Pros and Cons of NJPW’s ‘Big 4’ Wrestlers

Credit: NJPW Twitter

Con: Predictability

Wrestling fans have paradoxical expectations from promotions. On the one hand, we want long, structured storylines that make sense. On the other hand, we want to be completely blindsided by booking that comes out of the blue, however illogical.

NJPW have gone out of their way this past year to establish these four men as the linchpins of their organisation. We’ve all been a part of the stories they have told. Okada has become the longest-reigning IWGP Heavyweight Champion of all time. Omega has been the undisputed leader of the company’s Western advance. These aren’t impulsive decisions that were made over night.

That said, knowing that these four men dominate New Japan’s upper card leaves little room for imagination. Sure, NJPW know how to throw a curveball. But a WWE veteran wrestling at the Tokyo Dome is somehow still more likely than Ishii or Goto becoming Heavyweight Champion.

Long term, we aren’t going to see much of the focus shift from the ‘Big 4.’ Fans have entertained the idea of a SANADA breakout; a heel, Goto-led faction; Tama Tonga taking over as Bullet Club leader. The appeal of these scenarios is that they could shake the foundation of NJPW in a more meaningful way than a one-off Jericho appearance.

However, if 2017 is any indication, when the chips are down, New Japan will be betting on the ‘Big 4.’ As paradox-loving wrestling fans, we can simultaneously love that and still hope for some sort of change.