One of the best parts of being a fan of New Japan Pro Wrestling is being able to see their future grow right in-front of you. Between the NJPW Dojo and the recently reopened LA Dojo, they are training some of the brightest young stars in wrestling today. There are a few stand out students in their current classes, but none stand out more than Karl Fredericks. Training at the LA Dojo under Katsuyori Shibata, it feels like he will be the man to truly carry on his trainers legacy, after Shibatas career was cut short.
“Let me fight The Ace”
NJPW recently announced an event by the name of Lion Breaks for Tampa, Florida. This will serve as a showcase for the talent at the LA Dojo, and Karl Fredricks wants to prove himself as more than just a mere rookie. He has set out a challenge to one of the biggest names in the company, and his trainers old rival. This is Hiroshi Tanahashi. Tanahashi might be in the back half of his career, but he is still one of the best wrestlers in the world. Being the man who took NJPW out of the dark ages so to speak, he is renowned and still holds the title of ace out of respect.
Karl Fredricks vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi
If Fredricks was a bit more experienced could be the main event of the Tokyo Dome. That is how much upside this young talent has. His size, athleticism, and presence already show that he is a future star, and a victory over the ace himself could speed that process up. Shota Umino nearly defeated Hiroshi Tanahashi in the first round of last years New Japan Cup, so a Young Lion beating him isn’t impossible. You just need to wrestle a perfect match. Having Shibata in his corner will certainly help as well, as Shibata knows Tanahashi very well, having come through the NJPW Dojo alongside both Tanahashi & Shinsuke Nakamura.
If nothing else, this match (provided it happens) will show everyone that you can’t sleep on Karl Fredicks, because he is set for greatness.
Do you think a rookie will be able to knock off a multi-time world champion? Let us know what you think of this situation in the comment section down below. The Overtimer is a leading source on NJPW, return regularly for more news, rumors and speculation about Japans hottest promotion.
