NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 12 Review | Wrestling With Wregret

[@TheGreatOneYT]

That's how my every PPV review starts... Living in Lithuania..

[@curbyourcomment2164]

TheGreatOne! Love your channel!

[@raahim11]

HEY!!!! Its theGREATONE. nice forehead.

[@jeffpowerstv8427]

TheGreatOne! Peace Love and hugs

[@mitzu3604]

omg the great one Lol

[@Lastrit_JME]

I really have to disagree with you on Chris and Omega Main Eventing. It would have completely undermined the entirety of the storyline that Tetsuya Naito was having. His entire feud with Okada was based on the fact that he blamed Okada for taking away his Tokyo Dome main event, and this match being in the main event was incredibly important for the story.

[@davidbryneeatingacomically2622]

Thank you. This is something that needed to be said.

[@mjuzumaki]

For those complaining about Naito losing: Naito proved that he belongs to that main event spot that was taken from him in wk8. Plus, he's over enough & already a former heavyweight champ that he's not gonna end in midcard purgatory. It didn't happen to Okada after his losses to Tanahashi, it didn't happen to Kenny after losing to Okada & it certainly wont happen to him after this loss. In fact, it will make his chase have much more fuel to the fire.

[@planescaped]

Yeah, people comparing it to WWE and Roman Reigns doesn't quite work. Naito isn't going to feud for the never openweight/triple tag belts/ be pushed down the card. And Okada is still beloved and a great wrestler. It's okay that Naito lost. This isn't WWE, you can have faith in NJPW's booking... they are actually competent and deserve the benefit of the doubt. >__>

[@TheTrueNateHustle]

If you want to compare anyone to Roman, it's Tanahashi. Former big push champs now holding lesser belts in order to add prestige to them

[@IntentChief]

I loved when Jericho mocked the Japanese fans catcalls it was a brilliant heel move

[@TheDrunkLawyer]

KENNNNYYYYYT

[@luilovebug]

The cat calling was like the most annoying thing ever when watching these Wrestle Kingdoms. It’s like they never took a break and just cat call the whole match. Like when I was watching WK10 trying to enjoy AJ vs Nakamura and all I hear in the background is girls going AAAJJJJ! Or SHINSSUUKKEE!! It’s like girl! Please! We can hear you on TV! You’re just as bad like the bell ringer that won’t stop ringing the damn bell for whenever a Superstar gets ambushed. You’re gonna wake up the whole city if you keep it up.

[@jakjohnston6600]

Slightly racist 😂 loved it though

[@luilovebug]

TridactylZero Like could they be like everyone in the dome to just be silent to be respectful but when big moves happen they could pop.

[@rz2148]

Jericho attacked Naito just a few hours ago. That means he signed for more than one Match.

[@johnt.campbell316]

Yea... I didn't realize it when he said it, but Jericho said this is his 52nd *_tour_* of Japan; implying that he's going to be there for a while.

[@tehleoness5145]

FUCKING CALLED IT

[@rz2148]

John T. Campbell Jericho vs Suzuki would be great

[@planescaped]

NJPW have touring schedules instead of a weekly show. A set up that makes for a far better wrestling program if you ask me. I have a feeling Jericho want's to compete in the next G1. That's where veterans usually tend to retire.

[@Gary-tz5qm]

I died when Calis went thats the red shoes' son

[@TrolledBy]

Don Callis is the greatest color commentator in the world.

[@guilhemherisson3254]

It was fucking hilarious.

[@arturtomczak636]

I disagree with the statement that Omega/Jericho should end the show. It was a lot of hype, that's true, but it would have been really shitty if Naito who works phenomenal matches over few years, is getting the most over person in the roster, wins the biggest tournament in wrestling today and Okada, the ace of NJPW, THE guy in the company fighting over the most important title in New Japan would have been downgraded beacuse Jericho returned and fought for the third most important title in company.

[@mrmoviemanic1]

I know I don’t think Zayne took into cosiderration the story of Naito and just by default thinks he thought Omega v Jericho should be the main event because they were the Western draw. I also don’t think the match was as good as everyone says.

[@planescaped]

Bryan is new to NJPW.

[@Time2LevelUp]

He's pretty dumb if he thinks that should have closed the show. The Japanese fans were there to see Naito vs Okada.

[@Noobie2k7]

Plus this isn't the WWE where winning a prize means nothing. The winner of the G1 headlines Wrestle kingdom for the title. No ifs or buts. This isn't winning the Royal Rumble to 'headline' Wrestlemania, meaning you go on like 3rd to last these days.

[@caniaccharlie]

Noobie2k7 Well, except that time Naito won the G1 and didn't get the WK main event a few years ago...

