Unfortunately, New Japan Pro Wrestling officials have decided that it’s best for Will Ospreay to being removed from the Road to Power Struggle tour due to a rib injury.

The promotion made the announcement overnight as it was noted that Ospreay will miss the tour to “focus on the NEVER Openweight Championship match” that will see him take on Taichi at Power Struggle in Osaka on November 3.

It should also be pointed out that as a result of this, Taichi won’t be competing on the tour due to Ospreay’s absence. This means that the scheduled matches between Ospreay and Taichi from October 19 to November 1 won’t be taking place.

The injury that the young rising wrestling star suffered was when he landed badly during his match against Chris Ridgeway for Revolution Pro Wrestling this past Sunday. After getting an x-ray on his ribs, it showed that he didn’t suffer any breaks, according to longtime pro wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer. Now, he just needs time to heel up.

Ospreay tweeted about having to miss this tour when he wrote, “Once again I’m really sorry guys. This is up there with the worst pain I’ve ever been in. Promise once I’m ready to come back, I’m picking up where I left off.”

Ospreay has also been pulled from the December 6th Fight Forever Wrestling event as the promotion wrote the following on their official Twitter account:

“Some unfortunate news. @WillOspreay has suffered an injury and will not be able to compete at Phenomena on Dec 6th. Let’s band together to send Will our best wishes, and hope he takes the time to rest up and recover. We will soon be announcing a new opponent for @CodyRhodes.”

Some unfortunate news. @WillOspreay has suffered an injury and will not be able to compete at Phenomena on Dec 6th. Let’s band together to send Will our best wishes, and hope he takes the time to rest up and recover. We will soon be announcing a new opponent for @CodyRhodes pic.twitter.com/FsjaLaHLQg

— Fight Forever Wrestling (@fightforeveruk) October 16, 2018

The Road to Power Struggle has only just begun, but NJPW isn’t pumping the brakes on one of pro wrestling’s hottest commodities as Chris Jericho returns to defend his IWGP Intercontinental Championship against EVIL on November 3rd in Osaka at NJPW’s Power Struggle event.

In a new video uploaded to the NJPW YouTube channel, Chris Jericho shared his thoughts on his opponent for the championship clash.

“Why EVIL?” Jericho asked. “Sometimes things present themselves to you. After I beat Naito in Osaka in June, EVIL came to the ring to get inside my business. To try and make a name for himself. To try and be on the same level as Chris Jericho. EVIL, that’s not possible.”

Jericho actually spoke highly of the King Of Darkness, who he assaulted in a surprise attack at New Japan’s recent King Of Pro Wrestling event, saying “[…] I like the fact that you put yourself out on the line. I like the fact that you came down and showed some balls.

So EVIL, for you to come down to the ring and attack me in June in Osaka, I was very impressed. And I didn’t forget. And I was waiting for the right time to make my move. To surprise you, to embarrass you, and to teach you a lesson.”

“You Get To Join The List, Man”

“It’s the biggest match of your career, EVIL,” Jericho claimed. “And it’s just another match for me. It’s fine. You’re just another guy on the list of people that I’ve beaten over and over again, from The Undertaker to Naito, to Shawn Michaels to Eddie Guerrero. Now, EVIL. You get to join the list, man.

“You get to be on that prestigious list of people who got beaten by the greatest of all time. That’s good for you, and that’s always bad for you. Because I’m going to kick the shit out of you, EVIL,” he promised. “I’m going to teach you a lesson. […] you’ll walk out of there a bigger star, I’m going to make you famous, I promise that – but I’m also going to beat you. November 3rd in Osaka, I will fear no evil.”

What do you think of this feud so far? Are you looking forward to this match, come November 3rd?

Don Callis’ current situation with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) is certainly an interesting one. Callis recently missed the last three days of the G-1 card due to his obligations with IMPACT Wrestling. He was even left off the “King Of Pro Wrestling” pay-per-view (PPV) and reportedly hasn’t been called for any future NJPW shows.

In Japan, it’s believed that Callis’ duties with IMPACT will prevent him from returning. All of this could simply be a miscommunication, however. It’s possible Callis works several big shows a year while maintaining his responsibilities with IMPACT. With that being said, the entire ordeal seems to be bothering IWGP Intercontinental Champion, Chris Jericho.

Callis and Jericho are great friends, as Callis was the man responsible for setting up “Y2J’s” feud with Kenny Omega last year. Jericho took to Twitter recently to comment on the matter. Here’s what he had to say:

“Not using @CyrusOverHuge over huge for ANY AND ALL commentary is a big mistake and just plain stupid. @njpw1972”

Not using @CyrusOverHuge over huge for ANY AND ALL commentary is a big mistake and just plain stupid. @njpw1972 https://t.co/uJBzsCnVJK

— Chris Jericho (@IAmJericho) October 15, 2018

What do you think about Jericho’s comments regarding Callis and NJPW?

The bad blood between The Firing Squad/Bullet Club OGs and The Elite doesn’t show any signs of slowing down, with both sides taking to social media for months in order to have their say.

The most recent addition to their incendiary feud has been cast by the “Bad Boy” Tama Tonga.

Short and sweet, unlike many of his previous barbs, Tama Tonga tweeted that “The Elite doesn’t exist without #BulletClub,” before punctuating his thought with a loaded sentiment, saying, “Good luck in WWE.”

