Episode 133: CLIMAX FINAL!
August 14, 2026
I'll say it as many times as it takes...
The Final 4 for G1 CLIMAX 36 are set--!!
On August 15th, two semi-final matches will take place: Yota Tsuji vs. Yuya Uemura and Callum Newman vs. Ryohei Oiwa.
On the stage of Ryogoku Kokugikan, four men stand carrying their own individual stories on their backs. Looking at this completely transformed lineup, you can really feel the changing of the tide, can't you?
I have so many memories of the G1, but the one that still knocks on my heart to this day is the 2007 G1. It was customary for the G1 Finals to sell out early every single year. The only exception to that rule, however, was 2007. Yes, the very year I won the G1 for the first time. Back then, I was getting massive boos from the crowd. Although my visuals were on point, (lol).
As a result, 2007 was the only year when the finals didn't draw a full house. The frustration and sense of helplessness I felt that day became a massive source of energy for the rest of my wrestling career.
About 20 years have passed since then. Having retired from active competition, as I write this draft today as President, what crosses my mind is this—that a career which started from that non-sold-out finals has now evolved into the side that nurtures this tournament called the G1, which fills Ryogoku to capacity every year.
Rather than being deeply emotional, it honestly feels a little ticklish. Without the frustration of that day, the me of today might never have existed.
That's precisely why I want to say this: this year's finals aren't sold out just yet. However, this NEVER means a "lack of popularity."
Rather, I think to myself: looking back, those empty seats in 2007 were actually "the moment an unpolished gem of a new Ace was born" (← The self-praise here is getting out of hand again!).
The exact same thing might happen this year as well. Will Yota Tsuji shatter the jinx as Champion? Will Yuya Uemura or Ryohei Oiwa seize the throne of the next-generation Ace? Or will Callum Newman show the true pride of the foreign roster?
A premonition of a new beginning. Everyone, please make your way out to Ryogoku Kokugikan. Let's welcome that moment in a packed, overflowing arena.
Because right from this very spot, someone's legend might just begin.
Besides, it's precisely during moments like these that iconic catchphrases are born, you know. Heh heh heh (pressuuure)♪