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

5. Hiromu Takahashi Suffers Broken Neck In Successful Title Defense

Hiromu Takahashi has squared off with rival Dragon Lee in numerous high-profile and high-intensity matchups before. However, their battle for New Japan’s Junior Heavyweight Championship inside the sacred Cow Palace proved to be possibly their fiercest yet. While Takahashi was able to vanquish the Dragon by the end of the match, it was the champion who was left hurting.

During the bout, Dragon Lee delivered a flurry of high-impact moves -- including a top-rope double stomp to the apron and outside. However, the most devastating maneuver landed was an overhead throw dubbed the Phoenix-plex. Takahashi was sent crashing to the mat directly onto his neck -- even skidding across the ring on his head for a moment.

While the frightening impact wasn’t enough to get the win for Dragon Lee, it was enough to reportedly break the neck of the title holder. According to Dave Meltzer, Takahashi collapsed following the contest and was taken to a local hospital. New Japan themselves have since released an official statement that Hiromu was going through a thorough evaluation by medical officials. While the exact severity of his injury is still not known, the company stated “Takahashi is conscious, and is able to sit and talk.” Unfortunately, without further information, it’s impossible to speculate on when or if Hiromu will return to action.

 
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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.