Eddie Kingston discusses the difference between the G1 Climax and the Continental Classic.
Through the tournament in 2023, Eddie Kingston was a member of the Blue League, alongside the likes of Bryan Danielson and old rival Claudio Castagnoli. Kingston would also put the most on the line of any competitor in the tournament, as his Ring Of Honor World Championship and NJPW STRONG Openweight Championship were both on the line alongside a brand new championship.
With 2023's tournament being the first Continental Classic, it has had to go up against a much more established tournament in NJPW's G1 Climax in terms of comparisons. While speaking to Sports Illustrated, Kingston discussed the difference between the two tournaments, including what AEW will need to do for next year's tournament.
“The G1 is already established,” said Kingston. “Every year, you know it’s going to be great. It’s the greatest tournament in professional wrestling. We’re just starting the Continental Classic. We’re setting the tone and building it. Then, next year, we’ll need to be even better.”
While there are key differences, Kingston, who has competed in a G1 himself, noted that there is one key detail that the two tournaments share.
“Your body hurts after both,” said Kingston. “No difference there.”
Elsewhere in the same interview, Eddie would remark how he hopes to break Bryan Danielson's other eye socket in the near future. You can read more about that here.
For the full results and standings for the AEW Continental Classic, you can read more about that here.
