10 Times Chris Jericho Shocked The Wrestling World
2. Confounding Critics At NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 12
Whilst many would credit ultra-worker Kenny Omega for the critical and commercial success of the Wrestle Kingdom 12 co-main event, the mere presence of Chris Jericho on the other side of the Tokyo Dome ring had far greater ramifications beyond the match itself.
The New Japan World streaming service saw a 35% increase in subscribers, much of which had to be attributed to the mainstream/WWE appeal Chris Jericho's presence promised. The aforementioned No Disqualification stipulation afforded them a blood-and-thunder brawl that ensured fans' first experience of the product was a pleasurable one, with the maniacal 'Alpha' tearing through Omega, a selection of young boys and even the set itself as he looked to completely embarrass the man widely considered to be the best performer in the entire world.
'Y2J' lost the match, but was a major, major winner by every other metric. His reputation reestablished as a take-no-sh*t street fighter, he earned his first ever ***** rating from Wrestling Observer gaffer Dave Meltzer and over-delivered on even high expectations established in an unconventional build. NJPW were obviously thrilled too, based on what occurred the following night...