3 Key Points
- Kazuchika Okada avenges his past submission loss by defeating Bryan Danielson in a highly anticipated rematch at Wrestle Kingdom 18.
- Despite Danielson’s pre-match claims of targeting Okada’s arm, the “Rainmaker” overcame the assault to claim victory on his home ground.
- With 2024 slated to be Danielson’s final year of full-time competition, fans speculate about the possibility of a deciding bout between the two rivals.
Okada’s Riveting Victory at Wrestle Kingdom 18
In an epic clash of wrestling titans, all eyes were on the Tokyo Dome as Kazuchika Okada, known to his legion of fans as the “Rainmaker,” conquered Bryan Danielson, the revered “American Dragon,” at Wrestle Kingdom 18. Okada’s victory served as retribution for a past defeat, where Danielson compelled him to submit during their AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door headline match, despite nursing a fractured forearm.
Prior to their Wrestle Kingdom encounter, Danielson vowed to incapacitate Okada’s arm, a strategy clearly observed during their intense bout. Okada, dedicated to his role, even continued to acknowledge the storyline injury post-match, opting not to raise his arm in victory as he exited the ring.
Resilience Leads to Redemption
Throughout the match, Okada was subjected to the same submission maneuver that had previously bested him at Forbidden Door. Despite multiple Busaiku knee strikes aimed to weaken him, Okada unleashed his signature Rainmaker not once, but twice, which ultimately laid Danielson flat for the pinfall. This triumph marked a moment of sweet redemption for Okada before his passionate supporters in Japan.
Following their grueling match, a moment of mutual admiration was witnessed as Danielson and Okada exchanged bows and handshakes—a tangible symbol of respect between the extraordinary athletes for the formidable challenge each had presented to the other.
Future Encounters: Speculation Abounds
With Danielson signaling his departure from full-time professional wrestling after 2024, fans are left wondering if a final, tie-breaking match is on the horizon for these two competitors. Danielson’s first Wrestle Kingdom appearance was indeed memorable, not only for being the co-main event but also for presenting another chapter in this evolving and electrifying saga of wrestling lore.
