SEScoops

Category: NJPW

  • G1 Climax 28 Update: Remaining Schedule, Standings, & Tie-Breaking Scenarios

    G1 Climax 28 Update: Remaining Schedule, Standings, & Tie-Breaking Scenarios

    The G1 Climax 28 has completed 13 shows so far. There are still another 6 to go. With the A-Block only having two matches left and the B-Block just 3, we can start to see who could realistically win this thing.

    G1 Climax tie-breaker rules: 

    • A tie between two wrestlers is broken based on the result in their 1-on-1 match.
    • If 2 or more wrestlers are tied at the end of round-robin the winner is determined based on which wrestler has the most points in only the matches against the other wrestlers they are tied with.

    G1 Climax 28 A-Block (2 nights remaining)

    The A-Block is likely coming down to the Kazuchika Okada vs Hiroshi Tanahashi match on the final night of the round-robin on August 10th.

    Jay White holds the tie-breaker over both Okada and Tanahashi, however, so if he wins his remaining two matches and Okada beats Tanahashi on the final night, then he’d move on to the finals. White would move on to the finals with most multi-person tie situations as a result of his victories over both Okada and Tanahashi early in the tournament. Suzuki lost to both Okada and Tanahashi (although he did beat Evil and Jay White), so I believe he is mathematically eliminated at this point (there is a lot of math here and I’m no Scott Steiner)

    If Evil wins his remaining two matches against Jay White and Okada and Okada beats Tanahashi on the final night, then he’d move on.

    • Hiroshi Tanahashi (12pts)
    • Jay White (10pts)
    • Kazuchika Okada (10pts)
    • Evil (8pts)
    • Minoru Suzuki (8pts) – eliminated (I’m pretty sure)
    • Michael Elgin (6pts) – eliminated
    • Bad Luck Fale (6pts) – eliminated
    • Hangman Page (4pts) – eliminated
    • Togi Makabe (4pts) – eliminated
    • Yoshi-Hashi (2pts) – eliminated

    Remaining Matches:

    Night 15 (A Block)
    August 5th, 2018

    • Hiroshi Tanahashi vs Michael Elgin
    • Togi Makabe vs Jay White
    • Kazuchika Okada vs EVIL
    • YOSHI-HASHI vs Bad Luck Fale
    • Hangman Page vs Minoru Suzuki

    Night 17 (A Block)
    August 10th, 2018

    • Hiroshi Tanahashi vs Kazuchika Okada
    • Togi Makabe vs Michael Elgin
    • Jay White vs EVIL
    • YOSHI-HASHI vs Hangman Page
    • Bad Luck Fale vs Minoru Suzuki

    G1 Climax 28 B-Block (3 matches remaining)

    With a record of 5 wins and 0 losses, Kenny Omega is just 2 wins away from clinching the B-Block. He’s only got 3 matches left, however, meaning he could clinch the block before the final night of the round-robin.

    If Omega defeats Tomohiro Ishii tomorrow, he’d only need to defeat Toru Yano on August 8th to win the group. Naito would need Omega to lose 2 of his final 3 matches due to Omega having the tie-breaker over him. Ibushi needs Omega to lose to either Ishii or Yano otherwise he would be mathematically eliminated by the time he faces Omega on the final night.

    • Kenny Omega (12pts)
    • Tetsuya Naito (10pts)
    • Kota Ibushi (8pts)
    • Sanada (6pts) – eliminated
    • Zack Sabre Jr (6pts) – eliminated
    • Hirooki Goto (4pts) – eliminated
    • Tomohiro Ishii (4pts) – eliminated
    • Juice Robinson (4pts) – eliminated
    • Tama Tonga (4pts) – elminated
    • Toru Yano (2pts) – eliminated

    Night 14 (B Block)
    August 4th, 2018

    • Juice Robinson vs Zack Sabre Jr
    • Hirooki Goto vs Tama Tonga
    • Tomohiro Ishii vs Kenny Omega **
    • Toru Yano vs SANADA
    • Tetsuya Naito vs Kota Ibushi ***

    ** If Omega wins he only needs to win his next match (against Yano) to clinch the block

    *** If Naito loses and Omega beats Ishii, Naito is eliminated.

    Night 16 (B Block)
    August 8th, 2018

    • Juice Robinson vs Tomohiro Ishii
    • Hirooki Goto vs Zack Sabre Jr
    • Toru Yano vs Kenny Omega **
    • Kota Ibushi vs Tama Tonga ***
    • Tetsuya Naito vs SANADA

    ** If Omega beats Ishii on Night 14 and defeats Yano here, he clinches the block.

    Night 18 (B Block)
    August 11th, 2018

    • Juice Robinson vs Hirooki Goto
    • Tomohiro Ishii vs SANADA
    • Toru Yano vs Tama Tonga
    • Kenny Omega vs Kota Ibushi
    • Tetsuya Naito vs Zack Sabre Jr
  • Bullet Club Releases Cologne: Smell Like A 7-Star Match!

    Bullet Club Releases Cologne: Smell Like A 7-Star Match!

    If you ever wanted to smell just like the members of Bullet Club, now is your chance. A special Bullet Club cologne will be released by New Japan Pro Wrestling tomorrow.

    NJPW has previously released “King of King” and “Fighting Spirit” scents in the past as well.

    Bullet Club Cologne Possible Scent

    Although we are currently unaware of what this cologne smells like, a few potential odors seem possible:

    The Bullet Club Cologne might smell like: 

    • ProWrestling Tees packaging.
    • Bad Luck Fale’s post-match scent.
    • It smells like nothing but 5 minutes after you put it on you are attacked by Tanga Loa and win your G1 match by disqualification.
    • Cody’s ego.

    WCW Nitro Cologne

    WCW released a cologne late in their existence. There are still Amazon listings for it online. WWE released both a cologne and a perfume during their Attitude Era. Currently, John Cena is the spokesperson for a line of Axe Body Sprays as well. So, there is a history of wrestling companies promoting similar products.

    NJPW G1 Climax 28

    The G1 Climax tournament has a day off today but they are back in Osaka tomorrow for B-Block action.

