Posted June 21, 200817 yr comment_5432336 Tatsumi Fujinami vs. Riki Choshu (9/21/83) - THis was similar to the previous match where they don't really strike or pull off moves early on but instead work the mat and trade holds. The big difference is that this time, it it felt like they were actually battling each other to gain an advantage instead of just demonstrating wrestling holds. This trade for holds eventually leads to a nice sequence where Fujinami tries to apply the Sharpshooter but after failing to, he whips Choshu to the ropes but misses a dropkick. To capitalize, Choshu locks in his Sharpshooter. After Fujinami regroups outside, Fujinami lays on his back, daring Choshu to attempt the hold again. As he gets to his feet, he nails Choshu with an enziguiri so he can apply a Figure 4. Again, another nice sequence. After feleing, he has worn Choshu down enough, Fujinami goes for teh dropkick off the Irish Whip and this time, he nails it AND successfully applies the Sharpshooter. The end run is short but full of action. Fujinami cannot finish Choshu off after abusing him and Choshu cannot finish Fujinami off even after he hits the lariat. Eventually, Fujinami gives Choshu a back suplex outside the ring and both men are counted out. It is rare that post-match activities enhance a match in New Japan but it works here. Both men agree to continue fightin g even though the referee has left. After Fujinami runs the ropes, he is tripped from the outside. Choshu drops an elbow, gives Fujinami a back suplex and Killer Khan counts to three for the moral victory. Easy nomination and Fujinami will probably be the Ted Dibiase of this set. Just so many good matches to choose from. (NJC 151)
September 1, 200817 yr comment_5434341 They got back on track with this very intense chapter in their series. Will already noted the high points, so I'll just second the nomination.
August 24, 200916 yr comment_5443277 Finish was slightly blown, as they should have gone over the top instead of under it, but outside of that this was another classic in the series. I think all five of these have to go on and I could see all five doing well in the final ballot. I liked the post match stuff a bunch too.
