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Steven Conway, Jeremy Finestone
A podcast covering the events, news and issues surrounding New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Total 103 episodes
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A New Day Approaches for New Japan
Steven and Jeremy discussed some recent New Japan results and previewed the upcoming Korakuen Hall shows, featuring the United Empire squaring off with the War Dogs in a series of matches, plus a special gauntlet match with Tetsuya Naito's Los Ingoberable faction facing SANADA's Just 5 Guys. They also discussed why they don't think we'll be seeing Brock Lesnar back in New Japan (thank goodness). They also looked at the NJPW women's titles. With Giulia on her way out of STARDOM, what should the exit strategy be regarding the NJPW STRONG women's title? They also looked ahead to the rest of the New Beginnings tour, including Will Ospreay and Kazuchika Okada's final New Japan appearances for now, Bryan Danielson versus Zack Sabre Jr., and Nic Nemeth challenging David Finlay for the Global title. Other topics included ideas for Kosei Fujita and Oleg Boltin's excursions, and if they should even have one. Plus, the pair looked back on what was happening in New Japan at this time five years ago and in 2011, the last February in New Japan we had without Okada.
01:29:49
02/02/2024
New Beginning: Emotions Run High in Korakuen, and a Bad Show in Nagoya
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return to talk about New Japan's New Beginning tour, and how it has a more literal meaning than ever. The pair discussed a rough Nagoya show that didn't hit on any cylinders, followed by two Korakuen Hall shows that went much better. They talked about an excellent main event featuring Shota Umino and Ren Narita, the captivating United Empire - War Dogs rivalry, the tired-out Ingoberables - Just 5 Guys series, and how Tama Tonga left the company a hero in storyline. They also discussed the farewell tour of Kazuchika Okada, his emotional reaction to the New Japan fans and a moment that even made Tomohiro Ishii shed tears. They also previewed the upcoming New Beginning shows as New Japan works its way through one of the biggest adjustment periods it has faced in many years. Steven and Jeremy also discussed how the upcoming Windy City Riot show in Chicago is beating all expectations with Jon Moxley, Tetsuya Naito, Mustafa Ali and Hiromu Takahashi on top. Speaking of Strong Style is here to guide you through this fascinating time in New Japan history!
01:32:05
26/01/2024
BREAKING NEWS POD: Okada to Leave NJPW!
Jeremy and Steven are back with an emergency episode following the news of Kazuchika Okada's decision to leave New Japan Pro Wrestling. Topics covered include: Discussion of the factors at play, Japan's economic conditions and the state of American wrestling today. A look at why Okada should be a special case and not treated the way other Japanese talent has over the years. What's ahead for Okada's faction, CHAOS? Should they continue with a new leader, or disband altogether? Talk of the lack of strong leaders among New Japan factions. Who could step up, and who should form new ones? Will New Japan strap the rocket to one of their new stars such as Shota Umino, Ren Narita, Yota Tsuji or Yuya Uemura? Are there other stars from Japan that could make an impact by moving to New Japan? Okada's departure is seismic event in professional wrestling. Will this shakeup lead to a new period of creativity, or will New Japan be hurting going forward? Speaking of Strong Style covers the angles of one of the year's biggest stories.
56:11
20/01/2024
Battle in the Valley Recap, New Beginning Tour to Begin
This was recorded only an hour or two before the news of Kazuchika Okada leaving was posted on the New Japan site. We will have more reaction to that huge new soon. In this episode, Jeremy and Steven talk Battle in the Valley! Jeremy attended the show in person, and saw an outstanding night of wrestling. They discuss Okada v Will Ospreay, Eddie Kingston v Gabe Kidd, Jon Moxley v Shingo Takagi, Shota Umino, Giulia and much more. The pair broke down each match on the card and why it was significant to New Japan storylines going forward. They also discussed possible leadership scenarios for United Empire, whether Matt Riddle will be able to stay in New Japan long, ideas on the NJPW Strong Women's title and how they think Jack Perry fits in the New Japan landscape. Jeremy and Steven also talked about why they think ticket sales for the upcoming Windy City Riot are selling so well. They covered the upcoming New Beginning tour, including Saturday's Tama Tonga-EVIL clash for the NEVER Openweight title and another Strong Tag Team title defense from El Phantasmo and Hikuleo, plus a wacky King of Pro Wrestling match. They also talk Fantasticamania and the big show coming in Osaka. It's all you need to know as a New Japan fan!
