Show notes
Welcome to the Squared Circle Podcast with your host Marie Shadows!Visit:https://patreon.com/marieshadowshttps://rumble.com/user/marieshadowsIn this episode of the Square Circle Podcast, I break down Wrestle Kingdom 20 (January 4, 2026), focusing on the chaotic NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag "Ranbo" opener and the IWGP/STRONG Women's title match between Syuri and Saya Kamitani. I also go in-depth on why activist commentary (feminism, "women fighting for visibility") feels out of place in NJPW, cultural respect for Japan, why the women's titles feel like an afterthought, and how Stardom can headline the Tokyo Dome on merit—not gender narratives.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro & Wrestle Kingdom 20 overview1:45 - NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag "Ranbo" (Zack Sabre Jr., Oiwa & Hartley win)4:20 - The IWGP Women's & STRONG Women's title match (Syuri becomes double champ)7:10 - Rant starts: Commentary activism & inserting "woke" narratives12:30 - Respecting Japanese culture vs. American ideology imports18:45 - Why the IWGP Women's title exists + Stardom as separate division25:10 - Merit over gender quotas; Stardom selling out Tokyo Dome on its own32:00 - Women's wrestling observations: safety, training, storytelling40:15 - Final thoughts: Retire the titles? Revive NJPW Strong?45:50 - Outro & call to actionIf you're tired of forced narratives and want real talk on wrestling, hit like/subscribe/comment your thoughts below. No brainwashing here—just passion for the squared circle.