The Elite doesn’t exist without #BulletClub . Good luck in WWE

— Tama Tonga (@Tama_Tonga) October 15, 2018

The most notable thing about this is the direct reference to The Elite potentially going to the WWE. This has been heavily rumored despite their current success worldwide.

Further speculation could be made after members of The Elite released new shirts, highlighting that they will be the last “Bullet Club” style shirts they will offer.

Firing Squad vs The World

Since making their intentions clear at the end of NJPW’s G1 Special this past July in San Francisco, the Firing Squad have been on a tear throughout NJPW.

They recently claimed the IWGP Tag Team Championships, with the Guerrillas of Destiny besting their Bullet Club stablemates, and Elite representatives, The Young Bucks, at NJPW’s recent Fighting Spirit Unleashed event on September 30th.

Firing Squad have also recently added “Switchblade” Jay White to their ranks, bolstering their stable in the reignited civil war against Bullet Club.

What do you think? Will this new civil war lead to a satisfying payoff? Do you think we will see The Elite in the WWE?

During last night’s Revolution Pro Wrestling/New Japan Pro Wrestling joint show, Global Wars, Will Ospreay suffered an unfortunate injury during his match against Chris Ridgeway.

Fans in attendance initially reported that Ospreay appeared to have landed on his neck after a missed Pele kick. This led to a hastily improvised finish soon after, with Ridgeway picking up the victory over the Aerial Assassin. Since then, speculation has indicated it could be a potential intercostal/rib injury.

It was noted that Ospreay was immediately assisted to the back by the referee. Paramedics then rushed to evaluate him before taking him to hospital.

Since then, Will Ospreay has taken to Twitter in order to update his fans about his condition.

Thankfully, he claims to be “ok,” before adding that he needs some “time to myself and to rest for once. Much love to everyone backstage that looked after me.”

https://twitter.com/WillOspreay/status/1051742913842044928

NEVER Openweight Contender

Ospreay’s recent win at King Of Pro Wrestling, picking up a pinfall over NEVER Openweight champion, Taichi, has propelled him into contender consideration for that belt. A title Ospreay is eager to take.

A lot has been said about his fast-paced, impactful, high flying style, but it’s good to hear that Ospreay is alright, considering what the injury could have entailed. Hopefully, he takes the time needed to rest and heal up, coming back at 100% in order to stake his claim to Taichi’s title.

There have been numerous rumors for weeks now regarding the status of commentator Don Callis for New Japan Pro Wrestling, with Meltzer having previously said that “[Callis] is likely done as an announcer with NJPW.”

Apparently, Callis wasn’t called for the King Of Pro Wrestling show which went down on October 8th. Additionally, he hasn’t been contacted about working any future dates for the company. Despite not being contacted, he hasn’t been told that “he’s no longer being used.”

Things have taken an interesting turn with this situation as it appears that NJPW is openly auditioning new commentators that could fill Callis’ spot.

A name that’s come to the forefront: ‘The Genius’ Lanny Poffy.

“It’s Just An Audition”

Whilst speaking on his podcast, ‘The Genius Cast,’ Lanny Poffo was initially reticent in divulging any details or adding to the speculation before opening up, admitting:

“[…] Michael Craven from New Japan, I met him September 1st at All In. He asked me if I would be interested in holding the microphone as a color commentator [for New Japan] and I responded, ‘Wow, that would be great!’

Poffo went on to say, “I love New Japan. I’ve never been to Japan. Can you imagine that? Of all the countries I’ve been, I’ve never been to Japan. That is on my bucket list!”

When questioned further about the role itself, he admitted that “it’s just an audition,” before highlighting that he would be “flying out October 23rd and […] coming back November 4th.”

It’s worth noting that Meltzer’s initial statement also mentioned that, “The idea right now is to have a rotation of color commentators through the end of the year. The feeling is that if he’s [Callis] brought back, it may just be for select big shows that fit his schedule.”

A Genius Poem

Clearly in high spirits, Lanny Poffo channeled The Genius once more, creating the following poem about his next adventure:

“The Genius comes to New Japan
So let your hearts rejoice
And bathe in the luxury
Of my poetic voice

My grooming is impeccable
My outfit is brand-new
Ichi, ni, san, shi, go,
Roku, shichi, hachi, kyuu, juu!”

Poffo stated that “they [NJPW] bought me a ticket to Tokyo from Tampa and I’m going to get on that plane and do my very best to be an asset and not a liability. New Japan is a very exciting group of people and I feel very lucky to be invited. In the meantime, I’m retired, but I like to keep flexible and open for exciting opportunities like this!”

https://audioboom.com/posts/7045531-sean-oliver-of-kayfabe-commentaries-plus-lanny-to-commentate-for-new-japan

What do you think? Are you going to miss Callis’ calls with Kevin Kelly or do you believe The Genius can bring something new to the NJPW announce table?

Cody and the Young Bucks have both announced that their newest T-shirts will be their final ones with a Bullet Club theme to them. This comes amid growing speculation that the members of the Elite will drop Bullet Club from their name, leaving it to the NJPW faction.

The Bucks unveiled a golden version of their classic Bullet Club tee:

https://twitter.com/MattJackson13/status/1050802893488570369

Cody then announced his final Bullet Club themed shirt as well:

This will be my final Bullet Club affiliated shirt(and it’s my favorite one)! https://t.co/i97frjV0fw pic.twitter.com/y1teCNHtEy

— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) October 13, 2018

Is The Elite Leaving Bullet Club?

Members of the Elite are still announced as being from “Bullet Club Elite” during their ring introductions. They are still listed as part of the larger faction. With their contracts coming due at the end of the calendar year, however, it’s possible they want to distance themselves from the group.

Bullet Club’s “Firing Squad” attacked the Elite at the G1 Special in San Fransico this summer. The group became fractured in two. At King of Pro Wrestling last week, “Switchblade” Jay White joined the faction. White had previously rejected a spot in Bullet Club when it was offered by Kenny Omega at New Year’s Dash. Gedo and Jado also joined the new version of Bullet Club, which might not have room in it for the Elite.

New Japan Pro Wrestling will be on tour from now until the Power Struggle event on November 3rd. Live events will focus on the Super Junior Tag Tournament.

New Japan Pro Wrestling is increasing the amount of English content on their streaming service, NJPWWorld.com. The promotion recently announced they have recorded English commentary over several classic matches.

NJPW English Commentary On Classic Matches

Here is the lineup of classic NJPW matches now available with English commentary from Kevin Kelly.

• Andre the Giant vs Antonio Inoki (October 7th, 1976)
• Andre the Giant vs Stan Hansen (May 18th, 1979)
• Andre the Giant vs Stan Hansen (June 5th, 1980)
• Hulk Hogan vs Andre the Giant (May 27th, 1983)
• Cobra vs Davey Boy Smith (May 11th 1983)
• Seiji Sakaguchi & Kengo Kimura vs Dick Murdoch & Ed Leslie (March 16th, 1984)
• Antonio Inoki vs Big Van Vader (February 7th, 1988)
• Black Tiger vs Owen Hart (January 25th, 1990)
• Keiji Mutoh & Masahiro Chono vs the Road Warriors (July 22nd, 1990)
• Jushin “Thunder” Liger vs Dave Finlay (February 5th, 1991)
• The Great Oz (Kevin Nash) vs Hashimoto Shinya (May 17th, 1992)
• Masahiro Chono vs Rick Rude (August 12th, 1992)
• The Road Warriors vs The Steiner Brothers (January 4th, 1993)
• Hulk Hogan & the Great Muta vs The Hellraisers (September 23rd, 1993)
• Antonio Inoki vs Sting (January 4th, 1995)
• Keiji Mutoh vs Ric Flair (August 13th, 1995)
• Jushin Liger & El Samurai vs Koji Kanemoto & Chris Jericho (January 29th, 1997)
• El Samurai & Scotty Riggs vs Marcus Bagwell & Hiro Saito (February 9th, 1997)
• El Samurai vs Chris Jericho (May 25th, 1997)

When Tama Tonga is upset or disagrees with something, he’ll let you know…

Tonga is currently upset with a recent report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. The report stated there is a morale problem backstage in NJPW and backlash against the new management team.

“There are people who in the past had never even considered WWE who are thinking about it,” the WON report reads. “And others who were completely committed to staying who are probably still leaning that way, but are considering the WWE option.”

Tama Tonga disagrees and he’s letting people know about it.

Funny reading that a lot of foreign performers are complaining about the work atmosphere not being “fun” in New Japan. What a load of shit. Plenty of great talents out there that would be grateful to have an opportunity to work in NJPW
Who fed you those lies @davemeltzerWON ?

— Tama Tonga (@Tama_Tonga) October 12, 2018

New President and management helping the company gain sponsorship with international expansion-What a time to be a part of New Japan. Traveling, big money, company growing.yeah bitch, us foreigners that have been here and worked our asses off are very proud of how far we’ve come

— Tama Tonga (@Tama_Tonga) October 12, 2018

So to the foreigner or foreigners complaining to @davemeltzerWON that they are not having “fun” you can GTFO. I’ve never in my career here in New Japan have ever heard of a Japanese wrestler complaining about the work atmosphere not being “fun” in New Japan. GTFOUTTAHERE

— Tama Tonga (@Tama_Tonga) October 12, 2018

Who Is Reporting A Morale Problem In NJPW?

There might be a morale problem in the back now as Tama Tonga goes to look for the person sending information to Dave Meltzer.

We don’t know how many wrestlers made anonymous contact with media in order to state their feelings towards the new management. Meltzer is saying, however, that it is not a member of the Elite. He also said it is NJPW wrestlers who you would never think would go to WWE.

According to the initial report, there are feelings that Harold Meij talks down to the wrestlers. The report also stated that the first round of contract offers was not met with a positive reception either.

The new management team for NJPW headed up by Harold Meij has apparently ruffled a few feathers within the promotion. According to a recent report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, some NJPW talent are even considering leaving the company.

In particular, there appears to be some backlash toward Meij himself.

“The initial reaction was that the feeling was that he talks down to the wrestlers,” Meltzer wrote. He then continued to say many of the wrestlers are concerned he has no history in the business as well.

Moral amongst some has changed enough that they are considering leaving the company.

“There are people who in the past had never even considered WWE who are thinking about it, and others who were completely committed to staying who are probably still leaning that way, but are considering the WWE option.”

NJPW Concerns

The above report does not indicate how many wrestlers in NJPW feel this way or what their standing in the company is. The report does confirm there are NJPW wrestlers contacting media anonymously to voice their concerns, however.

