Strong Style Stories with Kevin Kelly

In 2017 Katsuyori Shibata was arguably on track for a Wrestler of the Year. Matches in New Japan and Rev Pro under his belt - Joel and Kevin discuss those performances, injuries and what actually happened on that fatal night in Ryogoku.

Kevin is OK! Bipolar be damned - this week Kevin and Joel got to chat pro wrestling again. We talk about "is AEW just ECW with less drugs and more nerds?" and, with great sadness "Is NJPW now developmental for AEW?" For more info on bipolar disorder Thank you to one of the best Mental Health Nurse Specialists in the UK, Claire Amer. She will be doing supplemental podcast(s) so any questions about...

Kevin opens up about his absences and the various struggles you find within the sport of professional wrestling. Details on bipolar disorder Thank you to one of the best Mental Health Nurse Specialists in the UK, Claire Amer. She will be doing supplemental podcast(s) so any questions about the condition, mental health or pro wrestling (she is a WWE fan, I am an AEW fan... I smell a sitcom etc etc)...

In this episode, Joel catches up with Bad Luck Fale during a rare break from training the next generation of talent at his New Zealand Dojo. Fale pulls back the curtain on the birth of Bullet Club, breaking down just how sharp Prince Devitt (Finn Bálor) was in shaping the original concept, building the brand, and selling New Japan on why Bullet Club was worth serious time, trust, and investment. *...

In this conversation, TJP shares his extensive journey through the world of professional wrestling, reflecting on his experiences in the LA Dojo, the importance of commitment in the wrestling business, and the evolution of junior heavyweights. He discusses the significance of excursions for gaining experience, the impact of the dojo system on character development, and the role of factions in wres...

After Joel and Kevin look over this years Wrestle Kingdom and New Years Dash 2026, we head back to 2016 to review THE most news worthy New Years Dash and delve into why. What is it like to be in Korakuen Hall? How do you fit in there with so many audience members? And how much better did the WORST announce team in wrestling history recover from Wrestle Kingdom 10? Watch back with us at New Japan W...

Joel & Kevin are back with a full review of Wrestle Kingdom 10 - A decade later. Kevin shares his stories of being there, in the Dome with Matt Striker and Yoshi Tatsu. What was ROHs involvement? Who handed in their notice and how did Gedo cope? All is revealed! Watch back with us at New Japan World With thanks to Voices of Wrestling and The Super J Cast Chris Charlton's Lions Pride Kevin Kelly's...

In this episode of Strong Style Stories, Joel and Kevin delve into the significance of Wrestle Kingdom, exploring its unique atmosphere, the evolution of New Japan Pro Wrestling, and the personal reflections of those involved in the wrestling community. They discuss the importance of family, fan engagement, and the production quality that makes wrestling events memorable. The conversation also tou...

In this episode, Kevin and Joel delve into the intricate dynamics of New Japan Pro Wrestling, focusing on the evolution of its television partnerships, the impact of management on talent, and the personal journey of Kazuchika Okada. They discuss the pride and struggles of Okada, the influence of ownership on talent relations, and the future of New Japan under Hiroshi Tanahashi's leadership. Watch...

In this episode of "Strong Style Stories," hosts Joel and Kevin dive into the world of professional wrestling, focusing on the legendary careers of Hiroshi Tanahashi and John Cena. Join them as they explore Tanahashi's impact on New Japan Pro Wrestling, his memorable matches, and the parallels with Cena's journey in WWE. With personal anecdotes and insights, this episode offers a deep dive into th...

In this inaugural episode of Strong Style Stories, Joel and Kevin delve into the pivotal moments that shaped the relationship between New Japan Pro Wrestling and Ring of Honor. They discuss the significance of the Tokyo Dome, the strategic meetings and the original clandestine meeting that set the stage for Global Wars. Kevin shares insights about Tiger Hattori and his role as a liaison for foreig...