi, and Yuji Nagata
    • Michael Elgin, Jeff Cobb, Beretta, and Chuckie T vs. Davey Boy Smith Jr., Lance Archer, Takashi Iizuka, and Minoru Suzuki
    • Tomohiro Ishii, SHO, and YOH vs. Zack Sabre Jr., Yoshinobu Kanemaru, and El Desperado
    • Chase Owens, Yujiro Takahashi, and Hangman Page vs. Tetsuya Naito, BUSHI, and Shingo Takagi
    • Kazuchika Okada, Toru Yano, and KUSHIDA vs. Jay White, Bad Luck Fale, and Taiji Ishimori
    • Hiroshi Tanahashi, David Finlay, Juice Robinson, and Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Kenny Omega, Matt Jackson, Nick Jackson, and Marty Scurll
    • NEVER Openweight Championship Number One Contender match: Will Ospreay vs. Taichi
    • NEVER Openweight Championship match: (C) Hirooki Goto vs. Kota Ibushi
    • World Tag League Finals: Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa vs. EVIL and SANADA

    What do you think of the final NJPW 2018 World Tag League show card?

  • NJPW World Tag League Akita (12/07) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Akita (12/07) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Results

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Akita (12/07):

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Manabu Nakanishi & Yuji Nagata b. Ayato Yoshida & Shota Umino – Nagata locked in the Nagata Lock II to defeat Umino
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: TenKoji (Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima) b. Suzuki-gun (Minoru Suzuki & Takashi Iizuka) – Tenzan took the win after hitting the Moonsault Press on Iizuka
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Suzuki-gun (Taichi & Zack Sabre Jr.) b. Toa Henare & Togi Makabe – Taichi took the win after hitting the Taichi-Style Last Ride on Henare
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: David Finlay & Juice Robinson b. Best Friends (Beretta & Chuckie T) – Finlay and Robinson took the win via Disqualification
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: BULLET CLUB (Hangman Page & Yujiro Takahashi) b. Jeff Cobb & Michael Elgin – Page took the win after hitting the Rite of Passage on Elgin
    • Jay White, Bad Luck Fale, Taiji Ishimori and Gedo b. Rocky Romero, KUSHIDA, Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi – White took the win after hitting the Blade Runner on Romero
  • NJPW World Tag League Yamagata (12/06) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Yamagata (12/06) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Results

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Yamagata (12/06):

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: CHAOS (Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano) b. Ayato Yoshida & Shota Umino – Ishii locked in a Boston Crab on Umino to take the win
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Jeff Cobb & Michael Elgin b. Manabu Nakanishi & Yuji Nagata – Cobb took the win after hitting a Standing Moonsault Press on Nakanishi
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Killer Elite Squad (Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer) b. BULLET CLUB (Hangman Page & Yujiro Takahashi) – Smith Jr and Archer took the win after hitting the Killer Bomb on Takahashi
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Suzuki-gun (Taichi & Zack Sabre Jr.) b. David Finlay & Juice Robinson – Taichi took the win using a Taichi-Style Gedo Clutch on Finlay
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: TenKoji (Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima) b. Toa Henare & Togi Makabe – Kojima took the win after hitting a Lariat on Henare
    • 6th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Los Ingobernables de Japon (EVIL & SANADA) b. Suzuki-gun (Minoru Suzuki & Takashi Iizuka) – SANADA used the Skull End on Iizuka to take the win
    • 7th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Best Friends (Beretta & Chuckie T) b. Guerrillas Of Destiny (Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa) – Beretta rolled up Loa with a School Boy for the win
    • Jay White, Bad Luck Fale, Taiji Ishimori and Gedo b. Rocky Romero, KUSHIDA, Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi – Ishimori took the win after hitting the Bloody Cross on KUSHIDA
  • Could Chris Jericho Appear at World Tag League or ‘Road To’ Wrestle Kingdom?

    Could Chris Jericho Appear at World Tag League or ‘Road To’ Wrestle Kingdom?

    New Japan’s World Tag League tour is beginning to wind down and there are only 2 more events. 12/7 in Akita and 12/9 in Iwate.