Ticket sales for Fighting Spirit in Long Beach did not go well, which may have led some wrestlers to be concerned. On the other hand, the company just sold out Madison Square Garden for the G1 Supercard next year. There have been concerns voiced in Japan that the product has become Americanized since Meij took over as well. How many fans feel this way, however, is unclear.

5 and 1/2 years after Bullet Club’s formation in New Japan Pro Wrestling, the faction appears to be going back to their roots. At King of Pro Wrestling on Monday, Jay White joined the faction, something he opted not to do when originally offered a spot by Kenny Omega earlier this year.

According to comments White made after King of Pro Wrestling, he doesn’t believe “the Elite” is part of Bullet Club. Rather, White feels the sub-group of Bullet Club which took shape after the departure of AJ Styles, Karl Anderson, and Doc Gallows is just a “rip off”.

“Inevitable. One word, inevitable,” White said backstage. “I met Bad Luck Fale in London in 2014. Since then it’s been inevitable that I would end up here with these boys. Not the BC Elite, what is that rip-off sh**? Original Bullet Club taking it back to what started it. Get used to these faces, we’re taking over!”

Original Bullet Club member, Bad Luck Fale, yelled out “Full Circle” as White finished his speech.

Upcoming NJPW Schedule

NJPW’s new Bullet Club faction will be on the Road to Power Struggle tour. On November 3rd, White will team with Bad Luck Fale to take on Kazuchika Okada and Beretta from CHAOS.

NJPW Power Struggle
November 3rd, 2018
Osaka, Japan

• The Golden Lovers (Kenny Omega & Kota Ibushi) (Bullet Club Elite) vs Hiroshi Tanahashi and David Finlay
• IWGP Intercontinental Championship
  Chris Jericho (c) vs EVIL (LIJ)
• NEVER Openweight Championship
  Taichi (Suzuki-Gun) (c) vs Will Ospreay (CHAOS)
• Tetsuya Naito (LIJ) vs Zack Sabre Jr. (Suzuki-Gun)
• Kazuchika Okada and Beretta (CHAOS) vs Bad Luck Fale and Jay White (BCOG)
• Finals of the Super Junior Tag Tournament

It’s no secret that The Best Bout Machine, Kenny Omega, is a massive video game fan. He has attended numerous video game conventions and has even had competitive gaming confrontations against New Day member, Xavier Woods.
Even his finisher, The One-Winged Angel, takes inspiration from classic PlayStation game, Final Fantasy VII.

So it’s not a major surprise to see the current IWGP Heavyweight champion relaxing online, streaming on Twitch and enjoying some Super Mario Party.

It was during this stream, however, that he divulged new information regarding his current injury situation.

Omega suffered an unfortunate heel fracture during his recent war against Cody at the G1 Climax Special this past July.

Speaking candidly during the stream, Omega admitted that his foot is “doing much better,” before confessing that “It is my rib actually that is fractured right now. And I know it’s crazy, right? How do I keep getting injured?”

The champion continued to discuss his physical well-being, with only minor distraction from the colourful antics of Super Mario Party.

“[…] my ribs are in a bad way. But what can you do? I’m not one of those guys that likes to try to brag like ‘Hey, look, I’m injured,’ ‘I’m so tough, I’m going to keep fighting’ – it’s not like that at all. It’s just, you gotta do what you gotta do. I’m in a position right now – you just gotta go when you’re the champ. You can’t take days off.”

What do you think? Should Kenny Omega be able to take some time off to heal

It was an eventful night at King of Pro Wrestling yesterday. One of the most talked about moments was when Jay White, Gedo and Jado aligned with Bullet Club’s Firing Squad. The faction then attacked Kazuchika Okada.

White had been offered a spot in Bullet Club at New Year’s Dash this year.  He rejected the offer, however, and then attacked Kenny Omega. White’s history with the faction actually goes back years before then, however, to when he was originally recruited for the New Japan Dojo. He was recruited for NJPW by former BC leader Prince Devitt (aka Finn Balor) and fellow New Zealander, Bad Luck Fale.

Fale posted a photo of the two taken when White was just entering into his training at the New Japan Dojo.

This plan was set in motion 4yrs ago when .@FinnBalor introduced me to @JayWhiteNZ in London 2014#bulletClub pic.twitter.com/FCZ90L3bKf

— Rogue General (@TOKSFALE) October 8, 2018

Welcome to #BulletClub @JayWhiteNZ pic.twitter.com/y6xSuuLAk9

— Tama Tonga (@Tama_Tonga) October 8, 2018

Wrong guy tried…or maybe it was for the wrong team. #BCOG pic.twitter.com/83tdPezrV5

— Tama Tonga (@Tama_Tonga) October 9, 2018

In addition to adding White, Gedo, and Jado, Bullet Club also added Robbie Eagles to their roster this weekend. Eagles will team with Taiji Ishimori in the Super Junior Tag Tournament taking place in the build-up to next month’s Power Struggle event in Osaka.

Tama Tonga Clashes With Rocky Romero and Others

Shortly after the conclusion of King of Pro Wrestling, Rocky Romero and Tama Tonga clashed on Twitter. As if attempting to prove to everyone that NJPW is not PG-rated content, the two posted the following back-and-forth:

New Japan Pro Wrestling has released the main 5 matches for the Power Struggle event scheduled for Osaka on November 3rd. As previously reported, one of those matches involves Chris Jericho defending his IWGP Intercontinental Championship against EVIL.

