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New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is set to deliver another unforgettable night of hard-hitting action, emotional storytelling, and pure wrestling artistry with NJPW NEW JAPAN SOUL 2025, airing live on June 18th, 2025. This event promises to be a celebration of the heart and soul of professional wrestling, featuring some of the most talented athletes in the world battling for supremacy.
In this exclusive preview, we’ll break down the full card, analyze key matchups, and provide insights into the rivalries that will define this spectacular event. Whether you’re a longtime NJPW fan or a newcomer looking to dive into the world of strong-style wrestling, this is your ultimate guide to NEW JAPAN SOUL 2025.
The Significance of NEW JAPAN SOUL
NJPW’s NEW JAPAN SOUL series has always been about more than just wrestling—it’s about the passion, struggle, and unbreakable spirit of the competitors. Unlike the more tournament-heavy events like the G1 Climax or the high-stakes drama of Wrestle Kingdom, NEW JAPAN SOUL focuses on emotional rivalries, technical mastery, and the pure essence of pro wrestling.
This year’s edition is shaping up to be one of the most compelling yet, with title defenses, grudge matches, and potential career-defining moments on the horizon.
Full Card Breakdown & Predictions
1. IWGP World Heavyweight Championship Match
Hiroshi Tanahashi (c) vs. Shota Umino
The Ace of NJPW, Hiroshi Tanahashi, defends his IWGP World Heavyweight Championship against the fiery Shota Umino, who has been on an absolute tear in 2025. Umino, often seen as one of the future pillars of NJPW, has vowed to “usher in a new era” by dethroning Tanahashi.
- Key Storyline: Umino’s rise has been meteoric, but Tanahashi’s veteran savvy and championship experience make this a true clash of generations.
- Prediction: A *5-star classic* in the making. Umino’s hunger may finally overcome Tanahashi’s resilience, leading to a new champion.
🔗 For more on Tanahashi’s legendary career, check out NJPW’s official profile.
2. NEVER Openweight Championship – No Disqualification Match
Tomohiro Ishii (c) vs. Jon Moxley
Two of the toughest men in wrestling collide in what promises to be a brutal, hard-hitting war. Jon Moxley, the former AEW World Champion, has returned to NJPW with a vengeance, demanding a shot at Ishii’s NEVER Openweight Championship.
- Key Storyline: Moxley’s brawling style vs. Ishii’s unbreakable toughness. This No DQ stipulation ensures chaos.
- Prediction: Blood, violence, and an epic finish. Moxley may reclaim gold in NJPW.
🔗 Relive Moxley’s past NJPW battles here.
3. IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship Match
Hiromu Takahashi (c) vs. El Desperado
The junior heavyweight division is always a highlight of NJPW events, and this match is no exception. Hiromu Takahashi, the “Ticking Time Bomb,” defends against his longtime rival El Desperado in what could be their final showdown.
- Key Storyline: These two have fought countless times, but with Desperado hinting at retirement, emotions will be at an all-time high.
- Prediction: A masterclass in junior heavyweight wrestling. Hiromu retains, but Desperado goes out in a blaze of glory.
🔗 Catch up on their historic rivalry here.
4. Special Tag Team Showdown
Kazuchika Okada & Tetsuya Naito vs. Zack Sabre Jr. & Will Ospreay
A dream tag team match featuring four of the best wrestlers in the world. Okada and Naito, despite their differences, must unite against the technical wizardry of Zack Sabre Jr. and the high-flying brilliance of Will Ospreay.
- Key Storyline: This could be a preview of future singles rivalries, particularly if Ospreay challenges Okada for the IWGP title later this year.
- Prediction: A show-stealing performance. Sabre & Ospreay pick up the win with their unmatched chemistry.
🔗 For more on Ospreay’s NJPW journey, visit his official page.
5. Strong Style Showcase – Shingo Takagi vs. Jeff Cobb
Pure, unadulterated strong-style wrestling as Shingo Takagi and Jeff Cobb collide in a battle of powerhouses. Both men are former Never Openweight Champions, and this match could determine the next challenger.
- Key Storyline: A test of raw strength and endurance.
- Prediction: A hard-hitting 15-minute war, with Shingo edging out Cobb.
6. Young Lion’s Proving Ground – Yota Tsuji vs. Gabriel Kidd
The future of NJPW is on display as Yota Tsuji takes on Gabriel Kidd in a battle of rising stars. Both men have been impressive in the Young Lion system, and this could be their breakout match.
- Key Storyline: Who will step up as the next major star?
- Prediction: Tsuji wins, solidifying his push toward the mid-card.
How to Watch NJPW NEW JAPAN SOUL 2025
📅 Date: June 18, 2025
⏰ Time: 5 PM JST / 4 AM EST / 9 AM BST
📺 Where to Watch:
- NJPW World (Live Streaming)
- FITE TV (PPV Option for International Fans)
🔗 Sign up for NJPW World here.
Final Thoughts & Why You Can’t Miss This Event
NEW JAPAN SOUL 2025 is shaping up to be one of the must-see wrestling events of the year. With a mix of high-stakes title matches, emotional rivalries, and the potential for breakout performances, this show has something for every wrestling fan.
Will Shota Umino finally ascend to the top? Can Jon Moxley reclaim NJPW gold? And will El Desperado have one last classic before retirement? Tune in June 18th to find out!
SEO-Optimized External Links for Further Reading:
- NJPW Official Event Page – Stay updated with the latest news.
- History of the IWGP Heavyweight Title – Dive into the legacy.
- Jon Moxley’s Best NJPW Matches – Relive his greatest bouts.
- How to Watch NJPW Worldwide – Streaming guide for international fans.
🔥 Don’t miss NJPW NEW JAPAN SOUL 2025 – Live June 18th! 🔥
What match are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments!