New Japan Pro Wrestling: On-going Discussion [Archive]

#BROKEN Hasney

01-11-2017, 03:01 PM

After a third straight amazing Wrestle Kingdom and some interesting angles coming out of New Years Dash, I thought it would be a good place to get people up to speed and then talk about their events going forward.

NJPW World is their equivalent of WWE Network: http://njpwworld.com and Fragile X posted a doc with the must watch matches from history: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ZsZCBTpKjHzdbCpKZ1No1KAdpmOd2OcgSMfC1-oa7pI/edit#gid=0

But onto the new shit:

The next big events are New Beginning on Feb 5th and Feb 11th. The cards are STACKED

February 5, 2017 on NJPWWorld.com (English & Japanese Commentary)
Match Note(s)
KUSHIDA & Hirai Kawato vs. Suzukigun (Yoshinobu Kanemaru & El Desperado) Tag Team Match
Yuji Nagata, Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima vs. Yoshitatsu, David Finlay & Henare Six Man Tag Team Match
Katsuyori Shibata, Jushin Thunder Liger & Tiger Mask IV vs. CHAOS (Will Ospreay, Gedo & Jado) Six Man Tag Team Match
YOSHI-HASHI vs. Takashi Iizuka Singles Match
Michael Elgin, Hiroshi Tanahashi, Manabu Nakanishi, Ryusuke Taguchi & Dragon Lee vs. Los Ingobernables de Japon (Tetsuya Naito, SANADA, EVIL, BUSHI & Hiromu Takahashi) Ten Man Tag Team Match
Roppongi Vice (Rocky Romero & Beretta) (c) vs. Suzukigun (TAKA Michinoku & Taichi) IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship Match
Hirooki Goto (c) vs. Juice Robinson NEVER Openweight Championship Match
CHAOS (Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano) (c) vs. GBH (Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma) vs. Killer Elite Squad (Lance Archer & Davey Boy Smith Jr.) IWGP Tag Team Championship 3-Way Match
Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Minoru Suzuki IWGP Heavyweight Championship Match

http://68.media.tumblr.com/37c8a7695daf0987aa338d6595d93768/tumblr_ojbhj1LCii1rqbrtjo1_1280.jpg

Match Note(s)
Yoshitatsu & Hirai Kawato vs. David Finlay & Henare Tag Team Match
Hiroyoshi Tenzan, Satoshi Kojima & KUSHIDA vs. Suzukigun (Takashi Iizuka, Yoshinobu Kanemaru & El Desperado) Six Man Tag Team Match
Juice Robinson, Jushin Thunder Liger & Tiger Mask IV vs. CHAOS (YOSHI-HASHI, Gedo & Jado) Six Man Tag Team Match
CHAOS (Kazuchika Okada, Rocky Romero & Beretta) vs. Suzukigun (Minoru Suzuki, TAKA Michinoku & Taichi) Six Man Tag Team Match
Hiroshi Tanahashi, Manabu Nakanishi & Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Los Ingobernables de Japon (SANADA, EVIL & BUSHI) NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Championship Match
Katsuyori Shibata vs. Will Ospreay Singles Match (RPW Heavyweight Championship Match if Shibata is still champion at this point)
CHAOS (Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano) vs. GBH (Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma) vs. Killer Elite Squad (Lance Archer & Davey Boy Smith Jr.) IWGP Tag Team Championship 3-Way Match
Hiromu Takahashi (c) vs. Dragon Lee IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship Match
Tetsuya Naito (c) vs. Michael Elgin IWGP Intercontinental Championship Match

Shibata V Osprey should be goddamn glorious. Their brief interaction at New Years Dash was great

http://i.imgur.com/P0U9y59.gif

Hopefully this makes it all easier to talk and watch this shit

Destor

01-11-2017, 03:19 PM

They need to get a PSN or Amazon Fire app. I'd get on bored today if they did.

#BROKEN Hasney

01-11-2017, 03:34 PM

They need to get a PSN or Amazon Fire app. I'd get on bored today if they did.

Yeah, I'm alright because I have a Chromecast, so I can just send the videos over the network, but I can see why it would be a blocker for people without that.

Volare

01-11-2017, 04:07 PM

Hiromu Takahashi (c) vs. Dragon Lee IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship Match

This should be damn good as well.

Innovator

01-11-2017, 04:23 PM

I love that Shibata sees Ospraey doing his stupid pose and wants to PK his face off

Innovator

01-11-2017, 04:24 PM

IWGP Heavyweight Champion Minoru Suzuki

Damian Rey 2.0

01-11-2017, 04:33 PM

Excited to see these shows. Need to catch up on New Year's Dash.

Jordan

01-11-2017, 04:55 PM

Anyone have a gut feeling on G1 this year?

I think Omega could take it again.

Innovator

01-11-2017, 05:18 PM

Damian Rey 2.0

01-11-2017, 05:59 PM

I think it'll be Omega, who finally wins the belt next year at WK.

I'd like to Shibata get a bigger push.

#BROKEN Hasney

01-11-2017, 06:42 PM

I don't think Omega is going to win it twice, although it would make a good story. I could see it being Okada after losing the title to go on to face Omega though.

Jordan

01-11-2017, 08:13 PM

I don't think Omega is going to win it twice, although it would make a good story. I could see it being Okada after losing the title to go on to face Omega though.

For sure a possibility. Okada could drop to Suzuki who could drop to Omega sometime in the fall.

Volare

01-12-2017, 01:53 AM

Mr. Nerfect

01-12-2017, 02:19 AM

I think the main event of Wrestle Kingdom next year is going to be Okada vs. Naito. I don't know whether you have Okada drop the belt to Suzuki and then win it back himself or if Naito wins it from Suzuki somehow. Does Japan do heel vs. heel matches? I'd be fine with Suzuki dropping it to a babyface and then Naito winning it from them. But yeah, my guess is either Naito or Okada for the G1.

Then again, maybe that is just the finals of it? I just think there is money in the idea of the two men that have beaten Tanahashi at Wrestle Kingdom these past two years fighting each other.

Innovator

01-12-2017, 10:35 AM

Naito is already a tweener, I can see him taking it off of Suzuki to become a full fledged face

Damian Rey 2.0

01-12-2017, 07:38 PM

I could dig Naito v Okada.

I really do think Omega is getting the strap in the next year if he signs. And I think he will headline WK next year, whether he's defending or chasing the belt.

Damian Rey 2.0

01-12-2017, 07:38 PM

Sweet theme for Hiromu btw

Mr. Nerfect

01-12-2017, 09:50 PM

Call me crazy, but I see them "making" Omega without putting the belt on him. He's already the first gaijin to win the G1 and he has had that match which has turned heads. I don't know what the exact plans for the expansion are, but Omega is likely to be a huge part of that. I'm not sure if they will create a new title or have him do it as the Intercontinental Champion or something, but I don't necessarily see him being "A1."

They can keep his title win in the back pocket for Wrestle Kingdom in two years time or even further down the track.

Volare

01-13-2017, 01:53 AM

Emperor Smeat

01-13-2017, 02:00 AM

Rumor going around the net hint Omega might have signed or is in the process of signing a new 2 year deal with NJPW.

Volare

01-13-2017, 02:14 AM

After everything Omega has done in his career so far, I just want him to succeed to the highest level possible.

Mr. Nerfect

01-13-2017, 03:00 AM

That promo from Suzukigun is better than most of the WWE ones you see. It wouldn't surprise me to see Archer & Smith back in a WWE ring one day.

Damian Rey 2.0

01-13-2017, 03:24 AM

The lead guy came off great. A quiet intensity about him.

The two American guys were meh. Came off fake as fuck. Wish they'd just do an mma style promo like the other guys seem to do.

Btw I'm digging heel Taka

Volare

01-13-2017, 03:46 AM

Damian Rey 2.0

01-13-2017, 04:25 AM

Oh excuse me. The two foreigners. Now I feel dumb lol.

