[9.0] "Incredible stuff. Nakamura always brought his A-game from Wrestle Kingdom, and this might be his most legendary match. It's a violent, hard-hitting encounter that is much more of a fight than a wrestling match. If you've ever been confused about why people are so disappointed with Nakamura's time in WWE, show them this. 4.75 Stars."
[8.0] "A lot of pure vibes wrestling here. The sheer charismatic power of Nakamura clashing with the unshakable talent of Ibushi, ending with a brash game of one-upmanship before Shinsuke shows that he simply had more in the tank. So many great pieces to this contest. Ibushi showing very early signs of his infamous "fugue state" spot, Shinsuke's Bomaye to the back of the head and the no-selling sequence right before the flash finish. Wonderful stuff all around. [4.25]"
[10.0] "First New Japan match I've ever seen and still a personal favorite to this day. I've always seen Shin as my favorite wrestler ever because of the ridiculous hype kavorka he had when I was first becoming a wrestling fan, and this might just be his magnum opus. Pure strong style action to its deepest extent, and as an American fan, this match had me ready to get a NJPW World account. One of the best matches ever. 10/10 / *****"
[10.0] "This is my favorite match of all time. I sometimes wonder why I rank it so high, and then I rewatch it and remember. It's just perfect. Everything is done exactly as it should be. The perfect combination of storytelling, coordination and raw power."
[10.0] "On the 4th night of the 23rd G1 climax, these two warriors clashed for the first time, the match was an instant classic and even won the Tokyo Sport MOTY award (although it wasnt even the best match of the night) The rematch at the 24th G1 was highly anticipated until a concussion injury put Ibushi on the shelf which led to an even grander stage for the rematch at Tokyo Dome. The unique dynamic is that Ibushi came into the wrestling business up idolising Nakamura and Tanahashi. So Ibushi doesnt take too kindly to Nakamuras antics to start. Ibushi then even steals the shaking vibrations taunt from Nakamura. Nakamura dominates in both striking and matwork so Ibushi has to pull out his spectacular high flying offense to get back into the match. However the match goes into second gear when Nakamura starts laying in those kicks to the head sending Ibushi into murder death mode. Its Ibushi who breaks the rules first with closed fist strikes and from there this match just turns nasty. Nakamura shoves the ref into Ibushi to launch his own closed fist punch. The stomps to the head gets more vicious. Ibushi outright steals the inverted suplex/Bom-ba Ye only for Nakamura to kick out at 1 refusing to be put down by his own move. The finishing sequence is so good. Ibushi immediately pops up from a top tope Bom-ba Ye, they both go for the knee strike at the same time and collide with their knees before Nakamura lands a final one to put Ibushi away. At the end Ibushi was trying just too hard to emulate his hero. *****"
[9.0] "All the moves in this match were brutal and everything was hit so cleanly. The pace was fast, but steady and never out of control. As the match progresses Kota gains confidence while Shinsuke grows more frustrated and intense. Kota looks like a star. beating Shinsuke with a variety of styles, but his confidence becomes too much and costs him the match. Perfect in-ring action with a very good story as well."
[10.0] "Amazing match. MOTY 2015. Nakamura is such a great character; from his epic entrance to his obnoxious attitude in the ring, everything about him screams 'megastar'. Nakamura took the lead in the match, he dictated the pace of the match, His offense was mocking and playful, He didn't take Ibushi seriously and was acting like a douche. To his surprise, Ibushi was more resilient, tough and violent. Ibushi went strike for strike against Nakamura; At one point, He went into a sort of berseker mode and just slaughtered Nakamura with a bunch of violent and unprotected shots. The ending sequence was an adrenaline rush, all out no nonsense slugfest between two of the most vicious strikers in professional wrestling. These two skillfully tread the lines between a street fight and a professional wrestling match. This was no technical masterpiece, it was a violent, vicious and physical war between two of the best in the world. *****"
[10.0] "Everything about this match is incredible. The violence on display from the hits and kicks, to the display of athleticism from Ibushi. When Ibushi began using Nakamura's moves and mocking him, only to anger Shinsuke Nakamura even further, you knew he had to teach the young man a lesson. Remarkable match and story. *****"
[10.0] "This was incredible. Their G1 match in 2013 is one of my favourites, and this one is right up there (maybe a tick below that one for me). Both men played with their dynamic so well, Nakamura with his usual antics trying to toy with the younger wrestler, and Ibushi showing cockiness and downright arrogance with how he mocked Nakamura's moves and mannerisms. I felt that this was a little standard in the first half, with both men hitting moves that you would expect them to (high-flying offense from Ibushi, various knee strikes from Nakamura), but it kicked into a whole other gear once Ibushi, once again in an attempt to mock the older wrestler, hit the Bomaye knee, leading to an emphatic kick out at one from Nakamura. From there the strike exchanges got brutal, as they went from trading vicious palm strikes, to full on close-fisted punches. The spot where Ibushi, from the middle rope, lifted Nakamura from the ring apron to the ring with a german suplex was legitimately jaw-dropping. The ending of this match was a perfect wrap up, as Nakamura fought out of a phoenix-plex attempt with headbutts and ground strikes, then going for a diving kick that Ibushi got up from immediately, and while Ibushi was smiling like a madman, Nakamura hit the Bomaye knee for the win. Sensational match (****3/4)"
[9.0] "I dont think its aged very well, unfortunately, but the match still holds up as an epic one. The strikes are brutal and make me cringe every time. It would make for a very good long-term story of Kota finally going over Nakamura. That never came to fruition though."
[7.0] "The Rockstar Shinsuke Nakamura v the underdog from the smaller promotion really makes for a compelling story. Ibushi ultimately fails to win due to copying Nakamura's offence instead of believing in his own. The striking here is excellent, and Nakamura's character work is great."
[9.0] "The strikes in this match were violent as one would expect, and these two had an excellent match. Nakamura once again tries to bully Ibushi around here again, but Ibushi isn't having it and dishes out some cold blooded offense to Nakamura here. I did enjoy that here Ibushi beats the shit out of Nakamura with a ton of ruthless offense, because he just wasn't going to let Nakamura lil bro him like he did in the last match. Ibushi stealing Nakamura's moves when they were in the closing stretch of the match was cool since Ibushi said that he had looked up to Nakamura, and Nak kicking out of the bomaye at 1 was also good stuff. Nakamura still ends up winning here after a landslide, and a bomaye but Ibushi made sure that Nakamura had to put in some work to win this one. This isn't quite as good as the 1st match they had but these two still delivered a very well done epic.****3/4"
[10.0] "This is by far the greatest match in Japanese wrestling. It's not even close. I do not care about Omega vs Okada. I do not care about AJPW tag team classics. I do not care about....well actually I do care about Kenta vs Misawa at Noah but this is such a good match. Nakamura in Japan hits different like I'm not suprised he's not tripping over the charisma he has I mean this match is basically his match where he basically proves that he is HIM. I don't really remember Ibushi during this match because he was being dominated throughout the entire thing. Nakamura is literally in control the whole time here and Ibushi is basically squashed in a 20 minute match but I also see why he's considered one of Japans best wrestlers too. I love when Ibushi hits Kinshasa and Nakamura just gets up and beats the ever loving god out of this man and kicks him with some stiff ones on the ground. Great moment. This has to be the best Japanese wrestling match I have ever seen and anything below this comes MILES below this. I can confirm that Nakamura in NJPW hits so much more differently."
