10 Biggest Stories From New Japan's G1 Special And What They Mean Going Forward

8. Jeff Cobb Unable To Defeat NEVER Champion

Hirooki Goto has felt the low of defeat and the high of victory during New Japan’s last few marquee events. At June’s Dominion, Goto lost his coveted NEVER Openweight belt to Michael Elgin. However, just eight days later, the CHAOS stable member regained the NEVER prize in a rematch during Kizuna Road. In San Francisco, Goto found himself at odds with another hoss of a competitor -- this time in standout athlete Jeff Cobb.

Cobb has made quite the name for himself on the American independent scene the past few years and quickly established his skill on the NJPW stage when he tagged with former NEVER champ Elgin during 2017’s World Tag League series. However, the powerhouse mat wrestler was unable to rip the Openweight belt from Goto’s grasp. Hirooki hit a crippling GTR to stop Cobb’s advances as the champ regained his footing following a brief mid-year stumble.

While Cobb is unfortunately not a part of the G1 tournament, Hirooki Goto is. There the NEVER title holder will do battle with the cream of the New Japan crop, such as Kota Ibushi, Tetsuya Naito, and even the so-called “Best Bout Machine” Kenny Omega. It’s a steep hill to climb, but Goto is sure to put his best foot forward -- and try his best to not stumble once again.

 
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Contributor

Douglas Scarpa is a freelance writer, independent filmmaker, art school graduate, and pro wrestling aficionado -- all of which mean he is in financial ruin. He has no backup plan to speak of, yet maintains his abnormally high spirits. If he had only listened to the scorn of his childhood teachers, he wouldn't be in this situation.