Boy junior bulldog was unrecognizable.

Jordan

01-13-2017, 02:48 PM

New Japan today has announced a full schedule of events on New Japan World with English language commentary of the events that will air live.

As has already been reported, both major shows in February, the New Beginning in Sapporo on February 5th with the Kazuchika Okada vs. Minoru Suzuki IWGP title match and the February 11th New Beginning in Osaka with the Tetsuya Naito vs. Michael Elgin IC title match will have English language commentary.

The other shows between now and August with English commentary are:

March 6th -- 45th Anniversary show at the Tokyo Ota Ward Gym
March 20th -- New Japan Cup finals (winner to get an IWGP title match on 4/9)
April 9th -- Sakura Genesis at Tokyo Sumo Hall
May 3rd -- Wrestling Dontaku in Fukuoka's International Center Arena
June 3rd -- Best of the Super Junior finals
June 11th -- Dominion in Osaka Jo Hall (the biggest event between now and G-1)
July 1st -- The show in Long Beach, CA
July 2nd -- The second show in Long Beach, CA
July 17th -- Opening night of the G-1 tournament in Sapporo
August 11th -- A block finals of G-1 at Sumo Hall
August 12th -- B block finals of G-1 at Sumo Hall
August 13th -- G-1 Climax championship match at Sumo Hall
Kevin Kelly will be the lead announcer for the broadcasts. At this point it's unknown who will be working with him now that Steve Corino has taken a job as a trainer at the WWE Performance Center.

#BROKEN Hasney

01-14-2017, 05:10 AM

A sticking point in the Kenny Omega/New Japan negotiations is believed to be that the company hasn’t given Omega assurances he’ll be put back in the title picture in 2017, says Dave Meltzer.

After that goddamn match? Shiiiit

Damian Rey 2.0

01-14-2017, 06:03 AM

Can't see how he's not getting the belt at some point. His story as it stands is right there for him to eventually win it.

Jordan

01-14-2017, 02:08 PM

Yeah if I'm Omega, and NJPW doesn't want me in the main event this year, then I'd go to WWE. Fuck that shit.

Simple Fan

01-14-2017, 02:20 PM

Yeah, the way Okada put him over after the match as well saying he's the strongest foreign wrestler in the history of NJPW that he wouldn't be in the title picture. Also he just had to hit the One Winged Angel on Okada to win the title. They teased it to much in the match and he never hit it.

I think the best thing they could do is have Kenny and a couple BC guys go on excursion to maybe PWG or ROH or some where on the west coast this summer to keep Kenny away from Okada and the title picture. With the opening rounds of the G1 in California Kenny can make it his goal to win the G1 again and is going to leave Japan until he feels good enough to be IWGP Heavyweight Champion. Kenny does win it again and Okada if feel might drop the title some time this year but gets it back to set up Okada/Omega 2 and I don't know if they top this year's match but by God Kenney hit the One Winged Angle, maybe 4.

Mr. Nerfect

01-14-2017, 08:02 PM

There's more than just being in the main event. There is long-term business to think about and a way to create more stars by off-shooting from Omega. For example, it makes perfect sense for him to be in the G1 again. It also makes sense for him to lose in the finals, putting over another guy (my money is on Naito still) and then having to face the reality he won't be challenging for the IWGP Heavyweight Title. What's the next best thing? Personal pride? The IC Title? There are other ways to spread Omega out and essentially get two special attractions and create quite a few stars around him.

I'd honestly have him penciled in to win the G1 Climax in 2018. Make it a story of redemption for Omega. He wins the G1 after failing a year before hand and then possibly heads into war against either Naito or Okada for redemption in the main event of Wrestle Kingdom 13.

If you did this, you'd probably have the IWGP Heavyweight Title move from Okada to Suzuki and then back to Okada. Naito probably fails at Wrestle Kingdom 12. He and Omega fight in the G1, Omega wins and then heads against Okada, where he finally wins the IWGP Heavyweight Title after over two years of chasing, provided that he signs another two year deal with New Japan. Honestly, if I'm New Japan, I'd probably try to lock him down for 5, but I'm not sure they do business that way.

Simple Fan

01-14-2017, 08:33 PM

It's a good idea but I feel like waiting two years to give Omega his redemption is a little long. Kenny shouldn't be interested in anything other than the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and two years of him floating around the upper mid card would be regression. I like that he has decided to take time off after that match and his reasons. Thats why I think he needs to come back to North America and have matches with guys that can prepare him for becoming champion. Guys like Alberto El Patron in ROH, RVD in Noids favorite New promotion PCW, Kurt Angle assuming he doesn't go to WWE somewhere, Pentagon Jr in PWG all the while promoting himself for the G1 later this year in California.

Mr. Nerfect

01-14-2017, 09:53 PM

I like Omega working all over, but I do think you can stretch this out. Omega vs. Tanahashi, Omega vs. Suzuki or Omega vs. Shibata in the #2 match at Wrestle Kingdom 12 works fine.

Mr. Nerfect

01-14-2017, 10:07 PM

Okada is their A1 guy. Like with Tanahashi and Nakamura a few years ago, with there being no real space for Nakamura in the immediate IWGP Heavyweight Title scene, I'd be fine with the IWGP IC Title being the "A2" belt for Omega to hold and make his own. New Japan has treated the belt like it has importance. It doesn't need to be a secondary title.

They could even do the "vote on your main event" thing with it and it could even headline.

Mr. Nerfect

01-14-2017, 10:16 PM

When you look at the championships in New Japan right now, I think the IWGP Heavyweight Championship should be based around Okada. He can probably drop it off to Minoru Suzuki to give him that run, but it should probably move back to Okada by the time of the next Wrestle Kingdom.

The IC Title can be the Kenny Omega scene. If they decide to move up Naito, then maybe Togi Makabe can complete his singles Triple Crown with an IC Title win in order to get the belt onto Omega and keep Naito/Omega free as a big match?

The NEVER Openweight Title scene looks like it is the playground for Hirooki Goto for the foreseeable future.

Mr. Nerfect

01-14-2017, 10:34 PM

On the topic of belts in New Japan, I do think that they could probably unify the IWGP Tag Team Championship and Junior Heavyweight Tag Titles. You can still do junior tags, but there isn't much drama left in holding either set of belts. Putting some junior teams against some of those heavyweight teams could really help out the overall health of New Japan's tag scene.

While I'm not a big fan of the Six-Man Titles, I was always intrigued by the idea of the U-30 Championship. They retired the belt fairly quickly, but when you look at the former champions -- Hiroshi Tanahashi and Shinsuke Nakamura -- well, they didn't exactly flop in Japan. I'm not saying the U-30 Title is responsible for that, but maybe there is a place for it in New Japan? I dunno, it might seem unnecessary, but I've always been a mark for the idea of that belt.

According to Wikipedia, here are the talent in New Japan that are under the age of 30:

* Adam Cole
* Hangman Page
* Henare
* Juice Robinson
* Seiya Sanada (my pick for revived champion)
* Chase Owens
* David Finlay? (not sure of his age, but I'd guess he is under 30)
* Hiromu Takahashi (current Junior Heavyweight Champion)
* Jay White
* Nick Jackson
* Ricochet
* Sho Tanaka
* Will Ospreay
* Yohei Kamatsu

Even if the belt was mainly to earmark Sanada and Takahashi and maybe give Ricochet and Ospreay to fight over when they're not in the Junior Heavyweight scene, it would at least serve a purpose.

Droford

01-16-2017, 06:06 PM

ROH is doing another War of the Worlds tour with NJPW in May with shows in Toronto Dearborn MI (?) and Philly at the old ECW arena. I went to the Philly show 2 years ago it was pretty awesome at the time seeing Nakamura Okada and AJ Styles wrestle..I might go back again. There was also an NXT Show a couple nights later..it was pretty fun.

