Naito’s Feud with Chris Jericho
The rivalry between Tetsuya Naito and Chris Jericho is one of the most notable feuds in professional wrestling, known for its intensity and engaging storyline. Originating in 2018, this conflict made a significant impact on the wrestling community and the careers of both athletes involved, creating lasting memories for fans and shaking the very fabric of the wrestling world.
Background of the Rivalry
The seeds of this intense feud were sown within the arena of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), a leading global wrestling promotion that hosts some of the most skilled and celebrated athletes in the industry. Tetsuya Naito emerged as a standout figure within NJPW, leading the popular faction known as Los Ingobernables de Japón. The faction captivated fans with their rebellious attitude and impressive in-ring performances. Meanwhile, Chris Jericho, an established wrestling icon with a considerable reputation both in Japan and internationally, decided to make his presence felt in NJPW by challenging the status quo and the dominance of local heroes like Naito. Their paths eventually collided, setting the stage for a series of highly anticipated matches that would capture the attention of wrestling enthusiasts worldwide.
Key Incidents
The feud officially initiated at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 12 event on January 4, 2018, held at the Tokyo Dome—a venue renowned for hosting landmark wrestling events. During this occasion, Chris Jericho, known for his charismatic and unpredictable nature, disrupted a backstage interview with Naito, laying down the gauntlet and issuing a direct challenge. This bold confrontation was only the beginning, as the pair subsequently became embroiled in a series of fierce physical altercations both in and out of the ring, drawing widespread attention to their fiery competitive narrative.
Their rivalry reached a pivotal moment at Dominion 6.9 in Osaka, where Jericho succeeded in capturing his first IWGP Intercontinental Championship by defeating Naito. This victory by Jericho not only intensified the existing rivalry but also pushed both wrestlers to their limits as they strove harder to assert their dominance over one another. Jericho’s triumph marked a significant turning point in the feud, adding an extra layer of tension and urgency to their ongoing storyline.
Climactic Events
The escalation of this feud eventually led to a climactic showdown at Wrestle Kingdom 13 in January 2019. Here, Naito managed to reclaim the IWGP Intercontinental Championship from Jericho in a match that was not merely about winning a title—it was a testament to Naito’s resilience, skill, and determination to stand firm against formidable adversaries like Jericho. The match was characterized by high stakes and a palpable sense of drama, as both men demonstrated their prowess and shared a burning desire for victory. Naito’s triumph in this high-pressure match ultimately cemented his status as a world-class competitor and provided a fitting resolution to a defining chapter in his career.
Impact on Wrestling
The feud between Naito and Jericho held substantial significance for NJPW, as it served as a bridge connecting international wrestling audiences. Chris Jericho, already a significant figure in the United States, brought his star power and international renown to NJPW, thereby drawing considerable attention to the promotion’s array of talent and intricate storylines. This exposure played a crucial role in the globalization of professional wrestling, enhancing NJPW’s reach and influence beyond Japan’s borders.
Furthermore, the rivalry reinforced Naito’s status as a central figure in wrestling history. Having already established himself as a key player in NJPW, his conflict with Jericho allowed him to showcase his abilities on a grander stage and demonstrated his capacity to engage and captivate audiences worldwide. The matches between Naito and Jericho offered a blend of drama and athleticism, providing fans with thrilling spectacles and helping to elevate NJPW’s profile within the global wrestling community.
For those interested in exploring the narrative further, there are numerous wrestling resources and official NJPW releases that offer detailed accounts and specific match analyses of this memorable feud. These resources provide fans with a deeper understanding of the storyline’s intricacies and allow them to relive the excitement and drama of the Naito-Jericho confrontation.
The rivalry between Tetsuya Naito and Chris Jericho serves as a poignant reminder of the power of professional wrestling to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, uniting fans around the world in appreciation of the skill, storytelling, and sheer entertainment value that the sport offers. By pushing each other to their limits, Naito and Jericho not only made indelible marks on each other’s careers but also contributed to the rich tapestry of professional wrestling history. Their feud represents the enduring appeal and dynamic nature of wrestling as both a sport and a form of entertainment, capturing the essence of what makes it so beloved by fans worldwide.
This article was last updated on: May 18, 2025