10 Best NJPW Matches Of 2020 (So Far)
9. Hiroshi Tanahashi Vs. Chris Jericho - Wrestle Kingdom Night 2
Chris Jericho’s Wrestle Kingdom hot streak is unbelievable. His match with Hiroshi Tanahashi was a dream come true for the Ace of New Japan, who has idolised him and dreamed of this match since he was a Young Lion in the early 2000s, and it was absolutely beautiful to watch. Both men clearly respect each other and put in 100% effort to tell a simple story, the ace trying to defend his honour against the heel gaijin, with expert selling, emotive facial performances and brilliant technical wrestling.
More than any other match this year, this incorporated the age and the worn limbs of the performers perfectly, with Tana’s weakened knees being a major factor in the securing of the Walls of Jericho. Tana’s known for his Dragon Screw leg whip so having Jericho take advantage of his damaged legs is genius heat, disrespectful to all the Japanese fans that are so familiar with Tanahashi‘s signature offence.
Jericho and Tanahashi ended up in the death spot, as by that point, everyone was just desperate to see the payoff to the Naito/Okada storyline. It’s a testament to the unique narrative they crafted and the power of Tanahashi’s selling that the match was able to deliver so impressively.