    One of the biggest matches taking place at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom will see IWGP Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho facing Tetsuya Naito. Jericho recently wrapped up a tour with his Metal band Fozzy, this finished on December 4th so would supposedly leave him free to appear for NJPW. Aside from the World Tag League events there will be 3 more shows on NJPW World before the big January 4th spectacular. The traditional 12/14 and 12/15 Korakuen Hall “Road to Tokyo Dome” shows will be part of the offering. It is also tradition that one of the shows features a tag team main event featuring the competitors in the Wrestle Kingdom main events. So whilst it is unlikely we could see a Kenny Omega/Chris Jericho vs Hiroshi Tanahashi/Tetsuya Naito match.

    The storyline heading into the Intercontinental Title match is that Jericho is ‘refusing’ to face Naito. In a recent interview with NJPW1972 Jericho stated that “Why does Naito get a re-match? Why? What does he do? He beat Zack Sabre Jr. You know, ZSJ is a great technical wrestler, but I can break him in two like a branch. I beat Naito. I beat EVIL. To me, you don’t just get to have a re-match just because you say so. When I lost the WWE title to John Cena, I didn’t just come back the next day and say, “I want a re-match”, it doesn’t work that way.”

  • NJPW World Tag League Hyogo (12/04) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Hyogo (12/04) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Results

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Hyogo (12/04):

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Guerrillas Of Destiny (Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa) b. Ayato Yoshida & Shota Umino – Loa hit the Super Powerbomb on Yoshida to take the win
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Manabu Nakanishi & Yuji Nagata b. BULLET CLUB (Hangman Page & Yujiro Takahashi) – Nagata hit the Back Drop Hold on Takahashi to take the win
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Suzuki-gun (Taichi & Zack Sabre Jr.) b. TenKoji (Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima) – ZSJ used the European Clutch on Tenzan for the win
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Killer Elite Squad (Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer) b. Toa Henare & Togi Makabe – Smith Jr and Archer took the win following the Killer Bomb on Henare
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Jeff Cobb & Michael Elgin b. Suzuki-gun (Minoru Suzuki & Takashi Iizuka) – Cobb took the win after hitting the Tour of The islands on Iizuka
    • 6th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Best Friends (Beretta & Chuckie T) b. CHAOS (Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano) – Chuckie T used a Backslide on Yano for the win
    • 7th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: David Finlay & Juice Robinson b. Los Ingobernables de Japon (EVIL & SANADA) – Robinson took the win after hitting the Pulp Friction on SANADA
    • Jay White, Bad Luck Fale, Taiji Ishimori and Gedo b. Rocky Romero, KUSHIDA, Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi – White took the win after hitting the Blade Runner on Romero
  • WWE Interested In KUSHIDA

    WWE Interested In KUSHIDA

    KUSHIDA to WWE? A report in this week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter indicates that just might happen.

    KUSHIDA, 35, is the current IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, and a stalwart of New Japan Pro Wrestling’s light heavyweight division.

    As their plan for global NXT territories escalates in 2019, it would certainly make sense that WWE would be interested in KUSHIDA for a potential NXT Japan.

    The Observer report confirms that the working idea inside WWE is to earmark KUSHIDA for NXT. It does not specify whether that means the current North American brand or a potential new territory in Japan.

    KUSHIDA is reportedly under contract to New Japan through January 2019, and the Observer report indicates that for that reason, word of WWE’s interest should not have leaked, for fear of contract tampering litigation.

    However a complicating factor there is that NJPW is based in Japan. They are not the financial juggernaut that WWE is. Perhaps for those reasons, WWE feels that litigation is unlikely. WWE appears to be approaching KUSHIDA differently than they would if he worked for MLW or Ring Of Honor.

    The report also states that KUSHIDA is just one of the top NJPW names that WWE has interest in, but does not specifically mention any of the other talent that WWE may be targeting. Tetsuya Naito did mention to Tokyo Sports earlier this year that WWE had sent him feelers, however.

    KUSHIDA’s Physical Condition

    Something else to consider from the WWE side is KUSHIDA’s physical condition. He is 35 years old and has worked a hard style for a number of years.

    As seen with Shinsuke Nakamura’s defection from NJPW, this may be a case of KUSHIDA knowing that his body will not be able to take the demands of strong style for much longer.

    WWE has to be aware of that fact, and it appears as though they believe that KUSHIDA’s name value is worth the investment, no matter how much he has left in the tank physically.

    KUSHIDA’s Accomplishments

    KUSHIDA is a former Ring Of Honor World Television Champion, a six-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, and a two-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion.

