The year 2025 promised a lot to New Japan Pro-Wrestling. It was, and is still a year full of emotions. Hiroshi Tanahashione of the most important pillars not only of NJPW, but of world wrestling, announced that it would be his last season as an active fighter. His retirement marks the closure of a golden era.
In addition, the spectacular fight between Gabe Kidd and Kenny Omega in Wrestle Kingdom 19 was seen by many as the starting point of Kidd's definitive ascent to stardom within the company. It seemed the beginning of a resurgence for NJPW after a complicated 2024. However, as we move towards the second half of the year, that promising rebirth He has overshadowed inconsistencies, unexpected exits and creative decisions that divide opinions.
► From hope to disenchantment
Although 2024 It was not an especially brilliant year for NJPW, 2025 was outlined as the year of recovery. And, in many ways, it began spectacularly. Wrestle Kingdom 19 offered one of the best posters in years, Highlighting the aforementioned clash between Omega and Kidd, which left fanatics and critics speechless. The emotion was such that even Tanahashi himself He was caught crying with joy after the fight, recognizing the level of delivery and quality.
Gabe Kidd It was elevated as a central figure, A new strong face for the company. But with the passing of the months, his impulse has begun to fade. It is rumored that Kidd could be seriously considering A move to North America, specifically towards AEW or even WWE. This uncertainty has affected its position within the billboard, and NJPW seems to be acting cautiously around its figure.
► Hirooki Goto: the champion that nobody expected … but everyone respects
One of the great positive surprises of the year has undoubtedly been the Hirooki Goto reign as IWGP world champion. After years being a respected figure but not stellar, Goto finally managed to dethrone Zack Sabre Jr. In a fight that few saw coming as a victory for him. Since then, Goto has raised his level in an impressive way and has been, so far, NJPW's most consistent and valuable fighter in 2025.
His work within the ring, added to the pressure of leading the company after the exit of key figures such as Tetsuya NaitoHe has made Goto a strong candidate for fighter of the year. His reign has been solid, with memorable defenses and a renewed connection with the Japanese fans, which appreciates his perseverance and humility.
► House of torture: Domain or exhaustion?
House of torture, the Group led by EVIL, continues to generate controversy. While many Western fans strongly criticize their fighting style based on traps, interferences and chaos, in Japan the situation is more nuanced. While the group is still relatively popular with part of the local public, signs of fatigue even inside its Japanese base.
This duality generates an interesting debate: to what extent NJPW should continue betting on a faction that polarizes so much? On the one hand, it maintains a constant narrative; on the other, limits the development of other talents and generates rejection in key markets such as the United States.
► A crucial year in NJPW's story
As we approach G1 Climax 2025the company is at a crossroads. Between the retirement of Tanahashi, The possible loss of young promises like Kidd, Goto's unexpected rise, and the division of opinions on House of torture, NJPW lives one year of transition.
What seemed like a rebirth It has become a struggle to define its identity: Bet on the legacy or look to the future? Keep formulas that worked or risk with new talents and styles?
The second half of 2025 will be crucial. Not only to define who will take the glory in the G1 Climax, but to determine What course will take NJPW in a post-Tanahashi era.
