10 Awesome Wrestling Matches You May Have Missed In 2018

1. Minoru Suzuki Vs. Kazuchika Okada (Misc. - 23 June)

Buddy Murphy Mustafa Ali
NJPW

Renowned sadist Minoru Suzuki celebrated 30 years as a professional wrestler in style this June, calling in NJPW franchise player Kazuchika Okada for a glittering exhibition on his '30th Anniversary Outdoor Festival.' What followed was nothing short of bewitching.

The action was, of course, stupendous. On a technical level, it at least rivalled their memorable IWGP Heavyweight Championship showdown from the previous year, but to focus exclusively on moves and holds would do this bout a disservice. This one's all about atmosphere. It looks, sounds, and feels different to any other match that has taken place this year because of its outdoor setting, which could've stood as a colossal mistake the minute the heavens opened. Instead, it took Suzuki vs. Okada to the next level.

Raindrops splattered off both men throughout. They were drenched within minutes, and made to improvise on a sodden, slippery surface, though they did so admirably. The sheer spectacle of watching two of the world's finest do battle in a scenario neither will ever face again ensures this match will always have its place in history, and anyone who values ambience will get a huge kick out of watching this gem unfold.

Watch: NJPW World (free!)

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.