To our readers:
This article is more than a simple recap; it is a preservation of authenticity. In an era where narratives can be manipulated and words twisted by dirt sheets, the Squared Circle Podcast by Marie Shadows, aims to provide the genuine transcript of Wrestle Dynasty 1.5.25’s commentary.
Side by side with this, is included the context to debunk and unverified claims, made by Dave Meltzer’s recent tweet. Our goal is not to dictate opinions but to empower fans to make up their own minds. This is research for the greater good of professional wrestling and its fans.
The commentary at Wrestle Dynasty 1.5.25 wasn’t just background noise; it was a driving force in shaping the night’s emotional and philosophical stakes. As Kenny Omega and Gabe Kidd squared off in the Tokyo Dome, the commentators provided not only play-by-play but also a layered narrative that delved into passion, pride, and legacy—key pillars of professional wrestling. By examining this transcript, we capture the essence of what made this moment special, ensuring the true words stand tall above any potential misinterpretations.
The Universal Language of Wrestling
Chris Charlton sets the tone for the night with a poignant statement:
"Professional wrestling is a universal language. For what differs from country to country is the definition of the word professional."
This observation framed the ideological conflict at the heart of the match. Charlton contrasted Japan’s passion-driven approach with what he called the sterility of other wrestling markets, particularly the United States. His words established a cultural foundation for understanding Gabe Kidd’s fiery determination and Omega’s controversial legacy.
Gabe Kidd’s Defiance and the Role of Gear
One of the night’s standout moments came when Gabe Kidd, in a raw display of pride, showcased his young lion gear—a symbol of NJPW’s tradition. Kidd declared:
"Fuck, you hear? Look at that shit. That's me, dog."
This wasn’t just bravado; it was a direct challenge to Kenny Omega’s place in NJPW’s history. Chris Charlton emphasized the significance, declaring:
"This is puroresu. This is real. This is the king of sport."
The gear and its symbolism became a focal point of the narrative, representing the purity of NJPW’s tradition against the perceived commercialization Omega’s global success brought.
Omega’s Legacy Under the Microscope
Walker Stewart and Rocky Romero explored Omega’s storied career, celebrating his achievements while acknowledging the tensions his departure from NJPW created. Stewart praised Omega’s transformative impact:
"A former IWGP Heavyweight Champion, three-time AEW World Champion... arguably the greatest of all time, a man who not only ushered in an era of international exposure for NJPW but elevated the ceiling for professional wrestling itself."
But the commentary team didn’t shy away from addressing the resentment some felt toward Omega. Charlton, speaking for Kidd’s generation, remarked:
"To dare to deign to say that Gabe Kidd cashes a check because of Kenny Omega is sickening. He is an indelible, iconic part of it, yes, but he is not bigger than this."
This duality—of celebration and critique—captured the complexity of Omega’s legacy and its ripple effects on NJPW.
The Emotional Depth of the Tokyo Dome
Romero’s commentary highlighted the palpable tension in the arena:
"The air is thick, the emotion filling this massive building, the Tokyo Dome."
This wasn’t just a match; it was a philosophical clash, a generational battle, and a testament to the enduring power of wrestling’s storytelling. The commentary transformed the in-ring action into a rich narrative tapestry, amplifying the stakes for fans watching worldwide.
Conclusion
By preserving the Wrestle Dynasty 1.5.25 commentary transcript, we ensure the true words and sentiments remain intact, free from distortion. The team of Chris Charlton, Rocky Romero, and Walker Stewart delivered a masterclass in weaving passion, pride, and history into their analysis, making this night unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of Kenny Omega’s global legacy or Gabe Kidd’s fiery ascent, this transcript serves as a reminder of why NJPW remains the king of sports.
Full Wrestle Dynasty Commentary for Jan 5, 2025
Chris Charlton:
Professional wrestling is a universal language.
For what differs from country to country is the definition of the word professional.
In the US,
it's become a synonym for sterility,
for open production,
for inauthenticity,
for catering to audiences of what,
to the producers,
to the sponsors.
In Japan, professionalism
means passion and it means pride.
The passion and the pride of both Gabe Kidd and Kenny Omega nearly took both of
those men to an early grave.
And it's the reason for being,
the reason they are here,
and for anyone to question the passion and pride of Gabe Kid,
as Kenny Omega did in his disrespect,
is to awaken a dangerous,
dangerous beast.
