So, Goto won. We're all happy. I didn't cry, I promise. It just rained really hard locally around my face. However, this victory puts an end to one legacy and starts the question over: Who is the new Nearly-Man of New Japan?
For years, it was acknowledged Goto was the Nearly-Man. He had all the credentials and tournaments but never won the biggest one of all. Now that's he won the top prize, I don't think we can call him that anymore.
So who's the new Nearly-Man?
I'd argue there's a couple of contenders.
Ishii has to be considered at the very least, with how great he was for a long time without ever really winning the big one.
Shota is very much on the path to being a new one unless he can turn it around.
Tsuji would be in contention if he hadn't won at WK, but he came awfully close and could easily slip back once he loses the global title somewhere along the line.
Finlay could even be considered, given the fact that (if my stats are right, please correct me if they're not) he's the only BC leader to not have a World title shot in NJPW. Not surprising, given his narratives etc, but still an interesting point.
And, of course, we cant forget Yano, the man who's probably pinned every champion of the past and present at some point.
Who do we think is the new Nearly-Man, and do we think it'll stay that way forever?
by BenTheHopeless