New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) kicked off its biggest event of the year, Wrestle Kingdom 19, at the iconic Tokyo Dome. Packed with incredible matches, thrilling storylines, and unforgettable moments, this year’s show set the tone for what’s to come in NJPW.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of all the action:
Pre-Show Highlights: Hirooki Goto Wins New Japan Ranbo
The pre-show featured the annual New Japan Ranbo, with the winner earning a shot at the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. After an intense battle with stars like Great-O-Khan, SANADA, Tomohiro Ishii, and others, Hirooki Goto outlasted the competition. In the final moments, Goto eliminated Great-O-Khan to secure his title opportunity.
Main Card Results
Tokyo Terror Ladder Match: Ichiban Sweet Boys Win Gold
Winners: Ichiban Sweet Boys (Robbie Eagles & Kosei Fujita)
Titles: IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship
This chaotic four-way ladder match featured insane spots, with ladders, chairs, and even tables in play. The Ichiban Sweet Boys overcame teams like the Bullet Club War Dogs, Catch 2/2, and the defending champions, Intergalactic Jetsetters, to claim the titles. Fujita grabbed the belts in a climactic finish, cementing their victory.
Mayu Iwatani Retains IWGP Women’s Championship
Winner: Mayu Iwatani
Opponent: AZM
AZM came in hot with her fast-paced offense, but Mayu Iwatani showed why she’s one of the best in the business. Despite AZM’s efforts, including a gnarly suplex and Tombstone Piledriver, Iwatani finished her off with a Closed Dragon Suplex. This match was a thrilling mix of speed and storytelling, with Iwatani solidifying her legacy.
El Phantasmo Wins NJPW World TV Title
Winner: El Phantasmo
Match Type: Fatal Four-Way
Opponents: Ren Narita (c), Jeff Cobb, Ryohei Oiwa
In a high-energy four-way match, El Phantasmo (ELP) stole the spotlight with his incredible moves and smart strategy. After dodging Cobb’s powerhouse offense and surviving Narita’s attacks, ELP landed a Thunderkiss ’86 to pin Narita and win the NJPW World TV Championship.
Hiroshi Tanahashi Saves His Career
Winner: Hiroshi Tanahashi
Match Type: Lumberjack Match
Opponent: EVIL
Facing possible retirement, Hiroshi Tanahashi brought his A-game against EVIL. Despite underhanded tactics and interference from the House of Torture, Tanahashi rallied back with his signature moves. After a thrilling reversal, Tanahashi scored the pinfall victory, keeping his career alive. Post-match, Katsuyori Shibata returned to rescue Tanahashi and challenged him for Wrestle Dynasty.
Konosuke Takeshita Becomes a Double Champion
Winner: Konosuke Takeshita
Match Type: Winner Takes All
Titles: NEVER Openweight Championship & AEW International Championship
Opponent: Shingo Takagi
In a hard-hitting clash of titans, Konosuke Takeshita defeated Shingo Takagi to become a double champion. After exchanging devastating lariats and power moves, Takeshita sealed the win with a Blue Thunderbomb. This match was pure adrenaline and set the stage for Wrestle Dynasty.
El Desperado Wins IWGP Junior Heavyweight Title
Winner: El Desperado
Opponent: Douki (c)
The highly anticipated match between Douki and El Desperado ended prematurely when Douki suffered an elbow injury during a risky move. Officials stopped the match, and Desperado was crowned the new champion. Best wishes to Douki for a speedy recovery.
Yota Tsuji Dethrones David Finlay
Winner: Yota Tsuji
Title: IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship
Opponent: David Finlay (c)
In a match filled with drama and near-falls, Yota Tsuji defeated David Finlay to win the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship. Tsuji endured multiple powerbombs and Finlay’s signature moves but ultimately hit a Gene Blaster to secure the pinfall. The crowd erupted in celebration as Tsuji raised the belt.
Tetsuya Naito Defeats Hiromu Takahashi in Dream Match
Winner: Tetsuya Naito
Opponent: Hiromu Takahashi
In a match filled with emotion and storytelling, Tetsuya Naito overcame his Los Ingobernables de Japon stablemate, Hiromu Takahashi. Despite Hiromu’s relentless offense, including multiple Time Bombs, Naito’s experience and determination led him to victory with a final Destino. This bittersweet match left fans captivated.
Main Event: Zack Sabre Jr. Retains IWGP World Heavyweight Championship
Winner: Zack Sabre Jr.
Title: IWGP World Heavyweight Championship
Opponent: Shota Umino
In the biggest match of his career, Shota Umino pushed champion Zack Sabre Jr. to his limits. The young star displayed incredible heart, but Sabre’s technical brilliance proved too much. Sabre retained the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, capping off an incredible year where he also won the G1 Climax.
Final Thoughts
Wrestle Kingdom 19 delivered unforgettable moments, from emotional matches to thrilling title changes. NJPW continues to set the standard for professional wrestling on a global stage.
- David Sugarman emphasises challenges are opportunities to build Resilience
- Hetty, aka Christine Hettinger, has all eyes on her as a rising Tattoo Artist
- Nikki Lien Dixon: The Visionary Behind Eternall Radio and the Heartfelt Story of Bright As A Star
- Maddy Kelman: From Farmers’ Markets to Fine Dining
- Darren Dunn: A Visionary Leader Transforming Tourism Through Innovation and AI
What were your favorite matches and moments from Wrestle Kingdom 19? Let us know in the comments!