01:49:56
19/01/2024
NEW YEAR DASH recap and Battle in the Valley preview
Jeremy Finestone is joined by guest host Paul Fontaine of the Wrestling Observer and Fight Game Media to discuss the week that was in New Japan. Jeremy and Paul discussed the major news and notes out of Wrestle Kingdom and New Year Dash before previewing Battle in the Valley and the announced matches for New Beginnings. Full video episode here: https://youtube.com/live/EuGBXoBudTU #njnyd #njbitv #sposs #speakingofstrongstyle #wrestlekingdom #njwk18 #njpw Subscribe to our podcast feeds (free): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speaking-of-strong-style/id1664327981 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fight-game-media-network/id1594255707 Subscribe to the Fight Game Media YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/FightGameMedia/4bu
01:28:49
12/01/2024
WrestleKingdom 18 Review
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are working on short sleep, but they're happy to break down the wonderful WrestleKingdom 18 card. New Japan delivered an emotional, exciting event, with each match bringing something different to the table, along with some surprises. They break down all aspects of the show, from SANADA facing Tetsuya Naito in the main event, to a wild three-way featuring Will Ospreay, David Finlay and Jon Moxley, to the sublime rematch between Kazuchika Okada and Bryan Danielson. They also looked at an excellent Junior Heavyweight title match with Hiromu Takahashi facing El Desperado, a Tama Tonga-Shingo Takagi battle that almost stole the show, and a double tag team title match with a finish Jeremy hinted at with El Phantasmo and Hikuleo on this very show. All this and more as the guys do a deep dive into the biggest single show of the year! The video is available here: https://www.youtube.com/live/2rNMQ82-kRw?si=d_SJVFJGtshqFV-z
01:50:16
05/01/2024
2023 Year In Review and WrestleKingdom Preview with Chris Samsa
Chris Samsa joins Steven and Jeremy for part two of the WrestleKingdom Week preview! The trio looks at the year that was in New Japan, looking at key moments, big matches and important angles that made for an eventful year in NJ history. They also talk more about New Japan's new president, Hiroshi Tanahashi, and what we can expect from him in his new role. They also look closely at each WrestleKingom 18 match, discussing possible scenarios for New Japan's biggest event. You can find video of part one of the Speaking of Strong Style preview with Scott Edwards here: https://www.youtube.com/live/cpFKGl78lEA?si=Que4su28i9wItAaO and part two here: https://www.youtube.com/live/W9Uwp48ksOQ?si=UdDX0hzl6lGc1wz1
02:30:48
30/12/2023
WrestleKingdom Week Preview Part One with Scott Edwards
Scott Edwards from the "Five Star Joshi Show" and "Stardom Road" joins Steven and Jeremy for part one of a two-day preview of WrestleKingdom week. The trio discussed Hiroshi Tanahashi's appointment as the new president of New Japan, previewed STARDOM's Dream Queendom, NOAH's New Year show and of course, WrestleKingdom itself. They also talked about what Charlie Dempsey's Triple Crown title match could mean for Japanese wrestling and the WWE. Each match is discussed as we head toward the best week of the wrestling calendar!
02:18:45
29/12/2023
El Phantasmo and Hikuleo Join the Show on the Road to Wrestle Kingdom
We are thrilled to welcome NJPW Strong Tag Team Champions El Phantasmo and Hikuleo to the show! The champs talked to Steven and Jeremy about their title versus title match with Bishamon at WrestleKingdom 18, their journeys to New Japan Pro Wrestling, the past year that saw them on the front lines of a major NJPW feud, and how their persistence helped them overcome injuries to get to the biggest match of their lives. After the interview, Steven and Jeremy break down a great Road to WrestleKindom show from Korakuen Hall, featuring a brilliant NEVER Openweight Six-Man title match and a unique KOPW match, plus angles galore up and down the card. It's New Japan's most exciting season! Video can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/live/lMI-k_Xy22E?si=qqoEV_CtTD5W3Gvn
01:43:13
22/12/2023
Bishamon Make History: Goto and YOSHI-HASHI three-peat in World Tag League.
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway looked at the 2023 World Tag League Finals and discussed New Japan's decision to make Bishamon into a Superteam. They discussed how Hirooki Goto and YOSHI-HASHI's win over El Phantasmo and Hikuleo is a signal the company wants to build the tag team division around its most consistent team and make it a Mount Everest for the rest of the teams to climb. They broke down the semifinals and finals shows, covering angles involving Ren Narita, Shota Umino, Minoru Suzuki, Yuji Nagata, Yuya Uemura, Yota Tsuji and more. The also kicked around ideas on what they could do with these angles as WrestleKingdom draws near. Jeremy and Steven also looked ahead to the Road to WrestleKingdom shows and looked back on the career of Osamu Kido and Tetsuya Naito's critical match with Kazuchika Okada at WrestleKingdom 8, and why it was so important to both his and New Japan's history. See the video version of this show each Thursday, live at 5:30 EST: Fight Game Media - YouTube
01:39:39
15/12/2023
Ren the Rat: Betrayal at World Tag League 2023
This week, Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone discussed Ren Narita's turn on Shota Umino, both the timing and execution of it, plus what it could mean for each, and the House of Torture, moving forward. They also talked about Kazuchika Okada and WWE's interest in New Japan's top star. Steven and Jeremy also broke down the final week of World Tag League, how Gabe Kidd and Alex Coughlin surged past Mikey Nicholls and Shane Haste at the finish line, the comeback stories of the two championship teams, Hikuleo and El Phantasmo as well as Bishamon, and how Minoru Suzuki and Yugi Nagata gave us the feel-good moment of the tournament. They also discussed Tetsuya Naito's Wrestle Kingdom history, looking back at his match with Keiji Muto at WrestleKingdom 6. Jeremy and Steven also brainstormed ideas for other Wrestle Kingdom matches.
01:36:01
08/12/2023
World Tag League 2023: Hot Sauce
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back talking about World Tag League. The guys break down each team in the tournament and their journeys to this point. The teams of Lance Archer and Alex Zayne, as well as Ren Narita and Shota Umino are looking strong, but TMDK, Taichi and Yuya Umeura look strong also. They also look ahead to the final week and who is likely to be involved in the semifinals and finals. Plus, they talk about the Yuji Nagata - Minoru Suzuki dynamic, and why a winless team might be the most interesting one in the tournament. They also look at the two new Young Lions who debuted on the first two shows of the tour.
