NJPW G1 Climax 2019 Night 4 (July 15) - B BLOCK: Every Match Ranked From Worst To Best

5. Toru Yano Vs. Shingo Takagi

Showing his range by adapting to Toru Yano's formula instead of forcing the 'Sublime Master Thief' to bend to his brutal style, Shingo Takagi was made to jump through the (figurative) hoops and over the (literal) obstacles to get the first G1 Climax points of his career.

A joyous little brawl wasn't high on quality, but then Yano's matches aren't always in need of it. There was something darkly amusing about Shingo suffering a trademark turnbuckle spot (in this case, having one lobbed at his head) before levelling up (down?) to his opponent by smashing him with a steel chair when Los Ingobernables de Japon buddy BUSHI provided useful distraction.

Takagi went hard in defeat to Juice Robinson in his first Climax scrap. His goal of proving himself as a credible heavyweight leaving behind his Junior Heavyweight roots wasn't destined to be the focus of this particular match, but will remain a vital arc in future, more important outings. This was a rest for that and his body ahead of what could be a tricky task against Taichi up next. And speaking of 'Dangerous T' himself...