Episode 106: A Remarkable Twist of Fate in the Climax
July 10, 2026
Well, the "G1 CLIMAX 36" is finally about to begin! The stage is set at the NOW Arena in Chicago, USA. The main event for the opening night features the current IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, Yota Tsuji, taking on last year's winner, KONOSUKE TAKESHITA.
Tsuji and I actually go back 12 years. It all started when he happened to bump into me and talk to me at Jiyugaoka Station.
I vividly remember immediately scouting him—or whatever you want to call it—by saying, "You’ve got a great build! Have you ever thought about becoming a professional wrestler?"
He was playing American football at the time and was such a bright, refreshing young man.
Back then, I never imagined that a chance encounter on that particular day would drastically change his entire life.
He went on to pass the entrance audition, joined the dojo, and even served as my personal attendant during his rookie days. Now, he’s the IWGP Champion, carrying New Japan Pro-Wrestling on his shoulders. Thinking back to the days when we used to go out for meals together, it really brings a wave of deep emotion over me.
Who could have predicted a future like this from that simple meeting in Jiyugaoka? Life really is fascinating.
Personally, I fought in the opening match of the 2019 G1 in Dallas. As the previous year's winner, standing face-to-face with Okada—who was the IWGP Champion at the time—is a memory I still hold vividly.
The deafening roar of the crowd that day remains one of my greatest points of pride to this day.
And this year, the very young man I called out to on that day is stepping into the G1 as the champion. I mean, it just proves I have an incredible eye for talent... (deadpan face).
I have nothing but high expectations for Tsuji and TAKESHITA. I truly believe they will show the world what New Japan Pro-Wrestling is all about.
With these two, I know they'll turn even the pressure into pure power. I want them to unleash a roar in Chicago that surpasses that night in Dallas.
...To be honest with you, I can already hear that crowd cheering in my head (lol).