[@cannonballkid]

Few things that I liked about the show... Pre show rumble was great and a nice way to show new fans to NJPW what they are all about. Where else will you see Liger, Cheeseburger, Tiger Mask, and Suzuki Gun go at it? Jay White is what WWE wishes Baron Corbin was... That four way, my god - amazing, and as long as I have been watching NJPW I never get tired of Kushida's 'Back to the Future' gimmick. Cody is rubbing shoulders with Dr. Evil at this point. Jericho was a man unhinged loved it. Naito though, a lot of people wanted to see him get the win. And it would have been great, but he messed up. He wasnt full Tranquilo. He was distracted, and in order to beat Okada you must be perfect because thats what Okada is.

[@melatonin12]

Stringer Bell Definitely. He was distracted with the Stardust press, and he tried to hold on to his past self rather than go for his new better self

[@TrolledBy]

Fantastic analysis

[@EyeSixx]

I really like NJPW's cameras. The way its broadcasted looks like Raw from the early 2000's which I enjoy for some reason!

[@BabysitterSky]

Eye Sixx yeah they're really good at ripping off wwe from 20 years ago

[@EyeSixx]

Yeah. Because having cameras were first used by WWE.

[@BabysitterSky]

Eye Sixx you're the one that said it reminded you of Raw from the early 2000s, not me

[@EyeSixx]

Agreed, Tyler. Their entrances give me such a good feeling. Makes me feel like a kid again!

[@EyeSixx]

I said it reminded me. Not that they're good at ripping off WWE.

[@edog4153]

I can understand why people would want Jericho and Omega on last. But the story getting in the main event of WK has been building since 2013 I believe?

[@edog4153]

Sorry Naito getting in the main event

[@Zeokage]

That's a point I was thinking as well. Okada/Naito for the title was bumped to semi-main for Wrestle Kingdom 8 (Jan 2014) after a fan vote. For New Japan, Naito's redemption story of being able to compete in the main event was the bigger one even though Alpha vs Omega would have been the main draw outside Japan. Okada even referenced it in his post-match promo. In any case, could anyone have denied Naito's main event a second time? Okada's now been in 4 of the last 5 WK main events, that blip was Naito.

[@wright5328]

can we talk about how Chris Jericho actually didn't left new japan and just attacked Naito

[@joeyzapata6786]

Or how about Jay White refusing Kenny's offer to join Bullet Club and potentially challenging for the IWGP U.S. Title? And how the tension between Cody and Kenny is at an all time high when Kenny saved Ibushi from an attack by Cody? New Year's Dash was pretty eventful.

[@wright5328]

you are right it was really awesome

[@musa4574]

Alex R Y2J probably attacked Naito due to him being the real main event. Cody tried to attack Ibushi because of his loss and Kenny saved him because they used to be tag partners. Kenny tried to recruit Jay White but he’s an unpredictable school shooter so it backfired.

[@Unlitedsoul]

Rocky Romero is still selling that powerbomb on the ramp.

[@planescaped]

Rocky the manager = death for an hour. Rocky the wrestler = 2 minutes of selling. XD

[@MrJordanSilver]

I got a NJPW World sub just for this show. It's only like 6 GBP /mo. I'm def gonna keep it.

[@MrJordanSilver]

ALSO: I commend that in NJPW their top title is ALWAYS the main event.

[@khaledaldhaheri3315]

Jordan Silver excluding wk8

[@darkashtar]

Same here lol. NJPW delivers now they just need to make an Xbox one app and a great menu system and that would wrestling Nirvana.

[@Wolvilax]

"Jericho vs Omega should have been the main event" oh hell no! Okada vs Naito was the right choice to main event even that Naito didn´t win (I am still sad about that) T.T

[@Humorless_Wokescold]

we're all sad about that :(

[@stephentheweaselespinoza2659]

Julian Francisco I wanted naito to win too but after I watched the match. After I saw how amazing it was. I didn't care about it anymore. Both are winners. Both are the best in the world

[@jazzygeofferz]

I was gutted. I'd been looking forward to Naito winning the belt at WK since I saw the G1 final.I had a friend who flew out to Japan to watch Naito win the belt at WK off the back of his G1 win and he was, in his own words, CRUSHED when Okada retained.

[@stephentheweaselespinoza2659]

Geoffrey Walsh But it was still an amazing match

[@jazzygeofferz]

I probably need to watch it again without my being so emotionally invested in wanting Naito to win as I felt genuinely upset afterwards.Jericho Vs Omega was good. That Jr Heavyweight 4 way was off the chain. I need to watch Cody Vs Kota yet. I didn't know whether I should when I was catching WK up this morning.

[@jtown4life]

There goes any kinda argument that Jerico isn't a draw.

[@drfritz3517]

there** I dont want to sound like a grammar freak but come on this is such a simple grammar rule, english isn't even my main language

[@thomasjenkins7506]

was that actually an argument that people used? hasn't jericho been a draw pretty much his entire career?

