superkix

Nominating: Katsuyori Shibata vs. Satoshi Kojima (NJPW, 3/19) Really enjoyed this match. The focused armwork, attack and ring awareness by Shibata, his mounting frustration and Kojima's exhausted determination, were all compelling pieces of the narrative. There were plenty of stiff shots, too, especially Kojima's elbows. One of Kojima's best performances in awhile.

Fun match. Okabayashi made Hama look like a dangerous giant baby, and the crowd really loved it. The butt lariat made me laugh. A simple but well-executed story.

I liked the sort of scrappy role Kodaka played here against the physically stronger Takeshita, relying more on his trap-style submissions than trying to go blow-for-blow. Takeshita looked really good here and his offense looked powerful, with Kodaka's sells helping out. Probably Kodaka's best title defense in DDT.

Awesome performances from both men. Tons of drama, tons of arm brutality, Minoru being the best heel in the world, and Nakajima fighting and suffering to get the feel good moment of the year. My favorite match of the year so far.

I really enjoyed this match. The focused armwork, attack and ring awareness by Shibata, his mounting frustration and Kojima's exhausted determination, were all compelling pieces of the narrative. There were plenty of stiff shots, too, especially Kojima's elbows. One of Kojima's best performances in awhile.