NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 19 1/4/2025

NJPW will hold NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 19 at the Tokyo Dome on January 4. In a post on their website, NJPW confirmed the full card.

The card is as follows:

  • IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Zack Sabre Jr. (c) vs. Shota Umino
  • Tetsuya Naito vs. Hiromu Takahashi
  • IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship: David Finlay (c) vs. Yota Tsuji
  • IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship: DOUKI (c) vs. El Desperado
  • NEVER Openweight Championship: Shingo Takagi (c) vs. Konosuke Takeshita
  • Lumberjack Match: Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. EVIL
  • NJPW World TV Championship: Ren Narita (c) vs. Jeff Cobb vs. Ryohei Oiwa vs. El Phantasmo
  • IWGP Women’s Championship: Mayu Iwatani (c) vs. AZM
  • IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championships: Intergalactic Jet Setters (Kevin Knight & KUSHIDA) (c) vs. Ichiban Sweet Boys (Kosei Fujita & Robbie Eagles) vs. BULLET CLUB War Dogs (Drilla Moloney & Clark Connors) vs. Catch 2/2 (TJP & Francesco Akira)
  • Kickoff: New Japan Ranbo

The Young Bucks Return To Japan For Wrestle Dynasty, Eye IWGP Gold

For the first time in four years, The Young Bucks, Matt and Nick Jackson, are heading back to Japan, and they’re making their return on one of the grandest stages in professional wrestling. The AEW EVPs are set to compete at NJPW’s Wrestle Dynasty event at the iconic Tokyo Dome on January 5, with one goal in mind: reclaiming the IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Championships.

The Bucks announced their intentions in a special video sent to New Japan Pro-Wrestling, with Nick Jackson declaring, “There’s one thing Matt and I need to accomplish before we retire, and that’s getting the IWGP Heavyweight Titles back around our waists one more time.” Matt chimed in with his trademark bravado, saying, “Tokyo, your rich god-fearing uncles are coming back. See you soon.”

A Complicated Road to Gold

The Young Bucks’ ambition to leave the Tokyo Dome as champions comes with one major wrinkle—they don’t yet know who they’ll face. Current IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Champions HENARE and Great-O-Khan are still competing in NJPW’s World Tag League tournament. If the champions fail to win the tournament themselves, they’ll defend the titles against the tournament winners at Wrestle Kingdom 19 on January 4. The victorious team from that bout will then face The Bucks at Wrestle Dynasty the following day.

This situation adds an air of unpredictability to an already stacked Wrestle Dynasty card.

Bucks’ History with IWGP Gold

The Young Bucks are no strangers to IWGP tag team success. In 2018, they captured the IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Championships by defeating EVIL and SANADA at Dominion, cementing themselves as one of the most versatile teams in NJPW history. They are one of only two teams to have won both the IWGP Junior Heavyweight and IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Championships, a feat that underscores their legacy.

However, reclaiming those titles at this stage of their career could represent a final chapter in their storied NJPW run, a momentous achievement before they hang up their boots.

A Star-Studded Wrestle Dynasty Card

The Wrestle Dynasty event is shaping up to be an unforgettable night, with several high-profile matches already announced, including:

  • Kenny Omega vs. Gabe Kidd for the NJPW STRONG Openweight Championship
  • Shota Umino vs. Claudio Castagnoli
  • Jack Perry vs. Yota Tsuji
  • The International Women’s Tournament final
  • Tomohiro Ishii vs. either Konosuke Takeshita or Shingo Takagi
  • Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Ricochet

With the return of The Young Bucks and a stacked lineup of matches, Wrestle Dynasty promises to be a landmark event for NJPW and a treat for wrestling fans worldwide.

Kenny Omega vs. Gabe Kidd Is Now Confirmed For Wrestle Dynasty 2025

It was reported here earlier that former AEW World Champion Kenny Omega challenged NJPW’s Gabe Kidd for a match at Wrestle Dynasty on January 5, 2025

It’s official – Kenny Omega will be facing off against Gabe Kidd at Wrestle Dynasty 2025, which takes place on January 5th.

