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Eastern Lariat

Episode 252: Tournament Summer

·1 hr 23 min·5 clips
Will Ospreay's slower-rotation Sky Twister Press made it look unique, complementing YOSHI-HASHI's perfect match psychology.
The episode opens with hosts Strigga and Dylan Fox diving into G1 Climax attendance figures, comparing the 1,239 draw in Yamagata to pre-pandemic numbers and discussing New Japan's rebuilding efforts. They note a lack of buzz in the tournament's opening nights, missing both match quality and importance. A detailed critique of SANADA's title reign follows, with Strigga arguing he lacks soul and is 'just a guy' despite being champion. The hosts then review specific matches: SANADA vs. Shota Umino is criticized for lacking fire, while Will Ospreay vs. YOSHI-HASHI is praised as a stylistic masterpiece, highlighting Ospreay's unique Sky Twister Press. They discuss the diluted 32-wrestler format, arguing many participants have no chance to win and just fill cards, lowering overall quality. The conversation shifts to other promotions: Dragon Gate's King of Gate tournament is summarized, with predictions for the final, and NOAH's N-1 Victory is previewed, with praise for its pre-tournament battle royal to build stakes. The hosts also touch on DDT's Peter Pan show and Gleat's upcoming Sumo Hall event, expressing concern over its mismatched card. Throughout, they analyze ticket prices, inflation impacts, and roster politics, emphasizing the need for higher stakes in tournament qualification.

As heard by us

A sharp G1 check-in on New Japan's crowds, booking logic, and the frustration of familiar mistakes.

The show treats the G1's third and fourth nights as more than a match ledger. It looks at what the tournament is exposing for New Japan: the push to rebuild attendance outside Tokyo, and the booking choices that can make wrestlers seem either sharper or oddly careless.

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Why you'd press play

Want a G1 check-in that weighs the room count against the choices New Japan is making in the ring?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →
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