This week we trade the rings of Tony Khan for the cerulean blue of New Japan Pro Wrestling to pay tribute to the retiring legend Hiroshi Tanahashi as we review one of his greatest hours: Hiroshi Tanahashi v Kota Ibushi from the G1 Climax 2018 Final.

We discuss the build through 2018, how the match came at a crossroads for Tanahashi's career and position in the company and how these two men built up such a hard hitting and emotional performance.

Joining me is 'The Young Boy' Joshua Smith from Keepin' It Strong Style, the preeminent New Japan Podcast and creator of the series Ace of the Universe: a deep dive into the career of Hiroshi Tanahashi.

Listen to Rich Latta's amazing Tanahashi rant: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ai7RJ_OH4FY

Follow your host Sam Brown on X @Sir_Samuel or email [email protected]

Follow Josh on X @KIStrongStyle and make sure you check out his series Ace of the Universe on the Keepin' It Strong Style Pateron: https://www.patreon.com/c/KIStrongStyle/posts

The Match Guide Substack: https://aewmatchguide.substack.com/

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