My Friday column for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review looks at now being the greatest chance in WWE for Japanese performers to be their top stars. Here’s an excerpt:
When it comes to Japanese characters and performers success with WWE, times are changing.
Shinsuke Nakamura delivered a debut at NXT Takeover in Dallas that was as perfectly executed as you could write it. The anticipation was there. The entrance was there. The charisma was everywhere. The in-ring action illustrated the strong style physicality he’s known for. He gave us a show but didn’t show all of his cards and left me wanting more.
Nakamura’s signing wasn’t the first by WWE of a Japanese star or Japanese-based character. But ther than Yokozuna, who was a Japanese character played by a Samoan, none of the characters or performers ever elevated past mid-card relevance which would often be short lived.
Tajiri had comedy spots in WWE. Taka Michinoku anchored the temporary lightweight division. Matt Bloom returned from success in Japan as Lord Tensai, which never found momentum and was featured inconsistently on television. Hideo Itami was signed two years ago to decent media attention as he was a superstar in Japan known as Kenta. Since his arrival in the NXT system, much hasn’t been shown or accomplished by him because of injuries keeping him out of action.
In just two weeks time, Nakamura shined with his talents. Worry that he doesn’t reach his full potential decreases with every strut to the ring and hard-hitting kick.
CLICK HERE for how Asuka comes into play and the challenge they both must overcome.