It started with a forgotten name,
but it's the spark that ignited a wildfire and awakened a roaring British lion in
the Tokyo Dome.
Gabe Kidd (mic pick up)
Fuck, you hear?
Look at that shit.
That's me, dog.
(shows off his young lion gear, the short black trunks with the lion logo and black wrestling boots)
Chris Charlton:
You have any questions about what this match is about?
You just saw the ultimate gear on the gear against him.
That's real.
That's real.
This is puroresu.
This is real.
This is the king of sport.
Rocky Romero:
The air is thick, the emotion filling.
This massive building, the Tokyo Dome.
Walker Stewart:
It is the return of the century and the icon of that as well.
a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion,
three-time AEW World Champion,
a million and more accomplishments.
You can read off of a list for this generational talent,
arguably the greatest of all time,
and a man who not only ushered in an era of international exposure for NJPW,
but elevated the ceiling for professional wrestling itself in a country already
famous for its wrestling strength.
revolutionizing the entire industry with every single match,
with every main trilogy that shifted this landscape.
But there is always more to do.
And just as there was more to do in Japan, there was more to do to reach the entire globe.
And the global world of pro wrestling led to the birth of All Elite Wrestling,
Rocky Romero,
back in 2019.
Rocky Romero:
Absolutely.
This man set the stage for professional wrestling worldwide.
Brought the name New Japan to the masses.
This man is Japanese professional wrestling, in my opinion.
This man has represented New Japan worldwide in so many ways.
And yes, Gabe Kid is the future of that.
But this meeting here tonight is what it's all about.
The future versus the past slash present here in the Tokyo Dome.
Chris Charlton:
Perhaps with one wing clipped, the Phoenix seeks to fly.
once again tonight.
Walker Stewart:
And as much of an icon that Kenny Omega is, and I'm not saying he isn't, that Gabe did reaction.
Rocky Romero
This is what the Tokyo Dome is all about, gentlemen.
Walker Stewart:
And of course, it must be acknowledged
And I can't believe you haven't gotten to it sooner.
A life-threatening illness keeping Kenny Omega out of competition for over a calendar year.
So many questions,
Rocky,
as to whether or not Kenny Omega would ever return to professional wrestling.
And tonight, a hope and a prayer has become a reality.
Rocky Romero:
Yeah, just months ago, we didn't know for sure.
And when Kenny showed up in Osaka, everybody still wondered.
Chris Charlton:
He wants this in the stand up, one body shot walker, he's gone.
Walker Stewart:
Diverticulitis.
Chris Charlton:
You know Gabe wants it.
Walker Stewart:
Kenny Omega suffered.
For over a calendar year,
could be heavily exacerbated by Dean Kent here tonight,
as this one's already off to it.
Rocky Romero:
This already reminds me, UWF versus New Japan Pro Wrestling, the history in this building.
Chris Charlton:
That is,
I mean,
you said it on his entrance,
Rocky,
but I think it was heresy to say that...
Exactly Kenny's thoughts that,
yes,
Kenny did so much for his company,
but to dare to deign to say that Gabe Kidd cashes a check because of Kenny Omega is sickening.
To say that he is Japanese professional wrestling is sickening.
He is an indelible, iconic part of it, yes.
but he is not bigger than this.
Walker Stewart:
And that's the message that Gabe Kidd has been sending, Chris.
This idea of, well, if you are pro wrestling in Japan, Kenny Omega, you never would have left.
And that is what Gabe Kidd has forever held against The Cleaner.
Rocky Romero:
But the flip side of that, Kenny opened the door for so many.
That is the truth.
Kenny put New Japan Pro Wrestling on the map internationally.
That is true.
The Bullet Club, the Young Bucks, all these guys that started AEW,
were very much a part of why New Japan Pro Wrestling grew so much.
Chris Charlton:
Well, no doubt about it.
And in Gabe's mind, well, it was grow and grow, and then it was take and take.
And well,
as soon as we have a money mark to take away some of those talents,
well,
then off they go.
Off goes Jay White, Will Ospreay.
Rocky Romero:
It's all so much deeper than that.
It's all so much deeper than that.
You all have no idea.
Walker Stewart:
Let's put the guns away, boys.
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