G1 Climax: Every Modern Final Ranked
3. Kazuchika Okada Vs. Shinsuke Nakamura (2014)
The coming of age of Kazuchika Okada was one of the best wrestling stories of the 21st century. Brought into New Japan as wrestling's greatest prodigy, the Rainmaker grew and matured from a cocky heel who felt entitled to be a champion to the undisputed ace of the company.
Along this path to maturity was Shinsuke Nakamura, the leader of CHAOS and one of Okada's mentors. Coming into the 24th G1 Climax final, Okada was not the goofy, balloon tossing, "Scooby Dooby Doo" shouting eccentric we know him as now. He looked young and unsure of himself against the charismatic King of Strong Style. This match was an important chapter in Okada's story as he fought to overcome his faction's leader and prove he had what it takes to lead CHAOS and the company as a whole.
And of course, this match was fantastic. It was in 2014 that Nakamura started to gain traction outside of Japan as one of the best wrestlers in the world, and this match is proof why. There are points where you're convinced he's murdered Okada with his Bomaye knee strikes. Featuring one of the best finishing stretches in a match you're ever likely to see, this one's definitely a must-watch if you miss the "real" Nakamura in action.