12 Biggest Stories From NJPW King Of Pro-Wrestling And What They Mean Going Forward
3. Hiroshi Tanahashi Destined For Tokyo Dome Main Event
Hiroshi Tanahashi has spent 2018 re-establishing himself as New Japan’s Ace and helped to cement that status with his G1 Climax win in August. The IWGP title shot he earned as the tournament's winner was successfully defended against his longtime rival Kazuchika Okada during last month’s Destruction in Kobe. However, Tanahashi’s Wrestle Kingdom slot was again up for grabs at King of Pro-Wrestling as he faced the devious Jay White.
Though he tried everything he could think of to steal away what Tanahashi had earned -- including low blows and interference -- the young star’s overconfidence proved his downfall. White chose not to make a cover following a chair shot, instead going for his Blade Runner finisher. However, the unnecessary maneuver gave Tanahashi the opportunity to counter as he rolled White up for the surprise three-count.
With the close victory over the Switchblade, Tanahashi is now guaranteed to be part of the Wrestle Kingdom main event for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship. It’s been four years since the Ace has held New Japan’s top prize, but with 2018 proving his reemergence as the company’s top star, perhaps 2019 will see Tanahashi again wear the IWGP title around his waist.