16 Ups & 9 Downs For NJPW In 2018

11. Juice Robinson's Feelgood Victory

Juice Robinson's IWGP United States Heavyweight Title reign lasted just 85 days (during which he failed to muster a single defence), but it kicked off with one of the year's biggest feelgood moments, as the charismatic star wrested the red-and-gold belt from Jay White's clutches at the G1 Special in San Francisco.

The former CJ Parker seized the belt in a bout marred only by the Jim Ross/Josh Barnett f*ckery. It was something of a coming out party for his opponent as well, with 'Switchblade' finally looking resembling a convincing heel, but Juice was the man of the moment. Having worked tirelessly to rebuild his career post-WWE, getting himself over to a surprising level in the process, earning a championship spotlight and the opportunity to help lead NJPW's US expansion. More importantly, he felt like just the right guy to do so. This all fed into his win, and the moment itself was beautiful.

One of the world's most improved wrestlers in 2017, Robinson has continued his upward trajectory in this year. He has become so good that we're no longer surprised when he comes out with a ****-****½. In fact, it's almost expected of him at this point, and with the American expansion in need of a shot in the arm, NJPW could do worse than have Juice dethrone Cody at Wrestle Kingdom 13.