01:31:47
01/12/2023
Lonestsar Shootout Recap, World Tag League Preview
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone talked about Kevin Kelly's departure, recapped Lonestar Shootout from Garland, TX (Steven was in attendance), and previewed World Tag League. Lonestar featured Eddie Kingston, Jon Moxley, Shingo Takagai and Mayu Iwantani, and included one of the best matches in New Japan all year, in Zack Sabre Jr. versus Mike Bailey. World Tag League has a slew of fresh teams, making it feel like a fresh, exciting event. They also talked about two Young Lions debuting this weeken, plus a King of Pro Wrestling title match.
01:31:03
17/11/2023
The Year of the Ospreay: Is Will Having the Best Year Ever, Plus Lone Star Shootout
Jeremy and Steven discussed the new matches announced for Wrestle Kingdom, including Bryan Danielson versus Kazuchika Okada in the dream rematch, Jon Moxley facing Will Ospreay and David Finley for a new title, Hiromu Takahashi taking on El Desperado and Clark Connors and Drilla Moloney defending their titles against Catch 2/2. They also previewed the Lone Star Shootout in Texas, featuring Shingo Takagi, Mayu Iwatani, Eddie Kingston, Mike Bailey, Zack Sabre Jr, Mistico, Atlantis, Rocky Romero, and many others. Jeremy and Steven also interacted with the live chat in discussing the best in-ring years in wrestling history, and what people hope to see at Wrestle Kingdom for favorites such as Hiroshi Tanahashi, Tomohiro Ishii, Claudio Castagnoli and others. It was a packed show with lots of fun discussion regarding NJPW's future.
01:27:30
10/11/2023
Power Struggle 2023 Review: Great Show, Great Crowd, Big Angles
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with a special episode breaking down the Nov. 4 Power Struggle show from Osaka. They talked about the classic main event with Will Ospreay and Shota Umino, what it could mean to Umino's career and how the match led to a big angle for Wrestle Kingdom. The match-by-match analysis included discussion of Bryan Danielson, Jon Moxley, El Desperado, Kazuchika Okada, Hiroshi Tanahashi, Zack Sabre Jr. and more. Other matches analyzed included Hiromu Takahashi v Taiji Ishimori, the Super Jr. Tag League Finals with Catch 2/2 facing SHO and Yoshinobu Kanemaru, and Great O-Khan v Moxley. It was a great show with an enthusiastic crowd, and the guys were fired up to talk about it.
01:21:33
05/11/2023
DespaWato: The Ballad of Super Jr. Tag League
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway are back! It was a busy week in New Japan, and Steven related his experiences at both the Sphere and in the crowd at Fighting Spirit Unleashed. The pair broke down the Las Vegas card, including Shingo Takagi's title victory over Tama Tonga, Eddie Kingston defending his STRONG title against HENARE, Giulia facing an impressive Hyan for the Strong Women's title, Hikuleo and El Phantasmo's title defense against Lance Archer and Alex Zayne, plus a legends match featuring Hiroshi Tanahashi, Atlantis, Mistico, Rocky Romero and more. They also went through a packed week of shows back in Japan, with Super Jr. Tag League coming down to its final night of block action. They discussed how El Desperado and Master Wato made for the tournament's most interesting subplot, Catch 2/2's run as a babyface team, Clark Connors and Dan Moloney turning up the heat as the War Dogs and how Kosei Fujita and Kevin Knight are on their way to being superstars. Steven and Jeremy also looked ahead to Power Struggle on Nov. 4 as New Japan sets up angles and matchups for Wrestle Kingdom.
01:38:50
03/11/2023
Tag Team Turmoil: Super Jr. Tag League, Fighting Spirit Preview
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone bring you a packed show, talking about Kazuchika Okada's appearance on AEW Dynamite, Will Ospreay bringing in a high-powered agent for his upcoming contract talks, Zack Sabre Jr. winning a tournament in Australia and Hiromu winning a title with a lineage that includes stuffed animals and grade school children (really). They also looked at the first week of action in Super Jr. Tag League. They covered a strong first week from Clark Connors and Drilla Maloney, Kevin Knight's highlight reel work and Kosei Fujita's progress. They also talked about why they feel it will be a big week for the teams of Desperado and Master Wato, and Titan and BUSHI. Plus, the pair previewed Saturday's Fighting Spirit Unleashed show from Las Vegas, and discussed why NJPW's current promotional system hurts its own ticket sales.
01:39:59
27/10/2023
Ospreay is King at Royal Quest III: NJPW in London
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone covered the Royal Quest III event from London, including two very special matches with Zack Sabre Jr. challenging Will Ospreay for the US (UK) title and Shingo Takagi taking on Tomohiro Ishii. They discussed what made these matches special and dissected the post-match angles, which involved NEVER Openweight Champion Tama Tonga, Shota Umino, Gabriel Kidd and even Jon Moxley. They also talked about what Ospreay might have planned for Wrestle Kingdom. Steven and Jeremy also previewed the first week of action in the Super Jr. Tag League, including the announcement of MUSASHI as YOH's mystery partner. Plus, they looked at upcoming events such as Fighting Spirit Unleashed and Power Struggle.
01:21:57
20/10/2023
Xs Wild: Royal Quest 3 Preview, Super Jr. Tag League
Steven and Jeremy celebrated the announcement of Historic X-Over 2, while lamenting the fact that we have no idea when it will happen. They also previewed Royal Quest 3 in London, with the fascinating main event of Will Ospreay versus Zack Sabre Jr. for the US (UK) Title. They also broke down the rest of the card, featuring Tomohiro Ishii versus Shingo Takagi, Taiji Ishimori's return to the ring against Robbie X, plus Yota Tsuji, El Desperado and Trent Seven in action, and the oddball team of Shota Umino and Ren Narita. Jeremy and Steven also looked at the Super Junior Tag League lineup, featuring another X teaming with YOH, Desperado and Master Wato as a team, and their theories on who will be in contention on the final night. They also ran down the new matches announced for Las Vegas, Dallas and Osaka. The pair also went over the key takeaways from this week's business presentation, including an alliance that may bring New Japan into more markets.
