One of the biggest shows of the New Japan Pro Wrestling calendar is Wrestling Dontaku. This year’s show was no exception, and it seems like it was even bigger and better than before. Not only were there special singles and title matches, but the show gave fans so many surprises that if you blinked, you would miss something.
Many New Japan fans have called it one of the best shows of the past few years. Here is a look at six of the best moments from this year’s Wrestling Dontaku show.
5. Hiroshi Tanahashi v Tomohiro Ishii – IWGP United States Championship
Credit: NJPW1972
After SANADA had to relinquish the IWGP United States Championship, Dontaku was meant to see former champion Hiroshi Tanahashi wrestle Will Ospreay. Yet, after contracting COVID, Ospreay was unable to compete. Luckily, fans were in for a treat after it was announced that Tomohiro Ishii would be his replacement.
As expected, the match was phenomenal. For two wrestlers with entirely different styles and personalities, they meshed extremely well and adapted to each other’s styles. It was a combination of traditional Japanese Strong Style, athleticism, and agility. After a great match, Tanahashi got the win with his patented High Fly Flow.
Although many were gutted that Ishii once again failed to win a title. Yet, the quality of the match made up for it and the mutual respect makes fans hope they won’t have to wait too long for the next bout. It was a perfect blend of power, speed, and agility from two of the best wrestlers in the world.
4. The Return Of Karl Anderson And Doc Gallows
Credit: NJPW1972
After Tama Tonga finally got even with Bullet Club’s EVIL, it seemed like he was slowly on his way to getting retribution for being kicked out of the faction. However, Tama’s celebration didn’t last long as viewers were shocked when he was attacked by Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows.
The history between these three men goes back years. They were some of the first members of Bullet Club and many were shocked when they chose to side with Jay White when the faction turned against Tama. So, it seemed like the perfect stage to showcase this new loyalty and genuinely get to the core of this feud.
With the match set for Dominion, this match will be a key moment in the ongoing feud. It combines the rich history of the Bullet Club with the shocking moment the members turned on Tama Tonga. It was also the first time the Good Brothers stepped in a New Japan Japanese ring in years.
3. Kazuchika Okada v Tetsuya Naito – IWGP World Heavyweight Championship
Credit: NJPW1972
Many fans were skeptical when NJPW announced that Naito and Okada would be wrestling for the third time in less than a few months. Yet, after beating Okada in the New Japan Cup, Naito earnt another shot at the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship.
Although there was a chance of repeating what was done in their previous matches, Okada and Naito proved why they are so good. There seemed to be an increased intensity from both going into this match. Naito seemed less Tranquilo than ever, and Okada appeared to feel this extra adrenaline, with both pulling out dangerous moves.
In the end, after a beautiful ending sequence, Okada got the win with the Rainmaker. Fans may have had their reservations about the match. Yet, Okada and Naito proved that two excellent wrestlers can produce perfect matches and wow each time. It definitely will not be the last time the two meet in a huge setting, and fans will eagerly anticipate their next meeting.
2. Juice Robinson Joins Bullet Club And Challenges For The US Title
Credit: NJPW1972
After returning to America during the pandemic, there wasn’t much heard about Juice Robinson. He had some excellent matches with tag partner David Finlay, but that was it. It wasn’t surprising when rumours went around saying he wasn’t renewing his contract. Well, Dontaku proved that couldn’t have been more wrong.
When Hiroshi Tanahashi won the vacated IWGP US title, Chase Owens came out, and a mystery figure in a Bullet Club shirt attacked the Ace. The crowd made an audible gasp when the wrestler was Juice Robinson. Since debuting, Juice has been a firm member of Hontai and best friends with Tanahashi, so this was a shock.
Juice has never really lived up to his potential as a babyface for years. This heel turn could be exactly what Juice needs to rejuvenate his career and showcase his skills. It will definitely be more than just the title on the line when the match happens as the Ace has to wrestle against someone he was once close with.
1. Jay White Finally Returns To Japan
Credit: NJPW1972
After months away from Japan, nobody knew when they could expect to see Jay White back in Japan. Of course, the Switchblade was not going to return quietly. After a phenomenal main event between Kazuchika Okada and Tetsuya Naito, Jay’s music hit, and the wrestler made his way to the ring.
There are very few wrestlers who have as much history as Okada and White. From being members of the same faction to White turning on Okada with Gedo, their relationship has been a rollercoaster. So, it seemed perfect that White came out to challenge the Rainmaker by stating his accolades. Jay was then joined by the rest of the Bullet Club, who taunted and spilled beer on Okada. It seemed like the challenge was made.
With huge events set in both Japan and America, it will be interesting to see where Jay sets his title match with Okada for. No matter what happens, it seems like Jay is back to take his place at the top of the company. Okada and White have so much history and it seems like it might be time to add another chapter to their epic story.
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