OM DENNE EPISODE
Welcome to the Squared Circle Podcast with your host Marie Shadows!
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Aaron Wolf shocked the wrestling world by winning the NEVER Openweight Championship in his NJPW pro wrestling debut against EVIL at Wrestle Kingdom 20.
Olympic judo gold medalist to champion in one match? Bold move... but is it good booking?
In this episode of the Square Circle Podcast, I break down why I'm not a fan of Aaron Wolf... yet. From the pre-shaved head twist killing the stipulation stakes, to the kayfabe issues of a newcomer surviving full House of Torture chaos, to EVIL being the ultimate selfless company man — we dive deep.
I also discuss the NEVER title's faded relevance in 2026, why the Young Lion system needs rethinking (Tanahashi's WWE envy is telling), and NJPW's bigger problems with faction stagnation and uneven pushes.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro & my stance: Not a fan of Aaron Wolf... yet
1:45 – NEVER Openweight history & why it feels outdated now
4:20 – Aaron Wolf's background vs. NJPW's newcomer model
7:10 – The buildup & that hair-shaving stipulation nonsense
9:50 – Match breakdown: House of Torture shenanigans overload
13:30 – Kayfabe problems — how does a debutant survive all that?
17:05 – EVIL appreciation: The Miz of NJPW, selfless vet
20:15 – Young Lion system critique (too long, too rigid)
24:40 – Broader NJPW issues: Factions, loyalty, and pushing the wrong people
28:20 – Final thoughts & hope on the horizon (Tsuji as champ)
30:45 – Upcoming: April 6, 2026 NJPW Las Vegas event
32:00 – Outro & call to comment/subscribe
