We have reached the halfway point of this year’s G1 Climax, and already we are hearing the discussion that the 27th annual New Japan Pro Wrestling tournament may be among the greatest in history. More fans than ever before are tuning in from every corner of the world as we continue on towards August 13th to witness the crowning of the G1 Finals champion!
There have been some truly classic matches over the past two weeks, but we understand that many fans may not have the time to grind through every single three-hour entry of New Japan’s month-long tournament. That’s why we’ve put together this definitive list of must-see matches from the first half of the 2017 G1 Climax. Every single one of them are available to watch right now New Japan World for less than $9 per month.
**HONORABLE MENTIONS**
Kenny Omega vs. Tama Tonga
July 22, 2017 (Night 4)
While still a proficient bout between two great talents, this match wasn’t quite at the level of the others on our list. The real reason you might want to check this one out is the story-driven drama between two top members of Bullet Club. Trouble has been brewing for the faction all year long, escalating with the addition of ROH World Champion Cody Rhodes, and it hit a fever pitch as veteran member Tama Tonga took out some long-dormant angst on Bullet Club leader Kenny Omega. The former tag team champion has not been happy about Kenny’s leadership strategies of late, and took rather large exception to his constant promotion of The Elite over his own New Japan stablemates.
Bullet Club vs. Los Ingobernables
Jully 22, 2017 (Night 4)
This six-man tag team match took place on the undercard of night four, and has become infamous for one moment in particular. To promote his upcoming match with Tetsuya Naito, the “Underboss” Bad Luck Fale got a hold of Daryl Takahashi and ripped the defenseless therapy animal to absolute shreds. It was a scene of terrible carnage as stuffing flew in all directions, and a devastated Hiromu Takahashi could be seen carrying the remains of his friend backstage, tears streaming down his face. Rest in peace, Daryl.