You can check out the official announcement from New Japan Pro Wrestling below:

Kenny Omega vs Gabe Kidd official for Wrestle Dynasty!
Omega’s singles return set for January 5
Kenny Omega’s altercation with Gabe Kidd backstage at Power Struggle on November 4 has been the talk of the wrestling world for several weeks. This week saw Kenny Omega issue an interview saying that after consideration and discussion with NJPW officials, he was willing to wrestle Kidd at the Tokyo Dome. That challenge was accepted, first on social media and then in Yokohama by Kidd, who took to the microphone to yell that ‘it doesn’t matter what NJPW or the fans want, what matters is what I want’. Kidd’s expletive laced tirade, at the end of a violent and dominant brawl against Chase Owens and KENTA, has now been recognized, and the match is official.

Kenny Omega will step into a pro-wrestling ring in anger for the first time in 396 days, and in an NJPW ring for the first time in two years exactly. Will he prevail against the violent mad man in the Tokyo Dome?

Wrestle Dynasty 2025 will showcase the stars of NJPW, AEW, STARDOM, ROH, and CMLL.

AEW’s Kenny Omega Challenges NJPW Star To Match At Wrestle Dynasty

After spending all of 2024 sidelined due to a battle with diverticulitis, AEW’s Kenny Omega is officially ready to make his long-anticipated return to the ring. The former AEW World Champion wasted no time stirring the pot, issuing a challenge that could define NJPW’s Wrestle Dynasty on January 5, 2025. Omega is prepared to face NJPW STRONG Openweight Champion Gabe Kidd, with tensions between the two already boiling over after their heated exchange at NJPW’s Power Struggle event earlier this month.

The Challenge That Shook NJPW

In an interview with NJPW1972.com, Omega opened up about the incident with Kidd and expressed his desire to resolve their issues in the ring. Omega emphasized his respect for the business and the relationship between AEW and NJPW while laying the groundwork for a monumental clash.

“I’d like to address recent circumstances, and things that have happened with Gabe Kidd,” Omega stated. “I’ve had time to reflect after Power Struggle, and I feel I would regret not being able to make things right. I would hate for this situation to cause a rift between AEW and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. So after conversations I’ve had with President Tanahashi and other executives in NJPW, I’ve decided that if New Japan requests it, if Gabe requests it, and if the fans want it, then I will wrestle Gabe Kidd, as a professional, at Wrestle Dynasty January 5.”

This public challenge now puts the ball squarely in Kidd’s court. Known for his brash attitude, Kidd has already been vocal about his disdain for Omega, criticizing the former AEW star for his supposed arrogance during his NJPW appearances. With Wrestle Dynasty just weeks away, all eyes are on Kidd to see if he will accept what could be the biggest match of his career.

Plans Shift for Wrestle Dynasty

Omega’s challenge has not only captivated fans but also shaken up the plans for January 5. Omega was initially rumored to team up with NJPW legend Hiroshi Tanahashi to face The Young Bucks in a high-profile tag match. With Omega now setting his sights on Kidd, it appears those plans have been shelved—or perhaps transformed into a different storyline altogether. The Young Bucks, former AEW World Tag Team Champions, have already confirmed their participation in Wrestle Dynasty, though their opponents remain a mystery.

A New Year, A New Chapter for Omega

Omega’s return marks a significant moment not only for NJPW fans but for professional wrestling as a whole. Having been absent for an entire year due to illness, his comeback is expected to reignite his storied career while potentially solidifying his legacy in NJPW. A clash with Gabe Kidd offers an opportunity for both men to showcase their skills on one of wrestling’s biggest stages.

As the road to Wrestle Dynasty heats up, Omega’s challenge has set the stage for what could be one of the Tokyo Dome’s most talked-about matches. Will Gabe Kidd step up and seize the opportunity, or will Omega’s return take a different twist? Wrestling fans will have their answer soon enough.

AEW’s Kenny Omega Explains How His Diverticulitis Could Be ‘Blessing In Disguise’

Kenny Omega is no stranger to wrestling fans worldwide. As a cornerstone of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Omega’s dynamic in-ring style and gripping storytelling have made him one of the industry’s most respected figures. But for the past several months, fans have felt his absence following a diagnosis of diverticulitis, a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition that forced him out of action. Now, as he nears his return, Omega is reflecting on his time away, calling it a “blessing in disguise.”

Diverticulitis is a painful and potentially dangerous condition that affects the digestive system, causing inflammation in the intestines. For Omega, this diagnosis meant a significant break from wrestling. It was not only a physical setback but also a difficult mental adjustment for someone so deeply connected to the ring.

