A year ago, “Switchblade” Jay White headlined Wrestle Kingdom 15. He wrestled Kota Ibushi for the IWGP heavyweight title in the event’s finale, main-eventing the Tokyo Dome in an absurdly captivating bout that saw Ibushi claim his long-waited spot atop New Japan Pro-Wrestling. A year later, White was not part of Wrestle Kingdom 16–but he will play a pivotal role at this Saturday’s New Beginning USA show.
Taking place in Seattle, Wash., New Beginning USA is part of upcoming tapings for the weekly New Japan STRONG show. The card features a fascinating array of talent, including El Phantasmo, Yuya Uemura, Rocky Romero, Juice Robinson, Jonah, David Finlay, and Josh Barnett.