Wrestling Kingdom 12 was a landmark event, a showcase of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) at its finest. The energy, the athleticism, and the sheer spectacle captivated wrestling fans worldwide. If you missed it, or if you’re a newer fan eager to experience this legendary show, you’re in the right place. I’m here to guide you through how to watch Wrestling Kingdom 12, ensuring you don’t miss a single moment of the action.
This guide will cover everything from where to find the event, what to expect, and even some background on the key matches and wrestlers involved. We’ll explore the different viewing options, including streaming services, and discuss the best ways to enjoy this incredible wrestling event. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, this is your complete resource for experiencing the magic of Wrestling Kingdom 12.
Understanding Wrestling Kingdom 12: A Foundation
Before we jump into how to watch, let’s establish why Wrestling Kingdom 12 is so important. It’s not just another wrestling show; it’s NJPW’s biggest event of the year, taking place annually at the Tokyo Dome. Think of it as their WrestleMania, but with a unique Japanese flair and a focus on in-ring quality that’s often unmatched.
Wrestling Kingdom 12, held on January 4, 2018, was particularly memorable. It featured a card packed with incredible matches, showcasing the best of NJPW’s roster and some international stars. The event solidified the promotion’s global appeal and helped introduce many Western fans to the wonders of Japanese professional wrestling.
Why Wrestling Kingdom Matters
Wrestling Kingdom is a showcase of the best wrestling in the world. NJPW has a reputation for high-quality matches, compelling storylines, and a passionate fanbase. The Tokyo Dome atmosphere is electric, and the wrestlers always bring their A-game.
It features the top stars of NJPW. You’ll see the biggest names in the company, competing for championships and bragging rights. This is where legends are made.
It’s a gateway to NJPW. If you’re new to the promotion, Wrestling Kingdom is the perfect entry point. It’s a self-contained event that offers a great introduction to the wrestlers, the style, and the overall experience. (See Also: How Do You Score Wrestling )
Key Wrestlers and Matches to Know
To fully appreciate Wrestling Kingdom 12, it helps to understand the key players. Here are some of the wrestlers and matches you should know about:
- Kazuchika Okada: One of the greatest wrestlers of all time, known for his incredible in-ring ability and charisma. He was the IWGP Heavyweight Champion going into the event.
- Tetsuya Naito: A charismatic and popular wrestler, known for his unique style and connection with the fans. He was a top contender for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.
- Kenny Omega: A Canadian wrestler who was a major star in NJPW, known for his athleticism and innovative offense. He was the IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion.
- Chris Jericho: A WWE legend who made a surprise appearance at Wrestling Kingdom 12 to challenge Kenny Omega. This match generated massive buzz.
- Hiroshi Tanahashi: A legendary wrestler and a cornerstone of NJPW.
- The Young Bucks (Matt & Nick Jackson): One of the most successful tag teams in wrestling history.
Main Event: Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Tetsuya Naito for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship: A match that lived up to the hype, showcasing the incredible talent of both wrestlers. The culmination of a long-running rivalry.
Kenny Omega (c) vs. Chris Jericho for the IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship: A dream match between two of the biggest names in professional wrestling. A match that brought a lot of attention to NJPW.
Other Notable Matches: The Young Bucks vs. Roppongi 3K for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship, and Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Jay White.
Where to Watch Wrestling Kingdom 12: Your Options
Now, let’s get to the main event: how to actually watch Wrestling Kingdom 12. Fortunately, there are several options available, depending on your preferences and location.
Option 1: Njpw World (subscription-Based Streaming Service)
NJPW World is the official streaming service of New Japan Pro-Wrestling. This is the best way to watch Wrestling Kingdom 12, as it provides the most comprehensive experience. Here’s what you need to know: (See Also: Are You Allowed To Move Your Elbow In Arm Wrestling )
- Pros:
- Official Source: You’re getting the event directly from the source, ensuring high-quality video and audio.
- Extensive Library: NJPW World offers a vast library of past events, including all Wrestling Kingdom shows, as well as weekly shows and exclusive content.
- Multiple Languages: Commentary is available in multiple languages, usually including English and Japanese.
- Cost-Effective: The subscription is relatively affordable, especially considering the amount of content you get.
- Cons:
- Subscription Required: You’ll need to pay a monthly fee to access the content.
- Interface: The user interface can be a bit clunky compared to some other streaming services.
How to Subscribe to NJPW World:
- Go to the NJPW World website: Search for “NJPW World” and visit the official website.
- Create an Account: Sign up for an account. You’ll need to provide an email address and create a password.
- Choose a Payment Method: Select your preferred payment method (usually credit card or PayPal).
- Subscribe: Follow the instructions to subscribe and start watching.
Finding Wrestling Kingdom 12 on NJPW World: Once you’ve subscribed, you can easily find Wrestling Kingdom 12 by searching for “Wrestling Kingdom 12” or browsing the event archives.
Option 2: Fite.TV (pay-Per-View or on-Demand)
FITE.tv is a streaming service that often carries wrestling events on a pay-per-view or on-demand basis. While it might not always be the primary source for NJPW content, it’s worth checking to see if Wrestling Kingdom 12 is available.
- Pros:
- Pay-Per-View Option: You can purchase the event individually without a subscription.
- Availability: FITE.tv is available worldwide, making it accessible to a wide audience.
- Cons:
- Cost: Pay-per-view events can be more expensive than a monthly subscription to NJPW World.
- Limited Content: You only get access to the specific event you purchased.
How to Watch Wrestling Kingdom 12 on FITE.tv:
- Visit the FITE.tv website or app: Go to FITE.tv or download the FITE.tv app on your preferred device.
- Search for Wrestling Kingdom 12: Use the search bar to find the event.
