Tokyo, Japan – The wrestling world pauses tonight as New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) presents Wrestle Kingdom 20 from the iconic Tokyo Dome. The event is headlined by a deeply emotional and historically significant clash: the final professional wrestling match of Hiroshi Tanahashi, a legend of the sport, against his longtime rival, Kazuchika Okada. This isn’t merely a match; it’s the culmination of a career, a passing of the torch, and a moment etched forever in the annals of puroresu.
A Night of Championship Contests and New Beginnings
Beyond the main event, Wrestle Kingdom 20 boasts a stacked card featuring championship showdowns and the debut of a decorated athlete. Konosuke Takeshita will defend the IWGP World Championship against Yota Tsuji in a bout with a unique stipulation – a winner-takes-all unification match also encompassing the IWGP Global Championship. The stakes are incredibly high, promising a brutal and compelling contest for both titles.
Adding to the excitement, Olympic judo gold medalist Aaron Wolf steps into the professional wrestling arena for the first time, facing the formidable NEVER Openweight Champion EVIL. This debut is highly anticipated, with fans eager to see how Wolf’s athletic prowess translates to the squared circle.
The women’s division will also be prominently featured, as Saya Kamitani and Syuri battle for both the IWGP Women’s Championship and the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship in another winner-takes-all encounter. This match underscores NJPW’s commitment to elevating its women’s wrestling program.
Junior Heavyweight and Tag Team Action
Further down the card, NJPW TV Champion El Desperado will defend his title against Chris Brookes. A separate four-way match – El Desperado, Kosei Fujita, Taiji Ishimori, and Sho – will determine the next challenger for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship. The junior heavyweight division is known for its fast-paced action and technical brilliance, and this set of matches promises to deliver.
A chaotic 10-man tag team match will see the Bullet Club War Dogs (David Finlay, Gabe Kidd & Drilla Moloney) and Unaffiliated (Shingo Takagi & Hiromu Takahashi) collide with Andrade El Idolo and United Empire (Callum Newman, Great-O-Khan, Henare & TBA). The unpredictable nature of multi-man tags ensures a spectacle of high-impact maneuvers and dramatic moments.
Finally, a Ranbo match will determine the contenders for the NEVER Six-Man Tag Team titles, adding another layer of intrigue to an already packed event.
Live coverage of Wrestle Kingdom 20 began at 1:15 PM Eastern.
Pre-Show Action: Yasuda and Murashima Secure Victory
The Wrestle Kingdom 20 pre-show featured a spirited contest between Katsuya Murashima & Masatora Yasuda and Shoma Kato & Tatsuya Matsumoto. Murashima and Matsumoto initially engaged in a technical exchange, but Yasuda quickly asserted dominance with a pair of suplexes. Kato responded with a suplex of his own, followed by a series of bodyslams, gaining a temporary advantage. Murashima battled back with a Back-Body Drop and a Murashima Stampede, ultimately securing the win with a grueling Boston Crab that forced Kato to submit.
This opening match provided a solid foundation for the evening, showcasing the hunger and potential of NJPW’s young lion prospects.
The Legacy of Hiroshi Tanahashi
Hiroshi Tanahashi’s career spans over two decades, marked by numerous championships, iconic matches, and a dedication to the principles of strong style wrestling. Often referred to as the “Ace” of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, Tanahashi has consistently drawn large crowds and captivated audiences with his resilience, charisma, and unwavering commitment to his craft. His rivalry with Kazuchika Okada, in particular, has become legendary, defining an era of NJPW and producing some of the most memorable matches in wrestling history.
Tanahashi’s influence extends beyond the ring. He’s known for his sportsmanship, his dedication to training, and his willingness to mentor younger wrestlers. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of performers.
Did You Know?:
What impact will Tanahashi’s retirement have on the future of NJPW? And how will Okada carry the mantle of leadership in the post-Tanahashi era?
The Rise of Konosuke Takeshita
Konosuke Takeshita’s ascent to the IWGP World Championship has been nothing short of remarkable. Initially gaining prominence through his work in DDT Pro-Wrestling and AEW, Takeshita brought a unique blend of athleticism and striking ability to NJPW. His championship reign has been characterized by dominant performances and a willingness to challenge established stars. His defense against Yota Tsuji represents a significant test, as Tsuji is a rising star with immense potential.
Pro Tip:
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrestle Kingdom 20
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What is the main event of Wrestle Kingdom 20?
The main event of Wrestle Kingdom 20 is Hiroshi Tanahashi’s final match against Kazuchika Okada.
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Who is defending the IWGP World Championship at Wrestle Kingdom 20?
Konosuke Takeshita is defending the IWGP World Championship against Yota Tsuji in a winner-takes-all match.
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Is Aaron Wolf a newcomer to professional wrestling?
Yes, Aaron Wolf, an Olympic judo gold medalist, is making his professional wrestling debut at Wrestle Kingdom 20 against EVIL.
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What championships are at stake in the Saya Kamitani vs. Syuri match?
Both the IWGP Women’s Championship and the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship are on the line in the match between Saya Kamitani and Syuri.
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Where is Wrestle Kingdom 20 taking place?
Wrestle Kingdom 20 is being held at the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan.
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What time did live coverage of Wrestle Kingdom 20 begin?
Live coverage of Wrestle Kingdom 20 began at 1:15 PM Eastern time.
Don’t miss the historic Wrestle Kingdom 20! Share this article with fellow wrestling fans and join the conversation in the comments below. What are your predictions for the night’s biggest matches?
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