    In addition, he has won several tournaments in New Japan. He won the Best Of the Super Juniors tournament in 2015 and 2017, the Super J-Cup in 2016, and the Super Junior Tag Tournament in 2012.

    KUSHIDA’s MAtches With WWE Talent

    Among current WWE talent, KUSHIDA has wrestled both Finn Balor and Xavier Woods in the past. He faced Woods in the 2010 Super J Tag Tournament and faced Balor a number of times.

    His most notable matches against Balor came in 2011 when he twice unsuccessfully challenged The Demon for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight title.

    Would you like to see KUSHIDA in WWE? 

    https://youtu.be/KFs53CpmC5k

  • Kenny Omega Allegedly Getting HBO Documentary

    Kenny Omega Allegedly Getting HBO Documentary

    IWGP heavyweight champion Kenny Omega could possibly get an HBO documentary. Joseph Shabson, a Toronto musician, did an interview on the “Kreative Kontrol” podcast. He noted that he recently scored music for a documentary about a professional wrestler named Kenny Omega.

    Here’s what Shabson had to say about the project:

    “I just finished a documentary about a wrestler. That’s going to be coming out on HBO in the New Year, which is going to be really exciting.

    “It’s a wrestler named Kenny Omega. He’s a wrestler from Winnipeg, but went to Japan and formed this tag team called the Golden Lovers, which was sort of like the first ever queer storyline in wrestling. He’s a pretty incredible dude; I was really happy with scoring that.”

    HBO is no stranger to professional wrestling documentaries. They recently co-produced a very successful one about WWE Hall Of Famer Andre The Giant. WWE, JMH Films, and Ringer Films also produced the documentary. A potential documentary about Omega would certainly be an interesting one.

    To listen to Joseph Shabson’s comments about the potential Kenny Omega documentary on HBO, click this link here.

    Would you be interested in seeing an Omega HBO documentary?

    H/T WrestleZone for the transcriptions

  • Kenny Omega Responds To Critics Saying The Elite “Ruined NJPW”

    Kenny Omega Responds To Critics Saying The Elite “Ruined NJPW”

    The Elite is a polarizing group. While many fans love their antics, YouTube show, and matches, some NJPW fans feel their comedic antics take things too far and is not consistent with the style of NJPW they are used to.

    Some of these critics decided to bring a sign to a show recently which read “Harold Meij and the Elite Ruined NJPW”. A fan took a screenshot of the sign and sent it to members of the Elite. Kenny Omega then responded.

    Kenny Omega Defends The Elite Against Critics

    Omega continued to respond to people on Twitter after as well. He responded to this fan who questions Omega’s drawing power:

    “Didn’t I outdraw Tana vs Okada by over 2 times and set attendance records across the board spanning multiple years? Can we talk about that? Nah, didn’t think so”

    A fan of Omega’s then took to Twitter to voice their concern that Omega doesn’t let fans disagree with him. Omega had the following response:

    “Cool. I’ll agree next time that I’m destroying a company I sacrificed everything for and pray to the heavens that you like me”

    Omega is scheduled to face Hiroshi Tanahashi in the main event of Wrestle Kingdom on January 4th, 2019.

  • Tomohiro Ishii Announced for Rev Pro on WrestleMania Weekend

    Tomohiro Ishii Announced for Rev Pro on WrestleMania Weekend

    Revolution Pro (Rev Pro) has announced the first star for their upcoming WrestleMania weekend event. Undisputed British Heavyweight Champion Tomohiro Ishii will be appearing at the Hilton in New York on Friday April 5th.

    Ishii recently successfully defended his title against David Starr. The match took place at the Uprising 2018 event back in October. Tomohiro will also be defending his title against Zack Sabre Jr when New Japan presents Wrestle Kingdom from the Tokyo Dome on January 4th.

    Revolution Pro’s World of Pro Wrestling show is still available to watch on Friday nights in the UK. The UK based company will be using the FreesportsUK channel as the home for their new TV show going forward.

    You can check out the exclusive interview we conducted with Rev Pro owner Andy Quildan here. When we discussed the timing of the new show Andy confirmed that “WoS had no impact on our decision. In all honesty whilst I watch as much product as possible from WWE, ROH, NJPW, CMLL to all the indies here in the UK, aside from learning best (or at times worst) practice I try not to let what others are doing dictate the way I choose to run my business.”