NJPW recently revealed 4 more matches for the event in addition to the Super Junior Tag Tournament finals and Jericho vs EVIL.

NJPW Power Struggle
November 3rd, 2018
Osaka, Japan

• The Golden Lovers (Kenny Omega & Kota Ibushi) (Bullet Club Elite) vs Hiroshi Tanahashi and David Finlay
• IWGP Intercontinental Championship
  Chris Jericho (c) vs EVIL (LIJ)
• NEVER Openweight Championship
  Taichi (Suzuki-Gun) (c) vs Will Ospreay (CHAOS)
• Tetsuya Naito (LIJ) vs Zack Sabre Jr. (Suzuki-Gun)
• Kazuchika Okada and Beretta (CHAOS) vs Bad Luck Fale and Jay White (BCOG)
• Finals of the Super Junior Tag Tournament

The teams announced for the Super Junior tournament include:

1. BUSHI & Shingo Takagi
2. Jyushin Thunder Liger & Tiger Mask
3. KUSHIDA & Chris Sabin
4. Super 69 (ACH & Ryusuke Taguchi)
5. Volador Jr. & Soberano Jr.
6. Roppongi 3K (SHO & YOH)
7. Taiji Ishimori & Robbie Eagles
8. Yoshinobu Kanemaru & El Desperado

The Super Junior tournament which concludes at Power Struggle will take place on the tour leading up to the event. Not all of the shows will air on New Japan World but the ones on the 16th, 17th and again on the 26th and 27th will.

The Super Junior tag tournament in NJPW this year will follow a different format. Instead of being a single-elimination tournament as has been the case previously, this year’s tournament will follow the G1/World Tag League format.

2018 NJPW Super Junior Tag Tournament Teams

The teams entered into this year’s tournament are:

1. BUSHI & Shingo Takagi
   • Takagi was announced as the newest member of Los InGobernables De Japon at King of Pro Wrestling yesterday.
2. Jyushin Thunder Liger & Tiger Mask
3. KUSHIDA & Chris Sabin
4. Super 69 (ACH & Ryusuke Taguchi)
5. Volador Jr. & Soberano Jr.
6. Roppongi 3K (SHO & YOH)
7. Taiji Ishimori & Robbie Eagles
   1. Eagles joins up as the newest member of the Bullet Club OG faction.
8. Yoshinobu Kanemaru & El Desperado

The team’s ranked 1st and 2nd from the 8-team round-robin will meet in the finals on November 3rd at NJPW Power Struggle in Osaka Japan. Unless current champions, Kanemaru and Desperado, win the tournament, the winning team will earn a shot at the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championships.
The tournament will begin on October 16th on the Road to Power Struggle show in Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan.

Previous Tournament Winners

1. El Samurai and Koji Kanemoto (2010)
2. Time Splitters (Kushida and Alex Shelley) (2011)
3. The Young Bucks (Matt & Nick Jackson) (2012)
4. reDRagon (Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish) (2013)
5. Matt Sydal and Ricochet
6. Roppongi Vice (Beretta and Rocky Romero)
7. Roppongi 3K (Sho and Yoh)

The Sky King, Will Ospreay, has made his intentions clear after leading his CHAOS stablemates to victory yesterday over the Suzuki-Gun team of Minoru Suzuki, Taichi, and Takashi Iizuka. Ospreay would hit his signature move, The Stormbreaker, onto current NEVER Openweight Champion, Taichi, before securing the win.

Speaking backstage post-match, Taichi was dismissive over the loss and, in particular, the man who gave it to him.

“We don’t have to fight again. I beat you twice. We are done” Taichi said. “So don’t get carried away. You aren’t on my list.”

Ospreay was later interviewed and could barely contain his excitement over what he had just achieved, his attention firmly towards the future.

“I Want To Take That Championship And I Want To Take It Forward”

“You guys see that? I just pinned the Never Openweight champion. That makes me the challenger, right?”

The Aerial Assassin pressed on, demonstrating a knowledge of not only New Japan history but also of the belt he held aloft at the end of the match.

“Every single one of those letters in NEVER means something, but the ’N’ is the most important. The ’N’ means New Blood. And that’s what that title was built upon. It was built on the next generation, the guys that will carry the company forward.”

“But imagine what we could do with that now, imagine what that championship could be like in the hands of me,” he proclaimed. “[…] I want the best. I want to take that championship and I want to take it forward. They say a Junior Heavyweight can’t last with a Heavyweight – I just picked a Heavyweight up and gave him the Stormbreaker and pinned his shoulders one, two, three.”

“[…] Right now I’m 91 kilos. I’m still a Junior Heavyweight right now,” he stressed. “But in time I will progress, progress, progress, evolve and I will do my best to carry that championship to newer heights. To make it what it really is, and that is an Openweight champion.”

Bulking Up

It’s worth noting that it is still a rarity for Junior Heavyweights to be able to come out on top over their Heavyweight opponents, despite Taichi only recently making the switch in weight classes.

That being said, Ospreay has noticeably bulked up over the past few months, and looks prepped to eventually leave the Junior Heavyweight division. Winning the NEVER Openweight championship may be the first step in that journey – a journey that previous Juniors like Kenny Omega have already taken.