Damian Rey 2.0

01-16-2017, 07:35 PM

I might try to go to the G1 show in Long Beach this year.

#BROKEN Hasney

01-17-2017, 09:11 AM

For the shows in English, Corinos replacement is:

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LFxHLAACVqo/UhCIfLfn8zI/AAAAAAAAAFc/mxkKDE5UwJQ/s400/0018.png

Yeahhh, pretty good choice.

Jordan

01-17-2017, 12:07 PM

Evil Vito

01-17-2017, 01:46 PM

Shibata might be in deep shit. A woman is posting various pictures and chatlogs on Twitter claiming that Shibata (who is a married man) had an affair with her.

In the US it'd be whatever, but in Japan there is an expectation that celebrities that get caught up in moral scandals be punished and publicly shamed for it. NJPW have suspended wrestlers for similar transgressions in the past.

Evil Vito

01-17-2017, 01:48 PM

Supposedly Shibata's only signed through March as well. Should these allegations end up being true, they might allow his contract to expire and let him go back to being a freelancer.

#BROKEN Hasney

01-17-2017, 01:49 PM

Hey, WWE could get him. Their top guy is an adulterer!

https://media.giphy.com/media/8ioMpseLlvQC4/giphy.gif

Evil Vito

01-17-2017, 02:02 PM

If WWE have read my 2017 Royal Rumble fantasy booking, I should add to it that I'd love to see The Miz introduce Shibata as his silent bodyguard who can just standing there looking menacing in a suit and Penalty Kick anyone who steps out of line.

Droford

01-17-2017, 10:53 PM

I may travel from NYC to Philly for this

Keep in mind when they did this the last time it sold so well that they expanded it to 2 nights AND WWE got involved and did 2 nights if NXT shows (which at the time NXT had just started touring so it was a big deal.

Gen public tix sales are Friday at 10 am

Mr. Nerfect

01-19-2017, 07:07 AM

Shibata would be a great signing for the WWE. The dude's got a "vibe" that could work. I actually like the idea of him being a bodyguard for The Miz. Could help him "get over" to audiences who don't give a shit about puroresu. It's doubtful he will ever be the guy in New Japan because they are still butt-hurt about him leaving while Tanahashi and Nakamura stayed.

Damian Rey 2.0

01-19-2017, 05:37 PM

Pretty much any non English speaking foreigner wouldn't be a good signing for WWE unless it's nxt only.

Hard to get over when you can't cut a promo and the reality is it's unlikely they give him a mouthpiece.

Mr. Nerfect

01-20-2017, 06:56 PM

Completely disagree. A guy that doesn't talk is MORE likely to get over in today's WWE, because it's fresh, interesting and will help him stand-out from the pack. The kiss of death is if they have him start speaking Engrish. Unless he's got some sort of conviction behind it that makes him sound deadly.

I'd like to see them give him video packages with him speaking in Japanese with subtitles, personally. Or just hand his segments off to Heyman to produce, since he will know what to do. Hell, Brock as Heyman's RAW guy and Shibata as Heyman's SmackDown guy could work.

Damian Rey 2.0

01-20-2017, 10:06 PM

Let's be realistic. Heyman managing anyone other than Lesnar is extremely unlikely.

Shibata coming over and getting over without talking and while having his in ring style watered down heavily is highly unlikely. It COULD work, if he's part of a faction. But as a lone competitor who doesn't talk? I can't see that working anywhere but nxt.

Mr. Nerfect

01-21-2017, 11:23 PM

Being realistic, the chances that anyone gets over at all is highly unlikely, unless it is ironic because they're not supposed to be over. AJ Styles is like the only guy.

#BROKEN Hasney

01-26-2017, 06:22 AM

Omega is making an announcement tomorrow, was doing a Q&A in the UK and was teasing going to WWE saying that he probably "wouldn't be able to pull a rabbit out of the hat" when someone said "see you Sunday". Clearly working people I think, but there are reports he's been offered $1million per year by WWE.

#BROKEN Hasney

01-27-2017, 04:41 AM

Omegas signed on for another year

#BROKEN Hasney

02-03-2017, 04:18 PM

All ready for New Beginning!

http://i.imgur.com/eb1tVc2l.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/nBk6AlCl.jpg

Destor

02-03-2017, 08:39 PM

I wish this app were available through logical channels

Emperor Smeat

02-03-2017, 11:05 PM

If WWE ever wanted to sign Kazuchika Okada to a deal, they likely would be looking at something over $2 million per year to make it even possible. Amount is based on his current deal and what NJPW has been spending building him up as their new "Ace" or mega star.

Got revealed during a recent article Vice had about Kenny Omega.

https://sports.vice.com/ca/article/kenny-omegas-journey-from-canadian-junior-hockey-goalie-to-wrestling-superstar

Mr. Nerfect

02-04-2017, 03:28 AM

Styles/Cena was a better match than Okada/Omega. Fight me.

Damian Rey 2.0

02-04-2017, 03:55 AM

You're entitled to your opinion Noid. I don't know why you're being so confrontational. This is a place of love.

Mr. Nerfect

02-05-2017, 02:37 AM

What if I told you that I have evidence this was a measurable fact?

Damian Rey 2.0

02-05-2017, 02:45 AM

I'd say it's still your opinion and be skeptical of "measureable facts" for wrestling

#BROKEN Hasney

02-05-2017, 05:29 AM

It'll have to wait anyway, Suzuki is currently besting the ever loving shit out of Okada.

#BROKEN Hasney

02-05-2017, 05:57 AM

That started out great but it turned fucking stupid. Okada is basically their Cena and Jesus Christ that was as bad as Cena V Nexus

#BROKEN Hasney

02-05-2017, 06:00 AM

...Oh my. Okada just challenged Ibushi out of nowhere.

Because Gedo is such a WWE mark at booking this shit, this could be like when Cena picked Bryan as his opponent.

#BROKEN Hasney

02-05-2017, 06:03 AM

Except Bryan in this scenario is from an anime and wears a tiger mask.

Jordan

02-05-2017, 09:20 AM

Damn I fell asleep and didn't see hardly anything.

Mr. Nerfect

02-05-2017, 11:15 PM

Is he challenging Ibushi as in Kota Ibushi, or Ibushi as in Tiger Mask W or whatever it is Ibushi?

#BROKEN Hasney

02-06-2017, 02:49 AM

He's challenging Tiger Mask because you probably can't get Ibushi out of it.

Mr. Nerfect

02-06-2017, 09:32 AM

Hopefully it is a good match anyway.

#BROKEN Hasney

02-06-2017, 09:57 AM

Translation from someone on Reddit from a couple of the promos

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C371kuIWcAIvals.jpg

Jordan

02-06-2017, 11:34 AM

Kota and Okada could be another six star.

Jordan

02-13-2017, 09:48 AM

Just canceled my NJPWorld account. It's my rebellion for not having a true english access site, can't deal with that anymore. Plus everything new is on watch wrestling so fuck it.

#BROKEN Hasney

02-23-2017, 05:14 PM

Ibushi on Tiger Mask W:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C5YKt-xVcAAtSP2.jpg

#BROKEN Hasney

06-11-2017, 08:56 AM

Good fucking god, Omega and Okada did it again.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-11-2017, 04:03 PM

This fucking dodge/sell after 50 minutes was just incredible

http://i.imgur.com/TiIKBiq.gif

Fignuts

06-11-2017, 04:21 PM

Styles/Cena was a better match than Okada/Omega. Fight me.

Wasn't around when this was posted so, late reply.

I think okada vs omega told the better story. You had omega working the back and neck, to soften him up for the One Winged Angel. Meanwhile Okada is doing everything he can to avoid getting hit with it, instead of just kicking out of the finisher, which we see in every other big match including styles vs cena. The story goes begins before match itself in that regard, as they built up to it by making omegas finisher a one hit kill. Something that's very unique and different in japan, and even here in the states these days.