  • NJPW World Tag League Kochi (12/03) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Kochi (12/03) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Results

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Kochi (12/03):

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Suzuki-gun (Minoru Suzuki & Takashi Iizuka) b. Ayato Yoshida & Shota Umino – Suzuki took the win after hitting the Gotch-style piledriver on Umino
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Guerrillas Of Destiny (Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa) b. Manabu Nakanishi & Yuji Nagata – Tonga took the win after hitting the Gun Stun on Nakanishi
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: BULLET CLUB (Hangman Page & Yujiro Takahashi) b. TenKoji (Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima) – Page took the win after hitting the Rite of Passage on Kojima
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Killer Elite Squad (Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer) b. David Finlay & Juice Robinson – Smith Jr and Archer took the win after hitting the Killer Bomb on Finlay
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Jeff Cobb & Michael Elgin b. Suzuki-gun (Taichi & Zack Sabre Jr.) – Cobb took the win after hitting the Tour of the Islands on Taichi
    • 6th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: CHAOS (Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano) b. Toa Henare & Togi Makabe – Ishii took the win after hitting the Vertical-Style Brainbuster on Henare
    • 7th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Los Ingobernables de Japon (EVIL & SANADA) b. Best Friends (Beretta & Chuckie T) – SANADA used the Skull End on Chuckie T for the win
    • Jay White, Bad Luck Fale, Taiji Ishimori and Gedo b. Rocky Romero, KUSHIDA, Kazuchika Okada ad Hiroshi Tanahashi – White took the win after hitting the Blade Runner on Romero
  • Chris Jericho Fends Off Attacker On Fozzy Tour Bus

    Chris Jericho Fends Off Attacker On Fozzy Tour Bus

    Chris Jericho is reported to have fended off an attacker on a Fozzy tour bus last night in Regina, Saskatchewan. From what has been reported, a fan wanted to get on the tour bus but was denied. The fan somehow ended up sneaking onto the bus and got into a fight with a member of the crew.

    “A guy described as all messed up tried to get on the bus and was pounding on the door,” wrote Dave Meltzer. “He walked away and somehow got on. He assaulted a member of the crew, who ended up hospitalized with a broken collarbone.”

    Jericho is believed to have speared the guy and gotten on top of him at one point. The guy ended up getting away from everyone, however, including police.

    Chris Jericho On Tour With Fozzy

    Jericho’s band Fozzy will open for Iron Maiden in 2019. Iron Maiden frontman, Bruce Dickenson, has been on his podcast multiple times. Speaking on Iron Maiden’s tour, Dickenson had the following to say recently:

    “We’ve got all kinds of crazy things going on, including a replica Spitfire plane dominating the stage during Aces High, tons of pyro, a giant Icarus, muskets, claymores and some truly marvelous flame-throwers which I have a hell of a lot of fun with, as you will see! And of course we have Eddie, as you’ve never seen him before, and absolutely loads of other surprises. I’ve had the time of my life playing with all these magnificent props on stage, it’s been fantastic, we can’t wait to bring this show to you!”

  • NJPW World Tag League Osaka (12/02) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Osaka (12/02) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Osaka (12/02):

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Killer Elite Squad (Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer) b. Ayato Yoshida & Shota Umino – Smith Jr and Archer took the win after hitting the Killer Bomb on Yoshida
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Los Ingobernables de Japon (EVIL & SANADA) b. Manabu Nakanishi & Yuji Nagata – SANADA took the win after hitting a Rounding Body Press on Nakanishi 
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: David Finlay & Juice Robinson b. BULLET CLUB (Hangman Page & Yujiro Takahashi – Robinson took the win after hitting the Pulp Friction on Page
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Toa Henare & Togi Makabe b. Suzuki-gun (Minoru Suzuki & Takashi Iizuka) – Makabe took the win after hitting the King Kong Knee Drop on Iizuka
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Jeff Cobb & Michael Elgin b. Best Friends (Beretta & Chuckie T) – Elgin and Cobb took the win via Disqualification
    • 6th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: CHAOS (Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano) b. TenKoji (Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima) – Yano rolled up Tenzan in a Schoolboy for the win
    • 7th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Guerrillas Of Destiny (Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa) b. Suzuki-gun (Taichi & Zack Sabre Jr.) – Loa took the win after hitting a Super Power Bomb on Taichi
    • Taiji Ishimori, Gedo, Bad Luck Fale and Jay White b. Rocky Romero, KUSHIDA, Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi – Ishimori took the win after hitting the Bloody Cross on Romero
  • Best Friends Showing Signs Of Dissension On World Tag League Tour

    Best Friends Showing Signs Of Dissension On World Tag League Tour

    A tag team which has been successful in Ring of Honor, New Japan Pro Wrestling and PWG might be falling apart on the World Tag League Tour. Chuckie T has gotten himself disqualified in multiple matches now and even took a swing at his partner and supposed best friend, Beretta.

