You can check out some backstage news and notes from NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 19 and the Wrestle Dynasty events below, courtesy of Fightful Select:
AEW President Tony Khan didn’t make the trip to Japan, as he had to remain in the U.S. for AEW Collision’s live broadcast in Charlotte, NC.
While several AEW talents arrived in Japan before the New Year, the majority of them traveled to Tokyo on January 1 or 2.
There were additional NJPW talents that the company had hoped to feature for Wrestle Dynasty, but they were unable to secure their participation for the event.
NJPW is currently negotiating with several talents whose contracts are nearing expiration. They’re also looking to bring in new talents. Kevin Knight’s contract had expired before Wrestle Kingdom 19, and Drilla Maloney has reportedly drawn outside interest, though the details of that interest are unclear.
David Finlay’s entrance for his match with Yota Tsuji at Wrestle Kingdom 19 was a special planned moment. New Japan officials were reportedly very pleased with how it turned out, as they had been working on it for months.
Kenny Omega’s in-ring return at Wrestle Dynasty against Gabe Kidd was a highlight of the show. New Japan Pro Wrestling officials were reportedly very satisfied with the match’s execution. Omega’s entrance was also a major point of focus, with extensive planning and meetings, involving notable composers Masayoshi Soken and Nobuo Uematsu, to create the perfect moment.
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