Styles vs Cena is more or less your basic big star wwe match, though they executed it as beautifully as anyone. The problem is its the same kind of match they had before at summerslam. Where as okada vs omega uses the continuity of the last six months to tell its story, cena vs styles is content to do more of the same. They even repeated the super AA kickout, which while still a cool spot, lacked the impact that it had the first time, because you knew aj was going to kick out. It just seemed a tiny bit lazy, to just put in an already used big spot, rather than making something different.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-11-2017, 04:27 PM

I honestly think this one was better than Wrestle Kingdom somehow. I knew the result going in and I was still utterly lost in the match. I had the New Legacy Inc Discord recording on and they were losing it as well. Had Johnny yelling HOLY SHIT YOU FUCKING PIECE OF SHIT OKADA when he got the ropes after the one winged angel. How some of those knees and filthy Okada dropkicks didn't seriously injure either of them I'll never know. Same with those snap dragon suplexes.

Xero

06-11-2017, 06:00 PM

Okada/Omega II was better than the first, but only slightly.

Evil Vito

06-11-2017, 07:06 PM

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Somewhere meltzers covered in a pool of his own jizz and 6+⭐️ <a href="https://t.co/RyBal6xYKG">https://t.co/RyBal6xYKG</a></p>— Juice Robinson (@_juicerobinson_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_juicerobinson_/status/873993127048040448">June 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 04:20 AM

How can a match be better than 6 stars? That's like saying something is better than 120% of itself.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 04:24 AM

Wasn't around when this was posted so, late reply.

I think okada vs omega told the better story. You had omega working the back and neck, to soften him up for the One Winged Angel. Meanwhile Okada is doing everything he can to avoid getting hit with it, instead of just kicking out of the finisher, which we see in every other big match including styles vs cena. The story goes begins before match itself in that regard, as they built up to it by making omegas finisher a one hit kill. Something that's very unique and different in japan, and even here in the states these days.

Styles vs Cena is more or less your basic big star wwe match, though they executed it as beautifully as anyone. The problem is its the same kind of match they had before at summerslam. Where as okada vs omega uses the continuity of the last six months to tell its story, cena vs styles is content to do more of the same. They even repeated the super AA kickout, which while still a cool spot, lacked the impact that it had the first time, because you knew aj was going to kick out. It just seemed a tiny bit lazy, to just put in an already used big spot, rather than making something different.

That's a good analysis. I felt more drawn into the action of Cena/Styles, because, to me, Cena has more cache, so things like AJ Styles kicking out of his moves means more than a dude I don't know's finish. It's possible I would change my opinion if I followed New Japan a bit more closely and was more invested in Okada as champion and Omega as a challenger.

I thought it was a great match. I did find stuff like the Dragon Superplex took me out of it completely. It was a bad emotional note to play, in my opinion, and to me that was a big deal, but I want to re-state that I did think it was a good match. I just find the child-like hyperbole around it a bit silly.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 04:24 AM

I sometimes forget that Juice Robinson exists, but I honestly do believe that one day he'll be back in the WWE and be a big star for them.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-12-2017, 04:33 AM

slik

06-12-2017, 05:12 AM

What is this from?

https://media.giphy.com/media/12Kbnv4k08tNni/giphy.gif

Fignuts

06-12-2017, 05:15 AM

That's a good analysis. I felt more drawn into the action of Cena/Styles, because, to me, Cena has more cache, so things like AJ Styles kicking out of his moves means more than a dude I don't know's finish. It's possible I would change my opinion if I followed New Japan a bit more closely and was more invested in Okada as champion and Omega as a challenger.

I thought it was a great match. I did find stuff like the Dragon Superplex took me out of it completely. It was a bad emotional note to play, in my opinion, and to me that was a big deal, but I want to re-state that I did think it was a good match. I just find the child-like hyperbole around it a bit silly.

I agree that the whole 6 star match of the decade stuff was overblown. It was a 5 star match imo. Plenty of other matches tnroughout the years that top this one for me.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-12-2017, 05:15 AM

@slik One of the Battle of the Super Juniors shows. There's been some crazy shit recently.

https://68.media.tumblr.com/08e6a79d4c7e774ae29b19b902e2a15a/tumblr_ol8dl5ElGM1tihmddo1_400.gif

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 05:59 AM

I don't think they'll make him a big star, but goddamn if he hasn't shown himself ina great light since leaving. Takes balls to leave WWE and take a bet on yourself like that when you don't really have the name value, but he looks better than Cody right now for me.

He reminded me of The Miz in NXT. He had all the outside tools needed to be a star, but just needed to work on his in-ring. You may be right, but I am optimistic for him.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 06:00 AM

I agree that the whole 6 star match of the decade stuff was overblown. It was a 5 star match imo. Plenty of other matches tnroughout the years that top this one for me.

It's refreshing to hear someone praising the match with some perspective, lol.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 06:01 AM

I maintain that it's not even going to be the match of the year. It sounds like many people think that they've actually topped it themselves.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-12-2017, 06:38 AM

With how it ended, obviously Omega/Okada is happening again... But is it this year and just lock out the top 3 matches of the year, or save it for Wrestle Kingdom?

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 07:16 AM

I can very easily see it being saved for Wrestle Kingdom, but I could see them having Okada make it to the finals against Omega, them doing the third match as the final bout, with Omega winning and challenging for Okada's championship at Wrestle Kingdom having proven that he can beat the champion.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 07:18 AM

Since it's been the G1, only Chono and Tenzan have won the tournament in back-to-back years. It'd be a pretty cool story for Omega to win it en route to his first IWGP Heavyweight Championship.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 07:19 AM

I can see Omega doing a CM Punk style thing, where he wins the IWGP Title and then doesn't immediately sign with New Japan (or at least teases that he hasn't). He can tweet Vince asking him if he wants Omega vs. Styles for the IWGP Title at WrestleMania -- that sort of shit.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 07:23 AM

I'm not confident that Brock will leave the WWE when his contract expires, but it wouldn't be the strangest thing in the world for Brock to ask for an insane amount of money, Vince to say no and Brock to say "screw you then -- I'm going back to New Japan."

Can you imagine Brock vs. Omega for the IWGP Title at Dominion next year? It could start a story of rebuilding for Omega, who worked his little Canadian ass off to earn the IWGP Title, only to now need to claw his way back into contention.

Ol Dirty Dastard

06-12-2017, 07:23 AM

who do you think Jim Cornette hates more, Kenny Omega or Vince Russo?

#BROKEN Hasney

06-12-2017, 07:31 AM

who do you think Jim Cornette hates more, Kenny Omega or Vince Russo?

Probably himself

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 07:37 AM

Definitely Russo. He just thinks Omega is a berk.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 07:37 AM

Does Omega still pull stupid faces?

#BROKEN Hasney

06-12-2017, 08:40 AM

I could see them putting the belt on Cody via screwyness in the US shows as they're oddly hot on him compared to his showings since he's been there, especially as they had a mini angle of him trying to throw in the towel for Omega, have some heat with them and the Elite finally breaking off from The Club, OMega wins the belt off Cody which sets up the Okada/Omega rematch.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 09:09 AM

Interesting. I can see Omega/Cody for the belt, but probably after Omega wins it. I could see Cody winning that US Title they are creating.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-12-2017, 09:16 AM

Cody is actually facing Okada for the IWGP on their US shows. That's already booked.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 09:29 AM

Oh okay. I'd much rather see Okada as champion than Cody, to be honest.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 09:31 AM

Omega's in the US Title tournament. He was who my mind first went to when I heard they were crowning a champion. I could see him winning it and the draw was basically to put him on equal footing with Okada.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 09:36 AM

I can see the finals being Omega vs. Naito or Ishii -- whichever guy they feel like pushing. If the US Championship is being based in the United States, I could see them sending Ishii over there for a while to do stuff in New Japan with a few defenses in Japan. But maybe they go with Omega vs. Naito as the finals and let them tear the house down.