[9.0] "I will have to rewatch this soon. Nakamura was incredible to watch in this match with Ibushi, they had great chemistry. It felt like they were bringing the best out of each other."
[10.0] "One small thing Nakamura does that I love is when he checks Ibushi's leg kicks. A very minor detail that's only at the start of the match, but it adds such an important sense of reality and atmosphere to the match."
[9.0] "I'm somewhat surprised that this match is regarded as the better of their two bouts. While it was an excellent match, it lacked the atmosphere created by the molten hot Osaka crowd and the bonkers finish that their 2013 bout had. Don't get me wrong, this is still an beyond well wrestled match, and I very much enjoyed Nakamura countering Ibushi's lariat into the armbar, as well as Nakamura kicking out at one after being struck by the bomaye, as both built upon their 2013 match. Ibushi going murder mode is always fun to watch as well, especially in this match, as it played well into the story of Nakamura not really taking him seriously as a contender at the beginning. Nevertheless, I did not buy all of the near falls, and I would have liked a finish that built upon and upped the intensity of the 2013 match's exciting finish. Overall, definitely check out this bout. ****1/4"
[9.0] "Great match, but I expected more, MUCH more by the way, the reputation that this match carries I expected something Okada/Tana level from WK10, but even so it remains a great match that just didn't live up to my high expectations (incredible how WWE wasted a guy as charismatic as Nakamura) (****1/2)"
[8.0] "Nakamura's charisma is so off-kilter and undeniable it's a wonder how WWE treat the man (then again, he's from Japan, so naturally WWE don't know what to do with the guy based on their history with that sort of thing). He matches up with Ibushi super well, it feels like he essentially taunts and bullies Ibushi into fighting back and almost digs his own grave in doing so as he catches himself on the rough end of Kota's more aggressive offence. Nakamura still picks up the win eventually with a driver and a big kick to the face, but he has his work cut out for him in doing so and the show of respect between the two after the bell is just the cherry on top of a great aggressive and well-paced encounter. Just wish it had a little more time so it could be even better. 8.5/10, near 9."
[10.0] "Dieses Match hat mich das erste mal mit New Japan in Verbindung gebracht. Die beiden erzählen so eine simple Story, die aber jeder versteht und nachvollziehen kann, auch wenn man nicht mit den Wrestlern, der Promotion und der Sprache vertraut ist. Nakamuras Charakterwork zu dieser Zeit war auf einem anderen Planeten, sein Charisma in Paarung mit seinem Wrestling machten ihn nicht ohne Grund zu einen der beliebtesten Wrestlern zur Zeit des Matches. Ibushis Aufstieg ins Main Event war ein etwas andere und es dauerte noch ein paar Jahre bis er dort ankam, aber dieses Match ist ein deutlicher Wendepunkt gewesen. Hier kriegt man eine tolle Story, hartes Wrestling vom feinsten und eine unglaubliche Atmosphäre, die mich auch zu diesen jetzt schon älteren New Japan Matches bringt, da sie mir aktuell einfach zu sehr entgeht. Es gab hier keine Sekunde die verschwendet war und so viele Momente wo ich zurückspulen musste, weil es so beeindruckend war was diese zwei Wrestler hier gezeigt haben. Ganz klarer Klassiker in meine Augen(*****)."
[10.0] "Ibushi's bubble burst when he had had enough of Nakamura's arrogance and lost his cool. One of the better matchups to show to someone who has never seen NJPW."
[9.0] "Took a tad bit to get going, but once it did, this was strikers heaven. Striking is probably my favorite style of wrestling, so I was beyond excited to see this match again. Being the talents they are, it's not surprising that these two put on an amazing match. Some great storytelling here with Ibushi trying to outstrike the king of strong style and win the IWGP Intercontinental championship, which while he came close, Nakamura manages to get the win. Pretty short match for NJPW, and I like that. This is a match i can turn on at anytime when I'm bored."
[9.0] "Such a great match, really different from the current big New Japan matches and surprisingly short but probably all the better for it. No wasted time, great intense wrestling with a snappy devastating finish. Lovely stuff."
[9.0] "Nakamura's unyielding charisma coagulates into a burst of hard-hitting fury as the younger Ibushi perfectly embodies the never-say-die spirit he'd become famous for. Punctual and dynamic, albeit a bit brief. (4.75) (MOTM: Kota Ibushi)"
[10.0] "Absolutely one of the greatest Tokyo Dome matches ever. These 2 have 2 matches, this one and their G1 Climax 23 one which are both in my all time favorite list. Just unreal chemistry. Nakamura was truly untouchable. *****+"
[10.0] "My gosh, was this epic. From the promo package, to the entrance, to the opening bell, to the staredown, to the match itself. This was nothing short of phenomenal. Big fight feel, gigantic atmosphere, the perfect setting for a marquee wrestling match. Nakamura's heel stint in this one was simply spectacular. Ibushi with an incredible gutsy babyface performance that just made you want to do nothing but see him win so badly. I've never seen much of NJPW Shinsuke, but even with this match alone, it's not hard to see why people put him in such high regards. [*****]"
[8.0] "Nakamura's weird charisma and mannerisms work exceptionally well for a big dome audience and Ibushi is a plucky underdog who fights with his heart and not his brain. Trading strikes with Nakamura is not a good idea, Ibushi. You beautiful idiot. Nakamura gradually heeling it up once he realizes that Ibushi isn't going down was when this match really took off, with Nakamura having to pulverize the poor boy with strikes and even bust out a rare Landslide. I still prefer Nakamura's match with Sakuraba a few years previous, but you really can't go wrong with a Nakamura dome match."
[10.0] "One of the best matches in professional wrestling history. A story that never stopped providing reasons to be captivated. Action that made me wince, cringe, and gasp all in one breath. Two of the hardest-hitting wrestlers to ever do it. Two of the most ruthless wrestler to ever do it. The story of Ibushi and the story of Nakamura couldn't be any more different, and yet, they blend together to create what may be the greatest match in Wrestle Kingdom history. Certainly high on the list. 5 stars, 10 out of 10 and worth your full investment in watching this match."
[10.0] "Their 2013 match was incredible, and this one somehow topped it. Nakamura's cocky charisma and disrespect to Ibushi started the match off hot, but after Ibushi had enough and just straight up punches Nakamura... it's magic. This match is everything great about the NJPW style with absolutely no filler, I think it's perfect *****."
[9.0] "It's been a good while since I've seen this match and it's still a fantastic piece of work. I think it's about as good as their G1 Climax match in 2013 but this obviously is the more famous one and is a good match to point to for both of these guys. Ibushi is tremendous. Coming into the match, Ibushi said that he is a big fan of Nakamura and idolises him, so Ibushi did a lot of tributes to him like his Boma-ye and various other moves but what was more effective was Ibushi? s own offence. Brutal kicks and strikes with death-defying offence. There is a good portion of the match where it's Ibushi beating the piss out of Nakamura but he just couldn't finish the job. Nakamura was great as well. It was a good commanding performance by him too, making Ibushi look good while putting his personality at the front of the match too. ****1/2"
[8.0] "A really good match between these two. The crowd added a lot to the match, and the chemistry between these two was quality. One of my main issues with the match is that there was a half dozen strikes or so that very clearly didn't connect during the first half of the match which ruined the intensity for me. That said, the incredible athleticism on display here in addition to the top notch pacing elevated this match a lot."
