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

8. Enter 'The Dragon'

Shingo Takagi
NJPW

It was one of the biggest storylines heading into King Of Pro-Wrestling, and the grand reveal of Los Ingobernables de Japon's Mr. X didn't disappoint.

In Sumo Hall, the building in which EVIL and SANADA both joined the rebellious group, Tetsuya Naito first teased long-time rival and announcer Milano Collection AT, before bringing out his new 'Dragon,' Shingo Takagi, in the signature LIJ steel mask. This is comfortably the most satisfying resolution New Japan could've conceivably delivered.

A former Dragon Gate stalwart, Takagi concluded his business with Japan's second biggest promotion the night before KOPW. His signing is a significant coup. An outstanding bully heel personality and riveting lightning bruiser between the ropes, his history with Naito goes all the way back to their formative years, when the duo trained together. He was, prior to today, one of the best Japanese-based wrestlers not working for NJPW, and after running his course in Dragon Gate, he has jumped ship at the perfect time.

This couldn't be more exciting. Get ready for your new favourite Junior Heavyweight.

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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.