01:26:50
13/10/2023
EVIL is Vanquished: Destruction in Ryogoku Special
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone bring you a special Episode of their New Japan Pro Wrestling podcast, Speaking of Strong Style! The pair break down the Destruction in Ryogoku event match-by-match, including the IWGP World Heavyweight Title match between SANADA and EVIL, the main roster debut of Yuya Uemura, back from excursion, and the return of Taiji Ishimori from injury. It was a fun and newsworthy show, and the guys are here to tell you all you need to know about it.
01:18:04
10/10/2023
The Mystery of the Fifth Guy, WrestleDream and More
Steven and Jeremy discussed AEW's WrestleDream event, including the instant classic that was Brian Danielson versus Zack Sabre Jr. They also talked about the other New Japan stars appearing, including Will Ospreay, NJPW Strong Champion Eddie Kingston, TMDK, Josh Barnett and Satoshi Kojima. They also reviewed the two newsworthy Korakuen Hall shows over the weekend. Who will be the new fifth member of SANADA'S crew? Will it be Yuya Uemura? Katsuhiko Nakajima? Or could it be a returning Taiji Ishimori? They also preview the title matches, such as Lio Rush and Mike Bailey challenging Hiromu Takahashi in a three-way match, a Lumberjack match between SANADA and EVIL for the IWGP World Heavyweight title, David Finlay versus Tama Tonga for the NEVER Openweight belt, plus two tag team title matches. They also looked at the matches announced for Oct. 28 in Las Vegas, which will feature Walker Stewart's debut on English commentary.
01:36:02
06/10/2023
Why, Uncle Nobu, Why? Destruction in Kobe: Great Main Event, Big Angle
Steven and Jeremy discussed the Destruction in Kobe show, an event that was just what a New Japan fan needed. Great matches, a big angle and an enthusiastic crowd. They talked about Will Ospreay's historic run of classic matches, Yota Tsuji's bright future, and asked the burning question, why Uncle Nobu? Why? Will there be a fifth guy in Just 5 Guys? If so, will it be an intriguing name from NOAH, or perhaps a former Young Lion returning from excursion?
01:24:22
29/09/2023
SANADA Made Jeremy Sad: Why New Japan’s Main Event Angle Isn’t Working.
This week, Steven and Jeremy discussed a possible new English voice for New Japan, possible plans for New Japan and STARDOM to work together again and why SANADA makes Jeremy sad (it has to do with a belt and his backbone). They also talked of Sunday's show in Fukuoka, and what it told them about upcoming tag team tournaments and title matches. Steven and Jeremy discussed the stipulations for the SHO versus Taichi King of Pro Wrestling title match, and why they could lead to a lumberjack stipulation for EVIL and SANADA. They also previewed the Destruction in Kobe card coming up this Sunday, with Will Ospreay versus Yota Tsuji in the main event. Plus, there was a match on a bullet train to talk about. And one on a swingset. Seriously.
01:30:30
28/09/2023
Road to Destruction Goes Literal: Injuries Strike the Roster and NJPW Stars Around the World
There were piles of news and notes this week, and Steven and Jeremy discussed Eddie Kingston's busy schedule defending the NJPW Strong title, upcoming positive changes to NJPW World, newly announced matches for several NJPW shows, plus Taichi and SHO's wacky King of Pro Wrestling title stipulations. Jeremy and Steven also talked about New Japan wrestlers appearing around the world, including Rocky Romero in a major match at CMLL's Anniversary show, Will Ospreay facing Naomichi Marufuji in NOAH and Kosei Fujita teaming with Robbie Eagles in a main event in Australia. They also looked at the past weekend's Korakuen Hall and Kobe shows, the injuries to Boltin Oleg and Yoshinobu Kanemaru, and how the booking has made SANADA look even weaker than he already seemed.
01:33:32
15/09/2023
Road to Destruction: A Tour Begins, Kevin Kelly Announces His Coming Departure
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway talked about Kevin Kelly's imminent departure from the New Japan broadcast booth, and discuss how New Japan and WWE want different things from their announcers. They also previewed the upcoming Road to Destructions shows, including a Zack Sabre Jr. title defense, the New Japan debut of Callum Newman, and a NEVER Openweight Six-Man title defense by Kazuchika Okada, Hiroshi Tanahashi and Tomohiro Ishii against the team of...Tiger Mask, Togi Makabe and Hiroyoshi Tenzan. Seriously. Steven and Jeremy also talked upcoming events and title matches, Satoshi Kojima's Triple Crown title match and a short history of how Toru Yano went from a Most Violent Player to the Crown Prince of New Japan.
01:33:02
08/09/2023
NJPW Wrestlers Around the World, Why Keeping Foreign Talent is a Challenge
Steven Conway is joined by special guest Scott Edwards for the latest episode of Speaking of Strong Style! With Jeremy off this week, Steven and Scott talked of what looks like the impending departure of Will Ospreay from NJPW, and why the current situation in Japan makes it more difficult for companies to keep top foreign talent. They also discussed the worldwide travels of New Japan wrestlers, including SANADA's return to IMPACT, Hiromu Takahashi's week in CMLL and Satoshi Kojima's tournament victory with All Japan. Steven and Scott also looked at each title in New Japan and what could be next for champions such as David Finlay, Bishamon, Eddie Kingston, Giulia, Taichi, Zack Sabre Jr. and more.