I can see Omega coming up short, with his gimmick being "always the bridesmaid" sort of thing.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 09:36 AM

Oh god, Tanahashi is defending the IC Title against Billy Gunn at those shows. Haha, I don't know why, but I have a perverse desire to see that match.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 09:38 AM

I think if a title changes hands, War Machine might be GoD for the Tag Titles. You can never rule out a Junior Heavyweight Tag switch either.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 09:41 AM

Yeah, my prediction is that Omega beats Elgin and Lethal, but then he falls short to Naito in the finals, who becomes the first-ever US Champion. Omega then refocuses and goes on to win the G1 Climax finals against Okada, building to Okada vs. Omega IV: The War for it All at Wrestle Kingdom 12, where he wins the belt if he re-signs with New Japan (which I think would be wise for him) and then he goes on to drop the belt to Brock Lesnar at Wrestling Dontaku: Night 2.

Okay, probably not that Brock part.

Volare

06-12-2017, 11:01 AM

SHOTS FIRED!

<iframe width="854" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QyV9_uYQHZE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Fignuts

06-12-2017, 06:34 PM

Brock would not accept anything outside of steamrolling the whole roster. New Japan can't afford to pay him anything close to what wwe is, so they'd have to give him whatever he wanted.

Emperor Smeat

06-12-2017, 07:12 PM

Maybe they can appease him with a title belt and a pile of burgers instead like last time.

https://24.media.tumblr.com/f45bcab7c49e37ef755a0ee6eb1de42b/tumblr_n34rpkAEEl1qivspno1_400.jpg

#BROKEN Hasney

06-12-2017, 07:55 PM

I doubt they'd ever sign him again after he fucked them over.

Mr. Nerfect

06-12-2017, 11:36 PM

Brock would not accept anything outside of steamrolling the whole roster. New Japan can't afford to pay him anything close to what wwe is, so they'd have to give him whatever he wanted.

I think he would be used as a special attraction. I don't think they can pay him as much, but at a certain point, that amount of money becomes trivial. Brock could retire very happily by now, I imagine. He's driven by other things. Not so much a love for the business, but he needs to keep moving like a shark. I can imagine the stir and the news it would make bringing a smile to Brock's face. I can imagine Heyman being well-compensated too, and possibly being given some hand in the US expansion.

I wouldn't call it likely, don't get me wrong -- but I'm not going to be entirely shocked if something really big does happen with New Japan in 2018. Would they be pissed off about 2006? Possibly, and respect is very big in Japanese culture, but if they are trying to get a footing up in the world? I dunno.

Emperor Smeat

06-13-2017, 01:06 AM

Can't see Lesnar taking what would likely be a huge pay cut to go to NJPW even as a possible special attraction. WWE barely uses Lesnar and he costs them around $6 million per year.

NJPW wants someone they can build long term for the US which is why they turned to Omega and Cody since both are cheaper and can be used a lot more to build up interest like with the US G1 Special.

Mr. Nerfect

06-13-2017, 04:49 AM

#BROKEN Hasney

06-13-2017, 09:33 AM

I forgot the name of this tag team since I didn't think I'd be interested against the Guerillas, but man they were so agile and fun for big boys.

http://i.imgur.com/caBgKUP.gif

Evil Vito

06-13-2017, 09:35 AM

War Machine. They're a lot of fun in ROH.

Mr. Nerfect

06-13-2017, 08:18 PM

Why the springboard though? Why not just hit the guy? Makes no sense, lol.

Emperor Smeat

06-13-2017, 09:42 PM

That's a perfectly logical thought process, but I don't care nearly as much about Omega and Cody as Lesnar. I can't see New Japan offering Brock $6 million, but I could see them offering him $2 million, plus sponsors and a large shake of a hypothetical video game that is promoted around him. Again, I don't think it is likely, but I don't think it's impossible.

Even $2 million plus extras on the side is too much considering he'd be making around or more than Okada and their profits are pretty small at least compared to the WWE. Something like around $34-$36 million they made last year overall.

Legit cheaper to just use Omega and Cody while both can also work a lot more dates than Lesnar for building long term interest. Lesnar does have the bigger star power but he doesn't really fit with the long term expansion plans they have for the US.

Fignuts

06-13-2017, 09:55 PM

Why the springboard though? Why not just hit the guy? Makes no sense, lol.

Because it looks cool as fuck.

A large majority of things in wrestling make no sense.

Mr. Nerfect

06-13-2017, 10:35 PM

Even $2 million plus extras on the side is too much considering he'd be making around or more than Okada and their profits are pretty small at least compared to the WWE. Something like around $34-$36 million they made last year overall.

Legit cheaper to just use Omega and Cody while both can also work a lot more dates than Lesnar for building long term interest. Lesnar does have the bigger star power but he doesn't really fit with the long term expansion plans they have for the US.

I think they would gladly pay him as much as Okada. No offense to Omega or Cody, but they aren't going to draw people in on the same scale. You get Brock you might get a reputable TV deal or something. If they get in bed with Sinclair, who decide they want to get serious about wrestling, having someone like Brock might convince them to put them on proper television, and they can keep ROH as their nichie product, and they might even front some of his deal.

Mr. Nerfect

06-13-2017, 10:36 PM

Because it looks cool as fuck.

A large majority of things in wrestling make no sense.

It does look pretty cool and it's not as goofy as, say, the Canadian Destroyer. I think that a "large majority" of things not making sense is a big part of it no longer having appeal though.

Volare

06-14-2017, 03:35 AM

#BROKEN Hasney

06-14-2017, 08:37 AM

Cody is such a 90's WCW mark that I bet he's been waiting to do that his whole career.

Mr. Nerfect

06-14-2017, 08:53 AM

I was always waiting for him to win the US Title and bring the old belt back.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-20-2017, 08:38 AM

Ibushi has been announced for the G1 Climax. Fuck yeah.

Mr. Nerfect

06-22-2017, 08:53 AM

Ibushi as Ibushi? Interesting.

Mr. Nerfect

06-22-2017, 08:55 AM

I was thinking about the Climax earlier today. I'm not entirely sure Omega will even end up going for the IWGP Heavyweight belt. They can run Okada/Omega in the G1 as the hotly anticipated match. Omega as US Champion makes a lot of sense for their expansion, and him working elsewhere on the card ideally gives New Japan two hot title matches instead of just one.

Could see Okada vs. Ibushi headling, if Ibushi is ready to sign and get serious, having established his anime character for them to license. But he could also just be there to prop up some interest and have some stellar-ass fucking matches.

Mr. Nerfect

06-30-2017, 06:07 PM

So Omega vs. Okada is confirmed for the last night of the Block stages, isn't it? Given that, it would make sense for it to be a nail-biter. I could see Okada having 12 points and Omega having 13, or something like that. So in the event of a draw, Omega wins the Block, but Okada can still take it if he wins.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-30-2017, 06:14 PM

I could actually see Okada already having the block sewn up, but Kenny finally beats him when it means nothing, but then has the story that Okada can be beaten.

The champ hasn't won in years, so I could see Okada winning it all since he's like Cena and Reigns in one at this point, but Omega is his only black mark in the whole competition.

Mr. Nerfect

06-30-2017, 06:15 PM

That would actually be really cool.

#BROKEN Hasney

06-30-2017, 06:27 PM

Block A is way more exciting anyway in terms of actual matches. Assuming Omega or Okada win it, I hope Ibushi, Tanahashi, Naito or Yoshi-Hashi take it because that will be a helluva final.

I'd love an Ibushi V Omega final, they're the best together. The Golden Shower finisher

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ly2o8tcqbY1qfjkvio4_250.gif

And this shit

http://i.imgur.com/G8u4jCf.gif

Mr. Nerfect

06-30-2017, 06:32 PM

I can see Tanahashi's block being closer in terms of points.

