Hideo Itami Takes A Dig At CM Punk
Itami was the originator of the GTS.
Hideo Itami has expressed frustration at CM Punk stealing the GTS finish from him in the mid 2000's. Itami tweeted "He is a real comedian. #GTS" after Punk posted an earlier tweet saying "I'd never steal someone's finish." The fact is that Itami originated the GTS finish. He was a big star in Japan (as KENTA) throughout the last decade and got the move over. Punk then copied the move and used it as his finish in WWE. Now that Itami has signed with WWE, he's in a tough spot when it comes to a finisher. It's thought that WWE don't want him using the GTS, as it would serve as a reminder of Punk. He's in a frustrating fix, as Punk has got the move over as his own with the WWE audience. However, the smart NXT crowd are constantly willing Itami to do it. This in some ways has benefited him, as when he finally does hit the move on NXT television it will be a really big deal. Gimmick infringement and blatantly stealing a moveset is frowned upon in the wrestling fraternity. Even Stone Cold Steve Austin recently took umbrage with John Cena over the use of a second rope stunner.