Now that’s what I’m talking about. Watched this match twice and it definitely got even better with a rewatch. I love matches when they start of slow then they just build and get more and more intense as the match goes on; ending with a great climax. That’s what this match was. Taiji Ishimori admittedly had an average BOSJ’s and he desperately needed a that great match in New Japan and he just did that. I loved Ishimori’s performance in the match. I really like that he wrestles that slower, more methodical technical style which is a very underrated aspect of his game, imo. Makes more sense given that he is a heel and allowed Hiromu to play a babyface, a role that he thrived in and it lead to a great face vs heel match up rather than just another move for move finals like previous years (not that I’m complaining or anything). Ishimori’s work on the neck was pretty great, using simple yet effective holds and submissions to wear down Hiromu, what put it over the top was Ishimori’s facial expressions for me. It turned good heel work to great heel work.
Hiromu Takahashi was amazing as well. The way the crowd responded to him was something special. Hopefully this leads to him winning the title. That runway drop kick was the tits. Such incredible bumps all match, really putting this match over the top. The only criticism I would give is that he didn’t sell the arm as much as I would’ve liked after that Yes Lock spot, but I’ll forgive it as he sold it after the match. Just outside my top 5 matches of the year. Just incredible wrestling in every aspect.
****¾
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