This week's episode of NJPW on AXS featured the famous IC title match between Champion Shinsuke Nakamura and Hiroshi Tanahashi. This match was chosen by the fans as the main event for Wrestle Kingdom 8. At that time these were probably the #1 and #2 most popular guys in the promotion so it should come as no surprise.
The announcers do a great job filling the viewers in all the history between these two. In reality they are both reaching the end of their prime, so this should be an all time epic. The fair comparison here is Flair and Steamboat. The argument could be made that these two are actually better.
Early on we get a ton of hard hitting action. Both competitors establish they are going to work stiff. Tanahashi starts working the leg of Nakamura so that he’s not as powerful with his knees. The first real big spot is a High Fly Flow to the outside from Tanahashi. When they return to the ring Nakamura defends himself by sliding in a triangle choke. From there Tanahashi spins into a Texas Clover Leaf, but Nakamura escapes.
Tanahashi is knocked off the top rope, but prevents himself from hitting the floor by skinning the cat only to be caught by a Code Breaker by Nakamura. The two have a great exchange of blows in the middle of the ring, which eventually leads to Nakamura landing some huge blows and sending Tanahashi to the mat.
Nakamura hits a huge reverse power slam, and goes for a Fireman’s Carry, but gets caught by a Slingblade by Tanahashi. Nakamura blocks a Powerbomb by hitting a reverse Code Breaker. Tanahashi bounces back and hits a High Fly Flow, but Nakamura kicks out before three. Nakamura hits a huge kick to the face and then hits a Bomaya from the top and the snaps off the ropes for another, but Tanahashi kicks out. This was a huge display of fighting spirit by Tanahashi as that combination is the finish for Nakamura.
Tanahashi hits a huge kick to Nakamura’s knee and then a leg whip to the same knee. He goes back to the Texas Clover Leaf. Nakarmura slips out, but Tanahashi hits a semi Styles Clash. He then hits a High Fly Flow followed by another and wins the title after the two huge splashes.
Marty Friedman plays Tanahashi off stage. This is Japan’s version of a Hulk Hogan celebration.
The match is a four star showcase. It was very hard hitting, but not as smooth as these two are capable of. The rematch next week may be better. New Japan continues to shine by showcasing their best in ring matches.