Wreslte Kingdom is upon us, January 4, 2023 at the Tokyo Dome, broadcast live on Wrestle Kingdom.
The main event features "Switchblade" Jay White defending the IWGP Title against New Japan's ace, Kazuchika Okada. White and Okada have had five singles matches, with White winning four, and winning all of their matches on American soil. For the first time in three years, Japanese fans can audibly cheer, just in time for the biggest show of the year for New Japan.
Fightful had the opportunity to briefly speak with Okada specifically about Wrestle Kingdom.
Fightful: Switchblade Jay White said that the concern for you is so little that he's preparing for you by building chicken coops. What do you think of that statement?
Okada: "I’ve only beaten him once. So if he says he’s not worried, I believe him. He has every right to be confident as a champion, I just hope he will not use that overconfidence as an excuse when he loses."
Fightful: Jay White is 4-0 against you on Japanese soil. Is that a concern for you?
Okada: "Absolutely. I lost to him in our first match when I was convinced I would win. Now I can’t afford to take it easy. The anxiety is definitely there, but a little anxiety is a good thing."
Fightful: "By the time Wrestle Kingdom arrives, it will be your first one on one match since mid-October. Is there any special preparation to keep you sharp, besides tag team matches?"
Okada: "There is no special preparation that I do. I didn’t wrestle during on World Tag League & Super Jr. tag League; I was very busy doing PR job and appearing on television but I could still train hard, still feel the mat and ring ropes when I get in the ring. So I’m fully prepared for Wrestle Kingdom. Once the match starts, you will see the absolute best showcase of Kazuchika Okada.
Fightful: What are your thoughts on the NJPW STRONG platform and how that has progressed in the United States?
Okada: "To be honest, I’ve never watched NJPW STRONG, but I did wrestle Tom Lawlor, the first Strong Openweight Champion, in the G1 this year. There are definitely lots of great wrestlers on STRONG, and it would be great to see more Japanese wrestlers there to help promote it. I’m more than ready to do my part, FYI!"
Fightful: Switchblade Jay White told us that it shouldn't even be a discussion -- he and yourself should be the main event over Omega/Ospreay. Obviously you'd feel the same way, but what do you think of the conversation even happening, and some people saying Omega vs. Ospreay should main event?"
Okada: "I think Will Ospreay vs Kenny Omega will be an incredible match. I’m personally excited to see it! But after three years away, a lot of fans in the Tokyo Dome won’t know about Kenny Omega. Jay and I represent NJPW as it is right now better than anyone, and I think that’s what needs to be showcased in the main event. Still, I’m excited to see the fan discussion of which match was better!"
You can also see our 30+ minute interview with Switchblade Jay White at this link.
