Ranking the top 10 wrestlers of 2019

Modified Dec 22, 2019 13:49 GMT

#5 Kazuchika Okada

This time last year, Kazuchika Okada was the third-ranked wrestler in the world. But after losing the IWGP Heavyweight Championship in 2018, Okada remained quiet for a while. He wasn’t delivering outstanding matches that he is known for.

It almost seemed like Kenny Omega’s exit from NJPW had an indirect effect on Okada. It’s undeniable that the two men had incredible chemistry in the ring.

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It took Okada a few months to finally regain his prominence by defeating Jay White for the NJPW’s top prize at ROH/NJPW G1 SuperCard. Since then, he has delivered captivating performances consistently.

Okada had a terrific G1 Climax in 2019. Even 'The Rainmaker' couldn’t win the tournament, his performances throughout the tournament were memorable. He had a brilliantly put together match against Will Ospreay. He put on a couple of breathtaking matches against Sanada and Kota Ibushi as well.

Despite dropping down to number five, he can still be considered one of the best in-ring performers in the world. Given the run he has been on, Okada may soon reclaim the number one spot on this list.

About the author

Sunil is a pro wrestling journalist, covering AEW and WWE news stories at Sportskeeda. He holds an MBA degree in Marketing, and has nearly 7 years of experience. A wrestling aficionado since childhood, Sunil used to imitate his favorite wrestlers as a young kid, and started writing professionally about the sport via Sportskeeda’s revenue-sharing opportunity.

Sunil admires former world champions AJ Styles, Will Ospreay, and Kenny Omega for their ability to consistently deliver great matches as well as entertain crowds with their mic skills.

If ever given a chance to change a storyline, Sunil would have booked Roman Reigns to end The Undertaker’s WrestleMania streak instead of Brock Lesnar. According to him, The Tribal Chief needed the victory more than Brock Lesnar, as the latter was already an established performer when he defeated ‘Taker. He would’ve also made that as Taker’s final match.

Always focused on making his work accurate and reliable, Sunil thoroughly checks his facts before writing his articles. When not writing for pro wrestling, he spends his time watching cricket.

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Edited by Shruti Sadbhav