    • Tetsuya Naito vs Kota Ibushi
    • Kenny Omega vs Tomohiro Ishii
    • Juice Robinson vs Zack Sabre Jr
    • Hirooki Goto vs Tama Tonga
    • Toru Yano vs SANADA

    As Omega is still undefeated he needs just two more wins to clinch the block. Meaning if he beats Ishii and then Yano, he’ll have already clinched the block when he faces Kota Ibushi. If he was to lose to Ibushi still, however, it would set up a future title match between the two.

    Of note here is that if Omega defeats Ishii tomorrow it would mean his match against Toru Yano would be to clinch the block. Only one wrestler, Tetsuya Naito, trails Omega by only 2pts and Omega has the tie-breaker over him.

  • G1 Climax Night 13 Results and Updated Standings

    G1 Climax Night 13 Results and Updated Standings

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom. The tournament has now begun and here are the results from Night 13:

    Michael Elgin b. Bad Luck Fale – Elgin took the disqualification win after Tama Tonga interferes and beats Elgin with a chair

    Hangman Page b. Togi Makabe – Page took the pinfall win with Rite of Passage

    “Switchblade” Jay White b. YOSHI-HASHI – White took the pinfall win with Blade Runner

    Hiroshi Tanahashi b. EVIL – Tanahashi took the pinfall win with High Fly Flow

    Kazuchika Okada b. Minoru Suzuki – Okada took the pinfall win with the Rainmaker

    Here are the updated standings:

    Block A Block B
    Hiroshi Tanahashi 12 Kenny Omega 12
    Kazuchika Okada 10 Tetsuya Naito 10
    Jay White 10 Kota Ibushi 8
    Evil 8 Sanada 6
    Minoru Suzuki 8 Zack Sabre Jr. 6
    Michael Elgin 6 Hirooki Goto 4
    Bad Luck Fale 6 Tomohiro Ishii 4
    Togi Makabe 4 Juice Robinson 4
    Hangman Page 4 Tama Tonga 4
    Yoshi-Hashi 2 Toru Yano 2

     

    You can find the results for Night 1 here, Night 2 here, Night 3 here, Night 4 here, Night 5 here, Night 6 here, Night 7 here, Night 8 here, Night 9 here, Night 10 here, Night 11 here and Night 12 here.

  • Shinsuke Nakamura Reveals Issues With Brock Lesnar’s NJPW Run

    Shinsuke Nakamura Reveals Issues With Brock Lesnar’s NJPW Run

    Upon departing WWE back in 2004, Brock Lesnar ventured off into a few other activities.

    “The Beast” attempted to play in the National Football League (NFL) and also won the UFC heavyweight title as a mixed martial artist. In 2005 Lesnar returned to wrestling for New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW).

    He won the IWGP Heavyweight Title in October of that year. One of Lesnar’s title defenses came against current WWE Superstar Shinsuke Nakamura. Per Squared Circle Subreddit, some excerpts from Nakamura’s The King of Strong Style: 1980-2014 book reveal that he took issue with Lesnar’s NJPW run.

    No Passion For The Business

    Nakamura talked about getting to main event a NJPW show at the Tokyo Dome against Lesnar. The moment was spoiled, however, as he felt Lesnar didn’t have the same passion for the business as he did. It was the first time he cried in pro wrestling:

    “Part of that was luck. But that match was seriously rough. First, Lesnar was saying all this stuff about how he respected New Japan, but it felt to me like that was just for show, that he didn’t really respect the promotion.

    “Like, somewhere, he was looking down on Japanese people. I lost the match, and that was the first time I cried at pro wrestling after a match. It was the main event at Tokyo Dome. This was a pretty hallowed stage, and I knew I hadn’t fought the way I imagined I would.

    “And there was, like, this temperature difference between me and Lesnar. I didn’t get the sense he had any love for pro wrestling. It felt like he was just doing his job.”

    Nicking The IWGP Title

    “The King Of Strong Style” also took issue with Lesnar not returning the IWGP Heavyweight Title:

    “I felt like this was too much; he was seriously scoffing at us. Lesnar won the championship and took the belt home, I told Simon if the company didn’t get it’s shit in order, that belt was definitely going to get nicked.

    “I didn’t honestly believe that when we fought. But it ended up just like I feared. He has the physical stuff, plus a straightforward strength and a certain amount of flexibility, so there was a bit of the monster to him.

    “But I didn’t like his personality, you know? He might have made a real mark in UFC, but he didn’t even seem to notice the audience booing. I was like, ‘Oh, this guy’s a heel to the core.’”

  • Hiromu Takahashi Out For 9-12 Months With Broken Neck

    Hiromu Takahashi Out For 9-12 Months With Broken Neck

    The current IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, Hiromu Takahashi, will be out of action for at least 9 months. Takahashi was injured during the G1 Special in San Francisco after being dropped on his head in his match with Dragon Lee.

    Updates from NJPW on his condition have been scarce (as is often the case with NJPW). The promotion announced shortly after the injury that Takahashi was awake and conscious and later that he had been transported back to Japan. It was reported last week he was still in hospital.

    “The New Japan doctors believe it will be nine to 12 months before he can return,” Dave Meltzer wrote in the Wrestling Observer. “The belief is that he suffered a broken neck, which sounds terrible and that’s why nobody has said anything public.”

    Although Takahashi is believed to have suffered a broken neck there was not said to be any nerve damage.

    Hiromu Takahashi Injury Update

    While a broken neck sounds bad, several wrestlers have sustained the injury and returned. Sean “X-Pac” Waltman mentioned on Twitter that he broke his neck twice and came back each time.

    “I broke my neck twice,” Waltman Tweeted. “2nd time had it surgically repaired. I was able to make a full recovery & return for the most successful run of my career. Takahashi walked out of the ring on his own. He’s not done yet.”