After brutally assaulting EVIL in a surprise attack during The King of Darkness’ entrance yesterday, Chris Jericho officially laid out a challenge backstage of Ryogoku Sumo Hall.

Jericho’s ambush led to the scheduled match between EVIL and Zack Sabre Jr. to be declared a no contest, with EVIL unable to compete due to the severity of the beating at Jericho’s hands.

“EVIL gets his s*** in my business, he has to get involved, he has to call me out?” Jericho said, whilst pacing the halls of Sumo Hall. “This is what happens.”

He then officially laid out the challenge, saying, “You know what, EVIL, how about November 3rd? In Osaka. Edion Arena. Jericho versus EVIL, IWGP Intercontinental Championship.”

“You wanted to have a big name. You wanted to become a big star, EVIL. Congratulations, I just made you famous. Because just being in the ring with Chris Jericho puts you on a level you’ve never even seen before. I’m not even talking about Okada, or Kenny Omega, Naito, or Tanahashi…this is Chris Jericho, man! Future first-ballot Hall of Famer. One of the most decorated champions of all time, the greatest of all time.”

Chris Jericho finished his verbal tirade with an emphatic statement:

“November 3rd, Osaka. EVIL. Dead.”

Later, he would take to Instagram in order to upload the following:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BotC5gqlJFe/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

EVIL Intentions

When the camera’s cut to EVIL, the King Of Darkness was unable to comment as he struggled to make his way down the hall before entering a room to get away from the press.

Y2J has previously insulted EVIL, especially after he ran out to save LIJ leader, Naito, from a previous Jericho attack. Jericho stated that EVIL needed to “mind his own f******g business,” and promised that he held “grudges very deeply. I don’t forget. And I don’t live and let die.”

King Of Pro Wrestling saw those prophetic words come true, and we’re now set for an IWGP Intercontinental title defence next month at Power Struggle.

New Japan Pro Wrestling’s event King Of Pro Wrestling took place earlier today emanating from the Ryogoku Sumo Hall, Tokyo, Japan.

King Of Pro Wrestling Results

Suzuki-Gun (El Desperado & Yoshinobu Kanemaru) (c) defeated Jushin “Thunder” Liger & Tiger Mask IV via pinfall.

Great Bash Heel (Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma) defeated Juice Robinson & Toa Henare via pinfall.

Makabe landed his signature move, the King Kong Knee Drop onto Henara to secure the victory for the GBH team.

Firing Squad (Bad Luck Fale, Taiji Ishimori, Tama Tonga, & Tanga Loa) defeated Bullet Club (Chase Owens, Hangman Page, Matt Jackson, & Nick Jackson) via pinfall.

Tama Tonga hit an impactful Gun Stun onto Owens with a flapjack assist from Tanga Loa.

CHAOS (Hirooki Goto, Tomohiro Ishii, & Will Ospreay) defeated Suzuki-gun (Minoru Suzuki, Taichi, & Takashi Iizuka) via pinfall.

Will Ospreay was able to hit Taichi with the Storm Breaker to gain the pinfall victory. Afterwards, Ospreay picked up the Never Openweight Championship, hinting towards a future encounter between himself and Taichi.

The entirety of Los Ingobernables de Japon enter the ring before their match, with Naito taking to the mic in order to introduce the newest member to the collection: Shingo Takagi.

Los Ingobernables de Japon (BUSHI, SANADA, Shingo Takagi, & Tetsuya Naito) defeat CHAOS (Kazuchika Okada, SHO, Toru Yano, & YOH) via pinfall.

Tagaki hit his finisher, Last Falconry, on SHO in an impressive debut.

EVIL vs. Zack Sabre, Jr. is declared a no contest due to Chris Jericho’s surprise assault on EVIL during his entrance.

KUSHIDA defeats Marty Scurll via pinfall with Back To The Future to win the vacant IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship.

Hiroshi Tanahashi defeats “Switchblade” Jay White via pinfall.

As Jay White was readying himself to hit his finisher, Blade Runner, Tanahashi is able to roll White into a small package. The Ace retains the G1 Climax 28 Winner’s Contract, guaranteeing his spot at Wrestle Kingdom 13.

Kenny Omega (c) defeats both Cody Rhodes and Kota Ibushi via pinfall after hitting the One-Winged Angel on Ibushi to retain the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.

With King Of Pro Wrestling done, the table is set for our Wrestle Kingdom 13 main event, with Tanahashi and Omega both coming out victorious despite steep competition.

A War Of Ideologies

Post-match, Kenny gets on the mic and declares that he won’t leave until Ibushi and Cody are standing with him. He speaks briefly on Wrestle Kingdom and makes specific mention that today’s main event may not have been what the fans were expecting. He also tells Cody, Kota, The Young Bucks, and even Cody’s dog, Pharoh, that he loves them all.

As he winds down, ready to say goodbye (and goodnight), Tanahashi appears.

Tanahashi confronts Kenny, making sure to highlight that this is New Japan. It looks like they’re doubling down on Tanahashi not respecting Omega’s in-ring style and attitude for their feud.

It’s deeper than just wanting a title shot – it’s a core difference of ideology and in-ring principles, which makes their inevitable clash all the more intriguing – and personal – come January 4th.

At this year’s New Years Dash, which took place January 5th, the leader of the Bullet Club Kenny Omega personally invited Jay White to become the group’s latest member. White declined, later revealing he had joined CHAOS.