[@jtown4life]

Frédéric vallieres It was a accident sorry I'm on my phone. I just wanna talk about the video.

[@jtown4life]

Alec Baldlose I'm not taking anything away from Omega or anyone else. I'm just saying Jericho brought in new eyes who may not be that aware of NJPW.

[@thomasjenkins7506]

omega is a draw, but it's no coincidence that viewership for WK sky rocketed this year compared to previous years and it's because of jericho. he's one of the few guys that transcends promotions and is revered by the entire wrestling world as a great worker.

[@PopeTheRevXXVIII]

WWE is the only Company that ignores who is over and just puts the title on management's golden boy. Gedo: Hold my Beer.

[@xhybridzz_5825]

PopeTheRevXXVIII This is a very bold prediction but all I’m gonna say is wait till Dominion or WK13, or even Sakuru Genesis If Naito wind New Japan Cup.

[@joeyzapata6786]

In Gedo's defense, there's a method to his madness. I trust NJPW's booking decisions.

[@thefakedeal]

PopeTheRevXXVIII Omega was Roman Reigns before Roman Reigns was Roman Reigns

[@ShadDreyar]

Okada's over too. The thing is, no one is more over than Naito, BUT, there's legit reasons to go on with Okada as champion.

[@Grizzexploder]

*Naito

[@Frozen_Angel]

no no no no no no no no Jericho/Omega should not have been the main event. did you hear the crowd when Naito came out? the Tokyo Dome was ECHOING! they deserved the main event spot.

[@PhillipP93]

I was annoyed when The Liontamer was called The Walls of Jericho.

[@Woods4guns]

Felipe Francisco same

[@Supervillain725]

I noticed that, but it was pretty savage when Jericho put the Liontamer on Red Shoes's kid.

[@TrolledBy]

young liontamer xD

[@Th3SP1C]

That was the original walls of Jericho

[@luilovebug]

Same here lol like what are you Michael Cole calling Blue Thunder Bombs Michinoku driver’s?

[@punkinjack8925]

I think NJPW goes by the rules the old N64 WCW World Tour games used to work. Which meant no DQ only meant you could use weapons and not get disqualified by getting outside help. However most rules still apply. That is the best way I understood it anyway lol.

[@planescaped]

It takes a lot more to get disqualified in NJPW than in WWE. It can be hard for new comers to get accustomed to. The ref will attempt to stop disqualifying behavior, but if they fail it doesn't mean they'll DQ you. Usually it's only if you blatantly continue to ignore the rules. 3 strikes and your out kind of mentality.

[@Willlovespeanutbutter]

I really enjoyed Jericho here, the camera with the middle finger was great. His dominating Kenny was the jericho I love. But, I was a little disappointed he basically had the same sparkly boots and trunks but oh well

[@planescaped]

I hadn't seen him wrestle since 2004, I personally thought he was just as good as he used to be. I was honestly very surprised at how well he still wrestled.

[@Willlovespeanutbutter]

planescaped Jericho is the goat for a reason, he’s changed his persona and adapted so much, and is always a highlight

[@planescaped]

I watched wrestling from 1998-2004 , but in 2016 I wanted to get back into it and watched one RAW, and then immediately looked for alternatives and found that NJPW was actually accessible these days. But I watched no wrestling in that period, I am part of that mythical 'casual audience' people go on about. I mean I follow it now and have caught up through wrestletalk and wrestling with wregret and what have you, but I still haven't actually watched anything from WWE nor do I feel any real desire to. NJPW has what WWE hasn't had since the attitude era, the idea that even if the booking is bad/wrong, you can be assured that it will get better. That is what made the attitude era great, not the attitude or rating, but overall competency as a show... If I disagree with something that happens in NJPW, it's totally fine. If I disagree with something that happens in WWE, it isn't, because I don't trust them, they lost it and haven't re-earned it. My 60 year old mother loves NJPW(especially Tanahashi) and she hasn't watched wrestling since Hogan slammed Andre... When I see people post on youtube about how NJPW or the indies(a misused term) are just for smark beta hardcore cucks, I can legitimately only laugh.

[@FunnySmartCoolGuy]

Y2J is the most selfless wrestler ever.

[@Nooblet92Ca]

Jarvis Isn't SAWFT he is too selfless

[@FunnySmartCoolGuy]

Nooblet92Ca not necessarily he still went over AJ at Mania 32

[@Hugh_Morris]

It's not like he's young with a long career ahead of him, he's doing what legends should do in the business

[@FunnySmartCoolGuy]

George Havenhand true that but not everyone is so willing to take a pinfall

[@Hugh_Morris]

Jarvis Isn't SAWFT which is unfortunate bout of ego, because seeing old wrestlers put on great performances and puttin over the younger guy, as long as the match is good I don't think it hurts at all

[@Hiryuu324]

Now I'm more stuck too Judas as Jericho's theme then his WWE one

[@hunterblacc4336]

john smith You are beutiful on the inside.

