G1 Climax 25 - Day 1

G1 Climax 25

(2015/07/20)

5.       Block A: Doc Gallows vs. Hiroyoshi Tenzan

Good match! It seems Tenzan’s putting on his working boots once again as this was a fine contest, both dudes did well despite some problems, but overall the match was good with nice and easy pacing. Doc is an underrated brawler, I loved all his punches and strikes in general here. Tenzan always creates sweet little narratives with his Anaconda Vice finisher.

***

6.       Block A: Toru Yano vs. Togi Makabe

Typically fun YTR cheatfest, no complaints here, I just wish he won, but eh… waddaya gonna do…

***

7.       Block A: Bad Luck Fale vs. Tetsuya Naito

Awkward match that didn’t sit well due to Naito’s newfound Ingobernable shtick clashing with the slow and ultra methodical heel that is Fale. The match had its moments, but overall it was kind of uninspiring and the finish was really messy.

**

8.       Block A: AJ Styles vs. Katsuyori Shibata

Great match that still might disappoint you if you were expecting a five star masterpiece. Ultimately, I don’t think this one will remain too memorable, something was off, I don’t know what exactly, maybe it’s just me wishing AJ would be a massive dickbag going after Shibata’s injured hand. But still, I’m not totally fair here, as this was your typical G1 style sprint, and honestly it was great, it’s just that we’re too spoiled and expect ****1/2+ every time when two big names face off. Shibata’s kicks were particularly brutal here and AJ was selling them like being hit by a truck, it was awesome. I liked the tease spots and overall tone was fine, but like I said, I don’t consider this match a super memorable G1 classic. It certainly wouldn’t crack Top 10 from the past two editions.

****

9.       Block A: Kota Ibushi vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi

Superb match and amazing main event, exactly what this show needed. Tana was pretty much perfect and flawless here. Ibushi did his signature non-selling of the legwork, but Tana made sure it doesn’t last forever and ruin the match, no way, he made sure Kota would sell eventually it and it was great, Tana basically made it the story of the match. “You’re gonna sell that leg for me, you flippy motherfucker!”, fabulous I’m telling you. Ibushi threw some of the deadliest hits, strikes and kicks of the year, he also did that crazy German from the middle rope. All in all, this was excellent, just an epic G1 style smackfest and exactly what you’d expect from these two’s first ever match.

****1/2