I understand that he sorta apologized. And I understand there is PLENTY of underlying heat towards AEW for talent leaving New Japan (which is loyalism bordering on tribalism, the latter is fucking stupid). And I get that the whole Kenny and Gabe feud was about NJPW-AEW rivalry and Gabe was and is the embodiment of homegrown loyal real warrior. And the whole crowd was for him and against Omega. It all fits completely. And it all makes sense and is cool.
But that "money mark" comment to me was completely out of line for a broadcast. It dosen't add realism, it just expresses a hateful bitter opinion, that hurts both companies since they work together. It made me go: "what the fuck did he say?" and focus on this "rebel" commentator instead of the masterpiece of violence two absolute warriors were putting on.
I always loved Chris and his knowledge and passion and commentary, I deeply respect the guy and always did ever since he was featured as a promo translator and then as the voice of NJPW. His Cultaholic interview was immensly interesting and heartfelt.
But that moment, the whole sturring of the pot with Okada and Tsuji (I get that it's the story Tsuji pushes) and actually using "white meat babyface" at a wrestling broadcast to me was way over the line. Everything else by him on both nights and just about everything in the last few years was stellar. Especially the selfish-selfless line during Naito's enterance on WK.
I just hope this great commentator properly apologizes, learns from his mistakes and improves something he is already super fucking good at.
by Kazuchika420