AEW and NJPW have had a steady partnership in wrestling, but Gabe Kidd has been quite vocal about his opinion of the relationship. In fact, Kidd has now dismissed the Continental Classic as a fake G1 Climax tournament.
While speaking to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, Gabe Kidd talked about his views on AEW, describing it as more of a “television show” than a wrestling organization. He also criticized the AEW Continental Classic, calling it a “fake G1,” referencing New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s prestigious G1 Climax tournament and how it pales in comparison with NJPW’s tournament.
Gabe Kidd also previously accused AEW of failing in their partnership with New Japan Pro-Wrestling. As for this year’s Continental Classic, Kazuchika Okada won the tournament and retained the Continental Classic in a solid match against Will Ospreay.
The debate between AEW’s Continental Classic and NJPW’s G1 Climax is certainly something many fans continue to talk about even now. While Gabe Kidd’s comments reflect the views of traditionalist fans, AEW is still praised for actually trying to make the Continental Classic mean something.
Where do you stand in this debate? Is AEW’s Continental Classic a worthwhile addition to pro wrestling, or does it fail to live up to NJPW’s G1 Climax? Share your thoughts below!