Wrestle Kingdom 17: Top Highlights & Epic Moments!

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into the absolute madness and sheer excitement that was Wrestle Kingdom 17! This year's Wrestle Kingdom was a total blast, delivering everything we could have asked for and more. From jaw-dropping matches to emotional farewells, it was a night that'll be etched in wrestling history forever. We're breaking down the biggest moments and matches from the Tokyo Dome.

Okada vs. White: A Battle for the Ages

Starting with the main event, Kazuchika Okada vs. Jay White for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship was nothing short of spectacular. Guys, the anticipation was palpable, and the match completely lived up to the hype! Okada, the Rainmaker, came in with his usual swagger, while White, the Switchblade, brought his calculated and ruthless aggression.

The story of this match was incredible, building on their previous encounters and the deep-seated animosity between them. White targeted Okada's back, using every dirty trick in the book to weaken the champion. Okada, however, showed his resilience, absorbing the punishment and firing back with his signature moves. The pacing was perfect, with each near fall ratcheting up the tension. We saw Okada's signature dropkick, White's brutal Blade Runner attempts, and a whole lot of back-and-forth action that had everyone on the edge of their seats. It wasn't just a wrestling match; it was a narrative masterpiece unfolding in the ring. The crowd was electric, chanting for both competitors and creating an atmosphere that only Wrestle Kingdom can deliver. The final sequence was mind-blowing. After a grueling battle, Okada finally managed to hit the Rainmaker to secure the victory and regain the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. The Tokyo Dome erupted as Okada celebrated his win, confetti raining down as he stood tall as the undisputed king of New Japan Pro-Wrestling. This match alone was worth the price of admission, a true testament to the artistry and athleticism of both Okada and White. It's one of those matches that you'll be talking about for years to come, a definitive highlight of Wrestle Kingdom 17. The storytelling, the intensity, the drama – it had everything you could want in a main event. Honestly, if you missed this one, go back and watch it ASAP!

Kenny Omega vs. Will Ospreay: A Dream Match Realized

Okay, next up, we've got Kenny Omega vs. Will Ospreay for the IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship. This was the match that everyone had been dreaming about, and boy, did it deliver! Omega, returning to NJPW after a long absence, faced off against Ospreay, who has been on an absolute tear in the past year. The clash of styles was fascinating, with Omega's flashy, high-impact offense meeting Ospreay's innovative and acrobatic maneuvers. From the opening bell, the action was non-stop. These two athletes pushed each other to their limits, showcasing their incredible athleticism and creativity. Omega hit his signature V-Trigger and One-Winged Angel, while Ospreay responded with his OsCutter and Storm Breaker. The match was filled with breathtaking spots, near falls, and moments that made you question what you were seeing. The intensity in the ring was palpable as both men laid everything on the line in their quest for victory. Beyond the incredible moves, the match had a compelling narrative. Omega, returning to his old stomping grounds, was determined to prove that he was still the Best Bout Machine. Ospreay, on the other hand, wanted to cement his status as the top star in NJPW. This rivalry added another layer of depth to the match, making it even more captivating. In the end, after an insane battle, Kenny Omega defeated Will Ospreay to become the new IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion. The crowd went wild as Omega celebrated his victory, marking a triumphant return to New Japan Pro-Wrestling. This match was a classic, a must-see for any wrestling fan. The sheer athleticism, the innovative moves, and the compelling storytelling made it an instant highlight of Wrestle Kingdom 17. Omega and Ospreay proved why they are two of the best wrestlers in the world, delivering a performance that will be talked about for years to come. If you're looking for a match that will leave you in awe, this is it!

Tama Tonga vs. Karl Anderson: Grudge Match Showdown

Then, we witnessed Tama Tonga vs. Karl Anderson for the NEVER Openweight Championship. This was a grudge match with a lot of personal animosity, and you could feel the tension in the air. Anderson had betrayed his Bullet Club brothers, and Tama Tonga was out for revenge. The match was a brutal, hard-hitting affair, with both men throwing everything they had at each other. It wasn't a technical masterpiece, but it was filled with raw emotion and aggression. Tama Tonga came out with fire, taking the fight to Anderson from the opening bell. He hit his signature Gun Stun and other powerful moves, but Anderson refused to stay down. Anderson, known for his toughness and resilience, weathered the storm and fired back with his own offense. The two brawled inside and outside the ring, using weapons and anything else they could get their hands on. The crowd was invested in the match, cheering for Tama Tonga and booing Anderson. The atmosphere was intense as the rivalry reached its climax. The match ended with Tama Tonga defeating Karl Anderson to become the new NEVER Openweight Champion. The crowd erupted as Tama Tonga celebrated his victory, finally getting his revenge on Anderson. This match was a great example of how wrestling can tell a compelling story, even without a lot of fancy moves. The emotion, the aggression, and the personal stakes made it a memorable part of Wrestle Kingdom 17. It showed the power of a good old-fashioned grudge match, where the story is just as important as the wrestling.

Farewell, Keiji Muto!

Beyond the matches, Wrestle Kingdom 17 also featured a farewell appearance by the legendary Keiji Muto, also known as The Great Muta. This was an emotional moment for many fans, as Muto is one of the most iconic and influential wrestlers of all time. He teamed up with Hiroshi Tanahashi and Shinsuke Nakamura to face Los Ingobernables de Japon in a special six-man tag team match. Although Muto didn't do a lot in the match, his presence alone was enough to electrify the crowd. Seeing him team up with Tanahashi and Nakamura was a dream come true for many fans. The match was a fun and nostalgic affair, with everyone getting a chance to shine. In the end, Muto, Tanahashi, and Nakamura emerged victorious, giving Muto a fitting sendoff. The post-match celebration was heartwarming, as Muto thanked the fans for their support throughout his career. It was a bittersweet moment, as we said goodbye to one of the greats, but it was also a celebration of his incredible legacy. Muto's contributions to wrestling are immeasurable, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. His creativity, charisma, and in-ring skills made him a true icon, and he will always be remembered as one of the best.

Overall Thoughts on Wrestle Kingdom 17

Wrestle Kingdom 17 was an unforgettable night of wrestling, filled with amazing matches, emotional moments, and surprises. From Okada's victory over White to Omega's return to NJPW, there was something for everyone. The event showcased the best of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, highlighting the incredible athleticism, storytelling, and passion that make it one of the top wrestling promotions in the world. If you're a wrestling fan, Wrestle Kingdom is a must-see event. It's a celebration of the sport, a showcase of the best talent, and a night that you'll never forget. Wrestle Kingdom 17 delivered on all fronts, setting the stage for another exciting year in NJPW. So, what were your favorite moments from Wrestle Kingdom 17? Let us know in the comments below!