11 Ups & 2 Downs From NJPW King Of Pro-Wrestling 2018

by Andy H Murray

1. Omega Vs. Tanahashi: Set In Stone

So it's settled, then. We're getting Kenny Omega vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi at Wrestle Kingdom 13.

This is the match. The duo have only one previous singles clash (a February 2016 Intercontinental Title bout) on their records, making this a fresh encounter between two of the absolute best wrestlers in the world. It's an easy ticket-mover, and on top of this, their respective paths to the Tokyo Dome have been extremely well told, though Power Struggle could well bring another twist or two.

Though their King Of Pro-Wrestling triumphs weren't unforeseen, it's hard to imagine anyone will be too disappointed by this. Omega vs. White would've been intriguing, but nowhere near as strong a draw, and their previous encounter was a letdown. Ibushi vs. Tanahashi? An incredible pairing with no build. Cody vs. White? Eww...

In his post-match interview, Omega insisted Ibushi "stand up together, so we can finish this together." Then, as he embraced his partner, an "I love you. Thank you." The Elite are seemingly a united front. Now, the focus turns to January 4th, which 'The Best Bout Machine' refused to comment on until tomorrow's press conference. Preserving this potentially awesome headliner was always KOPW's main priority, and with Tana shooting barbs in their brief post-main confrontation, anticipation has never been higher.

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.