    Juice Robinson was a guest on Waltman’s podcast shortly after Takahashi’s injury.
    “When you hear broken neck people think (he could be paralyzed) but that’s not with every broken neck but hopefully his broken neck is just you know time off,” Juice said. “Even though that still sucks but that beats the alternative. After seeing it, this is probably the best case scenario cause that looked like it could’ve been the last bump he ever took.”
  • G1 Climax Nights 11 and 12 Results and Updated Standings

    G1 Climax Nights 11 and 12 Results and Updated Standings

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom. The tournament has now begun and here are the results from Nights 11 and 12:

    Night 11

    • Bad Luck Fale b. Togi Makabe – Fale took the pinfall win following a ref bump and a chain-wrapped lariat
    • “Switchblade” Jay White b. Hangman Page – White took the pinfall win after hitting a Low Blow and a Blade Runner
    • Minoru Suzuki b. EVIL – Suzuki took the pinfall win with the Gotch Piledriver
    • Hiroshi Tanahashi b. YOSHI-HASHI – Tanahashi took the pinfall win with a legscissor folding press
    • Kazuchika Okada b. Michael Elgin – Okada took the pinfall win with the Rainmaker

    Night 12

    • Tama Tonga b. Tomohiro Ishii – Tonga took the pinfall win after hitting the Gun Stun. There was again interference in the match
    • Juice Robinson b.SANADA – Juice took the pinfall win after hitting the Pulp Friction
    • Tetsuya Naito b.Toru Yano – Naito took the pinfall win after hitting the Destino
    • Kenny Omega b. Zack Sabre Jr – Omega took the pinfall win with a Crucifix pin following a V-Trigger
    • Kota Ibushi b. Hirooki Goto – Ibushi took the pinfall win after hitting a Last Ride Powerbomb and a second Kamigoye, an epic match that you should definitely go out of your way to see

    Here are the updated Standings:

    Block A Block B
    Hiroshi Tanahashi 10 Kenny Omega 12
    Evil 8 Tetsuya Naito 10
    Kazuchika Okada 8 Kota Ibushi 8
    Minoru Suzuki 8 Sanada 6
    Jay White 8 Zack Sabre Jr. 6
    Bad Luck Fale 6 Hirooki Goto 4
    Michael Elgin 4 Tomohiro Ishii 4
    Togi Makabe 4 Juice Robinson 4
    Hangman Page 2 Tama Tonga 4
    Yoshi-Hashi 2 Toru Yano 2

     

    You can find the results for Night 1 here, Night 2 here, Night 3 here, Night 4 here, Night 5 here, Night 6 here, Night 7 here, Night 8 here, Night 9 here and Night 10 here.

     

     

  • Kenny Omega Reveals Secret To His Undefeated G1 Climax 28 Thus Far

    Kenny Omega Reveals Secret To His Undefeated G1 Climax 28 Thus Far

    Kenny Omega is 5-0 in the round-robin of the G1 Climax 28 tournament. As the current IWGP Heavyweight Champion, any loss he endures in the tournament could lead to a future title defense.

    The other member of Bullet Club Elite entered into the tournament has not been as lucky. With a record of only 1-5, Hangman Page is already mathematically eliminated from the tournament.

    On this week’s edition of “Being the Elite”, Page and Omega discussed their performances in the tournament thus far. Omega revealed the reason he has done so well in the tournament is a book he’s been reading.

    “As seen on #BTE ep. 113, “The Will to Keep Winning” by, @daigothebeast was featured. Legends in any field usually have ideas that are applicable to real-world success and Daigo’s are no exception.”

    Kenny Omega, The Will To Keep Winning

    Daigo Umehara authored the book Omega refers to on the show. Umehara is a professional video game player who specializes in fighting games.

    At the end of the BTE episode, Hangman Page offers Omega a slice of ham in exchange for the book. Omega states he is unable to part with the book until after the G1 tournament. Page insists, however, and it started to become clear Page might becoming a little unhinged with all the rumors of his involvement of Joey Ryan’s disappearance spreading.

    Omega eventually gives Hangman Page the book (and his slice of ham). Page only has 3 matches left in the G1 and the most points he could finish with at this point is 8.

    Omega’s remaining opponents in the tournament are Zack Sabre Jr, Tomohiro Ishii, Toru Yano, and is Golden Lovers tag-team partner, Kota Ibushi. As for Page, he has Togi Makabe, Minoru Suzuki, and YOSHI-HASHI left to face in the tournament. Omega is looking to become the first person to ever make it to the finals of the tournament 3 years in a row.

  • Cody Rhodes Does Something Amazing For “All In” Fan, NJPW Star Off G1 Tour

    Cody Rhodes Does Something Amazing For “All In” Fan, NJPW Star Off G1 Tour

    Cody Rhodes Does Something Amazing For “All In” Ticket-Buyer

    Ring Of Honor (ROH) star Cody Rhodes is an absolute class act. Rhodes and The Young Bucks’ self-funded “All In” event will go down from the Sears Centre in Illinois on September 1st.

    The event sold out extremely quick and will hold over 10,000 fans. One fan, however, recently found themselves in quite a predicament. While they purchased a ticket, they didn’t have the financial means to travel to Illinois for the show.

    He expressed his devastation on Twitter but noted that he’s still glad he bought the ticket because it helps out Rhodes and The Young Bucks. In response, Rhodes PayPaled the fan some money and covered their travel and hotel fees so they can attend the show:

    NJPW Star Off G1 Tour

    New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) star Jado, who has been out-of-action since July 20th, will miss the remainder of the G1 Climax tour. An injury to his left foot has forced him out of the tournament.

    Jado was scheduled for a Six-Man Tag Team match in which he’d partner with YOSHI-HASHI and Kazuchika Okada against the team of Hiroshi Tanahashi, Togi Makabe and Tomoaki Honma. He will be replaced by Gedo in the match.

  • Rocky Romero Explains Big Difference Between WWE & NJPW

    Rocky Romero Explains Big Difference Between WWE & NJPW

    New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) star Rocky Romero believes there’s one big thing that sets NJPW apart from WWE.

    Romero recently spoke to The Orlando Sentinel and discussed the different mindset between WWE and NJPW’s business models. Romero explained that NJPW isn’t about “selfishness,” as opposed to WWE.

    NJPW strives to all work together to put on an excellent show. Romero notes WWE wants their talent to reach for the “brass ring” and compete with one another for top spots:

    “We’re not about selfishness. It’s different with WWE. They’re telling wrestlers to reach for the brass ring and compete with each other for top spots.