That partnership ended last month as both Gedo and Jay White turned their back on CHAOS, attacking The Rainmaker, Kazuchika Okada.

In that time, it appears Jay White has reconsidered the Bullet Club offer.

Breathe With The Firing Squad

After losing a hard match to NJPW Ace, Hiroshi Tanahashi, White would proceed to viciously attack his opponent, leading to the Ace’s greatest rival, Kazuchika Okada, to run out in order to make the save. Things only got worse as Gedo got involved, forcing longtime partner, Jado, to appear and try to calm the storm.

As things looked like they were finally settling, the Bullet Club OGs arrived.

The BCOGs grabbed both Jado and Gedo, giving Okada free reign to continue doling out payback to whomever he wished. Though uncertain at first, Okada ran to the ropes in order to attack Gedo only to be hit by an unexpected Gun Stun from Tama Tonga.

Jay White finally slithered into the ring, choosing this moment to enter the fray as both Tanahashi and Okada lay prone on the mats. It was uncertain if this was just a temporary alliance of convenience between the men until ‘The Switchblade’ stood over Okada and raised his hand into the ‘Too Sweet’ gesture. He would then hit his finisher, Blade Runner, onto The Rainmaker.

The group then left together, with “Switchblade” Jay White, Gedo, and Jado now aligned with Bullet Club’s Firing Squad.

@rainmakerXokada saving @tanahashi1_100!!#NJPWWorld Watch now??https://t.co/Tj7UBJ4PjP
10.8 #njkopw #njpw pic.twitter.com/gm54zCGLqj

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) October 8, 2018

What did you make of this? How do you think the addition of Jay White will play out for the BCOGs?

Last week, New Japan Pro Wrestling released a slick video via YouTube featuring the members of Los Ingobernables De Japon. The video focused on LIJ leader, Tetsuya Naito, teasing that a new member would be joining them at King Of Pro Wrestling.

Naito took to the mic in order to build up towards the reveal of their new recruit, before playfully stating that it was NJPW announcer, Milano Collection AT. Waving it off, the screen changed, now emblazoned with the words ‘The Dragon.’

The newest member took his time entering the ring, allowing the speculation to continue and anticipation to build before finally revealing himself to be Shingo Takagi.

#LIJ X’s Debut!!
Watch now??https://t.co/Tj7UBJ4PjP#njkopw #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/oMojjX3NDV

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) October 8, 2018

A Shared History

Shingo shares a common bond with the majority of LIJ, having been trained by Animal Hamaguchi – just like Naito, BUSHI, SANADA, and EVIL. This throwback connection makes him an organic choice for their wonderful band of misfits.

A 4-time Open The Dream Gate Champion, 6-time Open The Triangle Gate Champion, 5-time Open The Twin Gate Champion, he is also a former GHC Junior Heavyweight and ROH Tag Team Champion. He has also competed in global tournaments such as King of The Gate, wXw’s 16 Carat Gold, and PWG’s Battle Of Los Angeles.

Shingo is bound to be a great addition to the group if his debut outing is anything to go by:

The New member of Los Ingobernables de Japón!!
THE DRAGON @Takagi__Shingo#NJPWWorld Watch now??https://t.co/Tj7UBJ4PjP
10.8 #njkopw #njpw pic.twitter.com/S2BiSZrHTD

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) October 8, 2018

What do you think of Shingo joining LIJ? Did you think it would be someone else? What did you think of his debut?

Kota Ibushi has a chance to become the new IWGP Heavyweight Champion tomorrow at King of Pro Wrestling. Ibushi will wrestle Kenny Omega and Cody in a triple threat match with the title on the line.

At a recent KOPW press-conference, Ibushi teased putting his career on the line in the match. His comments were transcribed by occasional NJPW World commentator and author, Chris Charlton.

Wow! Ibushi: ‘Cody has a title, Kenny obviously is putting his title on the line. I have nothing to put on the line. So I want to put my wrestling career on the line here. That’s how much I want to have a legendary match.’ #njkopw

— chris charlton (@reasonjp) October 7, 2018

“Wow! Ibushi: ‘Cody has a title, Kenny obviously is putting his title on the line. I have nothing to put on the line. So I want to put my wrestling career on the line here. That’s how much I want to have a legendary match.’”

The comments were made in such a way, however, that they likely shouldn’t be taken as a literal stipulation.

NJPW King of Pro Wrestling Lineup – October 8th, 2018

•  IWGP Heavyweight Championship Match
  Kenny Omega vs. Cody vs. Kota Ibushi
• G1 Briefcase
  Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Jay White
• IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship
  KUSHIDA vs. Marty Scurll
• EVIL vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
• Kazuchika Okada, Toru Yano and Roppongi 3K vs. Tetsuya Naito, SANADA, BUSHI, and a new LIJ member TBD
• Tomohiro Ishii, Hirooki Goto, and Will Ospreay vs. Minoru Suzuki, Taichi and Takashi Iizuka
• The Young Bucks, Hangman Page and Chase Owens vs. Guerillas of Destiny, Bad Luck Fale and Taiji Ishimori
• Togi Makabe and Tomoaki Honma vs. Juice Robinson and Toa Henare
• IWGP Jr. Tag Team Title Match
  Desperado and Yoshinobu Kanemaru vs. Jushin Thunder Liger and Tiger Mask

New Japan Pro Wrestling Ace, Hiroshi Tanahashi, recently shared his concerns over the Americanization of NJPW’s essence and aesthetic as the company continues to grow in the west. Since then, news has come from the recent Wrestling Observer highlighting some concern and confusion over New Japan’s future business strategies.

