Every Match From NJPW Resurgence RANKED

5. Rocky Romero, Fred Rosser & Wheeler Yuta vs. Ren Narita, Clark Connors & TJP

Like the other multi-man tag match, this bout was the perfect example of New Japan showcasing the company’s past, present, and future. There was a mix of styles, personalities, and knowledge with veterans, upcoming stars, dojo graduates, and young lions.

Throughout the match, fans saw strength from the heavyweight Rosser but high-flying offence from the rest of the junior wrestlers. Yuta and TJP started the match showcasing some high-risk moves and fancy footwork from both men.

This was balanced by the Japanese Strong Style utilised by Narita and the more power-based offence from Connors and Rosser. Within a short amount of time, each was able to shine and showcase what they could do.

Although many expected a simple outcome with Ren Narita being pinned, the result couldn’t be more different. With Romero and Connors in the ring, Romero should’ve had the advantage.

Yet, the new graduate beat the veteran with a beautiful back suplex and a mamba splash from TJP. It was the perfect example of the company protecting its veterans and allowing the newest talent to shine.

---

4. Karl Fredericks vs. Alex Coughlin

Going into this match, despite having no title on the line, the stakes were high. As one of the only original LA Dojo young lions who hasn’t graduated, Alex needed a win.

It was vital to take the next step in his career. With this in mind, many expected that Alex would go full-on. However, Karl met him with all his aggression and passion.

Alex went in from the very beginning, not only showcasing his basic young lion offence but showing fans that he is ready to move on from the simplified offence. There was passion, power, and desire in each move.

Yet, as Karl has graduated, we saw how much his offence has expanded during the past year. Considering how well the two men know each other, it was no surprise that they had perfect in-ring chemistry.

Although Alex didn’t get the win in the end, this match should be more than enough to persuade Shibata that he deserves to graduate.

It also shows that the LA dojo fulfils its potential and creates talent that New Japan can be proud of. Both wrestlers put on their very best show and had fans confident in their talent.

---

3. Tomohiro Ishii v Moose

When this was announced, many people expected a match between two beefy men who would just beat the hell out of each. Unsurprisingly, this is exactly what fans got.

Unlike many of the later matches in the card, there was no title or any real stakes to this match apart from pride. Luckily, that was enough to create a match that could have easily been for a title.

The match started with a series of chops from Ishii, which, as expected, did not faze the bigger Moose. Yet, the action quickly sped and fans saw a flurry of offence from both men, including strikes and suplexes.

There were also spectacular dropkicks that looked as good as any Jr Heavyweight. Although there was a huge height difference between the two, the wrestlers were on an even playing field throughout and it could’ve gone any way.

In the end, it was Ishii who managed to come out the victor. After countering a dangerous-looking lariat, Ishii hit an enziguri and, despite being beaten down, Ishii managed to hit his vertical drop brainbuster on a man almost twice his size for the win.

With another win, Ishii continues to gain momentum which is vital coming up the G1.

• Resurgence
• new japan pro wrestling
• Hiroshi Tanahashi
• Jay White

Share this article with friends