Episode 134: Bikkuri Rock (Surprise Rock)
August 17, 2026
What an incredible two days it has been. Yesterday, Hiroyoshi Tenzan brought the curtain down on his 35-year wrestling career. And today, with Tenzan-san watching on from the commentary desk, his former attendant Ryohei Oiwa captured his very first G1 CLIMAX 36 victory!
When Oiwa first joined the Dojo, he learned the ropes as Tenzan-san's personal attendant. Seeing Oiwa today made me realize all over again: paying your dues is an irreplaceable part of the story.
In his post-match promo after the finals, Oiwa roared: "I am the G1 Champion!" "I am the Summer Man of the Reiwa Era, THE GRIP, Ryohei Oiwa!" Those words were simple, but unlike a manufactured catchphrase, they overflowed with his genuine charm.
And we must not forget Yuya Uemura. Though he fell short in the finals, his sheer power in defeating Yota Tsuji to advance served as absolute proof that he will carry the future of New Japan on his shoulders.
However, Uemura finished as runner-up in both this spring's NEW JAPAN CUP and now this G1. Tasting the bitterness of being "just one step away" twice in a row is a feeling only he can truly understand.
While winning isn't the only thing that matters, this was another night where the peak he so desperately wanted to grasp slipped through his fingers again. That very frustration will surely serve as fuel to make Uemura one step stronger.
With a finals match between members of the new generation, the era is already moving forward.
Oiwa winning under Tenzan-san's watchful eye wasn't just a simple generational shift; I believe it was a "passing of the soul's baton."
The moment the grit and spirit learned as an attendant were properly handed down to the New Japan Pro-Wrestling of the Reiwa Era.
I too grew up watching the backs of my seniors. Passing the baton holds a unique drama for both the one giving it and the one receiving it.
Oiwa immediately declared: "I'm challenging for the IWGP Championship at Ryogoku in October." I couldn't be more excited for this next stage.
Now then, as President, preparations for the upcoming Ariake Summer Fest (New Japan Pro-Wrestling x Suntory Nama Beer Dream Beer Garden Ariake) are shifting into full gear as well. I want to carry the feverish momentum of this new era born in the G1 straight through to the end of the summer!
Oh, right. I need to ask him at the Summer Fest... What on earth is going through Shota Umino's mind right about now?!