Konosuke Takeshita has won the NJPW G1 Climax 35 tournament for the first time in his career. In the finals of the event on Sunday, August 17, at the Ariake Arena, Takeshita defeated EVIL to secure the victory.
The match saw early interference from EVIL’s House of Torture faction, but they were neutralized and dragged away from ringside by Zack Sabre Jr., Rocky Romero, and several NJPW young lions. Despite favoring his knee throughout the bout, Takeshita overcame the injury and pinned EVIL after hitting his Raging Fire finisher.
The victory earns Takeshita a future opportunity to challenge for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, which is currently held by Zack Sabre Jr. After the match, an emotional Takeshita spoke to the crowd.
He said he was glad he became a professional wrestler. He said anyone in the crowd or watching at home could become a pro wrestler, but they would have to know that he is the best. He finished by declaring himself The Alpha.