[9.0] "A very entertaining and action-packed match which ups the intensity as it progresses. The time flies by and the match maybe even feels a bit short because of it. I don't think it quite reaches that truly epic 10/10 tier, but if you tend to like action-packed matches over longer build-up matches like, say, Okada vs Ibushi from Wrestle Kingdom 14 Night One, then you may very well find this to be a 10/10. In any case, it's a really good match."
[10.0] "this match is pretty amazing and it was in some way the match that allowed both Nakamura and Ibushi to become really famous inside worlwide audience and to make excursions to America in the next year as part of NXT or as Part of Cruiserweight classic. The first time I saw this match I was not so well educated to NJPW style, it was 2018 and I was starting to get in love with Japanese Wrestling and the hard hittin and physical display inside of the ring. I had done years of zero or little Wrestling and mostly from WWE, this match seemed to me something of another planet. Rewatching it for the third time I think it is still really impressive to me and I can consider it in the top ranking of matches that influenced me to return back at full speed as a Pro Wrestling Fan, maybe because I thought that after have seen live Undertaker vs Triple H, The Rock vs John Cena, after Undertaker's Streak ending, after CM Punk leaving WWE and after years of Sport Entertainment I needed something different to rekindle the passion for the business and matches like this made it. Nakamura and Ibushi displayed an incredible encounter in which Kota as Young "gangster" squared off against the veteran in Nakamura, the King of Strong Style. They delivered an amazing performance with Ibushi proving once again what I already knew to this point watching every Wrestle Kingdom, that he is the best athlete in the game today and that I don't really know how his body works, on the other hand, Nakamura, as champion, proved to be the most charismatic wrestler in Japan, challenging many times Ibushi to strike against him and one of the most devastating hard hitting machine in the world that gave him the fame of King of Strong Style. The final moments are pure adrenaline, with the story of Nakamura provoking Ibushi with kicks and slaps and bringing out Ibushi's Oni that in the years we understood to be part of the Golden Star, to an incredible exchange in the final moments: first with Ibushi trying to win using the Bomaye, then with that insane Deadlift German Suplex from the Top Rope that Ibushi delivered on Nakamura and then the final moments where Nakamura reversed a Powerbomb that Ibushi tryied to execute, delivered a Bomaye from the top rope that had no effect on Ibushi and went for the ending with the two both trying to execute a Bomaye and then Nakamura striking first with his Samoan Driver and then with the last Bomaye to end the contest and retain the IWGP Intercontinental Championship. After the match we have tears in the eyes of Ibushi that proved to be really a miracle to Pro Wrestling and a standing ovation from the Dome to both the performers in the ring. I thought rewatching it that the show could easly end with this and none would went home unsatisfied. Fantastic. Final thoughts: How is possible that Ibushi has not won yet the IWGP Heavyweight title? Hope WK 15 is the right night. Rating: 9. 5"
[10.0] "This match was crazy for real. Kota Ibushi stayed in his killer state for at least 7 minutes. The thing was that Nakamura was able to reach that level of violence without having to change his deameor to do so and that what allowed him to win in the end. *****"
[10.0] "A physical clash. Really opened my eyes to Kota Ibushi to what he can truly do in the ring. The King of Strong Style is always top notch! *****"
[10.0] "Absolutely fantastic match. Brilliant psychology, chemistry between performers, amazing action and perfect competition. Nakamura and Ibushi created an atmosphere of realism in the ring. It was genius."
[10.0] "Holy cow! The intensity was off the charts here. It felt like the two men wanted to annihalite each other. Strongest psychology I have ever witnessed in a wrestling match. Just wow."
[9.0] "This was pretty great, I thought the strikes looked great, it was paced well and it told a good story, but Ibushi's neck got worked over towards the beginning by Nakamura on the mat, but it didn't play into the match whatsoever later, even when Nakamura was striking Ibushi's neck he didn't really sell it. Also, the spot where one guy slides on the mat but the other hits him with a double stomp is the most egregious spot ever to me, and was made even worse here by Ibushi jumping before Nakamura slid."
[10.0] "Was für eine Kranke Schlacht der beiden Ein Wunder das beide sich nicht ernsthaft verletzt haben Strong Style auf ALLER Höchstem Niveau! Grandioses Storytelling Erfahrener Camp gegen den aufstrebenden Star Für einn ***** Sterne Match war es mir etwas zu Kurz aber dennoch kann ich nur Höchstpunktzahl vergeben das war einfach EPISCH! (****3/4)"
[10.0] "The best match I have ever seen. Full of charisma from Shinsuke and fighting spirit from kota, coupled with immaculate in ring skills make this an awesome spectacle to behold. You have to go and watch it for yourself. *****+++"
[10.0] "The word "perfect" gets thrown around far too often, but this is one of those rare matches that just might be perfect. Ibushi and Nakamura already had one of my favorite matches in the G1 so i had high expectations, but they managed to surpass them by a larger margin than i expected. They didn't need 40 minutes, all they needed was 20 minutes and what they did in this short amount of time is extraordinary. The venue, crowd, and Nakamura's entrance set a great atmosphere. The storytelling and psychology is classic. Nakamura started the match playing mind games on Ibushi, but Ibushi wasn't having any of it. Ibushi wanted to earn Nakamura's respect and prove that was on the same level as him. Ibushi mocked him, toyed with him, and stole his moves. He did everything to make Nakamura lose his cool. The tension rose and the violence went off the charts. After an amazing spot with Nakamura kicking out at one from a Bomaye they just started hammering each other with palm strikes, punches, kicks, knees, etc. It was glorious and felt close to a shoot fight. The closing stretch is phenomenal. After a Phoenix-plex attempt, Nakamura lands desperation stiff strikes and a top rope Bomaye but Ibushi gets up and smiles like a madman before one last Bomaye. Every wrestling fan needs to see this match. It's one of the finest around. *****+"
[10.0] "Used to call this my favourite wrestling match of all time and it held up 100% on a rewatch just now. About as close to perfect as you can get in a wrestling ring."
[10.0] "One word to describe it: Fascinating. Even rewatching it for the third time, this match it's still awesome as fuck, the emotion here is amazing, and the closing stretch is excellent. All the spots here are well placed and have a good timing, everything in this match is just perfect. *****"
[10.0] "Best 20 minutes you can get in a story like this one. Ibushi has to get Nakamura's respect and he has to earn it so hard! Crazy fight, full of Nakamura's charisma and Ibushi's will to battle him. Great match, great crowd, great commentary. It shows how good these two wrestlers are in a big event. If you doubt Nakamura for his WWE run, just watch this match right now. *****"
[10.0] "Amazing match and story. Nakamura's flamboyance is on amazing display here, and he uses it to emphasize disrespect to his opponent. Ibushi rises to the challenge and becomes the cold-blooded focused "scary Ibushi" we see in big hard-hitting matches; he's the one starting to dish out some disrespect, and it's all downhill from there. Both performers tell a really good story and the spots are very dynamic and intense. I can see how the match could be disappointing if you had seen their 2013 Climax encounter, as most of the spots (and some of the story) are repeated here pretty closely; but this is the better match of the two, with the venue and atmosphere adding something really special too."
