New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual events at the Tokyo Dome with Wrestle Kingdom 19 on January 4 and Wrestle Dynasty on January 5, marking the beginning of 2025 with some electrifying matchups.
One of the standout matches on the card features the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship clash between challenger El Desperado and the reigning champion DOUKI. El Desperado expressed the personal significance of this match, reflecting on previous encounters and the emotions tied to facing DOUKI again. “This January 4 will be one of the most memorable singles matches of my career,” he stated during the pre-event press conference.
Desperado noted the joyous feeling of being able to participate in such events, saying, "When I was a kid, New Year’s brought so many exciting events. Adult life seems to dull those feelings, but as a professional wrestler, I can once again find joy during this season.” He shared how his previous loss to DOUKI adds weight to their upcoming bout, stating, “There is pressure on me because if I lose again, I can hear the calls for me to quit.” Desperado is determined to rise to the occasion, vowing to put on an unforgettable performance.
On the other hand, DOUKI, who shares a history as part of Suzuki-gun alongside Desperado, also spoke about the match’s importance and how his perspective on wrestling evolved through sage advice he received years ago: "Enjoy wrestling!" He planned to embrace the atmosphere of the Tokyo Dome and face El Desperado head-on, inviting fans to witness every thrilling moment of their encounter. “I want to have fun on this grand stage with such a special opponent,” DOUKI declared.
Another major highlight at Wrestle Kingdom 19 is the IWGP Women’s Championship match between champion Mayu Iwatani and challenger AZM. Both competitors expressed their enthusiasm for this landmark event, with AZM declaring her capabilities with confidence, stating, “This match will showcase the highest level of wrestling only found between Iwatani and myself.”
AZM emphasized the significance of this opportunity, exclaiming her determination to usher in the next generation of talent during her appearance. “I stand ready to become the new centerpiece as the best of the new generation,” she stated, hoping to dethrone Iwatani.
Iwatani, reflecting on her previous absent year from the Tokyo Dome, noted, “I’m truly glad to compete for the championship on this grand stage this year.” She acknowledged her opponent’s growth and expressed respect for AZM’s tenacity but maintained her position as the formidable challenge. “I intend to remain as the high wall she must overcome,” Iwatani asserted.
Fans eagerly await the action-packed IWGP Junior Heavyweight and Women’s Championship matches, which promise to deliver thrilling performances on one of wrestling’s grandest stages.
Meanwhile, the two-day event line-up is not limited to these title matches. Wrestlers like Tomohiro Ishii, Shingo Takagi, and Konosuke Takeshita are also gearing up for battles, with Ishii highlighting the excitement surrounding the matchup between Takagi and Takeshita, saying it’s the match he’s most eager to see. "The imagination of what they can produce will be surpassed by their performance on the night," Ishii said.
Takeshita, addressing the audience at the press conference, displayed confidence as he prepared to take on his opponents, believing actions will speak louder than words when he steps inside the ring. He remarked, “There’s no need for words; everything will be decided inside the ring.” Shingo Takagi echoingly proclaimed the importance of their bout, reinforcing the match's significance as the culmination of their respective journeys.
The buzz around the events encapsulates not just the stakes but also the rich legacy New Japan Pro-Wrestling continues to cultivate as it approaches another year. Wrestle Kingdom 19 promises not just matches but moments etched forever within the annals of wrestling history.
With fans across the globe focusing their attention on the Tokyo Dome, the blend of championship bouts and rising stars signifies another thrilling chapter for NJPW, setting the stage for 2025.
The excitement builds with the Wrestle Kingdom events, reminding all why New Japan holds such esteemed status within the wrestling community. The action starts on January 4th; don’t miss it!