3. Kenny Omega
As World champion, it's time for Kenny Omega to take a step back from the glorious G1 years he has had since he joined the NJPW's heavyweight division. With the gold around him, he has no reason to win the competition or reach even close to the finals.
Unless NJPW really wants to strap a rocket on his back, though if they didn't do it with Okada in previous years it's doubtful the same happens for Omega. Most likely Kenny will look super strong heading into a rough road towards Wrestle Kingdom 13.
The question is who will beat Kenny to send him stumbling to the third spot because whoever they are will gain the right to challenge Omega for the championship. The most likely candidates of whom are Tetsuya Naito, Zack Sabre Jr, maybe a lower tier surprise such as Ishii or Sanada and one golden lover.
The most anticipated match against Kota Ibushi shall be Omega's real test this tournament.
Best Possible Match: vs. Kota Ibushi, Night 18
At this point in his career, all nine of Kenny Omega's Block B matches can turn into five-star classics. Yet there's no doubt there is one match he is going to go all in (pun intended) for. That his bout against recently reunited partner Kota Ibushi. The two men have waited for such a stage and spotlight in New Japan's heavyweight division, no doubt they'll put their best foot forward. Look for this to steal the show and the tournament.