Despite the physical toll, Omega is taking a remarkably positive outlook on his hiatus. In a recent interview with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, he described how his battle with diverticulitis has changed his perspective, allowing him to look at his career and life through a different lens. “Although getting sick in the way that I did set me back almost a year now, it’s almost a blessing in disguise,” he reflected. For Omega, this time away has offered the rare chance to recharge and reassess, something he believes will ultimately benefit his performance in the long run.

Omega also expressed how his time off has provided an opportunity to overcome his fears, specifically regarding his potential rivalry with wrestling icon Kazuchika Okada. “I looked at that man as a monster, and I can’t lie, I was scared; I can’t face this guy as current Kenny Omega,” he admitted. His words hint at the intensity of his competitive spirit and suggest that he’s using this downtime to mentally prepare for a renewed battle with Okada.

Omega’s comments have sparked speculation among fans about a possible storyline between him and Okada when he returns to AEW. Their previous encounters in New Japan Pro-Wrestling are legendary, widely regarded as some of the best matches in modern wrestling history. With Omega’s renewed focus and a clear headspace, fans are already buzzing with excitement at the idea of him stepping back into the ring with “The Rainmaker.” It seems that even in his absence, Omega is laying the groundwork for an explosive comeback.

With Omega nearing medical clearance, his return to AEW could be one of the biggest wrestling events of the year. Not only does it bring one of the industry’s top talents back into the spotlight, but it also allows AEW to further develop its narrative depth, potentially reigniting cross-promotional rivalries with New Japan. A rematch between Omega and Okada would bridge the gap between wrestling promotions, giving fans a storyline that spans years and continents.

For AEW, having Omega back is a boost in star power and a potential storyline goldmine. As fans eagerly await his return, the anticipation only grows for the exciting matches and storytelling that await. Omega’s resilience and optimism in the face of a daunting health challenge are inspiring, showing fans the power of perseverance and adaptability.

Kenny Omega’s journey through diverticulitis has shown that even the toughest challenges can yield unexpected blessings. His positive outlook, combined with his resolve to come back stronger, serves as an inspiration not only to his fans but also to anyone facing setbacks in life. As Omega nears his return, the wrestling world waits with bated breath to see him back in action — revitalized, refocused, and ready to remind everyone why he’s one of the best in the business. Whether it’s a match against Okada or a new AEW storyline, one thing is clear: Kenny Omega’s return will be nothing short of spectacular.

AEW’s Kenny Omega Announced For Upcoming NJPW Appearance

It has now been nearly a year since Kenny Omega was forced to put his wrestling career on hold thanks to a bout of diverticulitis so severe that there were concerns for Omega’s life. And save for an appearance on “AEW Dynamite” in May, where he was brutally assaulted by The Elite’s Young Bucks, Kazuchika Okada, and Jack Perry, Omega has largely focused on his recovery from surgery. There have been signs, however, that a return could be on the horizon, with Omega being spotted training with long-time tag partner Kota Ibushi, and sitting down with old New Japan rival Hiroshi Tanahashi.

But the biggest sign Omega may be getting set for an in-ring return may have just been revealed by New Japan on Tuesday evening. The promotion announced on their website that Omega will be making a special appearance at NJPW Power Struggle, scheduled to be held on November 4 in Osaka. In their announcement, New Japan pondered what would come from Omega’s special appearance, his first in New Japan since New Year’s Dash 2023, teasing it could be related to Omega’s reunion with Tanahashi earlier this month.

During said reunion, both Omega and Tanahashi expressed interest in teaming together for the first time, with Omega naming the Young Bucks as potential opponents as he looks to avenge their attack on him. Since then, there’s been speculation that the duo’s match against the Bucks could take place at Wrestle Dynasty, a joint show between AEW, CMLL, and New Japan set for January 5 in the Tokyo Dome, Whether Omega’s Power Struggle appearance will hint towards that, or signal a return to the ring sooner than anticipated, remains to be seen.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

NJPW’s Hiroshi Tanahashi Announces He Will Retire At Wrestle Kingdom 1/4/2026

Top NJPW star Hiroshi Tanahashi announced that he will retire from in-ring competition in 2026, with his final match taking place at Wrestle Kingdom on January 4, 2026.

Tanahashi is the current President and Representative Director for NJPW.

Tanahashi has held the IWGP World Championship a record of eight times. He is also a three-time G1 Climax winner and a Triple Grand Slam Winner in NJPW.

NJPW Video Teases Reunion With AEW’s Kenny Omega At WrestleDynasty Crossover Show

Kenny Omega has faced some of the best wrestlers in NJPW history, and the promotion was where he firmly established himself as a major name in the business. On AEW television, Omega hasn’t been seen since May, when he was written off after an attack by former allies The Elite, but it seems like “The Best Bout Machine” is returning to the public eye.

