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The NJPW G1 Climax is back, and the stakes have never been higher! As we approach August 5th, 2025, the wrestling world is buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be one of the most explosive nights in tournament history. With rivalries reaching boiling points, shocking upsets on the horizon, and potential title implications looming, this night of G1 action is must-see for any pro wrestling fan.
In this in-depth preview, we’ll break down every match, analyze key storylines, predict potential winners, and highlight what’s at stake. Whether you’re a longtime New Japan Pro-Wrestling devotee or a newcomer looking to dive into the G1 madness, this guide will ensure you’re fully prepared for the chaos ahead.
What is the NJPW G1 Climax?
For the uninitiated, the G1 Climax is NJPW’s most prestigious tournament—a grueling round-robin competition where the best wrestlers in the world battle for supremacy. The winner earns a shot at the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestle Kingdom, making every match crucial.
This year’s G1 Climax 35 features two blocks (A & B), with each competitor facing every other wrestler in their group. Points are awarded as follows:
- Win = 2 points
- Draw = 1 point
- Loss = 0 points
The top wrestlers from each block advance to the G1 Finals, where one man will etch his name in history.
August 5th, 2025 – Full Match Card & Breakdown
The August 5th show is stacked with critical matchups that could make or break a wrestler’s G1 run. Here’s the confirmed card along with our expert analysis:
1. Block A: Kazuchika Okada vs. Shingo Takagi
The Rainmaker vs. The Dragon – A clash of former IWGP World Champions!
- Okada is always a G1 favorite, but after a shocking loss earlier in the tournament, he must win here to stay in contention.
- Shingo has been a dominant force, using his raw power to bulldoze opponents. A win over Okada would solidify him as a top contender for the finals.
- Prediction: Okada bounces back with a Rainmaker victory, but Shingo pushes him to the limit.
2. Block B: Tetsuya Naito vs. Will Ospreay
Tranquilo vs. The Aerial Assassin – A dream match with G1 implications!
- Naito is fighting for legacy—another G1 win would cement him as one of the all-time greats.
- Ospreay, now a heavyweight juggernaut, is looking to prove he’s the best in the world. His speed and striking could overwhelm Naito.
- Prediction: Ospreay steals the win with a Hidden Blade, keeping his finals hopes alive.
3. Block A: Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Jeff Cobb
The Ace vs. The Imperial Unit – Power vs. Heart!
- Tanahashi, despite his age, is still a G1 threat with his unmatched resilience.
- Cobb is a wrecking machine—if he dominates Tanahashi, he could be a dark horse for the finals.
- Prediction: Cobb muscles his way to victory with the Tour of the Islands.
4. Block B: SANADA vs. David Finlay
Cold Skull vs. The Rebel – A battle of contrasting styles!
- SANADA has been inconsistent this G1—will he finally find his groove?
- Finlay, now a bona fide heavyweight, is hungry to prove he belongs in the main event scene.
- Prediction: Finlay shocks SANADA with the Trash Panda.
5. Block A: Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Great-O-Khan
Technical Master vs. The Dominator – Submission vs. Brutality!
- ZSJ is a submission wizard, but O-Khan’s unorthodox style could neutralize him.
- Prediction: ZSJ forces a tap-out, keeping his slim finals chances alive.
6. Block B: Taichi vs. KENTA
The Holy Emperor vs. The Stinger – A battle of cunning veterans!
- Both men are underdogs, but a win here could keep them mathematically alive.
- Prediction: Taichi steals it with a low blow & Black Mephisto.
Key Storylines to Watch
1. Will Okada Recover from His Early Struggles?
The Rainmaker is not used to losing in the G1, but if he falls to Shingo, his path to the finals becomes nearly impossible.
2. Ospreay’s Quest for Redemption
After a controversial loss earlier in the tournament, Ospreay needs a statement win over Naito to stay in the hunt.
3. The Rise of David Finlay
Finlay has been one of the breakout stars of G1 35—could a win over SANADA push him into title contention?
4. The Dark Horse Threat of Jeff Cobb
If Cobb runs through Tanahashi, he could be a shocking finalist.
Predictions for the G1 Climax 35 Final Standings
Based on current standings and remaining matches, here’s our projected final block standings:
Block A Finalists:
- Kazuchika Okada (12 pts)
- Shingo Takagi (10 pts)
Block B Finalists:
- Will Ospreay (12 pts)
- Tetsuya Naito (10 pts)
Projected G1 Finals Match: Okada vs. Ospreay – A rematch of their Wrestle Kingdom classic!
How to Watch NJPW G1 Climax 35 – August 5th, 2025
Don’t miss a second of the action! The event will be streaming live on:
- NJPW World (Official Streaming Service)
- FITE TV (International PPV)
Final Thoughts
The G1 Climax is the most thrilling tournament in wrestling, and August 5th could be a turning point for several stars. Will Okada regain his dominance? Can Ospreay overcome Naito? Is Finlay the next big thing?
One thing is certain—chaos is guaranteed.