01:45:10
01/09/2023
NJPW in Philly, Terry Funk’s passing.
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with a new edition of Speaking of Strong Style. It was a difficult week, as the wrestling world lost Terry Funk at age 79. Steven talked about Funk and his influence on pro wrestling, including his NJPW ties and why his All-Japan career was important to Inoki's promotion as well. Jeremy and Steven also got a shock when they learned of Bray Wyatt's passing live on the air. They also divided and conquered last weekend's shows, with Jeremy giving his thoughts on Multiverse United 2 and Steven covering All-Star Junior Festival. Jeremy definitely got the better end of that deal. Plus, they covered some newly announced title matches coming up in the next couple of months, and talked of how AEW is rolling the dice on making Will Ospreay a heel in the UK. It's an emotional episode of Speaking of Strong Style, bringing you up to date on all things New Japan.
01:37:15
25/08/2023
Multiverse United 2 and ASJF: Two Cards of Chaos
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with Speaking of Strong Style! The pair discussed their final thoughts on G1 Climax 33, naming their MVPs and biggest surprises from the tournament, plus their thoughts on what the future holds for Shota Umino, Ren Narita and Yota Tsuji, the Reiwa Three Musketeers. They also talked about the buildup to SANADA-Tetsuya Naito, and where some of the bigger matches of the fall will take place. They also previewed Multiverse United 2 and All-Star Junior Festival 2023. The ASJF has a wild list of matches that had Steven wondering if Hiromu Takahashi had been into the sherry. They also discussed Jeremy's idea to put the IMPACT title on Hiroshi Tanahashi. It's everything you need to know to be ready for the weekend's shows!
01:30:23
18/08/2023
G1Climax Final Special Edition: Two Naito Classics in One Weekend, Big Angles and More
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with a special edition of Speaking of Strong Style. The pair discuss the semifnals and finals of the G1 Climax 33 tournament, breaking down the Tetsuya Naito-Will Ospreay semifinal, along with Kazuchika Okada's matchup with EVIL. Then they talk about Finals night, a show loaded with angles involving Eddie Kingston, HENARE, The War Dogs, Bishamon, Yota Tsuji and many more. Jeremy and Steven talk about all of these and what it means for key matches in New Japan heading into the fall, and into Wrestle Kingdom.
01:36:28
14/08/2023
G1 Climax Block Party! Block Finals and Quarterfinals Lead to Intriguing Final Four
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with Speaking of Strong Style! The pair talked about the Block Finals of the G1 Climax tournament, plus the quarterfinals of the knockout round. They also discussed Eddie Kingston's best day ever, in which he got to meet his hero, Toshiaki Kawada. Steven and Jeremy also talked about the semifinals of the G1, examining the chances for Kazuchika Okada, Tetsuya Naito, EVIL and Will Ospreay to bring home the trophy, and what that means for SANADA.
01:30:11
11/08/2023
A Fine Mess Gedo’s Gotten Us Into: G1 Climax Week 3
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back to look at key results from G1 as the tournament nears its peak. Topics covered include: Full coverage of this week's G1 action Trends in the tournament: Who is cooling off after a hot star? Who is rallying toward the knockout stage? A block-by-block analysis of who will advance after next week's final cards of round robin matches. More news on the All-Star Junior Festival. A look at what could be Giulia's first defense of the NJPW Strong Women's title. Speaking of Strong Style is the source for all you need to know in this key time in the New Japan calendar!
01:30:06
03/08/2023
G1 Climax 33: Is it Still the Best Tournament in Wrestling?
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back to talk about week two of G1 competition. They go over the latest tournament matches and discuss possible reasons for crowds growing both smaller and quieter. They also discuss why returning to Tokyo for a few shows is just the morale boost they company needs. They also cover more tournament history, going back to the MSG League and how New Japan used its association with the WWWF to bolster its lineups. All this, plus All Star Jr. Festival news and more!
01:36:06
28/07/2023
Dave Meltzer on G1 Bracketology, SANADA, Possible WrestleKingdom 18 Scenarios
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter joins Steven and Jeremy for a conversation about the G1 Climax tournament, thoughts on SANADA's run as the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, and the state of New Japan business-wise. The three also discuss possible G1 scenarios and who may be this year's G1 breakout star. It's a fun talk with the foremost authority on pro wrestling!
32:22
21/07/2023
G1 Climax 33 Block-By-Block Preview
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with a preview of pro wrestling's greatest tournament, the G1 Climax. The pair look at each of the four blocks, giving their impressions of the participants, a summary of their spot on the cards today and predictions on who will move on the knockout rounds. They also talk about the newly-announced Resurgence show in the US, plus some tournament history talk. It's all you need to know going into the G1's opening weekend!
01:38:07
13/07/2023
NJPW Independence Day Review: Stiches and Title Switches, FantasticaMania
Speaking of Strong Style returns with Jeremy and Steven's review of Independence Day Nights 1 and 2 from Korakuen Hall. The pair discussed how NJPW's Strong brand reset itself with several title changes, getting itself back on course for more U.S. shows with this set of events in Japan. The belts, the blood and the newcomers are analyzed. Plus, Steven and Jeremy go over FantasticaMania from Mexico, and Yuji Nagata's loss of the All Japan Triple Crown. It's all here for NJPW fans!