    “The Japanese mentality is to work together to make the ship run better. It’s been instilled in me for a long time and now I’m passing it on to Sho and Yoh [of Roppongi 3K] to guide them, let them learn from mistakes and make them the best.”

    Romero’s Career

    The 35-year-old Cuban vet has been in the business since 2003. He worked for several years in Mexico and also did work for Ring Of Honor (ROH). In 2010 Romero signed on with NJPW.

    He has seen extraordinary success with the promotion; including and IWGP Junior Heavyweight Title run, eight IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Title wins, and won the 2016 Super Jr. Tag Team Tournament with Beretta.

    Romero also had a one-off mixed martial arts (MMA) career. He was submitted in 2004 in 20 seconds of the first round via kneebar.

  • Kenny Omega Rips G1 Climax Opponent On Twitter

    Kenny Omega Rips G1 Climax Opponent On Twitter

    Kenny Omega is having a great G1 Climax 28 tournament thus far. The current IWGP Heavyweight Champion is undefeated in the round-robin portion of the tournament. He defeated LIJ’s Sanada in his last tournament match.

    Omega took to Twitter to comment on his most recent opponent. He also took a shot at his upcoming tournament opponent as well.

    “You know, I hate to say it but SANADA may a future wor…. Woah, I’ll stop myself there. *Ahem* it was an easy 2 points. ZSJ next. He’s about to get that Hanes underwear model body pulverized.”

    Kenny Omega G1 Climax 28

    Omega has stated several times that he is not a fan of Tetsuya Naito’s Los InGobernables de Japon.

    Last month, Omega clarified his feelings regarding the Naito and his faction.

    “Naito in a way is a Pseudo-Stone Cold Steve Austin, anti-hero-esque character. I really don’t appreciate his message and I really only think it works in Japan,” said Omega. “Naito’s message is rather than trying to follow your dreams, rather than try and strive for something more than that, just calm down, just don’t worry about it, and don’t care.”

    Omega’s comments are likely a way to build a future angle, however, and not his true feelings.

    “LIJ is just rinse, wash repeat. Sure they are talented, maybe they have an interesting type of charisma, but they are very local and not the type of worldwide image NJPW is looking for,” Omega continued. “They’re assets, we can use them, but they’re niche.”

    Omega and Naito met on night 2 of the G1 Climax 28. Omega defeated Naito in the main event of the first night of round-robin matches for the B Block. Naito won the G1 Climax 27 tournament last year by defeating Omega in the finals. Omega had won the G1 Climax 26 tournament the year before.

  • Should Shinsuke Nakamura Return to New Japan Pro Wrestling?

    Should Shinsuke Nakamura Return to New Japan Pro Wrestling?

    As reported earlier this week New Japan Pro Wrestling appear to be seriously considering offering Shinsuke Nakamura an opportunity to return to the company once his reported three year deal with WWE ends in the next few months.

    As a former three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and five-time IWGP Intercontinental Champion Nakamura can be considered amongst the greatest performers to ever step foot in an NJPW ring, but should the ‘King of Strong Style’ return to the company which put him on the global wrestling map?

    In terms of presentation, presence and performance there is no denying that Shinsuke is as unique and electrifying a character as anyone in pro wrestling today. Since joining WWE he has grown his brand and worldwide notoriety in a way that simply would not have been possible if he had stayed as part of the New Japan roster. It is arguable however that Nakamura’s greatest works came as part of his time in New Japan and he has not reached the heights of the G1, Wrestle Kingdom et al since he made the leap over to WWE, aside from an incredible showing in his debut against Sami Zayn.

    With the international expansion plans and strategy to target a more western audience New Japan would be hard pressed to find a performer on the planet with the upside of Nakamura. He already has a strong following in his native Japan and has built a strong fanbase amongst WWE’s ‘universe’ so this really would be a win-win for them. Realistically though how likely would it be for Shinsuke to change course and return to the company that ‘made’ him?

    Shinsuke has absolutely toned down his style since arriving in WWE, the striking prowess is still evident but the velocity of his arsenal is nowhere near what it once was in New Japan. Would Nakamura want to risk leaving what is widely regarded a ‘safer’ style in the WWE and return to the ‘dangerous’ New Japan formula (although this is left up to interpretation)? Nakamura now sits as one of the premiere focal points of the Smackdown brand, you can argue that being United States Champion isn’t a premiere position but there are only a finite amount of belts in the company and Shinsuke possesses one of them…that to me is a very strong position to be in.

    Sure, seeing the ‘Rockstar’ of old in New Japan tearing it up with the likes of Kenny Omega, Kazuchika Okada, Jay White, Will Ospreay and Kota Ibushi is an extremely exciting prospect but can you compare these marquee bouts to being on a WrestleMania card? That is a decision that Nakamura may well have to make in the near future but with WWE seemingly looking to solidify their stranglehold on the pro wrestling market across multiple regions (I’m looking at you UK division) and one of their star attractions being looked at by a competitor you can bet that a deal with a very attractive number will be heading towards the Nakamura camp in the near future.

    Do you think that Shinsuke should return to New Japan? Let us know in the comments

  • Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy Predict The G1 Climax: Night 11

    Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy Predict The G1 Climax: Night 11

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom.

    SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy have made their predictions for Night 11 of the tournament, here they are:

    (You can check out the Predictions for Night 10 here)

    Jake Jeremy – Ok, so Night 11 of the G1 Climax…here’s the scheduled matches:
    • Hiroshi Tanahashi vs YOSHI-HASHI
    • Togi Makabe vs Bad Luck Fale
    • Michael Elgin vs Kazuchika Okada
    • Jay White vs Hangman Page
    • EVIL vs Minoru Suzuki
    Ian Carey – Tanahashi beats YOSHI-HASHI – no surprises there at all
    Jake Jeremy – I would go for an upset but Tanahashi is going to be in the running to the end now
    Ian Carey – I think Makabe beats Fale, likely via DQ again. Fale will have two words for him but it won’t be Suck It
    Jake Jeremy – Suck em? haha. I agree Fale will lose via DQ due to Firing Squad interference
    Ian Carey – Okada beats Elgin but I’m expecting Elgin to have a good showing here. I feel like him and Okada will have a strong match. Elgin looks like he’s dropped weight. He’s moving faster but doesn’t appear to have lost any strength.
    Jake Jeremy – Okada wins, I don’t mention Elgin that often
    Ian Carey – I’m going to call a bit of an upset and say Hangman Page beats White. I know White’s antics and rivalry with his own stable are a big story this tournament but I feel like they have to give Page a few more points and a win over White seems plausible.
    Jake Jeremy – I’m going for White here so that he is still in the running for the last night of block matches
    Ian Carey – I always underestimate where NJPW ranks EVIL – he went 6-3 last tournament. Despite this, I’m still feeling like Suzuki gets the win here.
    Jake Jeremy – I’m going EVIL because you’re right they randomly decide to push him hard sometimes
    What are your predictions for Night 11? Let us know in the comments
  • G1 Climax Night 10 Results and Updated Standings

    G1 Climax Night 10 Results and Updated Standings

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom. The tournament has now begun and here are the results from Night 10:

    Zack Sabre Jr b. Tama Tonga – ZSJ took the win via DQ after Fale interfered, Tonga was already tapping out to an Armbar out of a Gun Stun

    Juice Robinson b. Toru Yano – Juice took his first win of the tournament after hitting the Pulp Friction 

    Kota Ibushi b. Tomohiro Ishii – Ibushi took the pinfall win after hitting the Kamigoye. This was possibly the best match of the tournament thus far

    Tetsuya Naito b. Hirooki Goto – Naito took the pinfall win after hitting two Destinos

    Kenny Omega b. Sanada – Omega took the pinfall win after hitting the One Winged Angel

    Here’s the updated standings:

     
    Block A Block B
    Evil 8 Kenny Omega 10
    Hiroshi Tanahashi 8 Tetsuya Naito 8
    Kazuchika Okada 6 Kota Ibushi 6
    Minoru Suzuki 6 Zack Sabre Jr. 6
    Jay White 6 Sanada 6
    Bad Luck Fale 4 Hirooki Goto 4
    Michael Elgin 4 Tomohiro Ishii 4
    Togi Makabe 4 Juice Robinson 2
    Hangman Page 2 Tama Tonga 2
    Yoshi-Hashi 2 Toru Yano 2

     

    You can find the results for Night 1 here, Night 2 here, Night 3 here, Night 4 here, Night 5 here, Night 6 here, Night 7 here, Night 8 here and Night 9 here. Don’t forget that SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy are posting their predictions for the tournament and you can check out how they fared with Night 10’s predictions right here.

     

  • Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy Predict The G1 Climax: Night 10

    Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy Predict The G1 Climax: Night 10

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom.

    SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy have made their predictions for Night 10 of the tournament, here they are:

    Jake Jeremy – Ok so it’s Night 10 of the G1 Climax, I don’t remember what sunlight or my family look like so here’s the scheduled matches:
    • Juice Robinson vs Toru Yano
    • Hirooki Goto vs Tetsuya Naito
    • Tomohiro Ishii vs Kota Ibushi
    • Kenny Omega vs SANADA
    • Tama Tonga vs Zack Sabre Jr.
    Ian Carey – So Juice Robinson is 0-4. His backstage interviews are all focused on how he has to do better or he might as well give up. Still, he has a broken hand… All the same, I think Juice wins and his tournament turns around from here
    Jake Jeremy – I actually think that we might get a Juice heel turn here (although it’s unlikely) I’m going for a Yano win either way
    Ian Carey – Naito defeats Goto in a match far different from the one he had with Tama Tonga (which was awesome if you don’t mind 8 different guys running in)
    Jake Jeremy – I actually really enjoyed the Naito/Tonga match. Ishii vs ZSJ was the best bout of that night but at the least the interference added to the show and gave the match a different vibe. I’m also going with Naito here
    Ian Carey – Hmm, I think Kota Ibushi beats Ishii and I feel like that could be a really good match.
    Jake Jeremy – Ishii is low-key one of the best in the world so this will be a barn burner. Ibushi wins for me too
    Ian Carey – Omega defeats SANADA and continues his unbeaten streak. I wonder if Omega will stay undefeated until Ibushi beats him on the final night
    Jake Jeremy – When will Omega lose though? Against Kota? I agree though Omega does get the W here
    Ian Carey – ZSJ beats Tama Tonga in what should be a pretty unique match. I can’t imagine Tanga Loa and Bad Luck Fale go long without interfering as ZSJ is stretching Tama into a pretzel
    Jake Jeremy – ZSJ is also low-key putting in some BITW performances in this year’s tournament. New Japan is the perfect platform for him right now and I hope that he does get the win over the more established Tama
    What are your predictions for Night 10? Let us know in the comments
  • G1 Climax Night 9 Results and Updated Standings

    G1 Climax Night 9 Results and Updated Standings

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom. The tournament has now begun and here are the results from Night 9:

    Minoru Suzuki b. Michael Elgin – Suzuki took the pinfall win with the Gotch Piledriver

    EVIL b. Hangman Page – EVIL took the pinfall win after hitting his namesake move 

    Bad Luck Fale b. “Switchblade” Jay White – Fale took the pinfall win after hitting the Bad Luck Fall after a referee bump and Tama Tonga hit the Gun Stun

    Hiroshi Tanahashi b. Togi Makabe – Tanahashi took the pinfall win after hitting the High Fly Flow

    Kazuchika Okada b. YOSHI-HASHI – Okada took the pinfall win with the Rainmaker

    Here’s the updated standings:

    Block A Block B
    Evil 8 Kenny Omega 8
    Hiroshi Tanahashi 8 Tetsuya Naito 6
    Kazuchika Okada 6 Sanada 6
    Minoru Suzuki 6 Hirooki Goto 4
    Jay White 6 Kota Ibushi 4
    Bad Luck Fale 4 Zack Sabre Jr. 4
    Michael Elgin 4 Tomohiro Ishii 4
    Togi Makabe 4 Tama Tonga 2
    Hangman Page 2 Toru Yano 2
    Yoshi-Hashi 2 Juice Robinson 0

     

    You can find the results for Night 1 here, Night 2 here, Night 3 here, Night 4 here, Night 5 here, Night 6 here, Night 7 here and Night 8 here. Don’t forget that SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy are posting their predictions for the tournament and you can check out how they fared with Night 9’s predictions right here.

