10 Biggest Stories From New Japan's G1 Climax 28 And What They Mean Going Forward
2. A Golden Lovers’ Quarrel
When the G1's seeding was first announced in June, much talk was immediately focused on the inevitable meeting of the Golden Lovers. Kenny Omega and Kota Ibushi have been longtime friends and occasional in-ring rivals, but the two had not met in singles competition since 2012. Six years later, during the last day of B Block competition, Omega and Ibushi battled for the first time in a New Japan ring.
For over twenty minutes, the two showed the world their astounding capacity inside the ring, pulling out all of their respective signature moves and more in a match that was quickly heralded by many as the best of the entire tournament. Ultimately, Ibushi proved victorious and with it secured his place in the tournament’s final the next night.
While the match was as stiff and aggressive as fans desired, it failed to cool the flame of admiration between the two men. In untraditional fashion, the Golden Lovers conducted their post-match interview together, praising each other’s tenacity as they will seemingly continue to awe fans and snatch critics' stars together. Undoubtedly, however, another bout between the two is eagerly anticipated - perhaps even for the IWGP Heavyweight belt.