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The G1 Climax is not just a tournament—it’s a war of attrition, a test of will, and a showcase of the finest professional wrestling on the planet. As NJPW G1 Climax 35 rolls into its crucial July 23rd, 2025, event, the stakes have never been higher. The tournament is reaching its boiling point, with wrestlers battling through exhaustion, injuries, and sheer determination to secure their spot in the finals.
In this exclusive online preview, we break down the matchups, analyze the tournament standings, and predict who will rise—and who will fall—on this pivotal night.
THE G1 CLIMAX 35: A BRIEF OVERVIEW
For the uninitiated, the G1 Climax is New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s most prestigious round-robin tournament. Spanning nearly a month, the competition divides wrestlers into two blocks (traditionally A Block and B Block), where they face every other competitor in their group. The winners of each block then collide in the Grand Final, with the victor earning a Tokyo Dome main event contract for Wrestle Kingdom.
This year’s G1 Climax 35 has been nothing short of spectacular, featuring:
- Brutal upsets that have reshaped the standings
- Shocking returns that have electrified audiences
- Grueling battles that have pushed competitors to their limits
Now, as we approach July 23rd, 2025, several key matches will determine who remains in contention—and who gets eliminated.
JULY 23RD 2025: KEY MATCHUPS & PREDICTIONS
1. Kazuchika Okada vs. Shota Umino (A Block)
The Rainmaker vs. The Shining Star
Okada, a multi-time G1 winner, is in a must-win situation. After a surprising loss earlier in the tournament, he cannot afford another stumble. Meanwhile, Shota Umino, the fiery young star, has been turning heads with his aggressive style.
Prediction: Okada’s experience will prevail, but Umino will push him to the limit. Expect a 4.5-star classic with Okada hitting the Rainmaker for the win.
2. Will Ospreay vs. Tetsuya Naito (B Block)
The Aerial Assassin vs. The Ungovernable
This is a potential Match of the Year candidate. Ospreay, now a seasoned main-eventer, brings his high-flying, hard-hitting hybrid style against Naito’s calculated, Tranquilo brutality. Both men are in the hunt for the block finals, making this a must-win.
Prediction: A breathtaking, high-speed war ending with Ospreay hitting the Stormbreaker—but Naito’s resilience could steal it late. Too close to call!
3. Jon Moxley vs. Great-O-Khan (A Block)
The Death Rider vs. The Dominator
Pure violence awaits. Moxley thrives in chaos, while Great-O-Khan brings his sadistic, methodical dominance. This will be a hard-hitting, brawl-heavy encounter with possible outside interference from The United Empire.
Prediction: Moxley survives O-Khan’s onslaught and locks in the Bulldog Choke for the submission win.
4. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. David Finlay (B Block)
The Ace vs. The Rebel
Tanahashi, the ageless wonder, faces Finlay, who has been on a tear since joining Bullet Club. Finlay’s new ruthless edge makes him dangerous, but Tanahashi’s heart and storytelling could steal the show.
Prediction: Finlay cheats to win, using underhanded tactics to keep his G1 hopes alive.
G1 CLIMAX 35 STANDINGS (AS OF JULY 22ND)
A Block Leaders:
- SANADA – 10 pts (5-1)
- Kazuchika Okada – 8 pts (4-2)
- Shota Umino – 8 pts (4-2)
B Block Leaders:
- Will Ospreay – 10 pts (5-1)
- Tetsuya Naito – 8 pts (4-2)
- David Finlay – 8 pts (4-2)
The July 23rd matches will make or break these contenders.
WHY YOU CAN’T MISS JULY 23RD’S SHOW
- Tournament-Altering Implications: Every match has major consequences for the final standings.
- Potential Surprise Returns: The G1 is known for shocking moments—will Jay White, Kota Ibushi, or someone else make a surprise appearance?
- Match of the Year Candidates: Ospreay vs. Naito alone is worth the watch.
HOW TO WATCH NJPW G1 CLIMAX 35 – JULY 23RD 2025
The event will be streamed live on NJPW World. If you’re new to NJPW, now is the perfect time to subscribe!
For more G1 Climax coverage, check out:
FINAL THOUGHTS: WHO WILL SURVIVE?
The G1 Climax 35 is reaching its climax, and July 23rd will separate the contenders from the fallen. Will Okada and Ospreay continue their dominance? Can Naito and Umino pull off upsets?
One thing is certain: This will be a night of unforgettable pro wrestling.
Stay tuned, and don’t blink—you might miss history.