NJPW G1 Climax 28: B Block Preview and Predictions

Tetsuya Naito (Los Ingobernables de Japon)

Tetsuya Naito has had a year of ups and downs. He lost to Kazuchika Okada at Wrestle Kingdom. He then went on to defeat Minoru Suzuki for the IWGP Intercontinental Championship. Naito’s championship reign did not last long, however, as Chris Jericho defeated Naito for the championship at Dominion.

Naito, while standing on shaky ground since losing to Okada, has not diminished in popularity, as evidenced by crowd reactions and merchandise being seen everywhere at shows. Naito lost a step when he tried to be the Stardust Genius again against Okada.  He has slowly become more and more tranquilo throughout the year. The most striking moment was when Chris Jericho left him a bloody mess. After the beat down he continued to be tranquilo, shrugging it off. Will this help him win the G1 once again?

Kenny Omega (Bullet Club Elite)

Kenny Omega has finally done it. He defeated Kazuchika Okada, ending one of the greatest championship reigns I have ever seen in my 25+ years of being a wrestling fan. Okada, who in the minds of many, is the greatest wrestler of all time, was finally dethroned. Omega achieved what he has long desired. But now, the real battle begins. Omega must maintain his standing and continue to prove that he is the best in the world. Kenny just had a grueling title defense against Cody at the G1 Special in San Francisco. Omega defeated Cody and established himself as the undisputed leader of the Bullet Club.

However, the Bullet Club is not fine. Tama Tonga, Tanga Loa, and Haku attacked, forming the Bullet Club Firing Squad with Bad Luck Fale included. It’s still unknown where Taiji Ishimori stands, but given that Tama Tonga recruited him, he is likely with the Firing Squad.

Not only this, but Omega must also face Kota Ibushi later in the B Block, likely with a spot in the finals on the line. This will not be an easy tournament for Omega. Needless to say, his rematch of last year’s G1 Final with Naito will be nothing short of spectacular, as both men try to establish themselves early in the tournament.