Kazuchika Okada, the renowned member of the Don Callis Family and a leading figure in AEW, recently shared his ambitions for the future in an interview with Tokyo Sports. After holding the International title, Okada expressed his intention to pursue the AEW World Heavyweight Championship as his next major objective, emphasizing his desire to return to Japan with this achievement.
Reflecting on His AEW Journey So Far
Looking back at his time in AEW, Okada revealed the challenges he faced in adapting during his initial year, stating,
“In my first year, I didn’t really know what to do, so I’d just go and wrestle, then go home. In my second year, I finally got used to it, and started talking to a lot of different people. In my third year, I’d like to give it my all and carve out my own path.”
He also expressed gratitude to Tony Khan for the opportunity to join AEW and highlighted the significance of competing against Hiroshi Tanahashi during this period.
Comments on Tanahashi’s Retirement Match
Regarding Hiroshi Tanahashi’s recent retirement, Okada praised the emotional conclusion of the veteran’s career, noting,
“Yes, Tanahashi-san did his best. I think it was a retirement match with a happy ending that was very much like Tanahashi-san.”
This match held deep meaning for both wrestlers and their fans.
Experiencing a Sold-Out Tokyo Dome
Okada reflected on the milestone of wrestling at a sold-out Tokyo Dome, an event he had long aimed to achieve. He attributed the success to several factors, stating,
“It was an honor and I was happy to be able to wrestle in that environment. It was something I had been aiming for for a long time. It was all thanks to Tanahashi’s retirement, the matchup between Tanahashi and Okada, and the current New Japan wrestlers… I think it all came together. It felt really good.”
Views on New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s Current Landscape
Despite recent departures and Tanahashi’s retirement, Okada believes the quality of in-ring performance within NJPW remains strong. He explained,
“A lot of people have left, and Tanahashi has retired, but I think the greatness in the ring remains the same as before. I think it’s because the young wrestlers of today are working so hard, and because they’ve seen the people who’ve left and Tanahashi’s work, that we’re still here today.”
Perspectives on NJPW’s Future Direction
Okada expressed confidence in NJPW’s lineup and their ongoing potential, though he acknowledged it is ultimately their responsibility to shape their path. He remarked,
“I think that’s none of my business. They have such a great lineup, and I was reminded once again how amazing New Japan Pro-Wrestling is. It’s because I watched AEW that I was able to see what’s so great about New Japan. It’s not just America that’s great, Japanese pro wrestling has its good points, and I think there are a lot of young people who don’t realize that. If they could have confidence in the pro wrestling they’re doing, I think more fans would come and it would become even more exciting.”
High Expectations for Younger Talent in NJPW
When asked about rising stars, Okada singled out Yota Tsuji, highlighting his recent rise after winning the IWGP Heavyweight Championship. He noted,
“I think it would have to be Tsuji (Yota), after all. He was scheduled to compete before us, so I was able to see the match, and he beat Takeshita (Konosuke) to become the IWGP (Heavyweight Champion), and I feel like he’s become the talk of the town, not just in New Japan, but outside of it. I think he’s aware of that. There are a lot of great wrestlers, but I think that kind of thing is important, and I think Tsuji is the one who’s able to do that.”
Significance of Okada’s AEW Ambitions
Kazuchika Okada’s pursuit of the AEW World Heavyweight title marks a significant chapter in his wrestling career, blending his international experience with his roots in Japanese wrestling. His commitment to succeeding at AEW’s top level while maintaining a close connection to NJPW illustrates the increasingly global nature of professional wrestling. Fans can anticipate that Okada will intensify his efforts in AEW’s upcoming seasons, striving to capture the world championship and return to Japan with that distinction, potentially reshaping his legacy and influencing the wrestling scene on both sides of the Pacific.
