NJPW Strong Style Evolved: Results, Grades, and Analysis

Los Ingobernables de Japon (Hiromu Takahashi, BUSHI, SANADA, & Tetsuya Naito) vs. Ryusuke Taguchi, Dragon Lee, KUSHIDA, & Hiroshi Tanahashi

Tanahashi and Naito started this match to the roar of the crowd, but that didn’t last long before it broke down to Hiromu Takahashi and Dragon Lee, which is always all sorts of fun. The pace in this one was fast and furious with Taguchi hitting most of his comedy spots. Some stuff was teased between SANADA and Tanahashi, which was interesting to see. Naito, Tanahashi, and Hiromu stood out as the biggest stars, and consequently they were highlighted the most.

The finish came after a few minutes with Naito hitting the Destino on Taguchi for the pinfall.

Result: LIJ

Rating: 2.75 out of 5

Rey Mysterio Jr. came out! He apologized to the fans for his injury and promised that he would be back in NJPW!

Jushin Thunder Liger vs. Will Ospreay

While it was a bit disappointing that Rey Mysterio was unable to compete, Ospreay is certainly a suitable replacement as he is the current reigning IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion. One had to wonder though, would Ospreay be ready for the legendary Liger? The early portions of the match were dominated by Liger, who took it to the younger man. Liger hit a massive brainbuster on the outside of the ring, leading to one of the closest count out spots I’ve ever seen.

Liger went for a top rope hurricanrana but Ospreay landed on his feet. Ospreay hurt his knee in the process but still managed to hit a Sasuke Special to the outside. The offence leveled out here, with Liger managing to keep pace, including a brainbuster, then a top rope brainbuster! Ospreay is taking a beating in this one. Liger hit a huge Shotei, but Ospreay kicked out.

It wasn’t long before Ospreay finally hit the OsCutter and got the pinfall. Liger, at 53 years old, is still a fantastic worker. Liger is incredible.

Result: Will Ospreay

Rating: 3 stars out of 5

Ospreay grabbed the mic and thanked Liger, and he has challenged Rey Mysterio Jr.! As Ospreay was challenging Mysterio, Marty Scurll ran in! Scurll nailed Ospreay with his umbrella and grabbed the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship. As he was posing, Mysterio ran in for the save. Scurll stole Rey’s mask, posed with the belt, and was chased off by Liger. Wow! This is getting very interesting.