New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) prepares to kick off 2024 with its premier event, Wrestle Kingdom 19, scheduled for January 4 at the iconic Tokyo Dome. This annual extravaganza is expected to feature thrilling matches, pivotal championship challenges, and dramatic storylines.
This year, the Wrestle Kingdom show is headlined by the highly anticipated title match between IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Zack Sabre Jr. and challenger Shota Umino. Sabre Jr., having achieved his championship status by cashing in the G1 Climax title opportunity after defeating Tetsuya Naito, faces off against Umino, who is eager to make his mark on this grand stage.
Historically, Wrestle Kingdom has been characterized by high stakes and emotional narratives, and this year is no different. Umino’s challenge marks his first main event slot at Wrestle Kingdom, and fans are eager to see if he can rise to the occasion and dethrone Sabre Jr., who has solidified himself as one of the top talents in NJPW.
While the spotlight is on the world championship, several other compelling matches are set to take place. The NEVER Openweight Championship sees Shingo Takagi defend his title against AEW’s Konosuke Takeshita, adding prestige to both the NEVER Openweight and AEW International titles on the line. Meanwhile, the IWGP Women’s Championship will feature Mayu Iwatani defending against AZM, showcasing the talent of NJPW’s women’s division.
Another notable match features the charismatic Hiroshi Tanahashi taking on EVIL in what has been labeled a Lumberjack Death Match. Given Tanahashi's legendary status and impending retirement, the stakes couldn't be higher—this matchup could potentially mark the end of Tanahashi's illustrious career.
Bringing depth to the card, the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship match pits El Desperado against DOUKI. Desperado is no stranger to championship glory, already claiming his spot as the IWGP Junior Heavyweight champion multiple times. The match, which has gained urgency due to recent injuries, promises to offer heart-stopping moments for fans.
Other matches include Ren Narita defending the NJPW World TV Championship against Jeff Cobb, Ryohei Oiwa, and El Phantasmo, as well as Tetsuya Naito going head-to-head with Hiromu Takahashi. The diversity of match types and narratives reflects NJPW’s commitment to showcasing both established stars and rising talents.
For tag team fans, the event will feature the Tokyo Terror Ladder Match for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championships, with teams like the Intergalactic Jet Setters and the Bullet Club War Dogs vying for glory.
Wrestle Kingdom 19 not only brings excitement for fans within the Tokyo Dome but also provides global access through streaming. The event can be viewed live on NJPW World and Triller TV, with coverage set to begin at 3:00 AM EST. For those outside the U.S., various pricing options—including ¥1,575 (approximately $9.99) for the NJPW World stream—ensure affordability for international viewers.
Fans should mark their calendars for this spectacular event, as all eyes will be on the Tokyo Dome, where history is made every year. Will Zack Sabre Jr. retain his championship against the up-and-coming Shota Umino? Can Hiroshi Tanahashi secure victory and extend his wrestling legacy? The answers await at Wrestle Kingdom 19!