NJPW G1 Special IWGP US Championship Tournament: Preview and predictions

Semifinal 1: Juice Robinson vs. Tetsuya Naito

Naito and Robinson advanced in their quarterfinal matches and now they’re ready to square off to start Day 2 of the NJPW G1 Special. This is another bout that people shouldn’t sleep on because Robinson isn’t as big of a name as Naito. What these guys both bring to the ring is a balanced set of abilities and the opportunity to basically work any type of match that they could want. And the results when that happens are often fantastic.

Even better here is the fact that we get a clear Face vs. Heel dynamic with Robinson and Naito, respectively. Subsequently, I’d see this match playing out with Naito dominating much of the match. As previously stated, he’s one of the best in the business when it comes to essentially torturing his opponent once he gets them down. His strikes, submission work and throws are all brutal and look quite devastating. Robinson will feel the wrath of that.

However, like any good wrestling match of that ilk, Robinson will get his comeback and start getting in offense after some time. As such, he’ll be able to showcase more of his abilities. But the question will be if his comeback will get snuffed out by Naito or if he’ll fully overcome.

For my money, I think he overcomes again and pulls off yet another big upset. Again, Robinson is a guy who’s been getting real buzz in recent months with New Japan, working his way up the card. Having him reach the finals of the US Championship Tournament would only further that cause.

Predicted Winner: Juice Robinson