  • Chris Jericho Says He Has No Restrictions In NJPW

    Chris Jericho Says He Has No Restrictions In NJPW

    Chris Jericho says there are no restrictions to what he can do in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW). The reigning IWGP Intercontinental Champion has only wrestled 3 matches in 2018, but he has remained one of the most talked about wrestlers in the world.

    Jericho made waves when he wrestled Kenny Omega in the Tokyo Dome on January 4th, 2018. He appeared at WWE’s big Raw 25th Anniversary just a few weeks later, his first appearance for the company since he started working for New Japan.

    In April, he was back in WWE competing in the Greatest Royal Rumble. By June, he was the IWGP IC Champion after dethroning Tetsuya Naito at Dominion.

    Chris Jericho On Working For NJPW & WWE

    “It’s very cool to go back to Japan, where I started, and be part of this worldwide growth of New Japan,” Jericho said to Sports Illustrated recently. “There are no real restrictions on what I can do in New Japan.”

    Jericho would continue to talk about the restrictions in WWE versus NJPW.

    “We did the original beatdown with Kenny and got some blood going, which you never see in the WWE nowadays,” Jericho continued.

    “We did the press conference where I was swearing and attacking reporters. You can’t do that in WWE, but you can in Japan. Just to have those shackles released, it just felt like all of these things led to more of a Bruiser Brody character than a Shawn Michaels-type vibe.”

    Chris Jericho Wrestling For Non-WWE Promotions

    Jericho has always said he would never wrestle for a company other than WWE on American soil. Events which have unfolded this year may test his commitment to this, however.

    When asked by a fan on Twitter if he still intends to stand by his earlier claims, Jericho gave an answer some fans will find surprising.

    There’s been speculation that Jericho is interested in working for Impact Wrestling. Jericho responded, “Of course!” when asked if he’d consider ‘going to’ Impact.

    Chris Jericho’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Rager

    This October, Chris Jericho is hosting the Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Rager cruise, which departs out of Miami on October 27th and travels to the Bahamas.

    Talent from WWE, Impact Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling and Ring of Honor will be appearing on the ship. Very few people can pull off something like this. Chris Jericho is among a rare breed of performers who makes his own rules in this business.

  • Juice Robinson Says He’s Never Going Back To WWE

    Juice Robinson Says He’s Never Going Back To WWE

    IWGP United States Champion Juice Robinson has publicly addressed a report from this week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter stating WWE is interested in signing him. Robinson, who wrestled as CJ Parker for former WWE developmental territory Florida Championship Wrestling and later NXT from 2011-2015, isn’t going anywhere.

    “That’s in the rearview mirror now,” Juice said. “I ain’t going back, I ain’t ever going back.”

    https://twitter.com/JJWilliamsWON/status/1022593863326814208

    Robinson made the comments backstage from Night 8 of the G1 Climax 28 tournament. He has lost every single match in the tournament thus far, likely due to competing with a broken hand.

    Juice Robinson on WWE and NJPW

    Earlier this summer, Juice spoke with Uproxx about his frustrations while with WWE.

    “You know, I loved NXT. Just, I just knew I was dead in the water, so I had to get out,” Juice said. “So it wasn’t that it was bad, it was (that) I turned it bad because I got sad. You know what I mean? So what was happening to me on a daily basis… it wasn’t like I was going home every night and crying in my room.”

    He would continue to say that in NXT anytime he would try and lighten the mood, he would be told to get back in line. This was under the old head-trainer, however.

    “But they’ve got a good guy there now, and everything’s really – I think it’s fun again,” Juice said in reference to current NXT head trainer Matt Bloom. “It’s good to hear. But I’m having more fun, so, haha.”

    Juice Robinson’s Other Options

    WWE is not Juice’s only option other than NJPW. Don Callis of Impact Wrestling has made it clear they would make Juice a big part of their company if he ever jumped ship.

    “Juice is a tremendous performer with unlimited likeability and unlimited charisma,” Callis said on his Killin the Town podcast earlier this month. “He definitely is a rock star.”

    “I really like him a lot,” Callis continued. “He’s a guy you build a company around.”

  • Kenny Omega Comments On Roman Reigns/Tama Tonga Beef

    Kenny Omega Comments On Roman Reigns/Tama Tonga Beef

    Kenny Omega has chimed in on the recent Twitter escapades of Tama Tonga and Roman Reigns. Tonga was recently suspended from Twitter temporarily and went looking for who turned him in. He eventually concluded it was Roman Reigns which led to an interesting back and forth between the two of them.

    Omega took to Twitter to give his thoughts on the situation.

    “If the enemy of my enemy is my friend but my new friend hates me more than my enemy does, is he still my friend?”

    Omega was referring to the fact that while Tama Tonga and he are enemies in current NJPW storylines, Omega and Roman Reigns have had their issues in the past as well.

    Kenny Omega and Roman Reigns Rivalry

    Late last year/early this year, Omega and Roman Reigns were involved in a mild public spat as well. Their issues began after Reigns claimed he was the best in-ring performer in the world.

    “I’m the best performer, in-ring, in the world right now,” Reigns said in late 2017 to the Bleacher Report. “You can go to my matches and my pay-per-views over the last three years and you can say I’m an idiot or you can be like, ‘man, he has a point.’ Do you know what I mean? I didn’t come here for any other reason.”

    Omega then responded t Roman’s claims in an interview with the Bleacher Report.

    “I don’t know if Roman was put up to saying a comment like that from a social media team or if it was something that he consciously thought of himself,” Omega said. “But I thought it was pretty smart of him to do — to say — that, because it became instantaneously a topic that people were talking about. And just because it sounds so ridiculous. You know what I mean? By no means do I actually think he believes in those words. There’s no possible way. … I don’t have to feel like I have to speak up about it. It is what it is, and I understand that it’s a fun thing for fans to generate interest in the product. I take absolutely zero offense in him saying it. Especially, since it’s quite clear that the fact of the matter is much, much different.”

  • Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy Predict The G1 Climax: Night 9

    Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy Predict The G1 Climax: Night 9

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom.

    SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy have made their predictions for Night 9 of the tournament, here they are:

    (You can check out the Predictions for Night 8 here)

    Ian Carey – We’ve reached Night 9, here are the scheduled matches:

    • Hiroshi Tanahashi vs Togi Makabe
    • Michael Elgin vs Minoru Suzuki
    • Kazuchika Okada vs YOSHI-HASHI
    • Jay White vs Bad Luck Fale
    • EVIL vs Hangman Page

    Jake Jeremy – too…much….wrestling

    Ian Carey – Straight out I think that Tanahashi beats Makabe

    Jake Jeremy – It’s looking like your Tanahashi/Okada final day showdown is coming to fruition so I completely agree

    Ian Carey – I think Suzuki should defeat Elgin

    Jake Jeremy – Is it really bad if I enjoy seeing that? Suzuki must beat Elgin

    Ian Carey – Okada will run right through YOSHI-HASHI I’m sure

    Jake Jeremy – I’m still sad that they didn’t run with the “you’re nothing without the title” story for Okada, I wanted to see him go through hard times….baby, but yes Okada will beat YOSHI-HASHI

    Ian Carey – Jay White vs Bad Luck Fale should be interesting. The Firing Squad and Jay White have both brought very western-influenced heel tactics to NJPW this tournament. I’m not certain the live crowds are enjoying it but I feel as though it might be a tactic NJPW is using to lure in more international fans.

    Jake Jeremy – Possibly, I mean Bullet Club was always meant to be an ‘infection’ of western influence on the NJPW style. I think that Fale might actually take this though

    Ian Carey – White should win the match though, as Fale has made it quite apparent he does not care about win/loss records. I also think they will give Hangman Page the win over EVIL. I have a feeling that will be a great match too.

    Jake Jeremy – Agreed, Page will get the win over EVIL to at least give him SOMETHING

    What are your predictions for Night 8? Let us know in the comments

  • G1 Climax Night 8 Results and Updated Standings

    G1 Climax Night 8 Results and Updated Standings

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom. The tournament has now begun and here are the results from Night 8:

    Hirooki Goto b. Toru Yano – Goto took the win early after hitting the Ushigoroshi and GTR for the pin

    Tetsuya Naito b. Tama Tonga – Naito took the win after hitting a low blow followed by Destino

    Zack Sabre Jr. b. Tomohiro Ishii – ZSJ took the submission win after locking in an armbar, this looked painful…

    Kenny Omega b. Juice Robinson – Omega took the pinfall win after hitting a fair few V-Triggers

    SANADA b. Kota Ibushi – SANADA took the pinfall win after hitting a moonsault, this was somewhat of an upset but a fantastic match

    Here are the updated standings:

    Block A Block B
    Evil 6 Kenny Omega 8
    Hiroshi Tanahashi 6 Tetsuya Naito 6
    Jay White 6 Sanada 6
    Michael Elgin 4 Hirooki Goto 4
    Togi Makabe 4 Kota Ibushi 4
    Kazuchika Okada 4 Zack Sabre Jr. 4
    Minoru Suzuki 4 Tomohiro Ishii 4
    Bad Luck Fale 2 Tama Tonga 2
    Hangman Page 2 Toru Yano 2
    Yoshi-Hashi 2 Juice Robinson 0

     

    You can find the results for Night 1 here, Night 2 here, Night 3 here, Night 4 here, Night 5 here, Night 6 here, and Night 7 here. Don’t forget that SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy are posting their predictions for the tournament and you can check out how they fared with Night 8’s predictions right here.

  • NJPW Interested In Bringing Back Shinsuke Nakamura

    NJPW Interested In Bringing Back Shinsuke Nakamura

    New Japan Pro Wrestling has reported interest in bringing back Shinsuke Nakamura to the company once his current contract with the WWE expires.

    Dave Meltzer noted when asked by a fan of the possibility of AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura going back to NJPW during the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio that both stars signed three year deals with the WWE that are slated to expire in a few months.

    Meltzer stated that he wouldn’t be shocked if Nakamura went back to NJPW after his WWE contract is up because he knows that the promotion wants him back but did note that his family lives with him in Florida as well as him being in a good spot on the card in the WWE right now where he has toned down his style in the ring since making the jump from NJPW.

    What’s interesting is the fact that it was noted that NJPW is in the middle of expansion mode and they are willing to spend money to get a top name like Nakamura.

    Nakamura was a top star for NJPW during his run as he was a former three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and five-time IWGP Intercontinental Champion. Before his WWE main roster debut, Nakamura competed in WWE’s developmental branch, NXT where he is one of only two wrestlers to have held the NXT Championship on more than one occasion.

    What are your thoughts on Nakamura potentially returning to New Japan Pro Wrestling? Do you think he should stick with WWE or return to NJPW? Sound off in the comment section.

  • Hiromu Takahashi Still In Hospital Following G1 Special In San Francisco 

    Hiromu Takahashi Still In Hospital Following G1 Special In San Francisco 

    IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, Hiromu Takahashi, is believed to still be in hospital 19 days after his match with Dragon Lee at the Cow Palace.

    Takahashi was dropped on his head during a cradle-suplex spot on the July 7th card. After finishing the match, Takahashi is said to have collapsed backstage. He was taken to a local hospital and then was transported back to Japan a few days later.

    Hiromu Takahashi Injury Update

    “He’s still in the hospital,” Dave Meltzer said on Wrestling Observer Radio last night. “He’s in good spirits but it’s 18 days and he’s still in hospital. That’s not a good sign to me, at all.”

    The day after his injury, NJPW updated fans on his condition by stating he was awake and able to sit and talk.

    His toy cat, Darryl Takahashi, then sent out the following update:

    Dragon Lee also reacted to Hiromu’s injury. “Hiromu is the most important rival I’ve ever had,” Lee said. “The most beautiful matches of my career have been against him. [Hiromu’s] injury was a wrestling-related accident. Though he is my rival, he is in my prayers.”

