Kenny Omega vs. Chris Jericho: A Wrestling Masterclass in "The List" The rivalry between Kenny Omega and Chris Jericho is one of the most captivating in modern professional wrestling. Their clashes\, particularly their epic encounter at Wrestle Kingdom 12\, have become legendary\, showcasing the pinnacle of athleticism and storytelling in the squared circle. This article dives deep into their iconic match\, analyzing its key moments and explaining why it continues to be a must-watch for wrestling enthusiasts. The Context: A Dream Match Realized The rivalry between Omega and Jericho was a long time coming. Both were considered elite performers in their respective promotions\, Omega in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and Jericho in WWE. Their paths finally converged in 2017 when Jericho\, fresh off his WWE release\, joined NJPW and formed "The Inner Circle." This led to a series of intense confrontations that culminated in their dream match at the biggest event in NJPW's calendar\, Wrestle Kingdom 12. The Story: "The List" and a Clash of Styles Jericho's entrance into NJPW was marked by his "The List" gimmick\, where he publicly declared his intentions to target specific wrestlers\, including Omega. This added a layer of personal animosity to the already high stakes of the encounter. The match was further enhanced by the stylistic differences between the two. Omega\, known for his high-flying\, technical prowess\, would clash against Jericho's more mat-based\, strategic approach. This juxtaposition created a fascinating dynamic\, allowing for captivating transitions and unpredictable exchanges. The Match: A Masterclass in Professional Wrestling The match at Wrestle Kingdom 12 was an instant classic. The two wrestlers showcased their technical brilliance\, captivating the audience with a blend of striking\, grappling\, and high-flying moves. Omega’s high-impact offense and Jericho's submission expertise created a relentless back-and-forth exchange that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Key Moments: The “Judas Effect”: Jericho\, in a shocking move\, used his signature "Judas Effect" entrance music to distract Omega\, momentarily gaining an advantage. The Wall of Jericho: Jericho's signature submission hold was a prominent feature of the match\, showcasing his dominance and Omega's resilience. The One-winged Angel: Omega’s finishing move\, the One-winged Angel\, made a dramatic appearance in the final moments of the match\, signaling the intense climax. The Aftermath: A Legacy Forged The match concluded with Omega ultimately triumphing over Jericho\, solidifying his position as one of the world’s top wrestlers. The battle\, however\, wasn't just about the victory. It was about the story\, the emotions\, and the artistry of the performance. This match cemented both Omega and Jericho's status as legends in professional wrestling\, setting a new standard for what a dream match could be. Why This Match Matters This iconic clash between Kenny Omega and Chris Jericho remains a must-watch for several reasons: Storytelling: The match was driven by a compelling narrative\, weaving together personal animosity\, stylistic contrasts\, and high-stakes competition. Performance: Both wrestlers delivered a technically sound and emotionally charged performance\, displaying the full breadth of their abilities. Historical Significance: The match broke down barriers between promotions\, signifying a new era of collaboration in professional wrestling. Legacy: This match is a cornerstone of modern wrestling history\, leaving an enduring impact on both wrestlers and the industry itself. FAQs: Where can I watch the match? The match is available on various streaming services\, including NJPW World and the NJPW YouTube channel. Is this match considered a classic? Absolutely! This match is widely considered a classic and a must-watch for any wrestling fan. What other matches did Omega and Jericho have? Omega and Jericho had a series of matches\, including their highly-anticipated rematch at Dominion 6.9 in 2018. Conclusion: Kenny Omega vs. Chris Jericho at Wrestle Kingdom 12 is more than just a wrestling match. It's a testament to the power of storytelling\, the artistry of performance\, and the enduring impact of professional wrestling. It stands as a benchmark for future generations of wrestlers\, proving that even in the most high-stakes environment\, it is the human element that resonates most deeply with the audience. This iconic encounter cemented their place in wrestling history and continues to inspire fans worldwide.