10 Best NJPW Wrestlers Of 2016

While many were concerned about the exodus of superstars from New Japan to WWE at the start of 2016, NJPW proved that they have the talent on their roster to carry on the momentum that they have built over the past decade. Now going into one of the most anticipated non-WWE wrestling events of all time, Wrestle Kingdom 11, we can look back at the performers who made 2016 a banner year for the company.

This list is based on the performances these wrestlers were able to put on, as well as their position in the company and how they have improved over the past 12 months. Some of them have held down their main event spots while others have shot up the company ladder. Some have carried their divisions while others have achieved success in the outside world of pro wrestling, spreading the influence of New Japan around the globe.

Here are the top 10 New Japan wrestlers from 2016.

Unbreakable Michael Elgin has blossomed into a popular babyface in an arena where gaijin wrestlers don't often cover themselves in glory. But through his impressive mix of strength and athleticism Big Mike has climbed the New Japan ladder with some serious pace. His 2016 started slowly with a Wrestle Kingdom loss to ROH Champion Jay Lethal but he quickly rebounded, utilising his chemistry with the ACE Tanahashi to capture the NEVER Six-Man Titles along with, of all people, Yoshi Tatsu.

Battles with The ELITE continued until Elgin and Kenny Omega threw down in NJPW's first ever ladder match for the IC Championship. This match lived up to the hype and Elgin went on to carry the title through an impressive G1 showing before losing it to Naito.

Worryingly he also suffered a facial fracture in this clash, which to this point means he won't be at WK11 barring a rapid recovery. Either way Big Mike will surely regain his momentum once he's back in front of the Japanese crowd.