It’s reported that there is, in fact, an entirely new regime in charge. Not just Harold Meij as the new President, but others that have been placed into prime positions within the company, courtesy of the new President.

These individuals, who have found themselves in a lofty position within New Japan, apparently don’t have any background whatsoever in wrestling, and it has been noted that the etiquette within NJPW’s top tier has shifted accordingly. They have replaced popular long-time officials that the wrestlers on their roster trusted and respected.

Questions

This dramatic shake-up has supposedly forced a number of wrestlers to question why a company that has been experiencing such burgeoning global success would undertake such a dramatic change to their core business team. Many wonder what could be gained from replacing those who had helped helm the company to its current success.

Naturally, the agenda remains unchanged as they continue to expand the business outside of Japan and proceed with their aggressive Western expansion, but it has been highlighted there is an undeniable concern.

“The Real Deal. That’s What I Want To Show Them”

Tanahashi noted, “I want to show that Made In Japan feel. With NJPW World there are so many fans now that watch our cards live or near live. I want to bring them what they see streaming on their devices in person right in front of them,” he said, before recalling, “It reminds me of when WWE came to Japan and I was at the show. It would have been 2002 maybe? The Rock was definitely there (March 1 2002, Yokohama Arena). They had a Japanese ring announcer translating what the English announcer said. Whenever that guy spoke he got booed.”

“They were saying ‘forget the translation, we want to see the authentic American product’ I think. I think there are American fans that want the same from NJPW. Not something rearranged for ‘American tastes’ but the real deal. That’s what I want to show them.”

What do you make of this? Is this corporate upheaval going to have a major impact on the NJPW product going forward? Is this something to be concerned about as a fan?

New Japan Pro Wrestling has released the full card for their upcoming event, King Of Pro Wrestling. The event takes place on October 8th in Ryogoku Sumo Hall.

• IWGP Heavyweight Championship Match: Kenny Omega vs. Cody vs. Kota Ibushi
• G1 Briefcase w/Wrestle Kingdom Title Shot: Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Jay White
• IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship Match: KUSHIDA vs. Marty Scurll
• IWGP Jr. Tag Team Title Match: Desperado and Yoshinobu Kanemaru vs. Jushin Thunder Liger and Tiger Mask
• EVIL vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
• Kazuchika Okada, Toru Yano and Roppongi 3K vs. Tetsuya Naito, SANADA, BUSHI and a mystery partner
• Tomohiro Ishii, Hirooki Goto and Will Ospreay vs. Minoru Suzuki, Taichi and Takashi Iizuka
• The Young Bucks, Hangman Page and Chase Owens vs. Guerillas of Destiny, Bad Luck Fale and Taiji Ishimori
• Togi Makabe and Tomoaki Honma vs. Juice Robinson and Toa Henare

Rare Triple Threat

NJPW has previously only had one triple threat match for the IWGP Heavyweight title. Throw in Kenny Omega’s Golden Lovers partner, Kota Ibushi, into the mix alongside current NWA champion, Cody, and you’ve got yourself an intriguing main event steeped in further Bullet Club complications – one that bucks the trend previously set by NJPW.

It was only recently that Cody and Omega were able to accept each other, despite their differences, after a brutal civil war over leadership of the Bullet Club at NJPW’s G1 Climax Special, this past July.

Reinserting the newly crowned NJPW US champion into the IWGP Heavyweight title scene at this juncture is an interesting decision – one that could have a reverberating impact within New Japan going forward.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYi1aGCM8Hc

Which match stands out the most for you? What, in your opinion could steal the show?

There have been a lot of unsubstantiated rumors recently regarding the status of New Japan Pro Wrestling stable, Los Ingobernables De Japon. The crux of the speculation was that a new member was in coming to make up for former-IWGP Jr. Heavyweight champion, Hiromu Takahashi suffering an unfortunate injury that has sidelined him since July 7th.

Today, NJPW has released an official video to their YouTube channel. The incredibly slick video features a suited Naito sitting at a bar. He sips at a glass of whisky as he regales the fans with an update on LIJ’s future plans.

He starts off with a reminder of what he said in the ring on April 29th in Kumamoto, “Of course staying the same and not giving up are important. But, I think will to change, determination to change and bravery to step forward are important, too.”

Naito confirms he was actually referring to himself and his personal evolution with that comment – not his group’s growth.

“LIJ Are About More Than Ever”

The former IWGP World Heavyweight champion stressed that “We would like to let people know that Tetsuya Naito and Los Ingobernables de Japon are about more than ever.”

He discussed Takahashi’s injury and his inability to defend the belt, and subsequent stripping of it before teasing a new member;

“We “Los Ingobernables de Japon” would like to wait for his return and say ‘tranquilo.’ But, we’d rather step forward than just wait. 5, not 4 of us would wait for Hiromu’s return,” he stated. “In other words, new ‘Los Ingobernables de Japon’ would wait for Hiromu’s return.

On October 8th, at Ryogoku Sumo arena. We will introduce a new ‘pareja [partner].’ Stay tuned.”

Who do you think the mysterious member ‘X’ could be?