Wrestle Kingdom 14: How Kota Ibushi became the biggest babyface in NJPW

In the early hours of Saturday, New Japan Pro Wrestling held their annual Wrestle Kingdom event. This year’s was different because it will be spread over two nights. In addition, we will get the first dual champion coming out of this event. Jay White and Naito fought over the IWGP IC title. Okada and Ibushi had a match for the IWGP Heavyweight title. The winner of both of those matches will go on night 2 for both belts.

With how Ibushi was getting booked during the G1 Climax, it became the feel that NJPW would be behind him. It wouldn’t be the case as he failed to defeat the five-time IWGP Heavyweight champion in a close to forty minute classic. However, since he lost there has now been talk about what is next for him. The Saturday guys on Busted Open were talking about this and I agree, he won’t be out of the picture just yet. You can have Ibushi come out and say how he didn’t get a fair shot at the belt. Which is great when you think about it. You had two guys and told a story in the ring. By having Ibushi go this route, you are going to make him a mega babyface.

One of things that is talked about when it comes to a babyface is if they are getting sympathy. The crowd needs to show a ton of investment into a babyface. Ibushi will be able to do this because fans really thought that they were going to see him take down Okada. Another reason why I don’t see Ibushi leaving the title picture is that they have invested so much time in him.

We also have to look at the fact that Okada doesn’t need the belt as he is so over. It will be interesting to see if Ibushi is ever able to take down the Rainmaker.