10 Reasons The G1 Climax Is Unmissable This Year
7. The Upsets
A lot of people are surprised to see both the IWGP Heavyweight and Intercontinental Champions in the G1. It seems strange to have the title holders compete in a tournament that gives the winner the right to challenge for the big one. However, their presence is essential to the way that New Japan books their programming and it can set up the product for the rest of the year.
Assuming the champs don’t go undefeated and win the tournament, their presence gives New Japan the opportunity to set up matches for the future. Pin Okada or Tanahashi and you’ve proven yourself worthy of a chance at grabbing some gold.
With both champions surrounded by incredibly talented wrestlers, this makes the G1 a teaser of what is to come. We could see the likes of Zack Sabre Jr. pick up huge wins and cement themselves as contenders in New Japan. How can you not get excited for that?