[@lalodn007]

Than

[@rdk2323]

To, than

[@Supervillain725]

That's a great song.

[@apri1979]

„Judas“ is one of my favorite songs but as an entrance it is too slow and do not generate a good atmosphere.

[@juansanchez209]

I’m calling it: 2018 will be the year of Juice Robinson!

[@josephnomak5778]

Juan Sanchez he is so good. He took Omega to the limit.

[@planescaped]

Yes they do. XD

[@elidolo6993]

Juan Sanchez You were kinddaaaa right (so far)

[@sofiaciel7599]

WK12 was a great show. The highs weren't as high as last years, but the undercard was much, much better than before. I felt like basically every match delivered in some way.

[@armandotorres8962]

Cheeseburger's pop was great, he's just so loveable, but dude, you should have seen the reaction Jushin Thunder Liger got.

[@emfs9522]

Armando Torres Everyone loves the Liger

[@Supervillain725]

I don't get Cheeseburger. The guy weighs a buck 20 soaking wet, but he is super over, I don't see it.

[@tomkrawec]

You don't see it because you already see it.

[@JennaLeigh]

I don't mind staying up late for this, since our fellow WWE fans the world over have to do it like 15 times a year. Seeing Jericho in NJPW was just too cool. Liger got that massive superstar pop, and as someone who has watched his career since the early 90's, I got a warm fuzzy feeling seeing him really take in the adulation of the fans.

[@brizwaldjonson]

I really enjoyed the show, but I disagree with the Jericho/Omega match of the year talk, it was a really good match, but it just seemed like a basic no DQ match, perhaps it was too much hype. I think the match of the show was the Marty Scurl, Will Ospreay 4 way dance.

[@JagerLange]

2019 = The Year Of Cheeseburger?

[@MrConstant23.]

JagerLange They are apparently turning into the USA.

[@jsmpsnn]

Zane great review. I really enjoyed this show. Still figuring out the NJPW as a whole but loving everything so far.

[@SeigiChoujin]

Winning the 6 Man titles isn't necessarily going back to tag, it's more about keeping people in the spotlight so they don't lose momentum (in case like Baretta, at least). Okada was part of a challenger team last year while LIJ had the belts as part of the build for his Heavyweight title defense against Evil

[@planescaped]

Bryan is clearly not well versed with NJPW. Which is fine, I just hope he doesn't color peoples opinions by giving criticisms of things that aren't actually true/a problem.

[@jaybradbury597]

"Double footstop through the goddamned table"-Cyrus best commentery moment ever

[@TimeToCrash88]

Kenny Omega was dressed as the character Osiris from Destiny 2 for those unsure, pretty accurate cosplay.

[@johnoliver2359]

Not guna lie guy's. As a UK wrestling fan I feel no sympathy for US fan's having to stay up late for a live viewing experience.

[@galactusbryant]

Not going to lie guy as a US wrestling fan I used to feel sympathy for the UK guys, now I realize they are all fucking dicks.

[@Unlitedsoul]

As an American, I don't either. It takes planning and preparation. As such, I feel no sympathy for all of the Europeans whining about having to stay up for WWE shows they find boring. That's just asinine. Also, "live viewing experience" is a lame excuse when it's often better to catch the streams after the fact, and you can fast forward through all of the unnecessary video packages and promos. If you're going to stay up for that, then you're going to pay for it by either ruining your morning after... or sacrificing your evening before the event.

[@juansanchez209]

Lol I don’t even know why so many people decided to stay up to watch it. I just watched it first thing in the morning. That way I didn’t get spoiled while also getting a good amount of sleep.

[@Unlitedsoul]

Juan Sanchez Exactly! I have gon to the past 3 WKs live. I just got back home early this afternoon. However, I watch a number of NJPW events a day or so after the fact, since it works better with my usual schedule. Heck, I tend to not watch half of the WWE PPVs until the following Monday Morning so I can breeze through all the useless BS. You'd be surprised at how quickly 3-4 hours turns into 1.5 hours in doing that.

[@josephnomak5778]

I loved it. It felt like a big deal and showed who the real wrestling fans were.

[@mahiru20ten]

And by the way, that girl on the Japanese commentary booth is Jurina Matsui, a member of the girl group SKE48 and also a big fan of pro wrestling.

[@mussiemk6517]

Omega Vs Jericho was an alpha match

[@jordandixson7732]

Don't listen to this idiot that match was absolutely positively amazing

[@jmthehologram]

dude if you dont like the show why take the time to comment so much on a njpw video. loser

[@ReligiousFanboy]

watching the Wrestle Kingdom 12 matches was the most fun i have had when watching wrestling in a long time

[@mrmoviemanic1]

I think Zayne is very biased towards Omega and Jericho, yes we get that they sold a lot of people on New Japan and they had a great match. But in terms of brilliance the match was kinda predictable and bland when it came to storytelling. Naito and Okada defiantly felt like the main event and delivered on everything as far as a story could be, I feel like Zayne is not giving that match a true rundown nor time it deserved and yet says by default Jericho and Omega was the best match of the night.

