Wrestling Omakase #195: AJPW 1/24 Korakuen & NJPW 1/23 Ota Ward w/ Joey Bay

Wrestling Omakase

This week on Wrestling Omakase we review two shows from All Japan and New Japan, and break down what could be next for both companies!

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John is joined by returning guest Joey Bay (@joey_bay) as they start with some banter on what they've been up to lately (not much, of course) and reminisce on their trip to Japan together back in 2016, as well as subsequent trips as well. They then turn their attention to All Japan Pro Wrestling, as the episode's main topic is a detailed review of AJPW's 1/23 Korakuen show. John and Joey start at the top as they break down an awesome Suwama vs. Shotaro Ashino Triple Crown title match, discuss the somewhat-controversial decision for Suwama to retain, and give a great deal of thought on where both guys (and the company) might go from here. They also review the rest of the card including two more title matches, and go over some of the big names that came out to challenge the winners, as well as look ahead to upcoming matches that have already been booked for February.

Then they turn their attention to New Japan with a full review of their disappointing 1/23 Ota Ward Gym Show. John goes on Another ELP Rant™ but also breaks down an extremely odd New Beginning tour in general, and how some of the main feuds aren't really working, leaving the lower feuds to feel like they're carrying the company. They also touch on the other Korakuen shows (and which are worth your time and which aren't) before previewing the upcoming New Beginning shows in Nagoya & Hiroshima, and speculate on some possible big matches for Castle Attack and beyond. Finally, they wrap things up with a quick mailbag featuring some questions on AJPW & NJPW alike.

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