01:32:22
06/07/2023
Forbidden Door 2023 Review, with Mel Gray’s Live Perspective
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway are joined by Mel Gray from the Powerbomshells to talk Forbidden Door 2. Mel was in attendance live and brought her perspective to being in the audience for the all-time great Kenny Omega-Will Ospreay match. She also opened up about why Bryan Danielson's decision to work a seizure during his match with Kazuchika Okada stirred such strong emotions, and why it was in such poor taste. The trio broke down what was otherwise a mostly excellent show, including a wonderful 10-man tag team match featuring Jon Moxley and his allies against The Elite, Konosuke Takeshita and Eddie Kingston, a fun four-way match featuring Orange Cassidy, Zach Sabre Jr., Katsuyori Shibata and Daniel Garcia, a good women's title match featuring Toni Storm and Willow Nightingale, and CM Punk embracing the bad guy role against Satoshi Kojima, who lost the match but won Twitter for the week. They also covered Sting and Hiroshi Tanahashi's rough night, plus why the show was a missed opportunity for SANADA. This is the show that looks at Forbidden Door from a proper New Japan perspective!
01:42:30
28/06/2023
Fobidden Door 2 Preview with Kevin Ely, Road to Strong, Is New Japan Losing its English Voice?
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are joined by Kevin Ely from The BOOM program to talk all things Forbidden Door! The trio discussed the matches announced and did some supposing on what other matches might come up in the coming days leading up to the Pay-Per-View. They talked about possible scenarios for Kenny Omega versus Will Ospreay, why Bryan Danielson versus Kazuchika Okada is the dream match of dream matches, why SANADA versus Jungle Boy Jack Perry could be a career-changer, and what Hiroshi Tanahashi and MJF means to the wrestlers involved. They also talked about the recent Road to Strong shows, setting up two very interesting cards at Korakuen Hall, in early July, Jun Kasai bringing his brand of mayhem to an NJPW ring, plus an ageless Yuji Nagata main event in Chiba. They also talked about how Hiromu Takahashi guilted Shingo Takagi into being in his corner. Jeremy, Steven and Kevin also shared their thoughts on this era of promotional cooperation, and why it's healthy for everyone. It's a great discussion for any New Japan fan!
01:49:03
21/06/2023
All Together Again Recap, G1 Blocks Revealed, Forbidden Door2 Duscussion
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with a new edition of Speaking of Strong Style! The pair looked at the All Together Again show, which featured New Japan, Pro Wrestling NOAH and All Japan talent, who shined and who took it easy. They also talked about Kosei Fujita's announcement he's no longer a young lion, and compared his class of trainees to some of the great classes of the past, which included talks of Shota Umino, Ren Narita, Great O-Khan, Master Wato and Yota Tsuji. Steven and Jeremy took an early look at the G1 blocks, made their early guesses on who may advance to the knockout stages, and wondered why Gedo does this to himself. Plus, they talked about the upcoming NJPW Strong shows in Tokyo, which will feature deathmatch star Jun Kasai, Jon Moxley and El Desperado. Speaking of Strong Style is your best source for news and analysis of New Japan Pro Wrestling!
01:32:17
14/06/2023
Dominion Breakdown, All Together Again Preview with Justin Knipper, Dream Matches coming
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with a super-sized episode of Speaking of Strong Style! Jeremy and Steven broke down the Dominion card, which featured some great matches, including SANADA's title defense against new star Yota Tsuji, and why the company pumped the brakes on the youth movement for a night, They also discussed the fantastic six-man tag team match with Okada, Tomohiro Ishii and Hiroshi Tanahashi going up against the Blackpool Combat Club's Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli and Umino, and how it will lead to one of the great dream matches of our time, Okada versus Bryan Danielson. They were also joined by Japanese wrestling expert and historian Justin Knipper, who helped the pair preview the All Together Again show, which has All Japan and NOAH talent joining the New Japan crew for some fascinating matchups. They also talked about the G1 lineup, how Eddie Kingston will check one off his bucket list by participating, and why Kaito Kiyomiya will be a factor in the tourney. With all that plus more Bullet Club turns to talk about, this episode is a must for New Japan fans!
01:55:28
07/06/2023
Best of Super Juniors 30 Finals, Dominion Preview, Blackpool Combat Club NJPW Debut
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with a new episode of Speaking of Strong Style! Steven and Jeremy discussed the end of the Best of the Super Juniors 30, going over the semifinals and final matches including Mike Bailey, Master Wato, El Desperado and Titan. They talked about how Wato has stepped up his game, why Titan is different than luchadores seen in the past, and if New Japan is telling a story about El Desperado struggling to win the "big one." They also went over injury news regarding Taiji Ishimori, Dan Moloney and Mark Davis of Aussie Open. The pair also previewed the big Dominion card this weekend, including why Steven thinks Yota Tsuji will win the IWGP title from SANADA. They looked at each match from the card, including Hiromu Takahashi versus Wato, David Finlay versus El Phantasmo, and the fascinating six-man tag team match featuring Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli and Shota Umino facing Kazuchika Okada, Hiroshi Tanahashi and Tomohiro Ishii. It's a loaded show with all you need to know going into one of New Japan's biggest nights of the year!
