WWE Vs. NJPW: Head To Head
7. Commentary
There is no comparison.
Kevin Kelly is perfect for the escalatory drama of the classic main event. His resting voice borders on the dry, and he does rest it. He is carefully selective in when to reflect the drama with a raised voice and more urgent tone, allowing the wrestlers to effectively build the match to enrich the exhilarating finish. He isn’t so good as to be iconic—but the respect he has earned in recent years has lent his work the gravitas required to elevate a main event match as something of real importance.
Rocky Romero is a revelation; his immense knowledge of the in-ring art puts over the minutiae of every match—and the best New Japan matches are incredibly intricate. He’s also so enthusiastic that he has taken to calling spots, too, which isn’t his role, but you can’t not forgive the passion.
Chris Charlton is so good that he has broken the laws of mathematics. There is a place for a third man, after all. His translations and immense knowledge of connecting backstories adds yet another layer of intrigue to the drama.
The quality of New Japan’s commentary team dwarfs WWE’s unholy trinity of Michael Cole (infuriating catchphrases), Corey Graves (snarky asides) and Renee Young (“Oh!”).
Scorecard: WWE 0-4 NJPW