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

Ups...

11. Getting English Commentary Right

Kevin Kelly Chris Charlton Rocky Romer
Twitter, @reasonjp

NJPW's AXS commentary team leaves much to be desired. Anchored by a past-it Jim Ross - whose cranky, dismissive attitude and complete lack of professionalism actively detract from the action - it does nothing to enhance the product, which should be critical at this stage in New Japan's international expansion. Kevin Kelly is as welcome an addition as Josh Barnett is a departure, but with the problematic JR in the booth, it's hard to imagine them ever hitting the mark.

To contrast, today's trio of Kelly, Rocky Romero, and translator Chris Charlton were once again a joy to listen to. Kelly, the best play-by-play guy in the business, called the action to his typically high standards, Romero added flair and personality, while Charlton's contributions brought context. Don Callis is much missed, but these guys are tremendous.

No matter the personnel, these NJPW World combinations always succeed where AXS fails. Years of experimentation with guys like Steve Corino and Matt Striker have yielded a winning team, and Kelly, the glue holding everything together, is instrumental in New Japan's English-language ambitions.

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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.