10 Must-See Matches That ALREADY Make 2018 Wrestling’s Greatest Ever Year
2. Kazuchika Okada Vs. Zack Sabre Jr (NJPW Sakura Genesis)
A transcendent exhibition of Zack Sabre Jr's submission wrestling psychology weighted perfectly against an IWGP Title reign that may yet be the greatest in the history of the belt, whispers of dread were transformed into literal wails of panic as Kazuchika Okada yet again masterfully discovered doubt from another foregone conclusion.
An iconic (and now history-making) stint as champion wasn't destined to end at the locked fingers of ZSJ, but 'The Rainmaker's struggle against his challenger's unique assaults made for yet another gripping NJPW pay-per-view climax.
It was another exercise in dovetailing long and short-term booking from the organisation - Sabre's shot was as a result of an emphatic New Japan cup victory that saw him submit legendary Okada rivals Tetsuya Naito, SANADA and Hiroshi Tanahashi en route to victory. Okada had previously had the measure of those men, but Zack promised and delivered something entirely different.
The pacing of the clash was unlike any ordinary (or really, extraordinary) Okada clash. Gone was the measured and cautious opening. cagey middle and confident conclusion. Sabre's success with submissions built within him a confidence to go right for the throat...and then the arms, and legs, and back and neck.
Ultimately Okada was - like any champion should be - bigger, stronger and better than his able foe. But both men left the battle taller in more ways, and not just because ZSJ's obtuse holds had added inches alongside popped ligaments.