6 Top NJPW Stars Who Might Never Win The IWGP Heavyweight Championship

4. Zack Sabre Jr

When Zack Sabre Jr. became the first British wrestler to win the New Japan Cup, many believed it would be his chance to become the first British IWGP Heavyweight Champion. When he lost to Okada at Sakura Genesis, many New Japan fans assumed that his time would have come at some point.

With his unique submission-based wrestling style and subtle charisma, the Vegan Hydra brought a new British style to Japan shaped his image. It is the misconceptions of his size and stature that make Zack such a formidable opponent. Many wrestlers initially underestimate his ability. By capitalising on this, ZSJ can find counters for any move and seamlessly transition into his own offence.

Alongside his in-ring skills, his personality and charisma are underrated and subtle that they can be overlooked. It is this that makes it so surprising that ZSJ has not won the Heavyweight Championship or any singles title in New Japan. As a four-time RevPro Heavyweight Champion, IWGP is next on his list.

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3. Hirooki Goto

Since debuting for New Japan back in 2003, Goto has had a rollercoaster career with highs, lows and a lot of disappointment. The one sentence that seems to describe Hirooki Goto is, “Always the bridesmaid, never the bride.” With three New Japan Cup victories, a G1 Climax win, and a countless number of title reigns, the one belt that has alluded him over the years is the IWGP Heavyweight title.

That is not to say that he has had the chance on several occasions. Over the years, Goto has had a countless number of title shots against the likes of Kazuchika Okada, Kenny Omega and Hiroshi Tanahashi. During these matches, there was no doubt that Goto put up a fight each time. His downfall came in the fact that his opponent was always stronger on the night.

Although Goto has held nearly every title New Japan has to offer, his inability to reach the top of the company is a source of frustration. For many, Goto has always had the talent and skills to be at the top of the company! It has been his inability to capitalise on the opportunities given to him. Maybe, with a new title, Goto can start fresh and finally achieve his goal to hold New Japan’s top prize.

• IWGP Heavyweight Champion
• Tomohiro Ishii
• new japan pro wrestling
• Minoru Suzuki

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