Episode 126: Boltin! Boltin!
August 7, 2026
Looking at Boltin, I can't help but think, "Man, I wish I had a body like that." But then, watching his training sessions at the Dojo, I quickly give up thinking, "Ah, nope, impossible..."
That's just how exceptionally unbelievable his physical strength is. Seeing wrestlers like TAKESHITA and Tsuji fighting him on equal terms makes me want to look up to the sky and proclaim; "A truly amazing era for pro wrestling has arrived."
He really is off the charts, isn't he? At the recent Hiroshima show, he pinned former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion SANADA just 90 seconds after the opening bell.
From his super-powered "Mochi-Tsuki Powerbomb" right into the Kamikaze—it’s not about logic, his raw physical power itself becomes the convincing argument.
I get that he has an amateur wrestling foundation, but honestly, part of me feels like... "he's practically a mythical creature at this point."
During my active days, I thought I had plenty of confidence in my own power too, but... I think I'll just stay quiet from now on (laughs).
However, his great qualities go way beyond just raw power. He originally said he started pro wrestling as a "job." But as he interacted with his seniors and, above all, the passionate fans at the venues, he once desperately told me in his broken Japanese, "I've grown to love pro wrestling so much." It's this kind of character he has.
And then came August 6th at Korakuen Hall. His opponent was the IWGP Champion, Yota Tsuji—the man who had repeatedly put him down with the Gene Blaster in both 2024 and 2025. This was his third year challenging him.
The result: he finally overcame Tsuji. On top of that, he tied for first place in A Block alongside TAKESHITA. After the match, Boltin said, "Tsuji, you are a real man."
I'll say it as many times as it takes: Boltin's greatest asset is his heart. He is kind, sincere, and a hard worker. And this time, even the way he conveyed his respect was top-tier.
Hats off and deep respect to both men for pushing past the immense pressure following a fantastic semi-final match (TAKESHITA vs. Takagi) and sending the crowd into a frenzy.
As President, it was a night that made me feel even prouder of New Japan Pro-Wrestling.