13 Ups & 3 Downs From NJPW Dominion 6.9 2019

1. Neck Stuff

Here's the other thing about these Naito vs. Ibushi matches: they're always fantastic.

That they exist so close to the edge of control is part of what makes them so exciting. They're dangerous, and perhaps overly so, but if you can stomach them, and you've got a little ghoulishness in you, you will be entertained.

Your writer feels dirty for throwing effusive praise at such matches, and wouldn't argue with anyone who found this unwatchable. Wrestling, like any other artform, is subjective. If you don't want to see Kota Ibushi getting dropped on his head over and over, then that's up to you, and that stance is just as valid as those who'd say we shouldn't be telling trained professionals what they can and can't do with their bodies.

Naito vs. Ibushi III was a difficult, stomach-churning piece of art that we won't sell to you, because you've probably already made your mind up on it. If you loved the first two, you'll love this. The bout's high positioning in this column should tell you where this writer stands.

*****