After his Golden Ace tag team with Kota Ibushi lost the IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Championship at Dominion, it looks as if Hiroshi Tanahashi may be on his last legs as a marquee main eventer in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW).
However, Tanahashi has been doubted before, only for him to rise to the challenge and reach the IWGP Heavyweight Championship once again. With Evil winning the IWGP Heavyweight and IWGP Intercontinental ‘Double Championship’ from Tetsuya Naito at Dominion, the Ace could see it as an opportunity to go on another run in his quest to further increase his legacy in professional wrestling.
Tanahashi’s IWGP Heavyweight Narrative
After losing to Taichi during the first round of the New Japan Cup and losing the fall during the IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Championship match at Dominion, it would seem Tanahashi doesn’t have a direct path to regaining the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.
However, much like he showed during G1 Climax 28, Tanahashi is capable of going on a run and marching his way back to the top of the NJPW mountain. He would likely need a similar run during G1 Climax 30 to put himself in consideration for another IWGP Heavyweight Championship match.
How The Ace Fits Into The New Landscape?
To be a viable IWGP Heavyweight Championship contender over the last 13 years, a competitor has had to go through Tanahashi. Even though the Ace is in the latter stages of his career, he continues to carry that clout. If a wrestler can’t beat Tanahashi, it’s unlikely they will find themselves carrying the title — unless they manage to avoid facing the former eight-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion.
With the likes of Tetsuya Naito, Kazuchika Okada, Kota Ibushi, Kenta, Jay White, and likely Sanada all with their eyes firmly set on Evil — Tanahashi will have to go on a significant run to become the top contender once more.
