10 Best NJPW Matches Of 2020 (So Far)

Expectations for KENTA and Goto's Openweight title war were mixed going in. Despite the reputation of classic Openweight contests at Wrestle Kingdom events in the past, and the immense talents of both men, everyone invested in NJPW storytelling and performers was hoping that Katsuyori Shibata was going to make his in ring return to battle KENTA instead of Goto. Instead, he wasn't cleared for active competition, and his childhood friend took the role of dethroning the treacherous KENTA.

While the disappointment of not getting the idolised hero Shibata back in ring could have stunk up the entire match, both men tore the house down, utilising their similar stiff in ring styles alongside their dramatic weight difference perfectly. Goto assaulted KENTA with forearms, chops and lariats, attempting to use brute force to cut the smaller man down. KENTA used his notorious kicks and submission oriented style to deconstruct Goto and take advantage of his weakened body.

The sounds these men made against each other were brutal, and exactly the kind of war that fans look for in Openweight contests. While the match was never going to stand out the most on such a stacked weekend for professional wrestling, it is the definition of an essential midcard match, bringing the best out of two of the all time greats and providing a wonderful experience leading up to the main events. A must see.