01:32:15
31/05/2023
New Japan Injury News, BOSJ 30, Resurgence Reviewed
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with another episode of Speaking of Strong Style! After a busy week, the pair talked about the recent rash on injuries to Mercedes Mone, Will Ospreay, Taiji Ishimori and Mark Davis, as well as how those injuries may affect plans going forward. They also discussed how Tony Khan should go with this whole Willow Nightengale thing, since everyone seems to love her, and for good reason. They also covered the Resurgence card, including a fun women's tournament (until the injury, anyway), a terrific six-man tag team match featuring CHAOS and Blackpool Combat Club, a really good street fight and a title change that will make for a better title match going forward. Jeremy also made a bold prediction that we'll be seeing Jon Moxley versus Kazuchika Okada before the end of summer. The pair also covered Best of the Super Juniors, their favorite matches involving stars such as Hiromu Takahashi, Mike Bailey, Lio Rush, El Desperado, Francesco Akira and even Ryuske Taguchi. They also made their predictions on who will come away with the trophy in 2023. It's all here for fans of New Japan Pro Wrestling!
01:30:18
24/05/2023
Best of the Super Juniors30 Begins, New Japan Resurgence Preview
It's the one-year anniversary of Speaking of Strong Style! Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway are celebrating by breaking down one of the busiest weeks of the year! The pair talked Best of the Super Juniors 30 tournament, how Mike Bailey made a great early impression, how Francesco Akira, Kevin Knight, Douki, Taiji Ishimori and Robbie Eagles are having great tournaments, and how favorites such as El Desperado and Hiromu Takahashi have been put in a little jeopardy early. They also discussed Clark Connors' dangerous attitude, TJP's smoothness, YOH's new edge and how Yoshinobu Kanemaru's veteran presence have all helped make this a wonderful tournament thus far. Steven and Jeremy also previewed the Resurgence card and how an upcoming STARDOM title match might give some hints on what will happen with the Strong Women's Title tournament. They also covered some Yota Tsuji news, and Jeremy offered up a theory that Kazuchika Okada could become involved in AEW and Kenny Omega's major storyline. For a year now, Speaking of Strong Style has delivered all you need to know about New Japan!
01:30:55
17/05/2023
Dontaku Review, BOSJ Preview, Blackpool Combat Club is Coming to Resurgence and Dominion
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone break down an eventful Wrestling Dontaku card and more in the latest edition of Speaking of Strong Style. Jeremy and Steven went through the Dontaku card match by match, talking about the results and angles. They discussed their belief that Yota Tsuji is a special talent, and why they think New Japan is onto something by pushing him right into the Dominion main event against IWGP World Heavyweight Champion SANADA. They also talked about the other major matches, why David Finlay needed to look vicious against Tama Tonga, why El Phantasmo made good strides toward being a babyface, and where all this Jon Moxley-Shota Umino-Kazuchika Okada rivalry could be going (if Jeremy is right, it's something big). They covered Hikuleo's win over KENTA, why Zack Sabre Jr. and Jeff Cobb needed to work a 15-minute draw, and why Aussie Open's challenge for a three-way match at Dominion improved the card. The pair also previewed a busy first week in the Best of Super Juniors tournament and picked their favorites to be in contention for the semifinals. It's another packed show that will bring you all you need to know about New Japan!
01:31:18
10/05/2023
Moxley and Mercedes Return, Road to Dontaku Title Matches Reviewed, Dontaku Preivew
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway are back with another episide of Speaking of Strong Style. Steven and Jeremy talked about the recent title matches in NJPW, how Kevin Knight was launched with KUSHIDA to junior heavyweight tag team gold, how Shane Haste and Mikey Nicholls passed the torch to Aussie Open, how Hiromu Takahashi sold like a champ for a dramatic match against Yoshinobu Kanemaru, and how Taichi and Shingo Takagi put on a clinic in building drama in their KOPW match. Jeremy and Steven also talked Kazuchika Okada, and the rough waters ahead for the former champion. Will he turn on his partners at Dontaku? Or will one of them walk out on him? The pair looked at those possibilities in their preview of Dontaku, which included the big IWGP title match between SANADA and Hiromu, whether Davied Finlay should win the NEVER Openweight title, Zack Sabre Jr. versus Jeff Cobb for the TV title. They also looked ahead to Resurgence, and how Jon Moxley has been added to a show that already had Will Ospreay and Hiroshi Tanahashi on the marquee, plus a tournament to establish yet another title. They also discussed why Willow Nightingale might be a better pick than Mercedes Mone for this belt. It's all you need to know about New Japan in one show!
01:31:34
03/05/2023
What’s Next for Mercedes Mone? Wrestling Dontaku Preview
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with Speaking of Strong Style! The pair talked Mercedes Mone, including her excellent title match loss to Mayu Iwatani at All-Star Dream Queendom, her run of matches in a red-hot women's promotion, and her new deal with New Japan and STARDOM. They also kicked around possibilities for Mone at the Resurgence card in May and other matchups for Mone in the future. Jeremy and Steven also talked about the Road to Dontaku, including the new stipulation for the Shingo Takagi-Taichi King of Pro Wrestling title match, the mystery of Kazuchika Okada's tag team partners, and what the future holds for Boltin Oleg. They discussed Tetsuya Naito and BUSHI's upcoming All Japan appearance and some possiblities for more crossovers. They also previewed some upcoming title matches. All this, plus a look at Hirooki Goto's career on the 20th anniversary of his debut. Speaking of Strong Style is your best resource for being up to date on all things New Japan!