Emperor Smeat

06-30-2017, 07:25 PM

Block A is way more exciting anyway in terms of actual matches. Assuming Omega or Okada win it, I hope Ibushi, Tanahashi, Naito or Yoshi-Hashi take it because that will be a helluva final.

If they do Ibushi-Omega, its probably not happening till Wrestle Kingdom and as NJPW best way to convince Omega to stay.

An interesting idea going around the net involves NJPW doing a Naito-Omega feud with both the G1 and G1 Special. Have them be in the finals for both tournaments and split the results as a way to give both guys a G1 rub.

Mr. Nerfect

06-30-2017, 08:00 PM

I could see that. I don't really have New Japan's booking style as pinned down as I do American styles, but I can see an Omega vs. Naito final for the US Title. Naito wins, after beating Ishii earlier in the night. Omega continues the story of being the bridesmaid and refocuses for the G1. Naito holds the US Title until Wrestle Kingdom, where Ishii avenges his tournament loss and becomes the second champion.

I do think that they will go with Okada vs. Omega at Wrestle Kingdom. It just seems like their hottest vibe going right now. Four in the space of the year might be stretching it though. I dunno, I can just see them going with Omega winning the IWGP belt there.

Simple Fan

07-01-2017, 12:36 AM

Just watched the Dominion special on AXS tv that had Naito vs Tanahashi and Omega/Okada 2. While I dont think it was better than the Wrestle Kingdom match it was damn good. Was shocked but also glad it ended as a draw. Really lookung forward to the live show tomorrow.

Mr. Nerfect

07-01-2017, 01:49 AM

Oh wow, are the American specials tomorrow?

Emperor Smeat

07-01-2017, 03:07 AM

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Okada loved <a href="https://twitter.com/innoutburger">@innoutburger</a> so much he got it again for lunch today <a href="https://t.co/pbvIiHLL9o">pic.twitter.com/pbvIiHLL9o</a></p>— ProWrestlingSheet (@WrestlingSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/WrestlingSheet/status/880945973924704257">July 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Cody probably preparing some sort of master plan for winning the IWGP title that involves Okada being distracted with a platter of In-N-Out burgers.

Droford

07-01-2017, 03:30 AM

As cool As it would be I can't see Cody winning the title..

Fignuts

07-01-2017, 03:34 AM

Cody is a good worker, but IWGP title holders have been world class performers. Cody isnt there yet.

#BROKEN Hasney

07-01-2017, 06:07 AM

Mr. Nerfect

07-01-2017, 07:18 AM

It wouldn't shock me, but I don't think it will happen. Or, if it does, Okada wins the belt back fairly quickly.

#BROKEN Hasney

07-01-2017, 09:02 AM

https://68.media.tumblr.com/293663a064f361164d2370e600197c30/tumblr_osdwd7ateX1tmi2lvo1_540.png

Volare

07-01-2017, 11:53 AM

EXCELLENT!!

Volare

07-01-2017, 12:04 PM

As cool As it would be I can't see Cody winning the title..

Cody is a good worker, but IWGP title holders have been world class performers. Cody isnt there yet.

The argument is there, but for once as a fan I can honestly say for myself that I have no idea who can win and that's PERFECT for me!

Fignuts

07-01-2017, 02:08 PM

At this point, they're so desperate to break into America in a big way that they're just throwing shit at the wall, so anything is possible. I mean, you've got Mr. Ace V Mr. Ass.

If they think Cody Rhodes IWGP champion would get eyeballs on them, they may just do it.

Last time they put the title on someone for marketing reasons it kickstarted a nose dive that njpw has yet to fully recover from, even with all their current success.

The current situation is different, but I still don't know if njpw would be willing to do it, after all their work reestablishing that the iwgp title goes to those that deserve it.

Simple Fan

07-01-2017, 04:57 PM

Holy shit. Okada/Shibata was brutal. First half was classic mat wrestling but did that ever change. They absolutely beat the hell out of one another and that headbutt was brutal.

#BROKEN Hasney

07-01-2017, 05:05 PM

Shibata :(

Simple Fan

07-01-2017, 05:14 PM

Yeah it sucks and I always enjoy a Shibata match but if that's his last match ever its one he can be proud of.

Mr. Nerfect

07-01-2017, 05:53 PM

Last time they put the title on someone for marketing reasons it kickstarted a nose dive that njpw has yet to fully recover from, even with all their current success.

The current situation is different, but I still don't know if njpw would be willing to do it, after all their work reestablishing that the iwgp title goes to those that deserve it.

Is it certain they learnt from that though?

Mr. Nerfect

07-01-2017, 05:55 PM

I'd love to see New Japan put out a video game. One that is crafted to be an excellent wrestling game that captures hearts and imaginations. Shibata could be a huge part of that, and he could even help train up your young boy to fight in an online G1 Climax against other personalized wrestlers.

Random thought, but when it comes to exposure, it'd be a good way to get some. Throw in a 6-month New Japan World membership for those who pre-order. You can unlock videos of full-length matches as you play, and there can be a "LARIOTO! Mode," where you and your drunk buddies can record your own commentary over the top and send them to people.

Triple A

07-01-2017, 07:31 PM

Anyone gonna watch the NJPW special tonight

Mr. Nerfect

07-01-2017, 07:32 PM

I've been really tempted to get New Japan World and do so, but I think I'm going to hold off right now. I'm thinking the G1 might be my New Japan introduction.

Triple A

07-01-2017, 07:33 PM

It's apparently also airing live on the US cable channel "AXS TV" if you have that... I just found out

Mr. Nerfect

07-01-2017, 07:49 PM

I'm in Australia, but thanks for the tip.

Fignuts

07-01-2017, 08:12 PM

Yeah, but not til I get off work at 10

#BROKEN Hasney

07-01-2017, 08:58 PM

Going to bed so will watch tomorrow, but good to know Rosanne is watching

Roseanne Barr @therealroseanne

NEW JAPAN PRO WRESTLING IS LITTT!!!!!!!!!!!! @JRsBBQ @JoshLBarnett #BuckPost

https://mobile.twitter.com/therealroseanne/status/881264350312275969

Fignuts

07-01-2017, 09:01 PM

lol wut

Mr. Nerfect

07-01-2017, 10:41 PM

John Goodman's opinion is more relevant to me.

Mr. Nerfect

07-03-2017, 04:20 PM

Here is the card for New Japan's Lion's Gate Project 7:

* Yuji Nagata vs. Go Asakawa
* Yoshi-Hashi vs. Koji Iwamoto
* Satoshi Kojima vs. Tomoyuki Oka
* Dick Togo vs. Hirai Kawato
* Dinosaur Takuma & Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs. Katsuya Kitamura & Manabu Nakanishi
* Taka Michinoku vs. Tetsuhiro Yagi
* Syota Umino vs. Ren Narita

Do I have this right in assuming that Lion's Gate is sort of an "old versus young" type show, in order to showcase newer talent against the older guard. If so, I think I genuinely have more interest in that show than the G1 Special stuff.

Mr. Nerfect

07-03-2017, 04:21 PM

Fucking amazing to me that Taka Michinoku and Dick Togo are still wrestling.

Fignuts

07-03-2017, 06:16 PM

Mr. Nerfect

07-03-2017, 09:07 PM

Part of the attraction of Japanese wrestling, for me, is the freshness. Fresh Japanese wrestling, therefore, has a strong appeal. Just for the novel aspect.

Fignuts

07-04-2017, 05:09 AM

Legit shocked that the Liger vs Muta match from 96' isnt on world. Thats a fan favorite match.

Fignuts

07-04-2017, 05:13 AM

Part of the attraction of Japanese wrestling, for me, is the freshness. Fresh Japanese wrestling, therefore, has a strong appeal. Just for the novel aspect.

Yeah, a big reason I love japanese wrestling is the interpromotional stuff.