[8.0] "Sehr Stiff geführtes Match der beiden. In dem es hauptsächlich Kicks, Slaps und Forearms gibt, das Storytelling ist auch gut umgesetzt der junge Ibushi gegen den erfahrenen Champion Nakamura. Allerdings fand ich es schade das es nach dem ersten Boma Ye schon vorbei war da ich da erst in das Match gekommen bin. Trotzdem gutes Match auch wenn ich finde das es bei weitem kein ***** Match ist. ****1/4"
"One of the most beautiful stories I've ever seen in a wrestling match. Ibushi wanted to prove to the world on the biggest stage that he is one of the best and gain Nakamura's respect and by the end of this match, despite losing, he did. Nakamura toyed and mocked him at the start but once Ibushi started going all out, Nakamura took him seriously and brang out his best as well. The drama and tension rose and the finishing sequence was epic. This is as puro as it gets. One of the best matches of either men's career. (*****)"
[10.0] "Absolutely ridiculous pace and brutality to this one. Nakamura and Ibushi beat the living piss out of each other and the psychology of trying to one up each other and demanding more out of their opponent is incredible to watch. Nakamura no sells a boma ye for a 1 count from Ibushi and the two men just start straight punching each other. Nakamura hits a boma ye to the back of Ibushi's head which pisses Ibushi off. Towards the end Nakamura executes Ibushi who was attempting for a phoenix-plex with desperation headbutts and elbow strikes to the back of Ibushi's neck. Ibushi gets up smiling but Nakamura cracks him with the driver and Boma Ye for the 3. *****"
[10.0] "Loved the mental games throughout, and the match kicks into a high gear that never goes away once Ibushi counters Nakamura's Boma Ye attempt w/ a high kick. After that it's just fireworks. ****3/4"
[10.0] "The athleticism and overall ability of Ibushi mixed with Nakamura's fantastic storytelling and match structures combine to make an absolutely stunning contest. This would be the first time Ibushi showed just how good a storyteller he could be, with some excellent character work and big moments, while Nakamura again showed why he was the king at making short matches feel epic making a 20 minute match feel like a 40 minute classic. Both men came out looking like the best two wrestlers on the planet, and at the time you would not have been wrong. (*****+)"
[10.0] "One of the greatest matches I have ever seen. This match had everything from storytelling, emotion, hard hitting action, hope spots, etc. Just the whole 9 yards. These two destroyed each other in that ring and left an absolute classic inside of that squared circle. Ibushi tried everything in his power to make Nakamura lose his cool, as well as, catching Nakamura off guard with his usual spontaneous offense. Nakamura showing exactly why he's the King of Strong Styles with some of the most brutal strikes i've ever seen in a wrestling match before. Not much I can say that hasn't been said before. 5 Star match without a doubt. *****"
[8.0] "8. 65/10 : what a solid classic ! This may be my 3rd rewatch of the match and that's honestly where I rank it. I am not very surprised by it's cagematch rating and its how 5 stars as I understand the argument that can be made for them, but personally, in 2018, this is great this match feels to me and 8. 65 is still pretty fucking great. Tremendous wrestling by excellent wrestlers ! MUST WATCH !"
[9.0] "The psychology here was fantastic. Nakamura wasn't taking Ibushi seriously so Ibushi had to up his aggression to show that he wouldn't be a push over. Seeing Ibushi so determined to not let Nakamura push him around and mock him was great. Once Ibushi's incredible offence and shows of disrespect had successfully gotten under Nakamura's skin Nakamura decided he had finally had enough and started unloading some big strikes onto him to try teach him a lesson for attempting to upstage him. This set Ibushi off into an even more severe rage, which then itself set Nakamura off again into another of his rages. The constant back and forth of both men disrespecting and aggravating each other and then battering each other with vicious strikes and big moves was awesome. It really felt like they desperately wanted to destroy each other, but only in spectacular fashion. They performed a lot of very creative spots and sequences to match the intensity of this psychology, with both men looking like total stars. The only thing that makes me think this match is a bit overrated is that it is far too similar to their world class 2013 G1 match. The same story and even a majority of the same spots first appeared in that match, so the lack of originality hurt this one in my eyes. Also, their 2013 G1 match had one of the most insane finishes I've ever seen, whereas this match's finish was relatively lacklustre. A disappointing match in comparison, yet still incredible in its own right. ****1/4"
[10.0] "The guy below me is serious? Oh well... this match introduced me to NJPW, and jesus i loved, was different of anything i have watched at the time, fast-paced, hard-hitting match with a brilliant story. If someone says Nakamura is boring because of his actual WWE run, he needs to see this match to change his perspective, absolute masterpiece *****."
[8.0] "Ein wenig überbewertet. Langsamer Beginn. Das Knie vom Apron ging danaben. Kota sellt trotzdem. Die Golden Star Bomb kommt früh. Rest sicherlich sehr gut, und hervorragende Mimik von beiden. Aber keine 10. Dafür gab es zu wenig Wrestling Moves."
[10.0] "The match that initially got me to pay attention to the current NJPW product was the nasty warfare these two had brought to the ring. There have been better matches since and before in the companies history, but few come close to the story of sheer hatred this one exuded (and all without a drop of blood or a weapon). Nakamura had no sense or respect for the young 'joke' of a wrestler from DDT, Ibushi and Ibushi took great umbrage to it. From close fists to stiff kicks this one was a hell of a brawl and one that both sold excellently by the end. The two top spots of the match would be the Bomaye being countered into a double stomp or that top rope from the outside to the inside dragon suplex, but the match as a whole is just such a visceral experience and one that still stands high today. A ***** for this one is pretty obvious, it might even deserve a + at the end."
