Kenny Omega vs Chris Jericho: Wrestle Kingdom 12 - A Match For The Ages The main event of Wrestle Kingdom 12\, the annual New Year's Day extravaganza hosted by New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)\, was a match that transcended the realm of professional wrestling. It was a clash of titans\, a battle for the ages\, and a testament to the boundless potential of the art form. Kenny Omega\, the reigning IWGP Heavyweight Champion\, faced off against Chris Jericho\, the legendary "Ayatollah of Rock 'n' Rolla\," in a dream match that had captivated the wrestling world for months. This article will delve into the historical context\, the build-up\, the match itself\, and the lasting legacy of Kenny Omega vs. Chris Jericho at Wrestle Kingdom 12. A Match Years in the Making The rivalry between Omega and Jericho was a slow burn that ignited the wrestling world. While they had both competed in other promotions\, their paths rarely crossed. However\, the emergence of Omega as a top star in NJPW\, and Jericho's resurgence as a global icon\, set the stage for an epic confrontation. The seeds of their rivalry were planted at Wrestle Kingdom 11 when Jericho\, a former WCW and WWE champion\, made a surprise appearance and challenged Omega for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship. This audacious move shocked the wrestling world\, and the anticipation for their clash grew exponentially. The Build-Up: A War of Words The months leading up to the match were filled with tension and verbal barbs. Omega and Jericho traded insults\, both in interviews and on social media. They dissected each other's careers\, questioned each other's abilities\, and fueled the flames of their rivalry with every exchange. This psychological warfare was a masterclass in storytelling\, building a palpable sense of animosity and intrigue. Wrestle Kingdom 12: The Showdown January 4\, 2018\, at the Tokyo Dome\, the stage was set for a spectacle unlike anything witnessed before. The crowd was electric\, the atmosphere was charged\, and the two titans were ready to collide. The match itself was a masterpiece of professional wrestling. From the opening bell\, Omega and Jericho engaged in a furious\, fast-paced\, and technically brilliant encounter. They showcased their exceptional skills\, pushed each other to their limits\, and captivated the audience with their athleticism\, charisma\, and storytelling. Highlights of the Match: The early exchanges: Omega and Jericho traded blows\, showcasing their impressive technical prowess and athleticism. The "Judas" entrance: Jericho's entrance\, complete with his signature song "Judas\," was a moment that sent chills down the spines of fans worldwide. The storytelling: The match was not just about moves and counters but also about a compelling narrative. Omega and Jericho told a story of pride\, ambition\, and the will to win. The finish: After a grueling contest\, Omega emerged victorious\, delivering his signature "One Winged Angel" finisher to Jericho. The Legacy of Wrestle Kingdom 12 The Kenny Omega vs. Chris Jericho match at Wrestle Kingdom 12 is considered one of the greatest matches in professional wrestling history. It transcended geographical and promotional boundaries\, captivating a global audience and raising the bar for professional wrestling. Impact on Wrestling: The Elevation of NJPW: This match solidified NJPW's position as a global force in professional wrestling. The Rise of Kenny Omega: The victory cemented Omega's status as a top-tier wrestler\, proving his ability to deliver a memorable and captivating performance on the biggest stage. Jericho's resurgence: This match reignited Jericho's career and showcased his enduring legacy as a compelling performer. The Match's Influence: The popularity of "Judas": Jericho's entrance theme became an instant fan favorite\, with the iconic song finding its way into mainstream culture. The crossover appeal of professional wrestling: The match's success highlighted the growing global appeal of professional wrestling. Beyond the Match: This encounter marked the beginning of a rivalry that would continue for years to come. The two would clash again at Wrestle Kingdom 14 in a match that was just as captivating and brutal as their first encounter. FAQ: Q: Where can I watch the full match? A: You can find the full match on various streaming services like New Japan World and YouTube. Q: What was the significance of this match? A: This match was a landmark event in professional wrestling history\, highlighting the talent and global appeal of the industry. It also propelled the careers of both Omega and Jericho to new heights. Q: What makes this match so special? A: The match was a perfect blend of storytelling\, athleticism\, and technical brilliance. It was a captivating encounter between two of the best performers in the world\, which transcended promotional boundaries and captured the imagination of fans worldwide. In conclusion: Kenny Omega vs. Chris Jericho at Wrestle Kingdom 12 was a dream match that lived up to all the hype. It was a thrilling\, captivating\, and unforgettable encounter that cemented its place in wrestling history. This match served as a reminder of the power and allure of professional wrestling\, highlighting the passion\, dedication\, and artistry that make this form of entertainment so unique and captivating.