[@planescaped]

As a westerner who started watching NJPW last year because of Kenny Omega... Naito and Okada were 100% the right choice to main event. Anyone who follows NJPW more than just in passing knows this.

[@MrTreyshawn22]

Nothing bland about the match or the story telling bad choice of words

[@PandoraZBoX1]

That was one of the best matches Ive seen this year by far

[@Phyrrax]

Kevin Kelly and especially Don are awesome on commentary. Probably my favourite commentary duo.

[@stanwright4110]

I was able to watch at least some of the matches on AXSTV. They show NJPW on Friday nights.

[@planescaped]

As to the "repetitive false injuries" NJPW tend to do these during bigger shows. It really isn't anything new, and you'll get used to it and it won't feel so strange. Or not. But it is a selling technique they regularly employ.

[@ShadDreyar]

"Jericho vs Omega should have been the main event." Thank god you said you didn't know that much about New Japan, because that's silly. I get why you would say that, but the whole point of the Naito vs Okada Wrestle Kingdom rematch is that this time, it IS the main event.

[@ronmastrio2798]

It IS the main event? You should've told Gedo that before he called up Jericho for the double main event AKA no main event it didn't matter whether Naito went on last because he wasn't the singular main event and wasn't going to win. This is now being used as Naito's motivation to go after Jericho as he was robbed of his main event a second time. Jericho Omega should have gone on last to send the fans home happy rather than seeing the most popular star in Japan lose.

[@chrismeadley1988]

Naito nuggets you bore me

[@kenterminateddq5311]

Where can I preorder the NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 12 DVD????

[@MrRalphanate]

WAS WAITING on this glad to come home to this!

[@LunchboxGoesWithEverything]

I realy enjoyed the show. It's the first Wrestle Kingdom I watched as a whole and now it will be a yearly appointment!

[@sharona1981]

The Junior Heavyweight match and Naito vs. Okada were the matches of the night for me (mildly disappointed they didn't pull the trigger with Naito, thought it was going to be his night, but hey), followed closely by Suzuki vs. Goto for pure emotion. The ending was epic, with Suzuki trying to salvage his pride by shaving his own head, and still coming out of that looking like a badass. Yeah, I f'ing love Suzuki. I really liked Omega v Jericho, it had great spots and they had fantastic chemistry, but it was by no means the best match for me... *waits to be lynched by angry fans* To anyone who only started watching New Japan yesterday because of the Omega/Jericho match....please please subscribe to NJPW World. You will not be disappointed-their product is amazing.

[@JOfnT]

Eden Mayhew I agree wholeheartedly. Especially when you mentioned subbing to NJPW World. More subs, more of a chance they'll do more stuff with Jericho and other big American draws and American shows.

[@Unlitedsoul]

Cody/Ibushi was my personal favorite match. Okada/Naito was second, but I think they screwed up that finish. While I believe Naito should have won, I can understand why they booked Okada instead. Where they screwed up was Okada no-selling a second of back-to-back Destinoes and countering it with a jumping pile driver. Seriously, Okada was almost dead after taking a Destino and kicking out moments before. He then got hit with another, could barely stand, then counters the final one? Give me a break! That only buries Naito's finisher. Jericho/Omega was third, with the Jr 4-way being very close to it. All of that being said, this was a bit of a letdown overall compared to the past WKs. Still and excellent show that will most likely be double the quality of anything the WWE puts on this year.

[@curbyourcomment2164]

I would say Omega vs Jericho and the Four-Way were matches of the night

[@neptuneniq]

Trent is in the heavyweight division but he's in CHAOS and there's always gonna be faction tag matches

[@bemindful3315]

One of the very best Pay Per Views i've ever seen Jericho is a hero and a legend. May be time to legitimately enter him into contention for greatest ever

[@james_the_animator]

I wonder how Okada's title reign is going to end...

[@drfritz3517]

wrestlekingdom is obviously the place but who? Probably not Naito it would be the same main event 2 years in a row and for the third time at WK. The only one I can think of is Omega. here's my booking: Goto vs Naito g1 finals, Goto wins but defends his WrestleKingdom briefcase against Kenny at King Of Pro Wrestling and Goto loses his opportunity (continuing the story of Goto coming just so close again) so Omega vs Okada WK13, Omega wins the iwgp heavyweight championship and I would have Naito to dethrone Kenny in the future.

[@joeyzapata6786]

If history is any indicator, my money is on Omega at first, then Okada somehow gets it back, with Naito ultimately beating Okada for the title.