[10.0] "Incredible match, extremely fast-paced and both Nakamura and Ibushi "got their shit in" in a way which really worked well. The veteran vs the young upstart story was told really well with Ibushi getting cocky and taking some of Nakamura's moves, garnering him a nice 1 count in the process. Only criticism I may give was that the no-selling may have been excessive but within the match and its context, I thought it all worked really well. (*****)"
[10.0] "This match is just a wonderful work of art. Ibushi and Nakamura told a wonderful story here with some amazing psychology and made a masterpiece in the end. The crowd was hot for this and honestly there isn't much else to say about this other than to just WATCH this match as it's definitely one of the best matches ever. *****"
[10.0] "Starkes Abtasten im MMA-Stil, harter Austausch von Kicks und ein Ibushi, der erst Nakamuras Corner stomp kopiert, dann seinen Taunt. Und schon ist man drin in der Psychologie des Matches. Wenn anschließend Nakamura sein Knie nur so in die Rippen und den Brustkrob von Kota schleudert, weiß man woher der Wind kommt und wohin die Reise gehen wird. Shinsuke beginnt sich sicher zu fühlen und will den Herausforderer mit zehrenden Submissions-Holds niederringen, denn auch das Austauschen von ein paar Ellbogen kann dem Champion nicht viel ausmachen, aber der Schlagabtausch wird dennoch offener. Exploder gekontert und es folgt eine Hurricanrana und der Moonsault nach draußen. Kota ist sehenswert im Match angekommen, die Dominanz hält nicht lange an und nach einem recht netten Konter einer Top Rope-Attacke wird der Austausch von Kicks und weiteren Zärtlichkeiten intensiver und abwechslungsreicher. Auch die 2. Hurricanrana von Kota sitzt, dieses Mal als Springboard-Version. Dem starken Dragon Suplex folgt eine Standing Corkscrew-Variante. Krass! Die erste Golden Star Bomb kommt früh und sitzt, der anschließende Phoenix Splash läuft ins Leere, dafür knallt Boma Ye umso brutaler in sein Ziel. Nakamura hat die Faxen dicken und greift noch tiefer als bisher in die Strong Style-Kiste. Kota hat nun Bad Hair Day, schlechte Laune und knallt Nakamura die Hände nur so ins Gesicht. Der wehrt sich mit dem einem geschubsten Schiedsrichter. Schöne Intensität, die Kota auch durch seine folgenden Kicks gegen Nakamuras Kopf ausdrückt, der Exploder sitzt, Kotas Boma Ye auch. Nicht mit Nak, Kickout nach „seinen“ Moves bei 1. Sick stiffer Austausch im Anschluss, die Spots werden größer, die Nearfalls packender, ehe das Finish fast überraschend aus dem Nichts kommt. Absolut sehenswerte Schlacht mit einer starken Psychologie, verkörpert von zwei genialen Workern. Das Ende könnte runder sein, wertet das Match aber auch nicht ab. (*****)"
[10.0] "Man muss schon sagen, dass Nakamura gegen Ibushi eines der besten Wrestling Matches aller Zeiten. Der Matchfluss ist überragend. Nakamura zeigt tolle Offensive, aber Kota Ibushi's Performance ist einfach nur fantastisch. Für das Match gebe ich ***** Sterne"
[10.0] "Es ist einfach traurig. Es ist traurig, dass die Spannung über das MOTY so früh draußen ist, denn diesen absoluten Klassiker hätte und hat im Endeffekt auch kein Match im guten 2015 überboten. Nakamura und Ibushi finden hier genau den Stil, der zu ihnen passt. Extrem Stiff, ob's Tritte Knie oder Ellbogen sind, dazu aber immer famose Athletik von Ibushi mit wunderbaren High-Flying Aktionen. Besonders gegen Ende gibt es Sequenzen in denen beiden lachend dem liegenden Gegner Knie an den Hinterkopf hämmern, aufstehen und sich ein Striking Contest liefern. Dazu unglaubliche Intensive Matchstory mit einem Ibushi, der hier alles gekonnt kontern kann und einem Nakamura, der fast schon schummeln muss, mit geschlossener Faust schlägt um den Golden Star runterzukriegen. Meiner Meinung nach definitiv das Beste Match Beider Teilnehmer, ja genau, sogar besser als Tanahashi/Nakamura vom G1:25. Nakamura und Ibushi können stolz sein in einer Show das Beste Match gezeigt zu haben, wenn Tanahashi und Okada im Main Event stehen. Absolut bravourös (*****)."
[9.0] "TONS of fun! I love the motif where they work each other's heads with punches and kicks. Pretty brutal (Kota even draws a little bit of blood on Shinsuke's forehead from working a little too hard). The finish is great. Match starts with the feel of a mediocre mid-card match, but turns into a full-blown mini-epic. Great stuff."
[10.0] "One of the best examples of storytelling in pro wrestling history, period. The significance of Ibushi's punches sent chills down my spine, the whole thing was fucking brutal and perfect. *****"
[10.0] "Das beste Match des Jahres 2015, der heimliche Main Event des Abends und eindeutig das großartigste Match in Ibushis Karriere. Unglaubliche High Spots, die übliche Stiffness Nakamuras, beide Worker können durch ihr herausragendes Charisma punkten und bringen die Crowd perfekt mit ins Geschehen ein. Was will man mehr? 10 Punkte und **** 3/4."
[10.0] "One of the best matches NJPW matches ever. Such a simple story, but as I always say, simple done well is always so great. Ibushi as "the young lion" going against the "vet" Nakamura was played off so well. Didn't go crazy long, but it didn't need to. Brilliant match (****3/4)."
[10.0] "If their previous match was a battle, then this match was a straight up war. This match didn't slow down for a second and the hot crowd was all for it for the whole thing. Ibushi brought his own psychology to this match by mocking and imitating several of Nakamura's moves while Nak, in retrospective fashion, played the same card he used 2 years ago by not giving Ibushi an inch and constantly attacked him with stiff knees, elbows, fists, and even his own head. In the end, a reluctant to give up Ibushi couldn't overcome the ferocious Nak that he unleashed upon himself, *****."
[10.0] "Nakamura vs. Ibushi. Ja, ich fasse es mal kurz: Göttliches Storytelling, Göttliche Psychologie, Göttliche Schlussphase, Hohe Dramatik, Göttliches Match (*****)."
[10.0] "No matter how many times I watch this it's still one of the best matches of all time. Their first meeting in Climax was ***** for me bc it was action packed. This one is ***** bc of the emotion in every strike and move. This isn't a fast paced match really, but it draws you in bc you feel every move. Despite the few times these guys have faced I'd consider them eachothers greatest rival simply bc of the greatness of each match they have. If you've never seen this match yet you really are missing something"
[9.0] "As good as their 2013 G1 Climax match, less energizing but more focused on in-ring psichology, with an attracting crescendo and some very entertaining spots. ****"
[10.0] "Not only was this the match of the night but was match of the year as well. The best spots include Ibushi's top rope moonsault to the floor and his deadlift springboard german suplex. But as awesome as Ibushi is, Nakamura was that much better as Nakamura made look like a genuine star that night. I think a big part of this match praise, at the time was that people thought that this was Ibushi's breakout moment but even though it wasn't this is still a ***** match."
[10.0] "Saustarkes Match mit cooler Story. Der junge, aufstrebende Star, welcher sich den Respekt des angesehenen Veterans verdienen will. Ibushi zeigt ein paar sehr schöne Aktionen und viele gute harte Strikes, Nakamura kann vor allem mit letzterem und seinem dicken Arsch voll Charisma punkten. Allein schon sein Auftritt war awesome. Geile Angelegenheit, alles zusammen."
[10.0] "This one was as stiff as they come, with Nakamura and Ibushi topping even their fantastic original encounter from G1. Brutal kicks and knees, high-flying from Ibushi, and solid wrestling moves. Nakamura demonstrates why he's the King of Strong Style in the match of the decade so far."
[10.0] "Their first bout was a dream match for me at the time and on their second meeting at Japan's most prestigious event Ibushi and Nakamura managed to outdo themselves by a fair margin. Nakamura has been near the top of New Japan's roster for a while now and has ever-growing international appeal and both matches have been great tests of strength and athleticism for Ibushi, who himself is already widely respected. This match was more fluent and for the most part strung together better than their first. I give this ****3/4 confidently."