The official NJPW X account recently shared a brief clip where Hiroshi Tanahashi looked back at his last match with Omega, and teased an upcoming reunion. “We wrestled in the main event in the Tokyo Dome in 2019. That match and what came out of it? It was a unique situation, so I think everyone’s curious as to how we’ve been. I’ve got a lot of mixed emotions, but I’m curious too. Excited to see him,” Tanahashi said. The two men then met in a room, and greeted one another, with the post’s hashtags teasing that their “reunion” is somehow tied to the multi-promotion Wrestle Dynasty pay-per-view, which will take place on January 5, 2025.

The most recent update on Omega’s health was one month ago, in August. The star has been suffering from diverticulitis for quite some time, and had surgery recently. His good friend and AEW star, Michael Nakazawa, claimed that “The Cleaner” had 25 centimeters removed of his colon, and had lost abdominal strength as a result, making basic tasks difficult for him. However, Nakazawa added that Omega had steadily been recovering, and that he’d been training at the time. Considering that he’s seemingly planning to appear at Wrestle Dynasty in January, it appears like his recovery has gone quicker than many anticipated.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Update On Matt Riddle’s Likelihood In AEW

A year out from his WWE exit, Matt Riddle recently teased the possibility of joining All Elite Wrestling, specifically with the intention of making more money and working a decent television schedule. According to a new report, though, that idea may be a little far-fetched right now.

Fightful Select reports that AEW President Tony Khan has had zero interest in bringing Riddle aboard to the company, “especially over the last number of years.” In recent months, Riddle has worked with some talents signed to AEW — including Brian Cage, Dralistico, Komander, Penta El Zero Miedo, and The Beast Mortos — on the wrestling circuit. As Fightful points out, though, all those matches emanated from promotions based in Mexico, and not the United States.

In addition to the idea of signing with AEW, Riddle also recently discussed a backstage encounter he had with Khan following his loss to Zack Sabre Jr. at the April 2024 NJPW Windy City Riot show in Chicago. According to Riddle, the conversation between him and Khan was relatively awkward. While Khan initially seemed happy, Riddle stated that he later seemed “confused” when Riddle asked him if he liked the match with Sabre Jr. in a “different” kind of tone.

Since leaving WWE last year, Riddle has worked for several independent promotions across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. “The Original Bro” has additionally appeared for New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Major League Wrestling. Riddle’s latest MLW appearance came at the Summer Of The Beasts event on August 29, which saw him defeat former MLW World Tag Team Champion Matthew Justice.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

NJPW Star Minoru Suzuki Updates Fans On His Condition After Collapsing Mid-Match

Minoru Suzuki provided a positive update on his status after the NJPW legend suffered a concussion mid-match on Saturday. Suzuki was wrestling for Tenryu Project at their Osake Crush Night show on July 6, a trios match pitting Suzuki, Kengo and YASSHI against Tomohiro Ishii, Yuji Hino, and Don Fuji for the Tenryu Project WAR Six-Man Tag Team titles. But the match was stopped by referee Keigo Yushino when, as he would explain on social media, Suzuki did not respond to initial calls. 

Yushino noted that Suzuki wanted to continue, but it was determined that he would not be safe to do so and the match was thrown out. In an announcement posted by Tenryu Project, it was revealed that Suzuki was diagnosed with a concussion after hospital examination, he has since been discharged and the promotion confirmed it would be keeping tabs on his condition over the next few days. The statement made note that Suzuki is walking and talking properly, not showing any significant symptoms and did not suffer any bleeding on the brain.

“Murder Grandpa” has since taken to social media himself, stating he’d had a CT scan which reflected no particular issues, further assuring fans that there was no need to worry. He said that he remembered everything about the incident, including the moment he collapsed. Tenryu Project said in its statement on the matter that it apologized for the abrupt finish to the match, and that it will endeavor to book a rematch once the 56-year-old is ready to return.  Suzuki had been active this week leading into his collapse, wrestling twice during Hiratsuka Shinshiku Yokocho Tanabata Matsuri on July 5. He has been teased for an upcoming clash against AEW’s Chris Jericho, confirming he wouldn’t team with Jericho at Forbidden Door last weekend for the first time, and that he would be seeking a shot at the FTW Championship when they do meet.

Source: Wrestling Inc.