    Most recently on the World Tag League Tour, Chuckie T got disqualified for hitting Michael Elgin with the chair. It looked as though he was going to again take a shot at Beretta when his partner came to stop him, only Chuckie just went in for the hug instead. Beretta has been acting suspicious of his partner during at least the last 3 round-robin matches.

    The team is 5-4 in the round robin thus far and by no means out of the running to make the finals. The dissension the team has been showing, however, seems to indicate they might not even be together much longer.

    https://twitter.com/SexyChuckieT/status/1068888173202165761

    Is Chuckie T Jay White’s Mole?

    Chuckie T’s actions in the World Tag League also bring up the possibility that he is the mole Jay White has been referring to. Earlier this fall, White said he still had a mole working for him from within Chaos. As the Best Friends Are technically a Chaos team, it’s possible Chuckie could turn out to be the mole Jay White was referring to.

  • NJPW World Tag League Korakuen Hall (11/30) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Korakuen Hall (11/30) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Korakuen Hall (11/30):

    Results

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Toa Henare & Togi Makabe b. Ayato Yoshida & Shota Umino – Henare took the win after hitting a Samoan Drop on Umino
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Best Friends (Beretta & Chuckie T) b. Manabu Nakanishi & Yuji Nagata – Chuckie T took the win following the Tornado Clutch on Nagata
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: David Finlay & Juice Robinson b. TenKoji (Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima) – Robinson took the win after hitting the Pulp Friction on Kojima
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Suzuki-gun (Minoru Suzuki & Takashi Iizuka) b. BULLET CLUB (Hangman Page & Yujiro Takahashi) – Suzuki took the win after hitting the Gotch-style piledriver on Takahashi
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Killer Elite Squad (Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer) b. Suzuki-gun (Taichi & Zack Sabre Jr.) – Archer and Smith Jr took the win after hitting the Killer Bomb on Taichi
    • 6th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: CHAOS (Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano) b. Jeff Cobb & Michael Elgin – Ishii took the win after hitting the Vertical Brain Buster on Elgin
    • 7th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Guerrillas Of Destiny (Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa) b. Los Ingobernables de Japon (EVIL & SANADA) – Loa took the win after hitting a Super Power Bomb on SANADA
    • BULLET CLUB (Bad Luck Fale, Gedo, Jay White & Taiji Ishimori) b.  CHAOS (Kazuchika Okada & Rocky Romero), Hiroshi Tanahashi & KUSHIDA – Ishimori took the win after hitting the Bloody Cross on Romero
  • Jim Ross Congratulates Kevin Kelly And Don Callis On AXS TV Deal

    Jim Ross Congratulates Kevin Kelly And Don Callis On AXS TV Deal

    As Jim Ross’s contract with AXS TV comes to a close at the end of the year, AXS TV has announced that they will begin airing same-week coverage of NJPW events in 2019.

    On this week’s Jim Ross Report, Ross congratulated Kevin Kelly and Don Callis on being named the new AXS TV broadcast team for NJPW, replacing himself and Josh Barnett.
    Ross had nothing but kind words for the duo.

    “Of course, congratulations to Kevin Kelly and Don Callis. They’ll do a good job, no doubt about it.”

    AXS’s press release does not make clear whether or not Kelly and Callis will record specialized audio for the events, as Ross and Barnett have. Ross indicated Kelly and Callis will be using their audio from the original NJPW World live broadcasts.

    Perhaps as a nod to criticism of not always being as knowledgeable of the NJPW product as fans might expect from a play-by-play announcer, Ross says that won’t be an issue with Kelly and Callis.

    “They’re both conscientious guys, smart guys, and they know the brand very, very well,” Ross said. “Product knowledge is the key to what you’re doing.”

    Ross began calling NJPW events for AXS in March 2016. His final show with the network should air on Friday, December 28.