    Juice Robinson also commented on Takahashi’s injury while on Jim Ross’ podcast.

    “When you hear broken neck people think (the person is paralyzed) but that’s not with every broken neck,” Juice said. “Hopefully his broken neck is just you know time off. Even though that still sucks but that beats the alternative. After seeing it, this is probably the best case scenario cause that looked like it could’ve been the last bump he ever took.”

    Sean Waltman, who has a history of neck problems, made the following comments:

    “I’ve had my neck broken twice in the ring. 2nd time had it surgically repaired. I was able to make a full recovery & return to Wrestling for the most successful run of my career,” Waltman Tweeted. “Takahashi walked out of the ring on his own. He’s not done yet. Mark my words.”

  • Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy Predict The G1 Climax: Night 8

    Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy Predict The G1 Climax: Night 8

    New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual G1 Climax is widely regarded as the greatest tournament in pro wrestling today. Two blocks of competitors are competing in a round robin format to determine the number 1 contender to Kenny Omega’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship at January 4th’s Wrestle Kingdom.

    SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey and Jake Jeremy have made their predictions for Night 7 of the tournament, here they are:

    (You can check out the Predictions for Night 7 here)

    Ian Carey – so we’ve reached Night 8 of the G1 – and its the time in the tournament where I’m falling behind in watching everything
    Jake Jeremy – Welcome to NJPW fandom dear readers…so here’s the lineup for the G1 Climax Night 8:
     • Juice Robinson vs Kenny Omega
     • Hirooki Goto vs Tou Yano
     • Tomohiro Ishii vs Zack Sabre Jr
     • Tetsuya Naito vs Tama Tonga
     • SANADA vs Kota Ibushi
    Ian Carey – Omega beats Juice. I think Juice’s hand is really going to prevent him from doing much this tournament
    Jake Jeremy – it’s a good ‘out’ for them to play off, I agree that Omega gets the win here but it should be a star building performance for Juice
    Ian Carey – ZSJ needs to get a win back after dropping one to SANADA so I’m going to predict he gets the win
    Jake Jeremy – I was hugely impressed with SANADA in that bout, he adapted to the European submission style WONDERFULLY. I agree that ZSJ gets the W
    Ian Carey – Goto beats Yano
    Jake Jeremy – I think that Yano is back on his win streak with the cheating, I’m going Toru
    Ian Carey – I was not impressed with Tonga losing to Omega via DQ but that might just be my Haku- fandom seeping through
    Jake Jeremy – To all SEScoops readers: Carey never shuts up about Haku
    Ian Carey – Naito beats Tonga. If they were going to elevate Tonga through this tournament they would have had him beat Omega
    Jake Jeremy – I think that the Bullet Club ‘Civil War’ will be Tama’s big push, I can see him getting a win over Naito here though
    What are your predictions for Night 8? Let us know in the comments
  • Tama Tonga Temporarily Suspended From Twitter

    Tama Tonga Temporarily Suspended From Twitter

    Of all the things that happen on Twitter, the social media platform has decided Tama Tonga’s Tweets needed to be locked away for a little while. The founding member of Bullet Club has been temporarily suspended from the service.

    Tama Tonga took to his Instagram account to reflect on the news.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BlomvDnBuNU/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=139tvbhfc1eh2

    After a 12 hour ban, Tama Tonga returned.

    Why Did Tama Tonga Get Suspended From Twitter?

    It is not clear exactly what led to Tama Tonga getting suspended from Twitter. He had been handling internet trolls with some rather hilarious comebacks, however. It’s possible one of Tama Tonga’s Twitter troll victims filed a complaint.

    Is Twitter Reacting To Tama Tonga’s Actions In the G1?

    Tama Tonga and Bad Luck Fale have both been using interference and under-handed tactics in the G1 tournament this year. As a result of their tactics, neither has done well in the tournament thus far from a standings perspective.

    Fale’s record is 1-3 and Tama Tonga is only 1-2 at this point. Tonga also dropped a match to Kenny Omega via disqualification. Had Tonga won the match with Omega he possibly could have qualified for a future IWGP Heavyweight title shot.

    It appears title shots and points aren’t what the Bullet Club OGs are going for this tournament, however.

  • Kenny Omega Takes Shot At Tama Tonga For Lowering His “Average Star Rating”

    Kenny Omega Takes Shot At Tama Tonga For Lowering His “Average Star Rating”

    Kenny Omega defeated Tama Tonga on Saturday in NJPW’s G1 Climax 28. Tonga was disqualified after repeated interference and giving a cutter to the referee. This G1 has seen far more interference and run-ins than what is normally seen in the promotion.

    According to comments Omega made after the match, he was upset at Tama for cheating but for different reasons than you might expect.

    “I’m not mad that you cheated in this match,” Omega said backstage. “In fact, what I’m most mad at is that by using your friends, by using a DQ just to beat me up and leave me possibly with injury, you, my friend, have affected my average star-rating.”

    The Bullet Club OGs/Firing Squad have been interfering in several matches and Bad Luck Fale has already been disqualified multiple times for his actions. On the first night of the tournament, the Firing Squad interfered early in Fale’s match with Hangman Page, who was making his debut in the tournament. The BCOGs constant cheating has been the talk of the G1 thus far.

    Kenny Omega Reacts To Match With Tama Tonga

    Kenny Omega had the following to say when he got to the back after the match.

    “Tama Tonga, nothing much has changed since last year, has it?” Omega said. “Last year, you yourself said the G1 didn’t mean anything. Clearly, the same is true. You don’t care about the 2 points, you don’t care about going to the finals, all you care about is making a statement that you and your boys care about each other. And oh boo f****ng hoo,  there’s a group of people that are better than you that dream bigger.”

    “I thought you were clever by implicating the use of your boys,” Omega continued. “But Tama, at the end of the day, it was still all to make a very immature point that blood is thicker than water.”

    “Tama Tonga, all take these boys and their talent and what they bring to the table over whatever the hell it is you believe in.”

    The G1 Climax 28 resumes on Thursday.