[@MARKOUTTV]

At this point it'll be one of the stranger things kids. He ain't dropping that belt for a while.

[@c_f0rce]

@@MARKOUTTV Hah that's what you thought

[@MARKOUTTV]

@@c_f0rce Look...

[@sonicplys64]

NJPW know how to put on a solid show. Best three matches for me were Goto/Suzuki, the 4 way Jr HW title match and of course the crazy insane Jericho/Omega match.

[@JayMil365]

Great review, thanks again Brian!

[@Lunacorva]

Thinking about it... The whole "Literally every move could be a finish" is kind of something I like from a psychology standpoint, because thinknig about wrestling as if it were a real fight, if you're in the match you'd WANT to try to win quickly. You'd want to try and fire off your best shot and put your opponent away ASAPso you can cash in that paycheck and not get beat up for the next twenty minutes. So I like that feeling of urgency and the sense that one wrong move could be it for the other guy.

[@caniaccharlie]

I didn't really notice the quick false finishes too much, but NJPW will throw in a quick finish once in a while. The first on that comes to mind is Hiromu Takahashi defeating Kushida in about 3 minutes at Genesis last year.

[@FightingForceSoulless]

I watched Omega vs Jericho without ANY prior experience with NJPW, and let me tell you, it was..... different. I knew Omega was a big deal, and Jericho is Jericho, so I watched it. It was something new, the set, camera angles, Kenny Omega, announcers (which are better than Raw's and SD's), and the action. And I loved all of it. A match with two stars, they beat the crap out of each other, they did some funny stuff like with the middle finger camera, they did goofy stuff, like Omega with the spray. And they connected with the crowd very well, and made everyone happy, because this match had something for everyone. Going for half an hour, it surpassed my expectations.

[@lanagievski1540]

Signed up because of this PPV Would usually just watch new japan recaps and the odd match on a stream but I’m so glad I signed up now

[@Unlitedsoul]

Rope breaks for pins are always enforced unless it's a falls cout anywhere match. There is no DQ rule with a pinfall attempt, where there is with a submission rope break.

[@timefoambathray9339]

I totally agree about Cheeseburger next year, dude's been in the final two of the NJ Rumble two years running now.

[@MC-mf7zj]

Okay, first New Japan has been way more popular before this back in the 90's. So when you say mainstream, say the US mainstream.

[@MC-mf7zj]

Okay, I disgree that the Junior Way is must see, Suzuki vs Goto is must see. That's the 2nd best match of the night, it's not far behind Okada vs Naito;.

[@jcace13]

I planned to just watch Jericho/Omega but made sure to catch The Young Bucks, Ibushi/Cody, The Jr. 4-way and Okada/Naito. Jericho put on some of his best heel work in years, truly a great match 👍🏻

[@davidharding542]

I actually sat through a four hour show and enjoyed every match, even if I was lacking much of the context. Another thing I noticed was how much better the music was for the entrances. Keeping in mind comparisons to other promotions are not valid since their respective audiences have inherent differences I might start watching every week.

[@miamimagicians]

amazing show, loved it, worth every penny

[@beaston]

Kind of shocked Brian doesn't seem to know much about NJPW. Out of all of the Japanese promotions, it's the easiest to follow and has been the easiest to follow for decades. I guess I should be glad that he's covering it at all.

[@MikeCassandra]

I scanned the top comments and nobody said it, so I'm sorry if I'm repeating something here, but Omega's outfit was a Destiny 2 cosplay. I didn't know either, haven't got that title yet, but saw it covered a couple of places.

[@thealjohnsonshow2188]

4:39-4:41; 12:30-12:33 *Another rare f bomb by Brian Zane.*

[@TheHeavyMetalGamer91]

I watched the show on axs tv and I only saw the 1v1 matches.... Jericho v Omega was the BEST.

[@MarsKidd27]

I'm happy that people are finally enjoying wrestling and that the place is NJPW. Reason being they are serious and have legitimacy and won't worry about whiny American fans

[@jujubaoil]

Are you gonna do a "Who War It Better?" comparing WK12 and this year's 'Mania?

[@Manvsbeargettinfood]

Lol I feel you on the beginning. I watched it live Japan time. But it was totally worth it.

[@depressedtoruyano1682]

Naito/Okada should've been main event. Naito already got voted out of the main event once, and to have him voted out TWICE, would be straight up insulting.

[@myfinalheaven9590]

Kenny Omega vs Chris Jericho - awesomeness 👏

[@r_a_w_g_e_r]

Did anybody else notice Ray Rowe taking Elgin's position for the walk down the ramp? I'm pretty sure Elgin was supposed to be in the middle, flanked by War Machine on each side, but Rowe just walks in front of his ass and takes the middle spot like a boss

[@Djiehh]

Personally, I liked Okada vs. Naito better than Omega vs. Jericho, partly because I couldn't see NJPW putting the belt on Jericho (and also because I'm a huge Naito mark). The ending of the main event actually had me on the edge of my seat a number of times. But I was pleasantly surprised by the quality Jericho was able to deliver.

