5 Best NJPW Wrestlers Who Won’t Be At Wrestle Kingdom 12
Credit: NJPW 1972 Instagram
4. Yuji Nagata
Yuji Nagata has had plenty of marquee Wrestle Kingdom matches over his lengthy career. Blue Justice has even main-evented the annual Tokyo Dome show in years past. Taking the customary veteran backseat, Nagata’s role in the showcase has diminished, but this year is different.
Yuji competed in his final G1 tournament. This provided the emotional undercurrent of the entire tour, with fans pining to see one more Nagata victory. What was more unexpected was the overall quality of the 48-year-old’s performances.
The best moment ever.. @nagata769 The last scene of his last G1.. https://t.co/zVN89QchJG
— NJPW Global (@njpwglobal) August 12, 2017
Consistently having emotionally-charged bouts, Nagata was one of the highlights of each day, despite not being anywhere near the top of his block. It shook newer fans who only saw NJPW veterans as warm-up acts. Reversing the stereotypes of older performers, Nagata should have been given an opportunity to ride him momentum into Wrestle Kingdom.
Structure and tradition hold majors roles in New Japan. Where WWE threw their long-term plans out the window upon Bill Goldberg’s return, NJPW make sure not to cost any current star in favour of a veteran. If ever they were to rewrite the script though, Nagata gave them the perfect opportunity.