- Purchase the Event: If available, follow the instructions to purchase the event.
- Watch: Enjoy the show!
Option 3: Other Streaming Services (potentially, but Unlikely)
Occasionally, other streaming services might offer NJPW content. However, this is less common, especially for major events like Wrestling Kingdom. It’s always worth checking, but don’t count on it.
- Pros:
- Convenience: If you already subscribe to a streaming service that carries the event, it’s convenient.
- Cons:
- Unlikely Availability: Major events like Wrestling Kingdom are rarely available on other platforms.
- Cost: You might still need to pay extra, either through a separate purchase or a higher subscription tier.
How to Check Other Streaming Services: (See Also: Can I Start Wrestling At 22 )
- Check Your Existing Subscriptions: Review the content available on streaming services you already use (e.g., if a partnership exists).
- Search for the Event: Use the search function on each service to look for “Wrestling Kingdom 12.”
Important Note: Always use legitimate sources to watch wrestling events. Avoid illegal streaming sites, as they can be unreliable and potentially expose you to malware.
Step-by-Step Guide: Watching Wrestling Kingdom 12
Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to help you watch Wrestling Kingdom 12, regardless of which viewing option you choose:
- Choose Your Viewing Method: Decide whether you want to use NJPW World, FITE.tv, or another potential streaming service. Consider the pros and cons of each option.
- Set Up Your Account (If Necessary): If you’re using NJPW World or FITE.tv, create an account and subscribe or purchase the event.
- Find the Event: Search for “Wrestling Kingdom 12” on the streaming service or platform you’ve chosen.
- Check the Schedule: Make sure you know the start time of the event in your time zone. NJPW events often start at specific times, and you don’t want to miss the beginning!
- Prepare Your Viewing Environment: Get comfortable, grab your snacks and drinks, and get ready to enjoy the show!
- Watch and Enjoy!: Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the incredible action of Wrestling Kingdom 12.
Tips for the Best Wrestling Kingdom 12 Experience
Here are some tips to enhance your viewing experience:
- Watch with Friends: Wrestling is more fun when you share it with others. Invite friends over, or watch the event online together using a video chat service.
- Do Your Research: Before the event, read up on the wrestlers and storylines. This will help you appreciate the matches even more.
- Use a Good Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection to avoid buffering and interruptions.
- Use a Big Screen: If possible, watch the event on a large screen for a more immersive experience.
- Follow Along Online: Engage with other wrestling fans on social media. Share your thoughts, reactions, and predictions.
- Consider the Commentary: NJPW World offers commentary in multiple languages. Choose the commentary team that you prefer. The English commentary team often provides valuable insights into the matches and wrestlers.
- Take Breaks: Wrestling Kingdom events can be long. Don’t hesitate to take breaks to stretch, grab a snack, or use the restroom.
What to Expect From a New Japan Pro-Wrestling Event
If you’re new to NJPW, here’s what you can expect from a typical event, and specifically, from Wrestling Kingdom 12:
- High-Quality Wrestling: Expect a focus on in-ring action, with a wide variety of wrestling styles and techniques. NJPW is known for its athleticism and storytelling.
- Compelling Storylines: NJPW builds long-term storylines, often spanning months or even years. The matches are driven by the rivalries and relationships between the wrestlers.
- Passionate Fanbase: The Japanese fans are known for their enthusiasm and respect for the wrestlers. The atmosphere at the Tokyo Dome is electric.
- Unique Presentation: NJPW has a distinctive presentation style, with its own music, entrances, and match formats.
- International Talent: NJPW often features wrestlers from around the world, adding to the variety and excitement.
Beyond Wrestling Kingdom 12: Exploring the World of Njpw
Once you’ve watched Wrestling Kingdom 12, you might find yourself hooked on NJPW. Here are some ways to continue exploring the world of NJPW:
- Watch Other Events: NJPW holds regular events throughout the year. NJPW World is the best way to watch these events.
- Follow the Storylines: Pay attention to the storylines and rivalries. NJPW’s storytelling is a key part of its appeal.
- Learn About the Wrestlers: Get to know the wrestlers, their backgrounds, and their styles.
- Explore NJPW’s History: NJPW has a rich history. Watch classic matches and learn about the legends of the promotion.
- Join Online Communities: Connect with other NJPW fans on social media, forums, and other online communities.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to address them:
- Buffering: If you’re experiencing buffering, try the following:
- Check Your Internet Connection: Make sure you have a stable and fast internet connection.
- Close Other Applications: Close any other applications that might be using your internet bandwidth.
- Lower the Video Quality: If possible, lower the video quality in the streaming service settings.
- Audio Issues: If you’re having audio problems:
- Check Your Volume: Make sure your volume is turned up.
- Check Your Speakers/Headphones: Make sure your speakers or headphones are connected properly.
- Restart the Stream: Try restarting the stream.
- Account Issues: If you’re having account issues:
- Contact Customer Support: Contact the customer support for the streaming service you’re using.
- Double-Check Your Login Information: Make sure you’re using the correct username and password.
Final Verdict
Watching Wrestling Kingdom 12 is a fantastic way to experience the best of professional wrestling. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the show. Remember to choose your preferred viewing method, set up your account, and get ready for an unforgettable night of action. Wrestling Kingdom 12 is a showcase of incredible athleticism, compelling storytelling, and a passionate fanbase. Get ready to witness some of the greatest wrestlers in the world compete in a truly special event.
Enjoy the show! Wrestling Kingdom 12 is a landmark event, and experiencing it is a must for any wrestling fan. I hope this guide helps you have a great time and discover the excitement of New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Remember to explore the promotion further after the event, as there’s a wealth of content to discover. Get ready to be amazed!