[@juliooquendo220]

WK 12 was great. Wow NJPW now im hooked om this. I wish Omega vs Jericho 2 could happen at MSG in NYC OR AT&T stadium in TEXAS. Now that would sold out like crazy.

[@Vercingetorix.Fantasia]

Julio Oquendo they are doing more I'd shows. It's possible

[@juliooquendo220]

wahsus tah yeah i wish njpw would come to the big cities. People will come and invest in this wresting company

[@giandelvalle6012]

Wrestle kingdom is better than Wrestlemania

[@TrolledBy]

easily, every year

[@MrJackblack7]

It's been that way the last few years but for sure this year it's a no contest. There's no way Mania is gonna be better than this.

[@hectorvargasjr.6320]

Great Review ZMan.

[@Elementa2006]

And this point I don't care what Cornette says, Omega has paid his dues and he's proven to be a draw for NJPW (though having Jericho in the match brought more eyes on this match)

[@Wooderz245]

As great as the matches were, I definitely noticed when watching that Kevin Dunn is more important at WWE than he gets credit for. There were a lot of moments where the cameramen and the cuts gave away the lack of contact being made and where facial reactions were missed. Especially in the close to Jericho vs Omega. Jericho goes for the Lionsault, Omega throws the chair and rather than getting a shot of Jericho, we got a shot of Jericho humping the top rope while waiting for Omega to deliver the OWA. Just one example. I know NJPW doesn't have the production budget that WWE has, and it's a small niggle but it just took me out of it a bit. Still a great wrestling show.

[@roodboy606]

Do you have a TelePrompter or can do these all from memory?

[@beane10]

You say, “this is the style now, big moves and no selling” and not even 30 seconds later you say, “both teams really sold back injuries during this match” If you don’t like the Bucks becuz of some past matches that were kind of spot festy I get that, but this match was very well put together and the selling was so convincing that twitter thought Matt and Sho both had actual back injuries. I disagree with you on that. But that’s why wrestling is great, you see one thing and I see something completely different. Great show and I can’t wait to see what NJPW does in 2018! Cheers man!

[@elidolo6993]

About the Main event, Naito has always been adamant about the Main Event of WK having to be for that Top Prize in the Company, Which is the IWGP World Title. Perhaps because at WK8, He lost the Main Event despite challenging for the Title against Okada (yep, it happened before) So, I see what You mean with Omega/Jericho being this Crescendo, then the Main Event being after that crescendo. But, I'm not sure how much sense it'd make for Someone who barley came in, to main event on their first match, while Us knowing that they're leaving soon. I've always held belief that the 2 men who main event a Supercard should be 2 men That'll be around at least till the Next Supershow. (With the exception that it's a legend's retirement match) And I think We should partly bear in mind that Naito was voted "Most Popular" in Tokyo Sports 2 years in a row. (At least, I think it was "most popular" I'm sure it had something to do with that though.) And yes, NJPW may be looking to branch out to Western audiences (what with the whole G1 Special, and Bringing in Jericho in the first place.) But giving the Main Western Attraction match the Main Event of the Dome show seems a bit too much in my opinion. But like noses, everyone has an opinion. (Except for Voldermort.) I do respect Yours, just wanted to express mine as well. Been subbed for a couple years already, and I love Your videos! Keep up the good work!

[@FrontRowCentral]

Jericho came out to Don’t you wish you were me in 2005 for I think another two week span if I’m remembering correctly . When WWE Originals came out.

[@aznmathninja0076]

Omega was in Destiny 2 getup. Omega is a huge gamer and D2 is massively popular.

[@SpinosaurusTheProudSocialist]

Great show, don't see how WWE is going to top this.

[@drfritz3517]

I came back from work at 2am and the show was at 3am and ended at 8am jesus christ I was tired, but it was worth it!

[@CountZeroOr]

Don Callis on commentary? NJPW brought in Cyrus? Huh.

[@dcoker9738]

Alexander Case He been doing commentary for a year

[@VNCstudios]

Alexander Case He replaced Corino when he joined the fed. Good replacement as he has great chemistry with Kelly.

[@ethanthegamingguy4974]

I was lucky enough to see it live

[@MacStoker]

nice mate, bit jealous

[@TheTsunaru]

First floor stands, 11th row. "Kaze ni Nare'd" with 43000 people, life is complete.

[@thetruecish]

I'm only a part time fan of New Japan. WK12 was the first time I watched New Japan since the G1.

[@ElroyJetson318]

anyone. is njpw world worth the money?

