Should WWE Have a G1 Tournament?
As WWE fans become less engaged with the product following major events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam, the company faces the ongoing challenge of keeping its audience interested throughout the entire year. While tournaments such as King and Queen of the Ring have added some excitement, they often feel brief and lack the depth needed to sustain long-term engagement. Fans crave more consistent storylines and compelling content during the slower months, which currently leaves a gap in the wrestling calendar. One potential solution could be introducing a new, high-stakes tournament that spans several months, keeping fans invested. Perhaps creating a WWE version of the G1 Climax could be just what the company needs to reignite interest during these quieter periods.
Bryan Danielson’s departure from WWE in 2021 was partly driven by his desire to compete in New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s prestigious G1 Climax. This tournament is renowned worldwide for its intense, round-robin format that features top-tier talent from various promotions. Its structure of multiple matches over several weeks creates anticipation and keeps fans eagerly following each stage. A similar G1-style tournament in WWE, especially after major pay-per-views like WrestleMania or SummerSlam, could serve as a game-changer. It would offer wrestling fans a compelling reason to tune in during the often slow months, as they watch their favorite wrestlers battle in a demanding, high-stakes competition.
AEW has already successfully implemented its own version of a G1-like tournament called the Continental Classic, or C2. Over the past two years, the C2 has garnered praise for producing match-of-the-year contenders, such as Will Ospreay facing his former Empire stablemate Kyle Fletcher, and Ospreay’s match against Kazuchika Okada, both happening at World’s End last year. The tournament’s format and high-quality matches have made it a highlight during a traditionally slow period in wrestling. Its success demonstrates that fans are eager for more long-form, competitive tournaments that deliver both drama and top-tier wrestling.
Introducing a WWE G1-style tournament could significantly impact the company’s programming by helping to develop new storylines and rivalries. During these extended competitions, lesser-known wrestlers would have a prime opportunity to showcase their skills and build momentum. The tournament could serve as a platform for emerging talent to break into the main event scene. Additionally, it would generate fresh excitement and unpredictability, as fans speculate on potential winners and new rivalries emerging from the competition. Maybe have the King and Queen of the Ring tournaments post-WrestleMania and have the G1 post-SummerSlam. That way, fans will have something to look forward to when the big shows are over. A G1 could reinvigorate WWE’s calendar and keep fans engaged year-round.