    The full episode of The Jim Ross Report can be found below. When referencing this transcript, please credit SEScoops.com. This transcript has been edited and condensed for clarity.

  • NJPW World Tag League Korakuen Hall (11/29) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Korakuen Hall (11/29) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Korakuen Hall (11/29):

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Michael Elgin and Jeff Cobb b. Shota Umino and Ayato Yoshida – Cobb took the win after hitting the Tour of the Islands on Yoshida
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: David Finlay & Juice Robinson b. defeat Manabu Nakanishi & Yuji Nagata – Robinson took the win after hitting the Pulp Friction on Nakanishi 
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: TenKoji (Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima) b. Killer Elite Squad (Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer) – Tenzan took the win after hitting the Moonsault Press on Smith Jr
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Toa Henare & Togi Makabe b. Best Friends (Beretta & Chuckie T) – Henare and Makabe took the win via DQ
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa b. Hangman Page & Yujiro Takahashi – Tonga and Loa took the win after hitting the Magic Killer on Page
    • 6th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Taichi & Zack Sabre Jr b. Minoru Suzuki & Takashi Iizuka – ZSJ took the win using the European Clutch on Iizuka
    • 7th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: EVIL & SANADA b. Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano – SANADA used the O’Connor Bridge on Yano for the win
    • Bad Luck Fale, Jay White & Taiji Ishimori b. Hiroshi Tanahashi, Kazuchika Okada & KUSHIDA – Ishimori used the Bloody Cross on KUSHIDA for the win
  • NJPW World Tag League Ibaraki (11/28) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Ibaraki (11/28) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Ibaraki (11/28):

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: SANADA and EVIL b. Shota Umino and Ayato Yoshida – SANADA took the win after the Skull End on Umino
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Zack Sabre Jr and Taichi b. Manabu Nakanishi and Yuji Nagata – ZSJ beat Nakanishi using a Grapevine Stretch
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Beretta and Chuckie T b. Satoshi Kojima and Hiroyoshi Tenzan – Beretta took the win after hitting the Strong Zero on Kojima
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Minoru Suzuki and Takashi Iizuka b. David Finlay and Juice Robinson – Suzuki took the win after hitting the Gotch-style piledriver on Finlay
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Michael Elgin and Jeff Cobb b. Toa Henare and Togi Makabe – Elgin took the win after hitting the Elgin Bomb on Henare
    • 6th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Toru Yano and Tomohiro Ishii b. Yujiro Takahashi and Hangman Page – Yano took the win by rolling up Takahashi with a SchoolBoy
    • 7th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018 Tournament Match: Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa b. Davey Boy Smith Jr and Lance Archer – Tonga took the win after hitting the Gun Stun on Smith Jr
    • Shingo Takagi, BUSHI and Tetsuya Naito b. SHO, YOH and Kazuchika Okada – Naito took the win after hitting the Destino on SHO
  • NJPW World Tag League Ishikawa (11/26) Results

    NJPW World Tag League Ishikawa (11/26) Results

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s November scheduling is usually dominated by the World Tag League shows – and 2018 is no different. This year’s lineup of shows will of course feature some of NJPW’s top stars, but there are some notable exceptions. Some of the shows will be available on NJPWWorld.

    Here’s the full results for the World Tag League in Ishikawa (11/26):

    • 1st WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018: Tournament Match: Taichi and Zack Sabre Jr b. Shota Umino and Ayato Yoshida – Taichi took the win after hitting the Taichi Style Last Ride on Yoshida
    • 2nd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018: Tournament Match: Davey Boy Smith Jr and Lance Archer b. Manabu Nakanishi and Yuji Nagata – Smith Jr and Archer took the win after hitting the Killer Bomb
    • 3rd WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018: Tournament Match: Yujiro Takahashi and Hangman Page b. Toa Henare and Togi Makabe – Takahashi took the win after hitting the Pimp Juice on Henare
    • 4th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018: Tournament Match: Minoru Suzuki and Takashi Iizuka b. Chuckie T and Beretta – Suzuki took the win after hitting the Gotch Style Piledriver on Chuckie T
    • 5th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018: Tournament Match: SANADA and EVIL b. Satoshi Kojima and Hiroyoshi Tenzan – SANADA took the win after hitting the Rounding Body Press on Tenzan
    • 6th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018: Tournament Match: David Finlay and Juice Robinson b. Toru Yano and Tomohiro Ishii – Ishii took the win after hitting the Vertical Brain Buster on Finlay
    • 7th WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2018: Tournament Match: Tanga Loa and Tama Tonga b. Jeff Cobb and Michael Elgin – Cobb took the win after hitting the Tour of the Islands on Tanga Loa
    • Shingo Takagi, BUSHI and Tetsuya Naito b. SHO, YOH and Kazuchika Okada – Naito took the win after hitting the Destino on YOH
  • World Tag League Will See Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi Team Up For The First Time Ever

