New Japan Pro Wrestling Season 1 Episode 19 Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Katsuyori Shibata from the 24th G-1 Climax Tournament
- July 3, 2015
At the 19th episode of season 1 of New Japan Pro Wrestling, fans were treated to a highly anticipated match between Hiroshi Tanahashi and Katsuyori Shibata at the 24th G-1 Climax Tournament. The event took place on August 10, 2014, at the Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium in Osaka, Japan.
The match between Tanahashi and Shibata was built up as a clash of two of the most respected and skilled wrestlers in the company. Tanahashi, known as "The Ace" of New Japan, was a seven-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and a fan favorite. However, Shibata was a tough and intense wrestler who was known for his hard-hitting and no-nonsense style.
The match began with both wrestlers feeling each other out with some technical holds and locks. However, it wasn't long before things became heated as Tanahashi and Shibata started trading forearms and kicks. The two wrestlers were evenly matched, and the crowd was on the edge of their seats as they exchanged blows in the center of the ring.
As the match progressed, Shibata started to gain the upper hand. He targeted Tanahashi's injured shoulder and started delivering punishing kicks and strikes to the area. Tanahashi was visibly in pain and struggling to keep up with Shibata's onslaught.
Despite this, Tanahashi refused to give up, and he started mounting his offense. He hit Shibata with a series of high-flying maneuvers, including a beautiful High Fly Flow from the top rope. The crowd erupted as Tanahashi seemed poised to take control of the match.
However, Shibata refused to back down, and he continued to deliver hard strikes and vicious kicks. His intensity was unmatched, and Tanahashi struggled to keep up. The two wrestlers exchanged holds and strikes in a back-and-forth battle that had the crowd on its feet.
The final moments of the match were some of the most intense. Tanahashi and Shibata exchanged a flurry of strikes and holds, with both wrestlers giving it their all. However, it was Shibata who came out on top, hitting Tanahashi with a brutal PK kick that took him down for good.
The crowd was stunned as Shibata was declared the winner. Despite his defeat, Tanahashi received a standing ovation for his valiant effort. The match was a testament to both wrestlers' skill and determination, and it was an unforgettable moment in New Japan Pro Wrestling history.
Overall, the 19th episode of season 1 of New Japan Pro Wrestling was a must-see for any wrestling fan. The match between Tanahashi and Shibata was a masterclass in technical wrestling and intense action, and it showcased the best of what New Japan has to offer. The episode was a prime example of why New Japan Pro Wrestling is one of the most respected and beloved wrestling promotions in the world.