[10.0] "Was soll man dazu sagen, außer Perfekt! So ein grandioses Storytelling habe ich sehr selten gesehen. Shinsuke und Kota bringen es perfekt rüber wie Ibushi den König stürzen will und Nakamura es trotzdem schafft zu gewinnen. Zudem war es richtig spannend. Es war ein perfektes Match und ist eines der besten Matches aller Zeiten! 5 Sterne für dieses grandiose Match."
[10.0] "Dieses Match hey... Nakamura kommt schon als King raus und zeigt das im Match erst mal, wo er Ibushi erst mal mit seinem Knie misshandelt, der will sich zurück kämpfen und bezahlt dafür indem er Shinsuke's Knie noch fieser fressen darf. Doch dann schaltet Ibushi plötzlich auf die höchste Bad-Ass Stufe und läutet damit eine Schlussphase ein, die einfach nicht von dieser Welt ist. Es ist eine ganze Weile her, dass mich ein Match wirklich mit offenem Mund vor dem Bildschirm zurückgelassen hat, aber diese unglaubliche Schlacht hat es definitiv geschafft."
[10.0] "After a rewatch, I gave this 5 stars. Absolutely amazing match, a little better than their first encounter. Ibushi and Nakamura were both amazing with these strikes here."
[10.0] "Well, what can I say about this match? Just awesome. The drama, storytelling and in-ring action just made Tokyo Dome go crazy. One of the best matches of all time, maybe the best except Misawa/Kawada/Kobashi bouts. Just watch it and you will understand what I'm talking about. 5 STARS, one of those matches you can watch everyday and it never gets boring."
[10.0] "This is one of my favorite matches of all time, bar none. It's that damn good. I believe Shinsuke Nakamura is truly the greatest active talent alive, his charisma doesn't just ooze from every pore but it EXPLODES off the screen and pervades everything around him, he is a gift, a revelation. Ibushi is also a marvel, one of the best high fliers I have seen, and NJPW is lucky to share him with DDT. The way Nakamura played with Ibushi's head, only for Ibushi to turn it around on Nakamura, was an amazing piece of psychology, and every part of this match worked together without the slightest hitch, from the awe inspiring strikes to the gorgeous aerials and everything in between. Go watch his match now! What are you waiting for?"
[10.0] "Es ist gerade mal der 7. Januar, als ich das hier schreibe und schon jetzt kann man mit ziemlich großer Sicherheit sagen, dass dieser Kampf das MOTY war. Es war vor allem nicht nur das Match of the Year, sondern meiner Meinung nach ein morderner Puro-Klassiker. Die Matchstory mit dem überheblichen Ibushi, der jedem beweißen will, dass er keine Angst vor Nakamura hat, der charismatische und arrogante Nakamura, der Ibushi zeigen will, dass er nicht in seine Liga gehört, war einfach nur genial und gehört zu der besten umgesetzten In-Ring Story, die ich bis jetzt gesehen habe. Das Match war auch der Story entsprechend ziemlich stiff mit unglaublichen Schlagabtauschen, aber auch mit einigen High-Spot moves, die mir persönlich auch sehr lange im Gedächtnis bleiben werden. Vor allem der Over-the-top-rope German Suplex war einfach nur genial und es ist immer wieder erstaunenswert, wie viel Kraft Ibushi besitzt. Wie der Zufall es so wollte, hat natürlich auch noch Jim Ross das Match kommentiert und mal wieder wahre Worte gesprochen. Ibushi ist sicherlich der 4. Mann für NJPW und ich bin gespannt, wie sich dieses Jahr vor allem für ihn noch entwickeln wird. Brilliantes Match, welches zu meinen Lieblingen gehört und dementsprechend hau ich hier auch die Höchstnote raus. Der pure Wahnsinn. ***** (1)"
[10.0] "Einfach nur klasse. Der Höhepunkt einer absolut großartigen Show. Ein absolut perfektes Match. Natürlich verdiente 5 Sterne von Meltzer. Dieses Jahr wird wohl kein Match mehr herankommen es sei denn die beiden hauen beim G1-Climax noch eine Zugabe raus. Gehört auf jeden Fall jetzt schon zu meinen 5 Lieblingsmatches."
[10.0] "Ein wirklich sehr starkes Match um den IWGP Intercontinental Champion Titel! Der Arrogante Nakamura vs den "Frischling" Ibushi! Es hat schon langsam begonnen und wurde immer schneller und schneller. Die harten Knees waren auch immer mit dabei! Meiner Meinung nach das MOTN! 6 von 5*! Absoluter MOTY Kandidat!"
[10.0] "Main Event die zweite. Und was für ein Match es ist. Shinsuke Nakamura ist sowieso ein weltklasse Performer mit stiffen Strikes, toller Technik und einem sleazy Gimmick, das ihm genauso viel Spaß macht wie den Zuschauern. Er will Ibushi zeigen, dass dieser nicht in seiner Liga spielt, Ibushi hingegen pellt sich drei Eier drauf und beweist Cojones, indem er Nakamura seine Gerinschätzung offen ins Gesicht wirft. Das Ergebnis ist eine spürbare Intensität, bei der man für 20 Minuten wirklich vergisst, dass hier 2 Performer ein gebooktes Match gegeneinander wrestlen. Die Abneigung kauft man ihnen jede Sekunde ab. Ibushi setzt perfekt einige High Spots, haut Nakamura dessen eigenen Finisher um die Ohren und Nakamura schlägt erbarmungslos zurück. Absolute Spitzenklasse, sowohl vom Wrestling, als auch von der Match Story."
[10.0] "Wow, einfach nur wow. Diese Intensität, diese Story dahinter. Nakamuras Knees sind immer eine Gefahr und Ibushi steckt nicht dagege zurück und teilt auch kräftig aus. Dann dagegen auch noch Ibushis Schnelligkeit, die für sehr gut platzierte Spots sorgt. Unglaublich einfach wie spannend das von Anfang bis Ende umgesetzt wurde. Die Underdog-Story, die quasi keine mehr war im Matchverlauf setzt dem ganzen die Krone auf. Bei Ibushis Boma Ye und vorherigem Gepose bin ich ausgemarked. Wahnsinnig geil und dann das Finish obendrauf, ich ziehe meinen imaginären Hut, 10 Punkte."
[10.0] "Ein überragendes Match, vielleicht das beste das ich je gesehen habe. Nakamura ist wie üblich stark, aber Ibushi hat mich hier einfach nur positiv überrascht mit seiner Mimik und den geklauten Moves. Eine perfekte Mischung aus Comedy, Strong Style, Highflying, Storytelling und Powermoves, vor allem der Suplex übers Top Rope von Ibushi war beeindruckend. Ich weiss nicht was es hier zu kritisieren gibt, von daher ganz klar *****."
[10.0] "Lange her das mir dermassen die Nerven fehlten. Extrem stiff, spannend und mit 2 wirklich charismatischen Wrestlern besetztes Match. Für mich bislang ganz klar der Nr1 MOTY Kandidat 2015. Wie will man das bitte toppen?"
[7.0] "Kann mir nicht helfen, fand das Match ziemlich lahm! Vielleicht lag es auch an den englischen Kommentar von Jim Ross, der die meisten Moves nicht kannte. Auch von der Crowd war ich enttäuscht! Ein ordentliches Match aber nicht mehr..."