[@jarronhouse9517]

Black_Mage Yes

[@austingage8593]

If you want to get into njpw, yes

[@GhaythAjra]

Black_Mage yeah

[@sharona1981]

Absolutely yes

[@drewlytle2281]

Yeah, it's 999 Yen which converted to US dollars is a little under $9, so technically it's actually even cheaper then WWE network.

[@Neithan02]

The good thing about watching NJPW: you can easily watch it without commentary, honestly, the japanese is nice soundbits (and if you ever watched subbed anime, you are used to such things), the US commentary imo is like the one on WWE products: somehting I'd rather turn off because they are simply annoying.

[@griizz13]

SOmeone has probably told you, but Beretta did challenge Kenny for the US IWGP title, but he got his ass beat for the most part in that match. Kind of like Jay white did at wk12 considering Tanahashi is just fucked up injured.

[@cruzcorp914]

Hard to argue that Jericho isn't the goat of this era. I can't say he is the best performer in the ring but he is definitely an amazing talent in ring, promo and builds.

[@prasan7561]

Now you guys know how it feels

[@thetruecish]

They're making a New Japan Fire Pro game!? That's awesome!

[@eyes1184]

Did you hear Chris Jericho call a jeering fan "Fuckface"? That was when I thought "Yes. THIS is the Heel Jericho I love!". So much better than insulting someone with "Stupid Idiot" constantly.

[@thetruecish]

I feel like staying up until 7AM to watch WK12 might have affected my thoughts on the show.

[@dangalangman7379]

Seeing Y2J do the lion tamer got me so fkn hype lol but it was lat af and I didn't want to wake everybody in the house.

[@exploderwrestlingpodcast2721]

"You gotta hear the Japanese commentary." Well, yeah, I would even enjoy it...IF I SPOKE JAPANESE.

[@WrestlingWithWregret]

+Daniel Fraley Right? I don't understand the appeal to those listening who don't speak the language.

[@MagnesDrachen13]

Wrestling With Wregret Yeah, I used to listen to the Spanish commentary for Lucha (because of no other option) long before I understood Spanish as well as I do now, but outside of the excitement, I didn't understand the content.

[@bonnyathome]

A very structured and formulaic show. Every match had more or less the same story.

[@TheTsugnawmi2010]

The Cross Roads onto the mat was the spot of the night!

[@Pudward69]

I really thought Jericho was going to win the IWGP United States Championship (that still is strange, a US Title in Japan), because I sorta believed that it would somehow led to a rematch between the two at WrestleMania. I wonder what's next for Jericho, I really would love to see him debut in ROH, and possible become the next ROH Champion (that would be the biggest boost the ROH Title has ever had, and really boost its Prestige). That could've led to a working relationship with WWE and New Japan (love to see that, also with ROH). If WWE would work with these other companies, they could help the business, and lets be honest, no matter how great ROH does, they will never be on WWE's level, and even after over 15 years, they still seem like a Independent Promotion. It would help WWE to bring in talent (going to NXT, then the Main Roster), but mainly, it would help with the WWE being able to sent guys that need a fresh run to New Japan or ROH; that's what Randy Orton needs, imagine him showing up in the Main Event and giving Okada and RKO, that would've been epic. WWE really needs to create more partnerships with other Promotions, that will help the business and really excite the fans. I was really surprised that Naito didn't win the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, I'm not a fan of his or anything (I don't follow enough, I really just know about Hiroshi Tanahashi), I just figured that was the point of the build-up, and the fact that Okada has been the Champion for over 560 Days already (the longest reign in history), and figured it was time for him to lose the Championship. (Side-note: Okada now also has the record for Longest Total Time as IWGP Champion, at over 1,360 Days; breaking Tanahashi's record of 1,358 Days). I wonder who will eventually beat Okada? It's most likely going to be Kenny Omega, but that means he would likely have to lose the US Title first, then take the IWGP Title at the next major event; so I'm guessing that Okada's reign will pass 600 Days. You have to wonder if Hiroshi Tanahashi will ever win an 8th IWGP Championship, or if he'll ever compete in the WWE? He's been New Japan's version of John Cena for just as long as Cena's run in the WWE, he's 41 right now, and a match between him and Cena, or Styles or even Shinsuke Nakamura would be awesome on the WWE stage. I wonder what's next for Cody Rhodes (still think it's dumb he can't be 'Cody 'Rhodes', how the hell does WWE own the Rhodes name, and why doesn't Cody make that his legal name (just for his wrestling career, then change it back)). I was still shocked when he lost the ROH Heavyweight Title at Final Battle, I thought he would hold if for at least a year, he was going so strong, I can't believe he lost it; wonder if he can regain it at the Anniversary Show? All and all, even though I didn't watch this event, everything I read about says that it was an extremely good PPV. I know New Japan puts forth amazing PPV's, in terms of matches, but aside from Jericho vs Omega, I don't know any of the Storylines that are happening in New Japan, so I don't know if this resolved the stories or started new ones?