    World Tag League Will See Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi Team Up For The First Time Ever

    It’s a rivalry that seemed destined to last forever as each man strove to prove they were the dominant competitor in New Japan Pro Wrestling. But now, six years into their historic feud now turned friendly competition, Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi about to team up together for the first time ever.

    With both having a common enemy in new Bullet Club member, Jay White, it has led the men to a tense truce and unlikely alliance.

    As part of New Japan’s current World Tag League tournament, we will get the opportunity to witness ‘The Ace’ and ‘The Rainmaker’ join forces on both the 29th and 30th of November.

    The first match will see Okada, Tanahashi, and KUSHIDA face off against Jay White, Bad Luck Fale and Taiji Ishimori — a clash that also further developments the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight feud between the champion, KUSHIDA, and Ishimori.

    The next day, the team will see Rocky Romero bolster their ranks in an eight-man tag team match as they compete against White, Fale, Ishimori, and the man who betrayed Okada, Gedo.

    It was Gedo’s betrayal and Jay White’s unrelenting attack post-match at NJPW’s Destruction in Kobe event that would lead to this unlucky team coming together.

    At a later New Japan show, ‘Road To Power Struggle’ on October 27th, Tanahashi would run in to save Okada from an assault at the hands of the Firing Squad, bringing the two men together in the face of a unified enemy.

    Okada will eventually face Jay White at next year’s Wrestle Kingdom 13 event. Tanahashi, meanwhile, will be cashing in his G1 Climax briefcase for a shot against IWGP Heavyweight champion, Kenny Omega.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=131&v=gAJVWrF8Q6o

  • Chris Jericho Talks EVIL, WWE Comparisons and Rematch with Tetsuya Naito

    Chris Jericho Talks EVIL, WWE Comparisons and Rematch with Tetsuya Naito

    Chris Jericho recently sat down with NJPW1972.com for a special interview. Part 1 of the interview has now been released and the IWGP Intercontinental Champion made some interesting points relating to EVIL, WWE comparisons and the rematch with Tetsuya Naito.

    Match With EVIL

    When asked about the Power Struggle match with EVIL, Jericho stated “I’ve never been in a match with EVIL before. I think the fact that the match was so great; the quality, the fighting spirit, the intensity, the strong style. I think EVIL was very good. He’s got a great character, a great gimmick and I really enjoyed working with him.” We reported shortly after the Power Struggle match that Jericho claimed it was EVIL’s “first ever classic match.” Y2J again made this claim in this new interview, saying that “I think it’s the best match EVIL has ever had – a classic match, a must-see match. That makes it 1 for him and 557 for me, which is just a result of the experience that I have in comparison to EVIL. I really enjoyed it.”

    Comparisons to WWE

    The interviewer also asked Jericho if EVIL was comparable to any Superstars he has faced in WWE. Jericho replied “I don’t rate and think of performers that way, everyone is unique and different. If you say “Oh EVIL’s like this guy, or that guy” then it’s usually not a good thing. I think he’s got a great character. There was however one WWE legend that sprang to mind; “Obviously, it’s a little bit of an Undertaker theme, but it’s an original take on that. In the ring, I don’t know… it’s hard to compare…  He’s a very Strong-Style type of wrestler, but he’s fast.”

    Rematch with Naito

    The interview ended with Jericho’s comments on Tetsuya Naito and the planned rematch at Wrestle Kingdom. Jericho asked “Why does Naito get a re-match? Why? What does he do? He beat Zack Sabre Jr. You know, ZSJ is a great technical wrestler, but I can break him in two like a branch. I beat Naito. I beat EVIL. To me, you don’t just get to have a re-match just because you say so. When I lost the WWE title to John Cena, I didn’t just come back the next day and say, “I want a re-match”, it doesn’t work that way.”

    You can read the full interview here