Mr. Nerfect

07-04-2017, 05:29 AM

What does everybody see as the Wrestle Kingdom direction? I'm starting to get this feeling that it might be Okada vs. Naito this coming year. Last year, Naito beat NJPW stalwart, Hiroshi Tanahashi; the following he can challenge Okada.

Fignuts

07-04-2017, 06:27 AM

I'm thinking omega beats okada at the g1, but okada wins it. Okada picks omega as his opponent for WK, where omega finally beats him for the title.

#BROKEN Hasney

07-04-2017, 06:41 AM

I think it depends on Omegas situation at the time. He only had a one year deal and it comes up just after Wrestle Kingdom again. I think they'll have to pay him Okada money to keep him (and they should).

#BROKEN Hasney

07-04-2017, 07:34 AM

Trying to watch Lions Gate, but these single-fixed cam dark shows are hard to watch on a phone while working. On the tag match right now and it's a lot of fun.

Mr. Nerfect

07-05-2017, 04:51 AM

I'm thinking omega beats okada at the g1, but okada wins it. Okada picks omega as his opponent for WK, where omega finally beats him for the title.

That would work. I figured they would do Okada vs. Omega until they put the US Title on Omega, but I guess they don't need to have them in separate matches just because of that, do they? It's not like there's a hotter match waiting for them.

Mr. Nerfect

07-05-2017, 04:53 AM

Fignuts

07-05-2017, 05:00 AM

Goofy faces aside, he's an incredible worker, and one of the hottest acts outside of WWE. Regardless of how you might feel, the rest of the world is clamoring for him, WWE scouts as well, I'm sure. That makes him worth a hell of a lot.

Mr. Nerfect

07-05-2017, 05:39 AM

Oh, a hell of a lot, I'm not arguing that, but Okada money? I'd say AJ Styles money, given his function to the company, but Okada money is rarefied air. It's got to be him and Tanahashi making that much money only, surely? You start paying him that much money and the next gaijin who gets hot is going to ask for that much money too. There's a bit of a hierarchy you should probably follow in order to keep to a precedent. He's their top gaijin, no doubt, and he should make top gaijin money.

Mr. Nerfect

07-05-2017, 05:40 AM

Okada is the centerpiece of that company. Only Tanahashi should be making as much money as him. Maybe Brock Lesnar if they convince him to jump ship, lol.

Fignuts

07-05-2017, 06:52 AM

So long as they are pushing as hard as they are to enter the US market, I do believe Omega deserves that pay level. Because he's the key figure in that push.

Simple Fan

07-05-2017, 04:02 PM

The thing I like about NJPW is that they allow for a story to be told in the ring. They also dont force feed you the same feud for 3 straight months. I think Okada has had one of the best booked championship reigns in long time for any company. Has had stellar matches with Marufugi, Omega, Suzuki, Shibata and that last match with Omega going to a draw was great and continued that story. People wanted to see Okada/Omega 2 but they didn't just give it to you at the PPV and let it play out naturally. I knew Okada was going to lose to Fale but it was a solid match that lead to Omega. Now his match with Cody while it wasn't spectacular it told a story with Cody not really taking Okada serious while also having Omega there who knows you cant do that with Okada.

Mr. Nerfect

07-05-2017, 05:37 PM

So long as they are pushing as hard as they are to enter the US market, I do believe Omega deserves that pay level. Because he's the key figure in that push.

I think AJ Styles pay with room for growth is enough. If Omega agreed to a three-year deal with them, they could gradually increase his pay to the point where he breaks 7 figures, but I just don't think that needs to be the starting point for a company that only has designs on the US -- it doesn't necessarily have the keys just yet.

Mr. Nerfect

07-05-2017, 05:39 PM

Fignuts

07-05-2017, 06:01 PM

#BROKEN Hasney

07-05-2017, 06:20 PM

I think AJ Styles pay with room for growth is enough. If Omega agreed to a three-year deal with them, they could gradually increase his pay to the point where he breaks 7 figures, but I just don't think that needs to be the starting point for a company that only has designs on the US -- it doesn't necessarily have the keys just yet.

Oh yeah, I agree with that, he needs to make the comittment because there's no point building this up to just have another 1 year deal. WWE are interested again and he wants the best deal, but unless they have another ace up their sleeve, guys like AJ Styles and Kenny Omega being available to them are usually few and far between... And Cody isn't the answer to fill his spot if Omega leaves next year.

Mr. Nerfect

07-07-2017, 05:46 AM

I really like that idea of Okada winning the G1 block before he gets in there with Omega and then Omega vs. Okada is simply for Omega's bragging rights. Omega wins and then Okada goes into the G1 Final against Tanahashi, they have another modern classic, and Okada wins and chooses Omega as his opponent at Wrestle Kingdom. The more I think about it, the more it feels like that is the direction they should go.

#BROKEN Hasney

07-09-2017, 07:22 PM

http://i.imgur.com/UQHPBZ8.gif

Destor

07-10-2017, 02:33 AM

Just commited to the app. 999¥ feels like a steal

Fignuts

07-10-2017, 02:36 AM

Its fantastic given all the content.

Mr. Nerfect

07-10-2017, 03:31 AM

Just commited to the app. 999¥ feels like a steal

Good for you, man. I'm still really considering taking the plunge.

Mr. Nerfect

07-10-2017, 03:31 AM

God, New Japan's belts are beautiful.

Destor

07-10-2017, 09:59 AM

The content is def there. The UI is pretty poor compaired to other streaming services though. Still worth it.

#BROKEN Hasney

07-14-2017, 11:31 AM

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DElbpj1XUAI2wlB?format=jpg&name=small

Mr. Nerfect

07-14-2017, 01:19 PM

Whoa, that har. My first thought was that CJ Parker might return to the WWE as a psychotic clown. Juicy the Clown?

#BROKEN Hasney

07-14-2017, 05:25 PM

Destor

07-30-2017, 05:23 PM

Just want to bitch about the app itself for a second.

Far and away NJPW World is the worst streaming app ive used. Was Funimation but they've made some major improvements. The biggest issue is there is no memory. Literally keep a document on my phone to track where i left off for the G1. Pretty absurd.

Second issue is the sorting. Given that everything is broken down by matches so scrolling to a match youre after can take ages. Instead of breaking it down by year opening year should open a month folder and that should open a show folder and the individual matches would be displayed for viewing.

Its really just not user friendly.

Minor gripe: only being able to be logged in to 2 devices. Im cool with only being able to stream from 2 but logging out my others is annoying. I have 4 tvs, a tablet, a lap top and my computer at the office. Tend to only watch NJPW World in the kitchen and the gym just so i dont have to log im everytime i try and watch something [/rant]

Destor

07-30-2017, 05:24 PM

Content is worth it, just so im clear. The app itself just needs some polish.

#BROKEN Hasney

07-30-2017, 07:44 PM

The Fire TV app is thankfully a step in the right direction. Just hope it translates over to other devices.

Destor

07-30-2017, 08:06 PM

Thats the app I use....

Evil Vito

07-30-2017, 08:47 PM

I luckily haven't had too many issues streaming to my TV via Chromecast yet. Lost connection once or twice but I believe that was due to my internet, not NJPW World itself.

It also isn't blocked on my work PC so I've gotten through a couple days of the tourney with NJPW World up on my second monitor that I can easily minimize when someone walks into my cube to ask a question.

#BROKEN Hasney

08-14-2017, 04:34 AM

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DHKxMCvUIAA6giZ.jpg:large

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TANA

Fignuts

08-14-2017, 06:55 AM

Why would he do that? He had the hair of a fucking greek god. Now he just looks like a dude.

#BROKEN Hasney

08-14-2017, 07:43 AM

I've just been told he's doing a movie, so it's for that thankfully. He'll have enough time to grow his hair out, get the surgery he needs and be back for Wrestle Kingdom maybe. It's the same injury Scott Dawson has, so he should be out 6 months or so, but he's insane.

