TL:DR: Tetsuya Naito, set to challenge IWGP World Heavyweight Champion SANADA at Wrestle Kingdom 18, believes their match should be the main event, despite a high-profile rematch between Kazuchika Okada and AEW’s Bryan Danielson also on the card. Naito’s comments come in response to Okada’s suggestion of a fan vote to decide the headline match.
Naito’s Stance on Wrestle Kingdom 18 Main Event
Tetsuya Naito, who is scheduled to face IWGP World Heavyweight Champion SANADA at Wrestle Kingdom 18, has voiced his opinion that their match should be the main event. Speaking to Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, Naito stated, “I understand some people would think differently. It’s good that there are different opinions. I know Okada and Bryan are famous worldwide–but so what? I want New Japan Pro-Wrestling to have more confidence and pride in the NJPW wrestlers and our matches.”
Okada’s Suggestion for Fan Vote
The debate over which match should close the show was sparked by Kazuchika Okada’s suggestion of a fan vote to decide the headline match. Okada, who is set for a rematch with AEW superstar Bryan Danielson, has publicly stated that he believes the IWGP World Heavyweight Title match between SANADA and Tetsuya Naito should be the main event.
Wrestle Kingdom 18 Lineup
Wrestle Kingdom 18, taking place at the Tokyo Dome, will feature both the IWGP World Heavyweight Title match between SANADA and Tetsuya Naito, and a rematch between Kazuchika Okada and Bryan Danielson. The debate over which match should close out the biggest New Japan Pro-Wrestling event of the year continues.
Source: Lewis Carlan, Sports Illustrated.
Original Article: Tetsuya Naito Believes His IWGP World Title Match With SANADA Should Be Main Event At Wrestle Kingdom 18