[10.0] "Absolute Weltklasse. Hier stimmt einfach alles. Super Chemie, Strong Style, Selling, Spannung. Wrestling vom Feinsten. Vor allem Kota Ibushi überrascht mich hier sehr, ist für mich das beste Match von ihm bis jetzt in seiner Karriere. Freut mich vor allem auch das Shinsuke Nakamura nun endlich sein verdientes 5 Sterne Match hat ! 10 Punkte von mir für diesen Klassiker"
[10.0] "Mein Gott was für ein Kampf. Weiß kaum was ich dazu sonst noch sagen soll. Nakamura und Ibushi liefern sich das Match des Abends mit einer großartigen Story und sehr harter Action. Eines der Matches die ich am liebsten sofort nochmal schauen würde. Dieses Feeling ist es was für mich u. a. ein waschechtes 5-Sterne Match ausmacht. Auch JR ist völlig von den Socken während er dieses Match kommentiert und lässt sich durch die Begeisterung auch zu einigen versteckten Seitenhieben gegen WWE hinreißen. Ich bin sicher man wird sich an dieses Match noch lange als einen Meilenstein in Ibushis Karriere erinnern und bin davon überzeugt, dass der Junge eines Tages IWGP Heavyweight Champ wird wenn er so weitermacht. Swagsuke hingegen setzt seine Regentschaft als IC-champ fort und wertet den Gürtel mit jedem weiteren Tag den er ihn trägt weiter auf. Perfektes Match von Anfang bis Ende. *****"
[10.0] "Nakamura und Ibushi lieferten alles, was man sich im Vorfeld erhoffte und noch mehr. Schon als Ibushi zu Beginn zweimal aufmuckt und von Nakamura einfach bitter bestraft wird. Danach folgt ein starker Aufbau auf die Finish-Phase und die hat es in sich. Es gibt den Moment, an dem es Klick macht, Nakamura verspottet Ibushi als dieser in den Seilen hängt und dann geht es los. Der Gesichtsausdruck war genial, denn Ibushi wird es Nakamura so richtig geben. Diese Faustschläge sahen so krass aus, es werden Trademarks geklaut, dann noch der Boma Ye gegen den Hinterkopf und die ganzen Moves, die man sonst beiden nicht sieht. Es war einfach fantastisch. Die Matchstruktur ist perfekt, weltklasse!"
[10.0] "Hier fällt es irgendwie schwer das Match bzw die Wertung zu erklären. Was soll ich da noch groß schreiben außer" Wahnsinn! Einfach nur der Hammer. Sicher eines der besten Matches das ich seit langer Zeit sehen durfte. Beide schenken sich absolut nichts."
[9.0] "Spitzenmäßiges Match, was ich so von Kota Ibushi wirklich nicht erwartet habe. Der Mann kann was und hat ein unglaublich großes Talent als Wrestler, aber gleichzeitig zeigt er seit zig Jahren Matches, wo ich mich am Ende frage, was das jetzt sein sollte, eben insbesondere durch seine abgespulten Standard-Aktionen, die hier aber gut in das Match eingebaut werden. Mit Nakamura harmoniert er wunderbar und das ist auf jeden Fall das beste Match, was ich bislang von Kota Ibushi gesehen habe. Nakamura ist Nakamura und geht hier in seine Rolle einmal mehr wunderbar auf."
[9.0] "It's the first time that Okada vs Tanahashi was in the card and another match manged to rose above it, that was this match. Ibushi had a great resume in heavyweight matches and he pretty much proved that he deserves this postion but man this one felt like his test match in this division. Nakamura once again proved that he's one of the best workers in the world right now giving selling for the ages(one of the best selling I've ever seen for a roundhouse kick). I didn't like the moments when Ibushi tried to hit some shoot-style shots, it seemed un-natural. Except from it, just a great match."
[9.0] "Also das nenne ich giftig sein und gegenseitig ansticken in reiner Form, für mich eine Premiere das ich einen Ibushi anfange anzufeuern, dem Flippy Nonsens Ibushi, dem RVD des Ostens. Ich wußte ja das er es anders kann seit er aber bei NJPW ist, entwicklt er sich toll. Ob das wirklich nur an Nakamura liegt? Jedenfalls ist der "Heavyweight" Wrestler Ibushi besser. Einfache Story, sehr schnörkellos und ein Duell. Jeder Impact Move mit Bedeutung, ausgedehntes Selling und auch das Posen und Verhöhnen passt und wird nicht übertrieben. Allein die Gesichtszüge sind großes Kino. Das beste Match aller Zeiten war es nicht und für mich jetzt nicht das wozu es erhoben wird, aber wohl das beste Kota Ibushi Match was es bisher gab und mit ein Moves-Sequenz die ihn unsterblich gemacht hat. Die Szene wird bei King of Sports eingehen ähnlich wie die Sitzkissen-Wurfwellen und oder Vader/Inoki German Suplex, das muss man erstmal hinkriegen. Sehr starkes Match."
[10.0] "Considering their renown styles, Nakamura being a phenomenal strong-style wrestler and Ibushi being 1 of the best high-flyers in the world, they both have a fantastic chemistry in the ring. Nakamura proves why he is not only 1 of the best, but also how well he can elevate his opponent and make him look like a main event star. Meanwhile, Ibushi is proving that he can hang with the heavyweights, and although he takes a step back from many of his trademark antics, there is no doubt that he can steal the show when given the opportunity. This match was so stiff that it felt like I was watching a shoot. It starts slow, every strike looks devastating, and when it became to creating memorable highlights, this match delivered them and delivered them perfectly. My jaw even dropped on numerous occasions, it was that good. It's as good, if not better than their G1 Climax 23 match, and it felt different as well."
[10.0] "Der beste Wrestler der Welt kämpft gegen Kota Ibushi. Schon allein auf dem Papier war diese Ansetzung vielversprechend und sie ist für mich schon wenige Sekunden nach Läuten der Ringglocke zur self-fullfilling prophecy avanciert. Nakamura und Ibushi haben meiner Meinung nach das Match des Abends und einen Match-of-the-Year-Kandidaten im Januar abgeliefert. Brachial, hart, irgendwie Strong Style, aber doch modern, temporeich, von den beiden konträren Charakteren geprägt und nach hinten hinaus noch richtig spannend und episch. Vor allen Dingen Ibushi hat einmal mehr eine früher von ihm unerahnbare Härte gezeigt und mit dem immer so brillianten, wie intensiven Nakamura mitgehalten. Meiner Meinung nach ein perfektes Match und somit *****."
[10.0] "Was ein unglaubliches Match. Das beste Match, welches ich von Nakamura und Ibushi bisher gesehen habe. *****-Klassiker! Das Match muss man gesehen haben, während den letzten Minuten stand ich durchgehend. Allein schon die Entrance von "Mr. Charismatic" Shinsuke Nakamura war toll. Das Storytelling im Match war ganz großes Kino. Nakamura mit ein bisschen Heel-Arbeit und respektlosem Verhalten gegen Ibushi. Ibushi will diesen Respekt verdienen und macht Nakamura's Moves nach. Das Match, trotz Niederlage, war wirklich eine Star Making Performance für Kota Ibushi. Schaut euch das an WWE, so lässt man einen trotz Niederlage zum Star werden. Die Mimik von Beiden war so stark, diese Emotionen und Leidenschaft war einzigartig. Beim German Suplex über das oberste Seil gab's einen Mark Out Moment! Schaut euch dieses Match bitte an."