#BROKEN Hasney

08-14-2017, 10:47 AM

<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en-gb"><p lang="ja" dir="ltr">死闘後のケニー<a href="https://twitter.com/KennyOmegamanX">@KennyOmegamanX</a> を飯伏<a href="https://twitter.com/ibushi_kota">@ibushi_kota</a> が出迎える…！<br>昨日8.13 両国大会優勝決定戦のバックステージを公開！！<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G127?src=hash">#G127</a> の全試合は <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/njpwworld?src=hash">#njpwworld</a> で！<br>登録&視聴▷<a href="https://t.co/Tj7UBJ4PjP">https://t.co/Tj7UBJ4PjP</a> <a href="https://t.co/NKFpIcDQsB">pic.twitter.com/NKFpIcDQsB</a></p>— njpwworld (@njpwworld) <a href="https://twitter.com/njpwworld/status/897055097414221824">14 August 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

:'(

Emperor Smeat

08-14-2017, 03:10 PM

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DHKxMCvUIAA6giZ.jpg:large

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TANA

http://i.imgur.com/p73OmeL.gif

Sort of looks like Ibushi now.

Droford

08-14-2017, 09:36 PM

mike adamle

08-14-2017, 09:42 PM

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DHKxMCvUIAA6giZ.jpg:large

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TANA

Not gonna lie, thought this was just Tanahashi standing next to Ibushi for the longest time and had no idea wtf you guys were talking about. I suppose I'm a little dumb for that, but then again all japs look alike so I can't be too far off.

Emperor Smeat

08-14-2017, 10:17 PM

I won $4500 playing blackjack today and Ive decided my vacation next year will probably be going to Japan for some portion of the G1 Tournament preferably the finals. Time to learn some Japanese...

Ill probably also sub to NJPW for 9 bucks a month..

If you do sub, make sure its at the first of the month. They still have the weird billing cycle where its strictly based on the first of the month and not when you signed up.

Any other date and you'd get billed twice in the first month of service.

#BROKEN Hasney

08-15-2017, 05:51 AM

Not gonna lie, thought this was just Tanahashi standing next to Ibushi for the longest time and had no idea wtf you guys were talking about. I suppose I'm a little dumb for that, but then again all japs look alike so I can't be too far off.

At least I'm sure you look unique. Ugly as sin, but unique.

#BROKEN Hasney

08-15-2017, 05:53 AM

So the theories for that teaser at the G1 finals have come up with 2 results. Jay White was peoples first guess as he's about to finish his excursion. However, it looks like someone hitting a US passport at one point which seems to rule him out.

Saw some speculation that it's Austin Aries, which would be cool.

#BROKEN Hasney

08-15-2017, 07:09 AM

https://68.media.tumblr.com/326991537295d8ef9238134b0cfc1d92/tumblr_oumxdtTIja1u1ljrzo4_540.gif
https://68.media.tumblr.com/a23085e1f25df96eda4a855a826ba89f/tumblr_oumxdtTIja1u1ljrzo2_540.gif
https://68.media.tumblr.com/69ef52e8325e77d971e9ca18576e4398/tumblr_oumxdtTIja1u1ljrzo3_540.gif
https://68.media.tumblr.com/bd06fcd5c436e19dbee635becc6ccee0/tumblr_oumxdtTIja1u1ljrzo1_540.gif

#BROKEN Hasney

08-16-2017, 07:25 AM

Looks like Tana isn't the only one with a new look

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">New ink <a href="https://t.co/EU7O87Pdnd">pic.twitter.com/EU7O87Pdnd</a></p>— TheUnderboss (@TOKSFALE) <a href="https://twitter.com/TOKSFALE/status/897757286038290432">16 August 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

#BROKEN Hasney

08-24-2017, 10:31 AM

Hey REAL pro-wrestling fans! Taichi here to give you a hot scoop! Did you know that my Suzuki-Gun brother, TAKA Michinoku, and I have our own awesome pro-wrestling event every year?! That’s right, we’re on Season 2 already! You might’ve finished watching the finals of the G1 Climax and thought, “Well, that sucked! Suzuki shoulda won that! Well, now what?!” I’ll tell you “what”! TAKA & Taichi Productions Season 2, punks! August 28th at Shinjuku FACE!

This year’s main event sees us throw down against those lame ass wannabe cholos from Los Ingobernables de Japon, Hiromu & BUSHI! But that’s not all: we got tons of talented wrestlers ready to show fans all over the world what real (that’s “HON MONO” in Japanese!) pro-wrestling is all about! You’ll bear witness to awesome female pro-wrestling talent, the totally insane (or is it insanely BADASS?!) Jun Kasai, a dinosaur and more! And in case you were wondering: OF COURSE The Boss, Suzuki Minoru, is gonna be there!

All pre-sale tickets are sold out (what did ya expect from legends like TAKA and me?!), but a limited number of standing room tickets will be made available on the day of the event for 4,000 yen. Suzuki-Gun fans only though, got it?! Just kidding, I’ll take any ol’ chump’s money!

Don’t worry if you can’t make it down to Tokyo though, cause the fine folks at NJPW World will be live streaming the whole event! Watch online ONLY on NJPW World, got it?! I don’t wanna see any unofficial streaming crap! And go ahead, yell “Go home Taichi!” all ya want…I won’t have to hear it this time, haha!

The event will be live-streaming on NJPW World! Sign up to watch http://njpwworld.com/

#BROKEN Hasney

09-08-2017, 09:39 AM

This is a goddamn promo

You’re not interested in being compared to the other wrestlers on the roster?

Suzuki: Look, New Japan, and New Japan fans, you’re full of BS admiration and fake praise. You see a guy who just lost in the ring, getting a round of applause. ‘Oh wow, great match, clap, clap, clap.’ Patting losers on the back, acting emotional. What a load of crap! It’s the winners that make headlines. It’s the winners you end up talking about. Don’t be hypocritical.

Your opponent on the tenth, Michael Elgin, beat you in your G1 match. Do you think that played a part in him getting a title match?

Suzuki: Michael Elgin? He’s a bitch. I don’t have any time for people stupid enough to think he’s on my level.

— Well a lot of people say Michael Elgin is the second biggest foreign name in New Japan right now, only behind Kenny Omega.

Suzuki: See! That’s exactly what I was talking about. ‘Second biggest’. Who gives a crap about your rankings, they all suck, I don’t care.

–It’s not often we’ve seen you against a foreign powerhouse like Elgin.

Suzuki: ‘Not often we’? Or ‘not often you’? Do your goddamn homework. Elgin, to me, he’s a big piece of shit. That’s all he is to me

Destor

09-08-2017, 10:36 AM

Really love Suzuki

#BROKEN Hasney

09-08-2017, 01:36 PM

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DJL9TWsVoAAk18E?format=jpg&name=small

https://i.imgur.com/wy1B3oy.gif

#BROKEN Hasney

09-08-2017, 02:07 PM

https://i.imgur.com/jd3c4Cx.png

Simple Fan

09-09-2017, 12:59 AM

Been watching the G1 on AXS TV. Really been impressed by Sanada this year and think he is really a future star of NJPW. I think his career has been similar to Okada in a way as both had less than stellar stints in TNA and found themselves once returning to Japan. Although Sanada did have some success in TNA, they had no clue what to do with him and even paired with Muta and made him a second coming as The Great Sanada.

Matches have been great and I love the aspect of stablemate's squaring off against one another. Not only that but just the whole focus being on a tournament that focusses on wrestling. It's something that could be done on the main roster and is with the CWC and MYC but a King of the Ring tournament in WWE that allowed your main roster talent to show the same kind caliber matches.

Have enjoyed all the matches so far and can't really pick out a favorite. Naito, Omega, and Okada are definitely the top of the field though and produce the best matches of what I've see so far.