9 Early Predictions For NJPW G1 Climax 2018
9. Enter Katsuya Kitamura

Katsuya Kitamura is not like most young lions. Sure, Kitamura takes the fall more often than not, wears character-less black trunks, and has a restricted move set, but that is where the generic characteristics end. Kitamura is a beast. He has only been around since March of this year, but he is a genuine star in waiting.
Kitamura has a charisma and a confidence that most young lions often lack, and it certainly seems as though management has taken note. The New Japan audience is already reacting to Katsuya with a certain sense of awe, popping big for those brief moments of babyface fire that he is allowed to show.
At 31 years of age, Katsuya Kitamura is no spring chicken. Most young lions tend to go on an international excursion when their days in New Japan opening tags are over, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see Kitamura stick around in Japan. A spot in the 2018 G1 Climax is not entirely out of the question for the 'Wrestling Monster'.