[10.0] "Was für eine unglaublich befriedigende Schlacht! Nakamuras Martial Arts Moves und Ibushis Verspottungen machen diese Auseinandersetzung unglaublich sehenswert und zu einem frühen Match of the Year Kandidat! Einfach göttlich!"
[10.0] "Ein interessanter Beginn, wodurch es beiden gelingt hier noch einmal das Gefühl eines großen Matches zu verstärken. Von Beginn an haben beide sehr stiff geworkt - Kicks und Slaps waren sehr stark. Der zusätzliche Aufbau der Intensität durch das Mocking passte hier einwandfrei. Es gab permanent eine klare Linie in den Ausführungen der Moves, die Harmonie zwischen beiden war deutlich spürbar. Auch die Holds beider gefielen immer. Beide mit einem unglaublichen Movearsenal, sparen hier an nichts und schaffen es durch die Abwechslung die Spannung auch stets auf einem sehr hohen Level zu halten. Mehr und mehr entwickelte sich das ganze zu einer Schlacht, es war kaum noch auszuhalten mit welcher Brutalität beide sich hier mit allen ihnen zu Verfügung stehenden Körperteilen niederstrecken wollen - härter geht es kaum. Ich bin aus der Begeisterung gar nicht mehr herausgekommen und habe hier lange überlegt welche Matchnote ich hier geben soll. Das einzig negative war das Finish. Ein bis zwei Konter oder ein noch etwas härteres Finish (speziell hier im Vergleich zu dem, was vorher ausgeteilt wurde) hätte dieses Match noch benötigt. Möglicherweise wäre es auch anders gewesen, wenn dies hier das Match um den IWGP Heavyweight Championship gegangen wäre. Doch so sehe ich trotz starker Tendenzen zur Bestnote "nur" ****3/4."
[10.0] "Was für ein genialer Entrance von Nakamura! Wenn man so einläuft ist man einfach der König der Welt, Fakt. Das konnte man im Match mit dem perfekten Partner Ibushi nochmal ganz deutlich sehen. Einfach der Hammer wie die beiden sich mental aus der Fassung gebracht haben. Provokationen, Sticheleien, Emotion, Angst und Wut, alles war gegeben. Herrlich wie Nakamura immer angespannter und immer mehr zum Arsch wurde und am Ende Ibushi einfach nur zerlegen wollte. Der konnte dann aber mit ebenso harten Strikes und Kicks dagegen halten, was eine unglaubliche Stimmung gebracht hat. Die Respektsbekundung nach dem Match hat es perfekt abgerundet. Das Match immer mehr Arschloch, aber trotzdem den Respekt für eine gebrachte Leistung, Shinsuke Nakamura. Kompliment an beide für ein fantastisches Match (*****)."
[10.0] "The Best Fight on one of the greatest PPV of all time. The highlight of the night, the showstealer! Drama, Stiff shots and crazy manœuvre that you never saw before. One of the most exciting fight i ever seen . You can put this match along the Misawa vs Kobashi, the Chris Benoit vs Kurt Angle, the RVD vs Jerry Lynn and the HBK vs HHH easily"
[10.0] "Meiner Meinung nach der beste Match in der Geschichte von Tokyo Dome. Ich kan noch nicht glauben, dass NJPW mit so einem Klassiker 2015 beginnt. Ich hoffte auf einen **** Match aber das war zweifellos ein *****. Das ist genau, was man zeigen sollte, wenn man erklären will was Strong Styles ist."
[10.0] "Das Jahr 2015 ist grade erst 5 Tage alt und schon hat sich für mich die Disskussion um das Match of the Year errledigt. Was Nakamura und Ibushi hier mit Storytelling um den jungen, leicht arroganten Upstart und dem "alten" Ringhasen aufzogen und dazu ein atemberaubendes Match mit vielen unglaublich bösen Aktionen, Kontern und allem dazwischen auf die Beine stellten, ist für mich nicht nur das beste was in diesem Jahr möglich sein sollte und wahrscheinlich auch wird, sondern (und ich benutze und vergebe so etwas unfassbar selten) sogar ein moderner Klassiker. Wenn es keine 5* hierfür gibt, dann locker 4 3/4*."
[10.0] "The best match i've seen in a very long while! Just one of those matches, when everything clicks. Ibushi's german suplex off the top rope was insane! Easily a ***** match, and i'm pretty sure it will be a MOTYC. Just perfect."
[10.0] "Schon ein Anwärter für das Match of the Year 2015 und wir haben erst Januar. Man weiß ja das in den folgenden Monaten noch so viele Kracher bei NJPW kommen die dann auch Match of the Year Anwärter sind. Episch der Auftritt von Nakamura mit der Krone als King of Strong Style oder wie Ibushi in Rey Mysterio Manier auf der Bühne heraussprang. Großartiger Co Main Event wurde nur noch vom Main Event getoppt (****3/4)."
[10.0] "Klasse Match zwischen Nakamura und Ibushi! Die harten Knees und Chops, der irre Spot mit dem Springboard German Suplex und die tolle Ring Psychologie der Beiden werden mir noch lange in Erinnerung bleiben! Für mich eindeutig MOTN noch vor Tanahashi vs Okada. Von mir gibt's klare ***** für diesen MOTY Kandidaten!"
[10.0] "Absolut gleichwertig zum ebenfalls großartigen Main Event von Wrestle Kingdom 9. Nakamura und Ibushi bekriegen sich mit allen was möglich ist."
[10.0] "****3/4. This is my rating for this excellent match. When I watch this match, I know why I love puroresu, and I know why I love New Japan Pro Wrestling. There was a certain psychology. Nakamura and Ibushi were very arrogant, and were determined to show who was the alpha male on this match. Ibushi nothing lach, but Nakamura was stronger in the Strong Style. Incredible match."
[10.0] "The co-main event of the show was the IWGP IC Title match that saw champion Shinsuke Nakamura defeat Kota Ibushi in 2015’s first MOTC candidate. The match is rematch of from the 2013 G1 Climax, a match that was really awesome and was beyond my expectations at the time. This match was all kinds of spectacular and is one of those matches that not only elevates Ibushi from the Junior ranks, but I feel is a true star making performance. We talk about that a lot in wrestling, guys with the hype, that will get the push and you wait for that one performance that lets you know that “he’s the guy” or “fuck off, he’s never gonna make it”. Ibushi brought the pain here in what I personally felt was his best performance I have ever seen. The entire match had that “big event/fight” feel to it, with Shinsuke Nakamura at the lead and proving why he is one of the very best wrestlers in the world today. Nakamura had to throw everything he had at Ibushi, and even had to survive Ibushi using Nakamura’s own moves against him. Nakamura winning continues his great run making the IWGP IC Title mean something special, the match made Ibushi look like a real deal and was the kind of special match you expect from the biggest show of the year for New Japan."
