As if NJPW’s new mini-documentary series, ‘The Recount,’ wasn’t enough of a statement of intent, New Japan has now begun releasing a series of news videos entitled ‘The Wire.’

The first of these videos, once again catering towards a growing Western audience, previews the upcoming battle between Hiroshi Tanahashi and Kazuchika Okada. The rivals will face off once more this coming Sunday at Destruction in Kobe for the right to challenge Kenny Omega for the IWGP Heavyweight title at Wrestle Kingdom 13.

The matchup sees Tanahashi defending his G1 briefcase as he attempts to best Okada, who fought Tanahashi to a time limit draw during the G1. If Okada were to come out victorious, he would claim the G1 briefcase and the contract inside guaranteeing a title match next January 4th.

When asked by a reporter, “When do you hope to face Okada for the contract?” Tanahashi was thoughtful in response: “When should it be? I want to face him before my nerve fades away.”

That honest reply has led to another match between these rivals, in a series that many consider the best NJPW feud in decades, if not ever.


With ‘The Recount’ and now ‘The Wire,’ as well as another new show called ‘Top 5,’ it doesn’t appear that New Japan will be slowing down their aggressive expansion West any time soon.