01:30:03
26/04/2023
Aussie Open win at Capital Collision, Clark Connors Joins Bullet Club, Cheering Crowds, Road to Dontaku Preview
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with a new edition of Speaking of Strong Style! This week, they broke down the news and angles from two shows New Japan ran in the US, including Aussie Open adding Strong Tag Team gold to go with their IWGP titles, KENTA, Zack Sabre Jr. and Orange Cassidy making title defenses, and Clark Connors announced as the newest member of Bullet Club. The pair discussed how David Finlay is putting his own stamp and attitude on one of the most famous factions in wrestling, and why Juice Robinson's weekend plans had to be changed to fit them. Steven and Jeremy also discussed changes to the mask, capacity and cheering policies on New Japan shows. They also previewed upcoming events, including Hirooki Goto's Anniversary show, Mercedes Mone's IWGP Women's title defense against Mayu Iwantani at the biggest women's wrestling show in ages, and the upcoming Dontaku show. They even worked in a little Sakura Genesis history and shared some information on ticket prices, and New Japan is a downright reasonably-priced hobby. It's all here in one place for New Japan fans!
01:30:20
19/04/2023
Sakura Genesis: SANADA wins IWGP Title, Aussie Open Triumph, What’s Next For New Japan?
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with the latest episode of Speaking of Strong Style! This week, they discussed the newsorthy Sakura Genesis show, including SANADA's win over Kazuchika Okada to capture the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, Aussie Open's victory over Bishamon to ascend to the top of the IWGP tag team scene, Zack Sabre Jr.'s win over Shota Umino, Hiromu Takahashi's Jr. Heavyweight title defense against Robbie Eagles and more. The pair talked about what the future holds for the various titleholders, as each came away from Sakura Genesis with new challengers. They also discussed what's next for Okada. Could it be a run at Strong Style's NEVER Openweight Six-Man titles, and possibly even a full-fledged heel turn? Jeremy and Steven looked at El Phantasmo's ejection from bullet club via shillelagh, and how David Finlay took aim at Tama Tonga's NEVER Openweight title while KENTA targeted Hikuleo. The pair also looked ahead to a wide variety of shows, including two events in the US this week, one of the biggest women's shows in decades featuring Mercedes Mone versus Mayu Iwatani, and the road to Dontaku 2023. It's a one-stop shop for all you need to be a top-level New Japan fan!
01:30:04
12/04/2023
Sakura Genesis Preview, Road to Sakura Genesis Breakdown, NJPW in Los Angeles
Jeremy Finestone and Steven Conway return with a new Speaking of Strong Style! They discussed a busy week for New Japan talent in other promotion, as Hiroshi Tanahashi, Aussie Open, Jeff Cobb, KENTA, Minoru Suzuki, KUSHIDA, Lio Rush and Katsuyori Shibata appeared for Ring of Honor and IMPACT. The pair also talked about the Road to Sakura Genesis, including a hard-hitting match between Shingo Takagi and Aaron Henare, a NEVER Openweight Six-Man Tag Team title match, and why Hiromu Takahashi has to keep getting his butt beat. Steven and Jeremy also talked about the latest Bullet Club drama involving El Phantasmo, David Finlay and Gedo going into Sakura Genesis. They also previews that card, going over the top matches such as Kazuchika Okada's IWGP World Heavyweight Title defense against SANADA, Zack Sabre Jr. versus Shota Umino, Bishamon versus Aussie Open, Mercedes Mone versus Hazuki versus AZM and more. Plus, Steven had some thoughts on WrestleMania, the missed opportunity of it all and how it might have a ripple effect for New Japan. It's all you need to know about NJPW in one place!
01:31:06
05/04/2023
Cobb versus Omega on Dynamite, Multiverse Card Changes, Road to Sakura Genesis and New Japan Cup History
Steven Conway and Jeremy Finestone are back with a new episode of Speaking of Strong Style! The pair discussed the WrestleMania card for this year, giving their thoughts on Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, the Usos, Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair, Bianca Belair, Asuka and more. The also looked forward toward the Road to Sakura Genesis, including the Shingo Takagi-Aaron Henare King of Pro Wrestling match, the NEVER Openweight Six-Man Tag Team title match featuring Team Strong Style versus House of Torture. They also discussed Bolton Oleg's upcoming debut, and another tag team match for Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi, as they prepare to face SANADA and Taichi. Jeremy and Steven also discussed the changes to the IMPACT Multiverse show, with Tanahashi's addition and why KUSHIDA seems snakebitten. All this, plus New Japan Cup history makes this the perfect show for New Japan fans!
01:30:02
29/03/2023
Mike Gilbert Joins the Crew to Discuss Multiverse, Plus New Japan Cup Coverage and Faction Shakeups
Jeremy Finestone & Steven Conway return for a new episode of Speaking of Strong Style. This week, "Brace for Impact" host Mike Gilbert joined the show to talk about the upcoming New Japan - Impatct Multiverse show. Mike gives his impressions of Hiroshi Tanahashi coming in to repace Will Ospreay against Speedball Mike Bailey, KUSHIDA facing Josh Alexander for the IMPACT title, plus KENTA defending his NJPW Strong title against Minoru Suzuki. The trio broke down the entire card, including a four-way tag team match, a light heavyweight scramble and more featuring New Japan talent. Steven and Jeremy also dissected the end of the New Japan Cup tournament, which featured SANADA capturing the trophy and a shot at IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Kazuchika Okada. They also talked about what David Finlay, Aaron Henare and Shota Umino got from the tournament in terms of title shots against Tama Tonga, Shingo Takagi and Jack Sabre Jr., respectively. Plus, what are El Phantasmo and Chase Owens' intentions toward Bullet Club? It was a tournament filled with faction shakeups and great matches, and this episode will tell you all you need to know about New Japan Pro Wrestling!
01:34:12
22/03/2023